Hervey Bay Whale Watching tours

Why Hervey Bay is the Whale Watching Capital of Australia

Hervey Bay is the whale watching capital of Australia – the only place in the world where humpback whales stop to rest, play, and give birth on their annual migration. From July to October, thousands of whales visit our calm, sheltered waters, offering unforgettable close encounters. Hervey Bay was recognised as the worlds first Whale Heritage Site.

Whale watching in Hervey Bay is unlike anywhere else in Australia.

  • Calm waters - behind K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) and inside the Great Sandy Strait creates a safe haven for whales.

  • Extended stopovers – whales spend days, not hours, in the bay.

  • Close encounters - adult whales and calves approach stationery vessels to interact.

  • World recognition – Hervey Bay is the first Whale Heritage Site in the world.

Whether you’re after a half-day cruise, a small-group adventure, or a complete getaway package, Experience Hervey Bay helps you compare tours and book the perfect whale watching experience.

Whale-Heritage-Site-Hervey-Bay-logo

Most Recommended Whale Watching Tours

Best time for whale watching in Hervey Bay

The Hervey Bay whale watching season runs from mid July to October, with different highlights throughout:

  • Mid July & August – early arrivals, energetic adults.

  • August & September – peak numbers, mothers with calves, calm weather.

  • Late September & October – playful young whales learning breaching and tail slapping.

Book Your hervey bay whale watching experience

Don't miss the chance to see humpback whales up close in the world's best whale watching destination. With Experience Hervey Bay, you can compare tours, book packages, and enjoy the ultimate whale watching holiday.

Half-Day Whale Watching Tours

Full-Day Whale Watching Tours

"The jet ski tour was a fantastic day! It is a superb showcase of the marine park and the Hervey Bay waterways. Stuart is an extremely professional guide and ensured every aspect of the trip was a great experience. We all loved it and will be back again."

Grayleen

"I just wanted to let you know I had a great time on the Island. Thank you so much for arranging it for me. Having everything organised for me was definitely the best way to go. I would not have been able to organise all that by myself."

Sarah

"Thank you so much for all your effort in getting us to K'gari, it was an amazing trip. Thank you especially for offering to drive us to the collection point, thankfully it all worked out but I really appreciate your help! Best regards and a have a wonderful day!"

Mesian

"We took our Mum to see the whales to tick off an experience she has always longed for. Mum is almost 90 and in a wheelchair. The staff on Quick Cat were absolutely amazing and attentive making sure she had a wonderful time. Thank you so much loved every minute." 

Judy

"Our favourite tour was the remote west coast of Fraser Island. It was amazing and such a surprise how beautiful it is."

Max

"I have always wanted to see Fraser Island and the day tour we booked here was perfect, we want to come back for longer!"

Bec

"It was so easy to see all the whale watching tours in one place and choose the right one for us. Thanks for your help."

Lucy

"Expert and passionate knowledge of Hervey Bay and its surroundings. Highly recommended."

Jonathon

"Haven't been to Hervey Bay in years. I have been reminded how awesome Hervey Bay is thanks to experienceherveybay.com.au. Trip booked. See you soon Hervey Bay!!"

Mark

"Hervey Bay is heaven on earth. Can highly recommend 'Experience Hervey Bay' as the people to meet all your needs and help you to make the most out of your Hervey Bay holiday. The team are so friendly, knowledgeable and go above and beyond to ensure that you have the best time. Thank you, can’t wait to visit again."

Vicki

Happy Hervey Blog

K'gari-Fraser-Island-image

Why Hervey Bay is the Perfect Family Destination for September School Holidays

K'gari-Fraser-Island-Map

K’gari (Fraser Island) Tours and Day Trips from Hervey Bay: Everything You Need to Know

Salty-Safaris-Whale-Watching-image

Whale Watching in Hervey Bay – The Ultimate Humpback Experience

Lake-McKenzie-K'gari-Fraser-Island-image

Jetstar’s New Direct Flights: Escape Melbourne & Experience Hervey Bay’s Paradise!

LOAD MORE BLOGS loader
Scroll to Top