Hervey Bay Ultimate Whale Watching Cruise

Amazing trip!

I really enjoyed this trip so much! It was probably the last chance of seeing whales this season. The crew really went above and beyond to make this trip worthwhile. We stayed longer in the bay to look for them and once we saw them, they gave us a plenty of time to enjoy the sighting (even though this meant that we were going to be back late). 10/10!

An amazing experience

This was the second time we have used Pacific Whale Foundation and it was even better than the first. They are a great company to go with. The boat isn`t overly big, so you can get really close to the whales. We had a large, inquisitive humpback with us for about 45 minutes, no more than 2 metres from the boat. It was an amazing experience. We also saw the Pacific Whale Foundation Research boat nearby, taking drone footage of humpbacks. It was a brilliant few hours and a thoroughly recommended activity.

Great value for money

This was such a good value whale-watching trip! It wasn't too long (11 am - 2 pm+) but we saw so much in a short time - so many mums and calves!! Marine biologist Enorah was very knowledgeable and both of them (including skipper Allan) were clearly passionate about their job and wanted to see whales as much as we did! I like that this organisation is a non-profit that researches whales so our money is contributing to that. I would definitely choose Pacific Whale Foundation again when I'm next in Hervey Bay.

Wonderful experience

Legendary !! We couldn't dream any better !! Allen and Monica allowed us to see these majestic whales, lucky us a curious one "mugged" us so kindly, it was an amazing experience ! We strongly recommend to try it with this Foundation!

Whale Watching Tour

Great Experience. Saw lots of Whales. Guide gave lots of good information about the Whales and the research they do to protect the Whales. I would definitely recommend this tour to others.

Life experience must do

The perfect boat and team for this experience. So much knowledge and passion about their work. The whales are breathtaking.

AMAZING EXPERIENCE

Everything was just perfect: the amazing team, the fast and comfortable vessel (closer to the surface - whales) and of course the place, so magical. Heaps of whales make a rest area there and you'll find why, we've seen them playing, teaching the babies, jumping, showing different behaviours probably only seen here where they can rest pacifically. Lastly, the company and its goals compromised with the environment and taking care and researching a lot from these creatures. Thank you so much!

Beautiful humpback whale encounters!

We were lucky to experience three pods consisting of mothers and calves join for a play date close to our boat. Saw so many breaches and fin slaps, it was just beautiful. Knowledgable guide made me question why I haven’t become a marine biologist.

Great experience!

Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Small and comfortable boat. Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.

Whale Nursery in Hervey Bay

The look on my grandchildrens faces when they saw whales for the first time, and whales feeding their calves was awesome.

Fantastic experience! Must do while in Hervey Bay

Went with friends and we all had fab time. I loved that the boat was a small size and you didn’t feel suffocated by too many people around you. Also loving the fact that all profits ho into research. Tour-guides were super knowledgeable and helpful . So loads of whales. Its great value for money. Unforgettable experience.

Marvelous

Amazing experience, we heard whales singing and we have seen lots of whales, thanks to the guide and to the skipper for the experience

Whales whales 🐳

What an amazing experience! We saw so many whales and the crew were so friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommended.

Best value for money!

This tour was terrific from start to finish. As it was the cheapest of the Whale watching tours we weren't sure of what to expect but the tour did not disappoint on any account. The company are non-profit so you know they have an ethical approach to it all. The tour guide was very comprehensive, we got extremely close to many friendly whales and even enjoyed a complimentary drink and cookies for the sunset trip back. It was a highlight of our trip along the east coast of Australia without a doubt!

An Awesome experience

I went on this Whale watching tour with my daughter and my Bestie and we had the best time. The boat was smaller with not so many people which made it an awesome experience for us. We had many sightings and an up close encounter with the whales an amazing day was had. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Pacific Whale Foundation...

Excellent experience, both the tour and with the tour operators

There was not 'favourite' part I guess, but the ride out to Fraser Island was great. We saw plenty of whales and the two young people who were in charge of the tour were knowledgeable and wonderful hosts. They answered questions when asked etc. All in all I had an excellent time.

5 stars

Absolutely fantastic day, We have done whale watching trips before but nothing as good as this. So many whales that it was hard to keep track, the smaller boat definitely gave a more intimate experience. At one point we had pairs of fully breaching whales both sides of the boat at the same time, it was as if they were competing for our attention! Other times we had whales which were so curious that they were lifting their heads out of the water right next to the boat time and again just to have a look at us, really awesome. Crew were very friendly and knowledgeable, they were just as excited as the passengers at what they were seeing. Would definitely recommend.

