🐋 Meet the Whales of the Whitsundays: What You Need to Know About Humpback Season
There’s something magical about seeing a whale breach against the backdrop of the Whitsunday Islands. Each year, from June to September, humpback whales migrate thousands of kilometres from Antarctica to the warmer, protected waters of the Great Barrier Reef — and they choose the Whitsundays as their nursery.
And when you’re sailing with OzSail or Matador during humpback season, you’re in one of the best places in the world to witness it.
🌊 Why the Whitsundays?
The Whitsundays are recognised as the world’s first Whale Heritage Site within a World Heritage Area, meaning it’s not just stunning — it’s significant. These waters provide a safe, shallow space for mother whales to give birth, rest, and nurture their newborn calves. It’s a place of new life, calm moments, and unforgettable experiences.
🤝 Our Partnership with Whales of the Whitsundays
OzSail (including Matador) is proud to be a bronze corporate sponsor of the Whales of the Whitsundays (WoW) program — a local initiative dedicated to marine education, whale conservation, and strengthening cultural and community connections to these incredible creatures.
The WoW program works closely with tourism operators, traditional owners, marine researchers, and the wider community to protect this vital birthing ground. By sailing with us, you’re not just spotting whales — you’re supporting the preservation of their habitat.
👀 What Can You See Onboard?
While whale sightings can never be guaranteed (nature’s on its own schedule!), guests onboard during the season have seen:
- Breaching adults launching from the ocean
- Tail slaps and fin waves
- Curious calves sticking close to mum
- Whale “logging” (resting near the surface)
- Sometimes, distant whale songs heard underwater while snorkeling!
Being on a sailing tour gives you a slower, quieter approach to these gentle giants — making encounters more natural and less disruptive.
🐳 How to Be a Respectful Whale Watcher
We love these majestic creatures, and we ask our guests to help us keep them safe by following a few simple guidelines:
- Keep a respectful distance. Our skippers know the legal approach distances and always err on the side of caution.
- Stay calm and quiet. Excited whispers = yes. Loud splashes = not so much.
- Let them come to you. Whales are naturally curious — especially the calves. If they approach, consider it an honour.
- No drones. They can disturb whales, especially mothers and newborns.
- Leave no trace. This applies every day, but especially when we’re in such a special marine area.
💚 Your Experience, Their Protection
Every time you choose an eco-certified tour like OzSail or Matador, you’re helping to protect the places and creatures that make the Whitsundays so unforgettable.
From recycling on board to reef-safe sunscreen, and partnerships like Whales of the Whitsundays, we’re committed to treading lightly, sailing smartly, and inspiring our guests to do the same.
So, if you’re joining us between June and September, keep your eyes on the horizon — you just might meet the Whitsundays’ most breathtaking locals.
Want to learn more about the Whales of the Whitsundays program?
Follow us on Instagram for real-time whale season updates and visit Whales of the Whitsundays for more info.