Best Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruises Review
From
July through to early November, pods of Humpback whales migrate north,
from the nutrient rich waters of the Antarctic, to the warmer tropical
waters of Queensland. Here they rest, mate, give birth to calves and
teach calves the essentials for survival.
Hervey Bay, being sheltered
from the elements by Fraser Island, is the ideal playground and breeding
site for large numbers of Humpbacks and occasionally Minke and Pilot
Whales. The bay is free of whales main predators, the Orca (or killer
whale) and pack sharks.
The Australian whale watching industry was started in Hervey Bay in
the middle 1980's and now, 30 years on, is regarded as the whale watching
capital of the world. There are many boats that take guests out to see
the whales, with varying facilities and various prices.
You can expect
to pay somewhere between $100.00 and $120.00 per adult, for a half day
whale watching cruise. Each operator provides different facilities,
with some supplying breakfast or lunch included in the price.
Whale watching cruises are amazing. To see these fabulous, huge creatures
relatively close is something you will never forget. If you have the
added bonus of a tail slap or breech, wow, you will be enthralled. Most
cruise operators guarantee whale sightings. If you don't see whales
you either get your money back or are given a free return ticket.
Our
list of whale cruise operators below is in no particular order. All
operators give great value for money and are experienced and reliable,
having provided whale watching tours for many years.
Quick
Cat II and Just
Awesome
Regarded as the pioneers of Hervey Bay whale watching industry, Brian
and Jill Perry have operated the family owned business since 1987. Both
cruises offer smaller group numbers and excellent value.
Whalesong
Cruises
With over 20 years experience in the tourism and hospitality industry,
Jason & Virginia Brigden know how to treat guests. Their morning whale
watching cruises begin with a hearty breakfast supplied and afternoon
cruises come with lunch. Whalesong is a fabulous vessel with guest numbers
limited to 60 for whale watching.
MV Mikat
MV Mikat provides a slightly longer cruise than some operators, departing
Sandy Strait Marina at Urangan daily at 9.00am and returning around
2.30pm. MV Mikat features an underwater camera and hydrophone to hear
the whales sing. Fabulous crew with complimentary lunch provided.
Spirit of Hervey
Bay
Purpose built catamaran with underwater viewing chambers. First class
whale watching cruises, Spirit of Hervey Bay gets you to the whales
in comfort.