Whale Watching For A Thrilling View
Byron Bay Whale Watching For A Thrilling View
Byron Bay is the most eastern shoreline in Australia. It’s where the Humpback whale migration passes closest to shore for the most stunning views from land or sea. A thousand plus make the long and arduous journey from feeding grounds, to their sub-tropical breeding grounds, and back again. Byron Bay whale watching tours are available starting in June and continuing through December.
They leave the rich summer feeding grounds of the Antartica between May and August. They travel north to the sub-tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef to procreate and give birth to their young. From September through December they make the return trip, slowed down by the calves and pregnant females.
The timing of the migration varies depending on sea ice and water temperature, location and amount of the food supply, and the pressure from predators, orcas and occasionally sharks. They leave in groups, not en masse, so the migration can be viewed over several months. They travel somewhat farther from the shore on the northern trip. The return trip with mothers, calves, and pregnant females is slower and closer to the shoreline. The pod moves slower, rests more, and plays more. Gestation is 11 to 12 months. Pregnant females will birth their calves the following year in the warm sub-tropical waters of the breeding ground.
It’s a short boat ride to find and view a pod of humpbacks on their journey. Although regulations require boats to stay 100 meters away, and 300 meters from pregnant females, usually curious whales will stray from the group approaching for a close-up view of the boat and it’s passengers.
Bottlenose and Common Dolphins are regularly sighted on these tours. They’re very playful and often closely approach boats jumping and playing alongside. You may also see Sea Turtles, numerous sea birds, and other whales such as the Southern Right Whales, Blue Whales, Sperm Whales, and Killer Whales.
If you prefer to stay ashore, there are many excellent viewing spots where whales pass near shore especially during the southern migration. Some popular viewing spots are Angels Beach viewing platform, Flat Rock viewing platform, Rocky Point, Pat Moreton Lookout, Byron Bay lighthouse, Main Beach Byron Bay, or Little Wategos. Take a picnic and binoculars. Enjoy the wait and the view. During a full moon whales can often be spotted playing in the moonlight, a spectacular show.
Humpback whales average 16 meters in length. It’s an unforgettable sight, watching these giants on their annual migration. The advantage of booking a Byron Bay whale watching boat tour is the staff, usually with degrees in Marine Biology. They provide a fascinating and informative commentary and will make sure you don’t miss other fascinating sea travelers.
