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Tips For Families & Kids on Whale Watching Tours in Hervey Bay

admin on May 1st, 2023

Tips For Families & Kids on Hervey Bay Whale Watching Tours

Whale watching tours in Hervey Bay are a thrilling experience for individuals of all ages, including young children. However, parents need to be mindful of a few things to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for their little ones. In this blog, we will provide tips and information for parents taking young children on a whale watching tour in Hervey Bay.

Firstly, it's important to choose a whale watching tour that is suitable for young children. Some tours may have age restrictions or may not be appropriate for children due to the length of the tour or the size of the boat. Therefore, it's essential to do some research and read the online brochure beforehand and choose a tour that is family-friendly and caters to young children.

Whale Watching Tips When Travelling With Kids

  • Check the weather forecast before booking your cruise.
  • Choose a time when waves are below two metres and winds below 15 knots.
  • Pack a hat, sunscreen, sunnies, and a spray jacket for the kids whatever the weather.
  •  If the kids are prone to get seasick, limit their pre-tour food and take seasickness pills.
  • The outside areas on the lower decks are best for younger children.
  • If they get ill make sure they do not lie down, they always need to have eyes on the horizon.

Whether you have a baby, a toddler, young kids, teens, or all of them at once, it’s normal to worry about safety or even doubt of how enjoyable a tour will really be for you.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the perfect whale watching tour for you and your beautiful family, so take note:

Timing

When it comes to the timing of the tour, it's also essential to consider your child's schedule and routine. If your child usually takes a nap or has a specific feeding schedule, it's best to choose a tour that doesn't disrupt their routine. It's also recommended to choose a morning or midday tour, as children may become tired and restless during an afternoon or evening tour. Always keep in mind the quiet enjoyment of other passengers without children, and just remember, boats are not playgrounds, they can be dangerous areas if children are not supervised.

What to Pack

It's also important to pack appropriately for the tour. Be sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable clothing for your child, as well as any necessary medications or snacks. It's also recommended to bring a change of clothes in case your child gets wet during the tour.

Another great tip is perhaps printing out some whale colouring pages, or word search, fun facts to read to help them keep entertained during the cruise home - just remember the pencils!  A pair of kids binoculars or a camera (with neck or arm strap) for them to join in the search for whales can be fun too!  This half day Hervey Bay whale watching tour offers an optional Junior Whale Warrior Pack which is designed to ignite their passion for conservation and enrich their whale watching experience. 

Make sure you check the whale watching boat you choose has space for strollers and prams and arrive early for check in so you can settle the family in for the cruise out to the whales.

Stay Seating Whilst Cruising

During the tour, it's important to follow the instructions of the tour operator and crew members. This includes staying seated when the boat is moving and not leaning over the rails. Parents should also always keep a close eye on their children and hold onto them when the boat is in motion.

It's also essential to manage your child's expectations about what they will see on the tour. While there is a good chance of seeing humpback whales up close, there is no guarantee. Therefore, it's important to explain to your child that seeing whales is a unique experience and not a guaranteed outcome.

In conclusion, taking young children on a whale watching tour in Hervey Bay can be an exciting and memorable experience. Parents need to be mindful of their child's schedule, pack appropriately, follow the instructions of the tour operator and crew members, and manage their child's expectations. By taking these steps, parents can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for their little ones.

Read more tips and hints on the Whale watching tours in Hervey Bay and Fraser Island.

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