From July to October, Freedom Ecotours provides premier whale watching experiences based in the heart of Hervey Bay, Australia which is renowned for its proximity to the spectacular Great Barrier Reef and the Sandy Straits Marine Park. As the new owners of this well-established cruise company, Mark and Andrea Cooper are thrilled to carry forward a 15-year legacy of unparalleled whale watching adventures because seeing their guests experience the joy and wonder of the whales is so rewarding.
During the Summer months, from November until March, we offer private charters for beachy cruises, sunset cruises and even trips along the Mighty Mary River and all have our signature relaxed, caring and attentive crew.
Our team of seasoned experts and enthusiastic new faces, brings a wealth of knowledge about the local marine ecosystem and, importantly, we are skilled navigators and guides, as well as ardent conservationists, dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of Hervey Bay and the Great Barrier Reef.
We operate within the picturesque waters of the Great Barrier Reef and the Sandy Straits Marine Park, a haven for a diverse range of marine life, including the majestic humpback whales. Our tours offer intimate encounters with these gentle giants, allowing our guests to witness their awe-inspiring presence in a respectful and responsible manner. We are certified by Ecotourism Australia
The vessel is 58ft (17.7m) in length
Built in 1990 in Innisfail, Queensland, Australia
Powered by 2 x 280hp Fiat Iveco motors (installed 2010)
3 toilets (2 marine & 1 household) & shower facilities
Large airconditioned saloon area with comfortable couches
Numerous fridges and freezers
Licensed for up to 48 people in the Bay area
Hydraulic lift platform
Cruising speed of 14-18 knots
3 x 360 degree viewing levels
Sleeping quarters for up to 8 people
Full galley including microwave, gas cooktop, diswasher & oven
Flat screen TV
Fully licensed bar
Not accessible to wheelchairs, walking frames or pushchairs and prams
Relaxed whale cruises by Freedom Whale Watch. Awesome work Michael Smith of Into The Wild Photography. You’re always welcome to cruise with us at Freedom Whale Watch. Want to see whales like this in the flesh? Book your spot now!!
Searching for the best whale watch experience in 2025? It’s official! The unforgettable Freedom Premium Whale Watch Cruise is listed in Queensland’s Best Experiences of 2025! With a 5 star rating on Google and Tripadvisor, the Freedom Premium Whale Watch Cruise is a famous for giving guests a wonderful day in Hervey Bay, Queensland with…
Watch out! Humpback whale calf sightings further South Recent research led by UNSW Sydney has uncovered that humpback whales are giving birth much further south than previously believed, with sightings extending as far as Tasmania and New Zealand’s South Island. So, maybe they will give birth in Hervey Bay, Queensland! We provide 5 star rated…
Hervey Bay Whale Watching Beats the Gold Coast so if you’re dreaming of an unforgettable encounter with humpback whales, location matters. While both Hervey Bay and the Gold Coast offer whale watching tours, The Freedom Whale Odyssey Cruise in Hervey Bay delivers a premium experience that’s closer, calmer, and more sustainable—and here’s why. 🐋 You’re…
Freedom Whale Watch’s long time whale watch enthusiast, Sue Wisely has been interviewed by popular travel website Escape sharing her experience watching whales aboard Freedom III in Hervey Bay! You can read all about Sue’s whale watching adventures and why she thinks Hervey Bay is the absolute best place to see the humpback whales in…
some awesome facts about the Humpback Whales that visit Hervey Bay? Check out the blog post below! About the humpback whale fins While the Humpback whale may not be the largest species of whale it is easily recognised because of it’s very long pectoral fins. It’s Scientific name is Megaptera Novaeangliae; from ‘megas’ greek for…
So, you’ve booked a trip out whale watching? Congratulations, you are in for a real treat! I bet you’re counting down the days! Wouldn’t it be really frustrating if you forgot your camera? Or sunnies!? Ouch, glare central! So, we thought we’d help out a little and put together a short list of important items to…
