Hervey Bay stands as Australia’s undisputed whale watching capital, where thousands of humpback whales gather each year between July and November.

This protected stretch of water off Queensland’s Fraser Coast offers some of the most reliable and spectacular whale encounters you’ll find anywhere in the world.

The calm, sheltered waters create perfect conditions for these magnificent creatures to rest, play, and socialize during their epic migration journey.

What makes Hervey Bay truly special is how close these gentle giants come to shore. You’ll often spot whales breaching, tail slapping, and spy-hopping just metres from tour cruises.

The experience goes beyond simply seeing whales – you’ll witness their playful behavior and hear their haunting songs echoing through the water.

Whether you’re a first-time whale watcher or someone obsessed with marine creatures, Here are the six best whale watching in Hervey Bay that you need to experience.

What are the Best Months for Whale Watching in Hervey Bay?

The best months for whale watching in Hervey Bay are August and September. This is when humpback whales are most active in the bay during their annual migration.

Although the whale watching season spans from July to October, the months of August and September provide the best opportunities to witness spectacular whale behavior—breaching, tail slapping, and playful interactions.

Hervey Bay’s calm, sheltered waters also attract mother whales with their calves, making it an ideal spot to observe these gentle giants up close.

If you’re planning a visit, aim for mid-season to catch the whales at their most playful and abundant.

Best Whale Watching in Hervey Bay

1. Whalesong Cruises Hervey Bay

Google Rating: 4.9

Whalesong Cruises is one of the best ways to experience whale watching in Hervey Bay.

Designed for comfort and accessibility, the vessel features wide side and rear decks, low passenger numbers, and wheelchair-friendly access throughout.

Families love the relaxed atmosphere—kids can enjoy activity sheets while adults take in the view. The multilingual crew helps make the tour welcoming to international visitors too.

Tours depart in the morning and afternoon, but the afternoon sunset cruise stands out.

It’s perfect for travelers arriving the same day, offering a peaceful trip with champagne, a buffet dinner, and a beautiful sunset on the water. Special dietary needs? Just let them know ahead of time.

What truly makes Whalesong unique is its eco-conscious focus. The boat runs on fuel-efficient engines and avoids single-use plastics, making it a responsible choice for nature lovers.

2. Blue Dolphin Marine Tours

Google Rating: 4.9

For a more personal whale-watching adventure in Hervey Bay, Blue Dolphin Marine Tours offers a full-day experience on a sleek sailing catamaran.

With only 24 passengers per tour, there’s plenty of space to move around and find the perfect view.

The calm, relaxed vibe lets you enjoy the trip with a drink in hand—but don’t get too relaxed, because the whales often swim up close to the in-water platform, giving you a unique eye-level view.

Led by skipper Pete Lynch, who brings over 35 years of marine experience, the tour focuses on learning as well as fun.

His passion for protecting and rescuing marine life adds depth to the journey, especially for those curious about humpback whales.

When whale season ends, the tour shifts to spotting local dolphins along the Great Sandy Straits.

3. Spirit of Hervey Bay

Google Rating: 4.7

Spirit of Hervey Bay is a fantastic choice for families, especially those with kids.

The boat features five spacious viewing levels, including an underwater viewing area, so kids can easily explore and enjoy different perspectives.

There are toys and activity books onboard too—great for keeping little ones busy when whales aren’t nearby.

Each child also receives a free souvenir whale DVD, which makes for a fun keepsake to share later.

One of the biggest perks for parents? The flexible cancellation policy takes the stress out of unexpected changes.

This half-day morning tour offers great value, blending comfort, entertainment, and incredible whale sightings.

With onboard WiFi, morning tea, and a family-friendly crew, it’s an easy and enjoyable way to experience the magic of Hervey Bay’s whale watching.

Also Read: Best Caravan Parks in Hervey Bay

4. Hervey Bay Whale Watch

Google Rating: 4.9

Hervey Bay Whale Watch is a great option if you’re looking for a chance to get up close with humpback whales.

With multiple viewing decks, you can choose to watch the action from above or at water level.

On some tours, you might also be invited into the water—only if conditions are safe and the whales are relaxed enough to stick around.

This swim-with-whales experience is not only rare in Hervey Bay but also unforgettable.

Keep in mind that swimming is not guaranteed. It’s only allowed when the weather is calm and the whales are not mothers with calves, which are protected by law.

Your best chance for a swim is from July to early September when curious juveniles are more common.

5. Freedom Ecotours – Whale Watch and Boat Charters

Google Rating: 5.0

Freedom Ecotours offers a full, relaxing day on the water with its premium whale-watching cruise.

Running from July to October, the tour departs daily at 9:30 am from Urangan Harbour and returns at 3:30 pm.

The calm waters near K’Gari (Fraser Island) attract hundreds of humpbacks, making it a prime spot to see them breach, splash, and even approach the boat out of curiosity.

What makes Freedom Ecotours one of the best whale watching tours in Hervey Bay is its unhurried pace and great service.

You’ll enjoy morning tea, a tasty lunch, and afternoon tea, all included in the price. The expert crew shares interesting facts about whale behavior, helping you understand what you’re seeing.

Sightings are guaranteed, and each month brings a new group—from playful young whales in July to mothers and calves by September.

6. Tasman Venture

Google Rating: 4.9

If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy whale watching in Hervey Bay, Tasman Venture is a fantastic choice.

This award-winning operator offers four-hour tours on a fast, three-level catamaran equipped with underwater viewing windows and a hydrophone to listen to whale songs. The boat also has five open decks for great views and photo ops.

Their whale watching trips run from Hervey Bay to the western coast of K’Gari, offering a smooth ride and spectacular whale encounters.

Morning or afternoon tea is served onboard, and on the return trip, you’ll enjoy an antipasto platter. Free WiFi makes it easy to share your experience in real time.

For those who want more adventure, combo tours are available, adding activities like 4WD trips or snorkeling the reef.

With tours starting at $120 per adult, it’s a great value and a memorable way to spend half a day.