FAQ
How do I get to Hervey Bay?
Driving to Hervey Bay
Hervey Bay / Fraser Coast is located in South East Queensland, about a 3-hour drive north of Brisbane (BNE).
Flying to Hervey Bay
QantasLink offers multiple 35-minute daily flights between Brisbane (BNE) and Hervey Bay Airport (HVB). Direct flights from Sydney (SYD) to Hervey Bay Airport (HVB) are scheduled three times per week with Jetstar for the 2022 whale watching season.
Whale Watching
How many whales will we see?
Every whalewatch is different. More than 21,000 humpbacks migrate to Australia’s eastern coast and over 30% of them stop in Hervey Bay between July and October. That’s a lot of whales for a relatively small area, resulting in some of the best whale watching in the world.
How close can we get to the whales?
Regulations and Pacific Whale Foundation’s own Be Whale Aware guidelines prohibit the vessel from approaching within 100 metres of a whale. Whales can approach us, however, and often come right up to the vessel. We call these encounters “whale muggings” and it’s a great time to take a selfie.
Accessibility & Safety
Are there bathrooms on the boat?
Yes, there are full size, walk in toilet facilities onboard.
Is the boat wheelchair / handicapped accessible?
The vessel is not handicapped accessible.
Will I get seasick?
Our state of the art vessel, Ocean Defender, is an ultra-stable, smooth-riding monohull with comfortable, forward facing seats. However, some people do experience motion sickness while at sea. If you know you are prone to experiencing motion or seasickness, we recommend taking the appropriate anti-nausea precautions before your trip.
What should I bring?
For your safety and comfort, we recommend flat, closed-toe footwear, jacket or rain gear, and sun protection. You should also bring your camera and money for souvenirs.
Refunds and Cancellations
What if we don't see whales on the trip?
It’s very rare not to see any whales on a Hervey Bay Ultimate Whalewatch. Whale sightings are guaranteed from July 16 to October 9, so if you don’t see whales, we’ll give you a free return ticket good for up to one year. You can also check out our Live Sightings map for whale and dolphin sightings from the previous 7 days.
Proceeds
Does my money really support whale research?
Every whalewatch ticket supports Pacific Whale Foundation’s non-profit research, education and conservation programs. You also help us protect marine wildlife and their ocean habitat with your purchases from our retail shop (Shop 1, Great Sandy Straits Marine) or online Ocean Store. If you’d like to make a donation, click here.
