Imagine gliding across pristine waters, witnessing the majestic movements of migrating whales — this is exactly what the Augusta Whale Watching Tour promises. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a memorable sea adventure, this experience aims to deliver close encounters with Humpbacks, Southern Right, and Blue Whales in the calm, sheltered bays of Western Australia’s southwest.
What makes this tour stand out? We love the expert guidance from marine biologists, the luxurious vessel designed for comfort and visibility, and the remarkably high success rate of whale sightings — nearly 100%. A possible consideration is the weather dependency, as sea conditions can influence visibility, but with over 35,000 whales migrating through the area, the chances are excellent. This tour suits families, solo travelers, and wildlife admirers eager to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Key Points
- High whale sighting success: Nearly 100% chance of seeing whales, with a guarantee to re-join the tour for free if you don’t see any.
- Expert commentary: Marine biologists onboard share insights about whale behavior and history, enriching the experience.
- Luxury vessel: The Alison Maree offers stability, comfort, and good vantage points for viewing.
- Authentic wildlife experience: Multiple whale species and dolphins are often spotted in the sheltered bay.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages with a relaxed 2-hour schedule.
- Value for money: At $63 per person, the tour offers an engaging, educational, and fun experience.
What to Expect: A Closer Look at the Experience
Looking for more options in Augusta Australia? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Departure and Meeting Details
The tour departs twice daily from the Augusta Boat Harbour, located just a five-minute drive from the town center. Meeting at the supplier’s desk in the undercover area, you’ll find the Alison Maree, a purpose-built whale-watching vessel valued at over $2.5 million, waiting for you. The vessel’s design prioritizes stability and visibility, ensuring travelers get a comfortable ride and excellent chances to see whales from multiple vantage points.
The Vessel and Comfort
The Alison Maree is renowned for its sturdy build and spacious decks. Its design allows for unobstructed views from all sides, meaning you don’t have to fight for a good spot. Some reviews mention that the boat’s stabilizers make the 2-hour cruise smooth, even if the seas get a little choppy. While the boat can get crowded, everyone is encouraged to move around freely, and the crew often stays longer when whales are actively surfacing, as one reviewer noted they stayed about 50 minutes beyond the scheduled time.
The Cruise Experience
Once underway, it’s not just about the views — it’s about the storytelling. Aboard, you’ll listen to engaging commentary from friendly skippers who share stories about the history of the whales and their migration routes. A marine biologist on board will provide expert insights, answering questions and explaining whale behaviors, which elevates the experience from just sightseeing to an educational adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyViewing and Wildlife
In the calm waters of Flinders Bay, whales are often spotted within minutes after departure. This bay, where two oceans meet, acts as a natural rest stop for migrating whales. You might see Humpbacks breaching, Southern Rights lounging at the surface, or even Blue Whales passing through, which is a rare but memorable sight. Dolphins also frequently accompany the tour, adding lively splashes of activity.
What’s Included
Your ticket covers a 2-hour guided cruise, with morning or afternoon tea — a hot drink or water and biscuits — to keep you comfortable. The tour’s all-weather policy means you should bring warm clothes, especially in the mornings or cooler months. Plus, the tour offers a 10% discount at local restaurants on the day, which is a nice perk for extending your day in Augusta.
The Guarantee and Success Rate
The tour boasts a 99% success sighting rate, meaning most guests will see whales. If you’re unlucky, you can rejoin the tour free of charge, which demonstrates confidence in their expertise and the area’s whale activity. Several reviews mention that the crew and guides actively try to locate whales, often staying longer when whales are playing just beyond the scheduled tour time.
Is This Tour Worth the Price?
At $63 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the quality of the vessel, the expert commentary, and the high likelihood of sightings. Compared to other wildlife excursions, this experience balances affordability with authenticity and comfort — making it accessible for families, solo travelers, or anyone wanting a guaranteed whale encounter.
The onboard marine biologist adds a layer of educational depth, and the luxury vessel ensures you enjoy the scenery in comfort. Plus, the free re-join guarantee means you’re essentially paying for a very high probability of seeing whales, which is a big plus.
The Detailed Itinerary and Experience
Brief Itinerary Breakdown
- Departure from Augusta Harbour: The adventure starts with a quick check-in at the undercover area, where friendly staff brief you on safety and expectations.
- Set sail into Flinders Bay: As you cruise out, the boat’s stable design makes for a smooth ride, allowing everyone to settle in comfortably.
- Wildlife spotting: Within moments, you can expect to see dolphins, and soon after, whales begin to surface. The boat’s proximity to whale corridors maximizes your chances.
- Educational commentary: Throughout the cruise, the marine biologist explains whale behaviors, migration patterns, and history, making the outing informative and engaging.
- Extended viewing: If the whales are active, the crew often stays longer, sometimes beyond the scheduled 2 hours, to maximize your chances.
- Return to harbor: The cruise wraps up with a relaxed cruise back, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.
What Makes This Experience Special?
- Proximity to whales: Anchor points in Flinders Bay mean close-up views; whales often appear just meters from the vessel.
- Expert guidance: The marine biologist adds insights that turn a simple boat trip into a learning experience.
- Family-friendly: The relaxed pace and onboard amenities make it suitable for children and seniors alike.
- Authentic encounter: Seeing multiple whale species in their natural environment creates a genuine wildlife experience.
Common Traveler Insights
According to reviews, many guests appreciated the knowledgeable crew and the friendly atmosphere, which made the trip both fun and educational. One reviewer noted, “They will always try their best to locate the whales,” emphasizing the crew’s dedication. Several guests highlighted that the viewing platforms allowed everyone a good chance to see whales, though one mentioned that crowding sometimes made moving from side to side challenging, especially on busy days.
The Sum Up: Is It Right for You?
If you’re after a reliable, comfortable, and educational whale watching experience in Western Australia, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s best suited for those who value guidance from marine experts, want a good chance to see whales without spending a fortune, and enjoy a relaxed cruise in scenic surroundings.
Families will appreciate its family-friendly nature and the opportunity for children to learn about marine life firsthand. Wildlife enthusiasts will find the high success rate and variety of species thrilling. For travelers who love comfort and a touch of luxury, the Alison Maree’s well-designed space provides just that without losing the authentic feel of being out at sea.
In short, this tour offers a genuine chance to connect with nature, learn from passionate guides, and enjoy the stunning coastline of Augusta — all for a reasonable price.
FAQs
How long is the whale watching tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, but sometimes they stay longer if whales are active.
Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Augusta Boat Harbour on Leeuwin Road, just a 5-minute drive from Augusta’s town center.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a reusable water bottle are recommended. Sea sickness preventative measures are advised if needed.
Are there any discounts?
Yes, a 10% meal discount at local restaurants is available on the day of the tour.
What if I don’t see whales?
The tour has a 99% success rate, and if you don’t see whales, you can join again for free.
Is there onboard commentary?
Absolutely. A marine biologist provides expert insights about whale species and migration, enhancing the experience.
Can I see other wildlife?
Yes, dolphins are often spotted along with whales, adding to the excitement.
Is the vessel accessible?
Yes, the Alison Maree is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for everyone.
What is the weather like?
It can be cooler on the water, so dressing warmly is advisable, especially in the mornings or cooler months.
The Augusta Whale Watching Tour offers a dependable, comfortable, and educational adventure that truly allows you to see the majestic whales in their natural environment. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a family seeking fun, or a solo traveler looking for a memorable experience, this tour delivers on its promises with a friendly crew and stunning scenery.
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