Give the gift of adventure with a whale watching experience gift voucher. Get up close and personal with the gentle giants of the sea and marvel at their ability to jump so high out of the water. A fun day out for the whole family, whale watching is a great gift idea for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or any group celebration.
Whale watching is the ultimate combination of adventure, wildlife and spectacle. Thanks to Gifting Owl’s fantastic range of gift vouchers, you and your loved ones can experience some of the world’s largest and most graceful creatures in their natural habitat. Whale watching tours are available in popular destinations such as the Gold Coast, Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Harbour, and Darling Harbour, each area offering unique features and opportunities for sightings.
Whale watching captures the heart of those young and old across the world. It can be summarised in three words: relaxation, anticipation and (incredible) photos. I know we cheated there but describing the wonder of a humpback whale leaping through the air as just any old photo didn’t feel right. Seeing these creatures up-close is mind-blowing. The whoosh of air and water, the sheer size of the whale and the moment of wonder you feel in your chest as you gasp. These all make for an unforgettable moment.
A typical whale watching cruise has a duration of about three hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the journey and take in the excitement. The vessels used for these tours are purpose-built for comfort, safety, and optimal whale watching, with open seating arrangements that include both indoor and outdoor seats for passengers. Tickets are required for boarding, and certain conditions or exclusions may apply for group bookings or special offers. When you board the vessel, the captain and crew ensure a memorable cruise, prioritizing safety measures on board to ensure passenger comfort and well-being throughout the event. Some onboard features and activities, such as hydrophones or underwater cameras, are subject to daily conditions.
One that is so easily re-lived through photos that can only be described as incredible. As for relaxation, some experiences will be more relaxing than others. At Gifting Owl we offer gift vouchers for a range of experiences that will suit your budget and need for adrenaline. Whale watching gift cards or cruise tickets can be easily purchased online, making it simple to secure your spot for a Sydney Harbour expedition or to give as a gift. But ultimately, even those adventurous experiences can be relaxing. You’re getting the chance to truly forget about the world and experience marine life. During the cruise, expert commentary and additional activities make the whale watching cruise feel like a special event, adding to the excitement and anticipation for all ages.
For nature lovers young and old, what could be more relaxing? Anticipation is all about the build-up. You’re looking out in the ocean, searching for a glimpse of a tail, burning to see that almighty leap - and then it happens! Suddenly, soaring through the sky and you forget everything else but this awesome spectacle. The moment passes. And sure enough, you’re back to searching and anticipating. There is a high likelihood of whale sightings during the season, and you may witness thrilling action such as breaching and tail slapping. For the best chance of spotting whales, keep your eyes on the horizon. In the unlikely event that no whales are sighted during your cruise, most operators offer a free re-sighting cruise or alternative options.
Whilst whale watching is a gift that can be given for any occasion, there are seasons to best experience whale watching. Generally, whale-watching hotspots are areas that whales migrate through for feeding and breeding. Whales mostly feed on krill, which there is plenty of in cold water. However, cold water is not a suitable environment for births.
Baby whales (known as calves) are born without a protective layer of blubber and would not survive cold water straight away. Luckily for us humans though, this gives us plenty of opportunities to see whales in the wild. Whale watching tours along the east coast of Australia, including the Gold Coast whale watching region and the Great Barrier Reef, are especially popular for observing migrating humpback whales. Humpbacks are known for their impressive migration routes along the Australian coastline, with large populations traveling thousands of kilometers each year between feeding and breeding grounds, making them a highlight of the whale watching season. Sydney whale watching cruises departing from Sydney Harbour and Darling Harbour are also renowned for their scenic views and frequent sightings. Whales are commonly seen in different areas such as bays, channels, and coastal regions.
When Is The Best Time To Go Whale Watching?
That depends on where you are in the world. For Australia, the whale watching season changes from state to state.
In Tasmania, there are actually two seasons! The whales can be seen travelling north from May to July and then travelling back south from September to December. Western Australia’s whale watching season is from June - November. For Victoria, the season runs May to September. Queensland and New South Wales enjoy a slightly longer season of May - November. South Australia has a fairly short season by comparison, the best window being June to September.
The weather can be very different throughout the season and in different states so definitely check conditions beforehand. June in Victoria is very different to November in Queensland! In New Zealand, it depends on what whales that you’re hoping to see. Sperm whales can actually be seen in New Zealand all-year-round! While migrating whales, such as humpback whales, pilot whales and blue whales, are best seen between June and August. This is peak winter for New Zealand, so pack a thick coat and a jumper! Winter is the best season to see whales in Hawaii. December - March are peak periods, but you may get lucky over April & May too! Similar to New Zealand, Iceland does have whales on offer all year round. However, we would recommend booking between April - October. Firstly, migrating whales, such as humpback whales and minke whales, will be on view. Secondly, the weather in Iceland can make winter trips less reliable or extremely cold.
Be sure to check the booking terms and conditions with your chosen company if braving the winter whale watching season in Iceland. Whale watching is a very safe bet as a gift. There’s no age where the sense of wonder associated with whales is limited. The experience is only richer when shared too. This makes a whale watching gift voucher a fantastic family-friendly option that can suit any occasion. Children must be accompanied by adults, and some cruises have specific policies for children under a certain age to ensure safety for all guests.
During whale watching tours, you may have the chance to see a variety of whale species. Southern right whales migrate from the Southern Ocean and are occasionally sighted in areas like the Great Australian Bight and off Phillip Island, along with minke whales and blue whales. In addition to whales, passengers often spot dolphins and sea birds, adding to the diversity of marine life encountered on the cruise.
The excitement and value of a whale watching cruise make it a once-in-a-lifetime journey and a memorable event for all ages. For more details about whale species, locations, or frequently asked questions, visit the relevant page on our website. Sign up for our newsletter or email updates to receive the latest news and information about whale watching experiences.
Whale watching is one of the most thrilling and educational experiences you can enjoy in Australia. With over 30 species of whales gracing its waters, Australia is a true paradise for marine enthusiasts. The most commonly sighted giants include the awe-inspiring humpback whales, the majestic southern right whales, and the elusive minke whales. Embarking on a whale watching cruise along the east coast - whether from the sparkling Gold Coast or the iconic Sydney Harbour - offers a front-row seat to the wonders of whale behaviour in their natural environment. These tours are designed to bring you as close as possible to these magnificent creatures, making every moment on board an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re fascinated by the science of whale migration or simply want to witness the sheer size and grace of these animals up close, a whale watching tour in Australia is an experience you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Types of Whale Watching Tours
There’s a whale watching tour to suit every interest and occasion. Some tours are tailored for those eager to spot specific species, such as the playful humpback whales or the gentle southern right whales, while others offer a broader look at the diverse marine life in Australian waters. You can choose from quick excursions lasting a few hours to full-day adventures that might include bonus activities like snorkeling or even swimming alongside friendly dolphins. For those seeking a touch of luxury, many operators provide premium whale watching cruises with comfortable amenities and insightful commentary from marine experts. No matter which tour you choose, you’re guaranteed a day filled with wonder and discovery.
Planning Your Whale Watching Tour
Before you set out on your journey, it’s wise to check the weather forecast, as sea conditions can affect both comfort and safety. Most tours depart from well-known harbours or marinas, so be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled check-in time to ensure a smooth boarding process. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the excitement of your whale watching adventure. In the unlikely event that your tour is cancelled due to weather or other unforeseen conditions, most operators offer a refund or the option to rebook for another date, so you can look forward to your experience with confidence and peace of mind.
