Frequently Asked Whale Watching Questions

What types of whales will I see?

We follow and visit alongside the annual migration of humpback whales (Megaptera Novaeangliae). Other whales that could be possibly sighted on our trip include the Southern Right Whale, Minke, Orcas, False killer, and the near extinct Blue whales. (Blue whales are extremely rare and travel in deeper water)

Will I see other marine life?

Yes, there are two types of dolphin, the bottlenose and common dolphin whom often ride our bow wave and are usually seen feeding in the morning, along with migrating sea birds and sometimes even turtles.

Will I see “Migaloo” (the white humpback whale)?

We have had the pleasure of viewing Migaloo on two different migrations! July 2009 we sat alongside Migaloo, for 2.5hrs in the morning and for another 2 hrs in the afternoon. We have a pretty good idea when he will pass through, so phone to book ahead for your chance to see this very rare and gentle giant - 1300 WHALES.

How close do we get to the whales?

By Law there is a 100m exclusion zone surrounding each whale. But that doesn't mean the whales can't come to us as they do. Whales are extremely curious creatures, they seem to enjoy watching us just as much as we enjoy watching them – at times they will dive for a few minutes and come up where you least expect them, often very close to the boat! See what we mean in our gallery.

Our purpose built vessel seems to attract them, the way the silver hull shines down into the water, it creates a very aqua appearance below, in which the whales like to sit directly underneath, listening to all the sounds of excitement, coming from the people onboard the vessel.

What happens if it rains?

Rain is no problem, the whales don't mind at all! We have plenty of undercover area so you can be warm, dry and undercover. Warm clothes are advisable; bring a rain jacket if you wish.

What about motion sickness/sea sickness?

If you are not sure about your sea legs please consult a pharmacist, there is a selection of over the counter and herbal remedies available at the chemist for the concerned land lovers. It is always better to come prepared.

We travel on the ocean and will postpone the tour if weather conditions are too rough. We recommend eating a light breakfast before embarking.

Are there toilets on board?

Yes, separate men's and women's toilets are available onboard the vessel.

Top

Whale Guarantee

*If no whales are sighted on Whale Watching Tours a free open dated Whale Watch voucher will be issued on return of cruise and/or UPGRADED TO A FULL AFTERNOON ISLAND TOUR THAT DAY, FREE of charge, as no refunds will be given.

If whale watching is unable to depart due to unforeseen circumstances such as adverse weather conditions, customers have the option to transfer to Tallship Cruises, our calm water sailing cruise to McLarens Landing at no extra cost.

What's the definition of seeing whales?

By seeing whales we mean that we find and approach at least one whale on our trip.

We want you to have the best experience possible, however as creatures of the ocean every cruise will be different and we think that's all part of the attraction and wonder of a whale watch.

Does a dolphin count as a whale?

We often see dolphins feeding, they like to join us and ride our bow wave. We don't count seeing dolphins as whales even though they are part of the cetacean family, although its a bonus to see them on many of our trips.

If we are booked as a group, do we have to come back as a group?

No, you can come back on separate days if you like.

What happens if I still don't see a whale on my return trip?

In the unlikely event that happens then you still have a free return trip, or you can continue on your day to the island - McLarens Landing, South Stradbroke Island.

Can I get a refund instead of a free return trip?

No refunds will be given:

*If no whales are sighted on Whale Watching Tours a free open dated Whale Watch voucher will be issued on return of cruise and/or UPGRADED TO A FULL AFTERNOON ISLAND TOUR THAT DAY, FREE of charge.

If Whale watching is unable to depart due to unforeseen circumstances such as adverse weather conditions, customers have the option to transfer to Tallship Cruises, our calm water sailing cruise to McLarens Landing at no extra cost.

Whale Watching Checklist

  • Warm comfortable clothes are essential (Wind Jacket is advisable, if you feel the ocean air)
  • Bring your camera, camcorder, spare batteries, memory cards & binoculars!
  • Comfortable flat shoes are advisable
  • Whale Watching Voucher/Tickets

Can some boats get closer to whales than others?

No. Everyone, including recreational boaters follow the same regulations. By law there is a 100m exclusion zone surrounding the whales. Jet ski’s have even further restriction.

Is Morning or Afternoon better?

We operate whale watching tours only in the morning. We have found over the years the whales seem to be most active at this time, as they enter into their day. As the day progresses, so too does the chance of changed weather conditions, which can effect the chances of operating the tour.

We hope this answers all your questions, if you have others please either send us an email on the contact page, or phone 1300WHALES for more information.

Top