Whale watching in Hervey Bay and K’gari (Fraser Island) is an unforgettable experience. This region on the eastern coast of Australia is known as one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. However, if you want to maximize your chances of seeing these magnificent creatures, it is important to know the best conditions, best times of day, and best month to jump on a boat tour from Hervey Bay and go whale watching.
Best Time for Whale Watching
The best time to go whale watching in Hervey Bay and K’gari (Fraser Island) is from mid-July to early November, which is when the humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to the warmer waters of the Great Barrier Reef to breed and give birth. During this time, up to 30,000 humpback whales pass through the area, making it an ideal destination for whale watching. With these sorts of numbers, you are just about guaranteed to see these gigantic mammals at play.
Best Conditions for Whale Watching
The best conditions for whale watching are on calm and sunny days with clear water visibility. Windy and rainy days can make it difficult to spot the whales and can also make the boat ride less enjoyable. Therefore, it is recommended to check the weather forecast before booking your whale watching tour. If you book in advance, you will be able to change dates subject to the operators terms and conditions.
Best Time of Day for Whale Watching
The best time of day to go whale watching is in the morning, as the sea is usually calmer, and the whales are more active during this time. Whale watching tours usually depart early in the morning, around 7:30 or 8:00 am, and last for approximately four hours, others also offer nice afternoon tours. During this time, you can expect to see between 5 and 20 humpback whales, depending on the day and the conditions.
It is important to note that the number of whales seen during a tour can vary, as humpback whales are wild animals, and their movements are unpredictable. However, the tour operators in Hervey Bay and Fraser Island have a high success rate in sighting humpback whales, and many offer a guarantee that you will see a whale during your marine encounter tour.
In conclusion, the best time and conditions for whale watching in Hervey Bay and Fraser Island are from mid-July to early November, on calm and sunny mornings with clear water visibility. Whale watching tours usually depart early in the morning and last for approximately four hours, during which you can expect to see between 5 and 20 humpback whales. So, book your tour and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with these magnificent creatures.
You can read more here about the Ten Tips to prepare for your whale watching tour from Hervey Bay and Fraser Island, or read more information on our whale watching blog pages for you to prepare for your whale watching tours or speak to the Barrier Reef Australia team about the best whale watching tour for you and your family.
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