Wonderful day amongst whales

Excellent tour experience. The crew were knowledgeable and great telling passengers about Hervey Bay and the whale migration. On approaching the 5th or 6th Pod appeared all of a sudden beside boat. We drifted and they happily played beside and around boat. What an amazing experience 5/5

A 'Must Do' trip

This was an absolutely fantastic trip with Pacific Whale Foundation. It was great to know our trip was supporting ongoing research into these fascinating mammals. The staff were amazing, imparting knowledge whilst ensuring everyone on board was well supported. We were very fortunate to see mother and her new calf as well as 2 pods of 3 whales in each which ventured close to the boat to 'check us out'. We also witnessed 4 breaches, which was so emotional. This is a 'must do' trip with Pacific Whale Foundation to support their ongoing research. THANK YOU for an absolutely fantastic tip.

Great tour!

Small group and the crew was excellent, they gave us a lot of information about the whales which was very interesing. Thank you

An amazing experience not to be missed.

What a wonderful experience. The knowledge of our guides, a marine biologist and co worker was tremendous. We were so fortunate to see a few pods swimming close to our boat. It was extremely exciting. Also, I was thrilled to learn that this company is a non profit organisation and all proceeds go towards whale research. I highly recommend this tour. Not to be missed!

Whales were seen!

Tick that one off the bucket list. Whales were encountered! We perfer smaller tour groups with less frills and this was perfect. About 30 on the boat. Knowledgeable staff and WHALES! We were blessed with a beautiful day.

Caters for all age groups

The whole experience was fantastic, taking into consideration my mothers care needs including accepting her companion card, assistance in boarding and disembarking the boat and designated seating. The whale watching experience was awesome with Alan manourvering the boat so all guest had good views and ample time to experience the whales frolicking, Monicas expert educational commentary and general house keeping information. As a bonus we also got to see parts of Fraser Island. Highly recommend.

Awesome Whale Watching Experience

Was a really great time out, everything ran on time, boat was clean and staff was very friendly and informative. Seen a bunch of whales doing a lot of surface time, and some dolphins as well. Highly recommend.

Great people make for a great experience

I chose this trip because it left at a more workable time (11:00 but get there at 10:30) than all the other trips at 8:30 and 1:30. Even so, I got lost and one of the people in the office called me and found me! And then I was in such a hurry that I forgot to lock my car and she ran back and did that for me too! Marine Biologists Allen and Monica ran the tour, which went very well. We found whales with no problem, and Allen was very respectful of their space and safety, cutting the boat engine entirely. I guess the whales were comfortable with that, because they came right up to, around, and under the boat. They and their bottlenose dolphin friends were pretty playful and I think everyone including whales had a good time. Monica put down a hydrophone for a minute but they weren't singing. We could not have had any more or better whale time on a tour. Obviously some of that is luck, but having informed and respectful crew is a huge plus. Definitely recommend this trip, but don't get lost! It leaves from a marina that is tucked in behind the Mantra hotel. So if you see the Mantra, backtrack to the driveway that comes straight off the roundabout into the correct marina, which you won't see from the esplanade. Also, the Pacific Whale Foundation shop at the marina has some great t-shirts and sweatshirts. I definitely recommend the merch.

Brilliant Breathtaking Tour

Weather conditions perfect, light southerly, no swell, brilliant sunshine. The boat can take up to 40 passengers, is stable, comfortable and FAST. 4 powerful 225 horse power outboards on the back and we were out beside K'gari in half an hr and first whales spotted. Breathtaking giants, at one stage boat was surrounded by 4 of them gracefully diving under us. Captain Allen and Marine Biologist Monica were as excited as we were !!! Love their passion and educational knowledge. Bottle nose dolphins added to the joy . Small boat ensures close contact. No one got drenched or seasick. Everyone quietly in awe and fascination. Coke and cookies for a snack. Next time I'll take fruit and sandwich. Absolutely loved it ! We'll be back.👍👍

Touching & informative😊

Loved the experience & the smaller boat did provide a more personnel trip. It has been on my bucket list for SO long & I am so glad I made the decision to go. It did make me reflect on the plight of these marvellous creatures & appreciate action is NOW - I will continue to share the messages that were delivered on the boat💕 You made this traveller very happy with the whole experience!!

Brilliant.

Wow. What a fantastic trip. It was fabulous to get up so close to the mother and baby. A beautiful sight.

A day to remember

Had a fantastic whale watching tour Mother and calf with male escort. They did all their tricks and came over to the boat to say hello. We listened to the beautiful whale song and was enthralled with Andrew’s amazing knowledge Captain keen eyed Jason spotted the pod from nearly a kilometre away I definitely shall change my choice of detergents to help save the environment Thank you so much for this memorable experience

An Amazing Experience!

This was honestly the most amazing experience! The team that took us out were so lovely and had so much information to share about the whales. They were super respectful of the whales in the water that a lot of mother whales and their babies came right up to the edge of our boat. I would 1000% book with them again and I definitely recommend supporting them with your booking if you’re in the area and wanted to go whale watching!

More than a whale watching tour !

