Take a Gold Coast Whale Watching Cruise

Gold Coast whale watching is an unforgettable experience. You can take a whale watching cruise in the morning or at sunset, seven days a week, from May to November. These cruises offer the closest encounters possible.

In addition to humpback whales, you will see dolphins, giant turtles and other marine life in their natural environment.

Adult humpbacks range in length from 12-16 meters. They weigh an estimated 36,000 kilograms. When they breach (jump out of the water) and land with a splash, slapping their tails against the water, you will feel the boat rock and see waves slapping against the side.

You might even get sprayed or splashed. Be prepared to ooh and ah.

Gold Coast whale watching occurs only during the months from May to November, because these are migrating mammals. They seek the warmer waters off of the coast of Australia for breeding and giving birth.

They travel down into the polar waters, south of Australia to feed. During the winter months, they fast, living off of their fat reserves.

At one time, the humpbacks were hunted nearly to extinction. Today, it is estimated that there are 80,000 worldwide, not a great recovery, but better than might have been expected, considering the other hazards that they face. Noise pollution, for example, is a major concern.

Just off the coast of Surfer’s Paradise is the destination of every whale watching cruise. They call it the Humpback Highway. The whales have probably followed this path since time began.

In addition to the humpbacks, you may be lucky enough to see a pod of killer whales or orcas. They are not actually whales, but members of the dolphin family, yet they follow a migratory pattern similar to the humpbacks and are sometimes seen during Gold Coast whale watching cruises.

If you happen to see an orca on a whale watching cruise, you will likely see others, as they usually travel in groups. It is a breath-taking experience.

Although collisions with ships are among the hazards faced by humpbacks and other marine life, the typical whale watching cruise is on a specially selected eco-friendly boat. The designs allow the crew to take you close to the dolphins and whales without endangering them.

This kind of eco-tourism is becoming increasingly popular. As a result, there are a number of different companies to choose from. Prices vary, depending on the point of departure and the length of the tour.

A Gold Coast whale watching tour is guaranteed to satisfy. Boats feature water level viewing decks, as well as upper decks for taking in the view.

You can expect to pay between $80 and $125 per person. Some companies include a tour of the scenic Nerang River, morning tea and a two hour stopover in

Surfer’s Paradise. In other words, there are “complete” packages and family (2 adults and 2 children) discounts are available.

It’s a good idea to wear water resistant clothing on your whale watching cruise and make sure that you camera is protected. Special waterproof covers are available for digital cameras.

They protect the inner workings from the moisture, but still allow you to get the shot.

I’m sure you’ll enjoy your Gold Coast whale watching cruise. Our family certainly did.

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