Whale watching in Australia
Each year, tens of thousands of humpback whales travel up to 10,000 kilometres along Australia’s coastline and coastal waters in one of the world’s most remarkable wildlife migrations. Known as the “humpback highway”, this journey stretches from Antarctica to the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef, as whales travel north to breed, calve and rest before returning south. From May to November, this migration creates some of the best whale watching opportunities in the world, and with SeaLink, there are many ways to experience it across Australia.
Responsible whale watching
SeaLink Marine & Tourism is committed to responsible whale watching practices.
All operations follow strict marine guidelines to minimise disturbance to wildlife while ensuring safe, respectful and memorable experiences for guests.
What to expect
Whale watching experiences vary depending on location:
- Queensland waters offer slower, more intimate encounters, often with mothers and calves resting and interacting
- Southern regions provide more energetic sightings, with frequent breaching and displays along open coastlines
- Western Australia offers coastal migration sightings, with humpback and southern right whales often visible during their southbound journey
No matter where you are, each whale encounter offers a unique connection to the natural world.