Whale watching in Hervey Bay, Queensland does not start until the humpback whales begin there return journey to Antarctica. When they travel north they normally swim on the eastern side of Fraser Island as the Great Sandy Straits are too shallow for them to traverse. They continue on to the Great Barrier Reef to mate and give birth to their calves in the warmer waters to ensure their survival. Occasionally we see very newly born calves in Hervey Bay and the mothers humpbacks are very protective and nurturing. The mothers and calves start to arrive in September, before then we see many juvenile and teenage whales cavorting and interacting with each other and the boats in Platypus Bay, northern part of Fraser Island. Hervey Bay whale watching is world famous for intimate interactions with the curious humpback whales in our sheltered Marine Park waterway.
We begin whale watching on the 21st of July and it is always an exciting start to the season. The whale festival will be great this year with many events across the whole of August. Check out the councils website for more information: https://herveybaywhalefestival.com.au/
Saturday the 4th of August is the Blessing of the Fleet when all the boats parade into the harbour to be blessed by clergy for the safety of the the crew and all who sail on the boats. Everyone can come down and check out the boats and enjoy the fun and entertainment of the evening. It will be a fun family experience.
A pre-season event not to be missed is Hervey Bay’s National Whale Day Paddle Out for Whales held on the 23rd June to highlight all the issues affecting whales throughout the world. Bring your Kayak, canoe surfboard and join in the paddle to help save our whales! Here’s the info:
Location / Venue
Enzo’s on the Beach
351a Esplanade, Hervey Bay
Date / Time
Saturday, 23 June 2012
10.00am – 8.00pm
Admission Free
Contact / Booking
Vicki Neville
[email protected]