Have a whale of a time this winter!

15 July 2024
Written by Allie Voyage

With the cooler months upon us, the east coast of Australia transforms into a highway for the migration of the ocean’s most majestic creatures, the whale.

From the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the picturesque shores of New South Wales and the tranquil bays of Queensland, the coast becomes a corridor for thousands of humpback whales, southern right whales, and other frolicking sea life.

My NRMA members can save on whale watching cruises up and down the east coast of Australia, so why not take a day this winter to marvel at the deep.

When is the best time to see whales?

The best time to see whales on the east coast of Australia is during their annual migration, both northward from the south and southward from the north. This typically occurs from May to November.

• Northward Migration (May to August): During this period, humpback whales migrate from the cold waters of Antarctica to the warmer waters of the Great Barrier Reef to breed and give birth.
• Southward Migration (September to November): The whales return to the Antarctic feeding grounds with their newborn calves.

The peak times to see whales from New South Wales shores are usually from June to July for the northward migration and from September to October for the southward migration.

Where is the best place to see whales?

Australia is blessed with stretching coastlines that mean observing the whale migration is relatively easy.

Venture to cliff tops closest to the ocean, and you’re likely to spot whales while standing on dry land.

There are plenty of tour companies offering cruises to spot these gentle giants of the sea. As a My NRMA member, you can save on this adventure.

Some of the best spots to catch migrating whales along the east coast are:

• Hervey Bay, Queensland
• Byron Bay, New South Wales
• Port Stephens, New South Wales
• Jervis Bay, New South Wales
• Coogee, New South Wales
• Eden, New South Wales
• Merimbula, New South Wales
• Coffs Harbour, New South Wales
• Tweed Heads, New South Wales
• Nelson Bay, New South Wales

What whales will I see?

Along the east coast of Australia, the primary species of whales you are likely to see is the humpback whale. This species is known for their water acrobatics and due to their large numbers, it’s likely Humpbacks will be the first whales you spot.

If you’re lucky, and depending on location, you may also see southern right whales, minke whales, pilot whales, and even orcas.

Will the whales be active in the water?

Whales are unpredictable in the water. Their activity levels can change based on factors such as breeding, feeding, and the weather.

Humpback whales engage in impressive displays of breaching, tail slapping, and pectoral fin slapping during courtship and while caring for their young, mostly during the northward migration.

Favourable weather and sea condition can mean more activity from the whales (and certainly a nicer day out on the ocean for us!), but like any wild animal, their behaviour can never be guaranteed.