Hervey Bay Whale Watching: Guaranteed Whale Sightings on an Eco-Friendly Marine Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Overview
Embark on Hervey Bay’s Ultimate Whale Watch and witness humpback whales up close with guaranteed sightings. This eco-tour blends comfort, expert guidance, and conservation for a marine adventure unlike any other.
Hervey Bay's Ultimate Whale Watch - A Tourism Australia Signature Experience
Pacific Whale Foundation | Whale sighting guaranteed (July 15 – Oct 9)
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of Hervey Bay’s Ultimate Whale Watch, a unique eco-tour led by scientists. Enjoy live whale songs, expert insights, and guaranteed sightings aboard the comfortable Ocean Defender. Your adventure supports vital whale research and conservation efforts, making it an unforgettable journey into the heart of marine life.
A Tourism Australia Signature Experience and Best of Queensland experience!
Hervey Bay’s Ultimate Whale Watch - we advocate for healthy oceans - join us on board and become an ocean advocate too! A Tourism Australia Signature Experience, Best of Queensland experience and the only whale watch on the Fraser Coast based on over 40 years of whale research in Hervey Bay. Proceeds support research, conservation and outreach projects.
Rates
Regular price Adults (age 15 and over): A$119.00! Children (age 6-14): A$89.00! Under age 6 not permitted
3 Departures Daily
7:00am - 10:00am
11:00am - 2:00pm
2:30pm - 5:30pm
Check-in
Ocean Store, Shop 1, Great Sandy Straits Marina Boarding 30 minutes prior to departure time
About Hervey Bay's Ultimate Whale Watch
A Tourism Australia Signature Experience
Led by Scientists who provide expert interpretation of the amazing whale behaviours you'll encounter.
Listen to live whale songs with underwater hydrophones and learn the latest whale facts and findings. Ticket prices includes a cold drink and small snack.
FREE Junior Naturalist Whale Watch Guide activity booklet for children.
FREE Whale Watch Guide for adults.
Whale sightings guaranteed (July 15 – Oct 9) or get a free return ticket.
Cruise on Ocean Defender
You'll cruise in comfort on Hervey Bay's purpose-built wildlife and whale watching vessel Ocean Defender with a maximum of 38 passengers. Enjoy a smooth ride with panoramic water-level "whale's eye" views from forward-facing seats offering plenty of shade.
There's also plenty of room on this small-group tour with excellent photo opportunities and the convenience of a toilet onboard. Ocean Defender follows all regulations for whale protection including our own "Be Whale Aware" guidelines.
Help Save Whales
Your ticket to adventure with Pacific Whale Foundation supports whale research, marine education and ocean conservation in Australia and around the world. An international Non-Government Organisation and eco tourism pioneer, Pacific Whale Foundation has been working to save the whales since 1980.
Imagery and Filming
By booking this tour, I assign, transfer, and grant to Pacific Whale Foundation and Pacific Whale Foundation Eco-Adventures Australia the right to produce and utilise materials with my (and any minors in my party that I am responsible for) face, likeness, voice and appearance as part of advertising and promotion of their related programs and offerings.
Adventure Tips
Book Early for Peak Season
Whale watching is popular between July and October; secure your spot in advance to guarantee a place aboard the Ocean Defender.
Bring Layered Clothing
Queensland’s weather can shift during the marine tour—wear layers to stay comfortable on deck or inside the cabin.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and marine life by applying eco-friendly sunscreen before boarding.
Bring Binoculars and Camera
Enhance your viewing experience with binoculars and capture moments with a camera prepared for moving subjects.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Humpback Whales
- Dugongs
History
Hervey Bay has been a significant migration point for humpback whales since Indigenous peoples first navigated these waters, long before formal whale watching began in the 1990s.
Conservation
The tour operates under strict environmental guidelines to minimize impact on the whales and supports ongoing marine research projects in the Great Sandy Strait.
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Adventure Hotspots in Urangan
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Waterproof Jacket
Keep dry and warm during cooler months at sea.
winter specific
Wide-Brim Hat
Provides sun protection on open decks during sunny days.
summer specific
Binoculars
Helps spot whales at a distance for an enhanced experience.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the 3-4 hour tour, reducing plastic waste.