Whale Watching: A Sight to Remember

Set sail and get ready to witness the whale watching experience that will stay with you for your entire life. One will have a close affair with the whales to observe several diverse species of gigantic whales, including finbacks, humpbacks, pilot whales, minkes and the vanishing right whales. There will be naturalists from whom one can learn about the whales. These naturalists are always on the ship to spread information, answer tourists' questions and enlighten visitors on the incredible behaviors of these truly splendid mammals.

How does whale watching take place?

There are special purpose whale watch catamarans used for whale watching. Around 300-400 passengers can focus on the whales at speeds as fast as 25-35 knots. These catamarans are also extremely steady and can offer three different outside viewing surfaces as well as a typical weather-controlled interior compartments with comfortable seating and a refreshment bar. This way, the viewers can watch the whales with comfort.

Humpback whales

The humpback whale migration is one of the most brilliant natural occurrences we can observe. One can feel the real enthusiasm all around as everyone looks laterally to the horizon for the very first knock or splash from these gentle mammal giants. These astonishing animals can sense us when we are close and swim up to perceive our excitement. People can get up close to feel their awe-inspiring breaches and flashy tails as well as witness their pec slaps, spy hops, tail lobs and the execution of their definitive peduncle throws! This is a package of an unforgettable experiences.

The chance to swim with a humpback whale is an exceptional and special one when you are enjoying the whale watching Sunshine Coast, and it is something that people who have enjoyed it have described as life-changing. It is indeed unbelievable that one of the largest mammals in our waters is so elegant and mild. They are just so peaceful in the presence of humans. They seem as titillated by us as we are of them, and as they slither fluently around us with such tenderness, it’s like they recognize our delicacy in comparison and understand humans are there out of curiosity and admiration.

Diving into the wonders with whales

Every day is a new experience on the water, and every encounter with a whale differs from another. Whale watching and swimming trips last around for four hours, with each batch providing approximately 20 swimming tourists. Wetsuits are allocated to all the participants. The participants are briefed on the boat at Mooloolaba Cruises about what to assume from the experience.

Don’ts while whale watching

Pregnant women cannot participate in the swimming experience. Also, children between 8 to 15 years old have to have a guardian or parent on board or in the water with them at all times. These children need to be good swimmers for participating in this activity. They must not rely on their parents. Children below 8 are usually not allowed to dive.

When the whale appears…

Once a whale appears, the boat will be put into neutral approximately 100m away from the whale, and if the conditions are flagged as safe by the trained crew, the boat will be put on hold and swimmers are allowed into the water, relying on the floating line close to the boat. Then it is all up to the whale. It is a natural experience and it is solely on the whale’s own terms. Whales are seen as inquisitive creatures, so they may stop by the swimmers or they may just float past or swim away. Either way, it is an unforgettable encounter. It is also a moment of seeing but not touching these marvelous creatures.

When is it best to go whale watching?

The best period for whale watching is during their breeding season from July through to late October. This is when tourists will spot these glorious creatures fighting, singing and doing gymnastics for the pleasure of whale watchers. Some of these whales can be even viewed from the coast, however, nothing is comparable to getting up close to these oceanic creatures. Some tour operators begin whale watching trips in June, while some prefer to delay a few weeks to ensure there is an ample amount of whales in the waters.