Not just a tour - participating in the whale and dolphin research was great. My family and I saw 3 different pairs of mum + calf humpbacks cruising along and playing, which was really special. Also loved hearing the whalesong through the hydrophone. Thanks for having us Captain Andrew!

Must do!

Loved being on the smaller boat, we could see from one side to another with ease. We saw whales 4 or 5 times, plus dolphins! Absolutely loved seeing Fraser Island Coast coming back and recommend going on the afternoon cruise as we had a beautiful sunset to compliment everything. Staff were excellent, even chatting and asking where we were from and answering any questions about whales as well as sharing interesting information. Great for all ages, highly recommend and added bonus that it's a 'not for profit' organisation.

Small boat. So up and close amazing!!

I have been on the larger boats 🚢 but this was so much better. There were soo many whales and they came right up to the small boat. They even went underneath.3 hours was enough time out there with young kids.

great trip

great trip. Martin was excellent and knowledgeable guide. would do it again when we visit frazer again in the future

Fantastic Whale watch cruise

This is the best whale watching cruise in Hervey Bay, smaller boat therefore better interaction with the whales. Crew very very knowledgeable & fantastic service. They are a non profic organisation so all funds go back into the research for the Whales.This is our second time & will do it again next year. Thank you Pacific Whale Watch Foundation for a fantastic day out

Whale watchng at its best.

Jason & Darcey provided an excellent morning/afternoon for our Whale watching experience. Clear blue waters and calm as can be and lots of whales. We recommend the Pacific Whale Foundation for your ultimate experience. Phil & Glen

Big hoodies and let’s go see some whales !!

It was really cold on the boat, so I would advice you to take hoodies and jacket and go for it !! We saw so many whale this day !! They were everywhere around us ! Amazing !

Great day

Thanks to the crew good job had a great time would recommend to everyone see you again soon thanks Dave and Shelley

Absolutely incredible experience

Absolutely amazing tour. So organised and they allocated your seating prior to getting on the boat to ensure you got to sit with all your group. I had a group of 5 so we couldn’t fit in same row but 2 of us could sit right behind which was great. The two females running the boat (skipper and Marine Biologist) were very lovely, happy to answer any questions and were committed to giving us the best whale watching experience. After seeing one pod we moved a little and then got to see another pod which were so more active and gave us a up and close personal experience with the whales. Highly recommend this tour.

Great experience

Great team and great show from the whales! Enjoyed it a lot. And they do know what they are talking about as a Marine preservation foundation.

A great day out!

Such an amazing experience! The marine biologist Nikki was great! The whales came up close. A great day out!

Close up and personal

We found the whole experience wonderful, with close up experience from a few pods. Gorgeous sunset on the way home topped of a fabulous afternoon. The crew were great. Friendly, helpful and full of fun. Knowing our fee was going to a not-for-profit environmental organisation meant a great deal to us. Planning to come back next winter with more friends now!

Amazing experience

We were blessed to see between 15 -18 beautiful whales that showed us all their characteristics, even had a pair swim around the boat and surfaced literally just a few metres away. The display we got was so good that we stayed out longer than we were meant to ! Darcy and Jason were awesome which added to the great time

Great experience

Great experience. We were with a pod of 6-8 juvenile hunchbacks just off Fraser Island. The company was very good to work with and the tour guide, a qualified marine biologist, and boat captain were very informative. An additional bonus is that the company is not-for-profit with all profits going to whale research. The length of the trip (3 hours) was just the right period of time. Highly recommend

We saw whales 🐳

Fantastic experience. Expert commentary from our guide & all questions answered & whale behaviours explained. Whales came right up to our boat & even passed underneath. Great value for money.

A BRILLIANT trip !!!

Jason the skipper and Lea the marine biologist were amazing. They were so friendly and welcoming from the start. Lea’s knowledge of the whales was sensational and the way she explained everything made it very interesting and easy to understand. What a clever young lady !!!

Incredible experience

Couldn't have asked for a better experience. The boat was definately built for watching with views from everywhere. Absolutely amazing. The crew were amazing!

Fantastic!

Fantastic! Great view, smaller vessel and less people than some of the other commercial operators. Eco friendly and fund research of the whales. The young marine biologist who did our commentary and whale spotting was knowledgable and informative and personable. Jason our driver was experienced and confident with the vessel and passengers. We were lucky enough to experience a great show of breaching from the whales even though the weather wasn't brilliant. Thank you to all including the staff in the shop who were helpful.

Amazing tour

We truly had the most amazing time! It was magical. The marine team onboard were so kind and thoughtful. We learnt so much about these beautiful marine mammals. I would highly recommend this tour. 10/10

The best Whales Watching cruise in Australia

THE BEST WHALES WATCHING experience on the East Coast Knowledgeable crew on board, confortable boat, Hervey Bay is definitely one of the best place for Whales encounter in Australia