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Hervey Bay Whale Watching on Ocean Defender, Small Group Cruise
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Hervey Bay Whale Watching on Ocean Defender, Small Group Cruise

Scientists on board, hydrophones in the water and a guarantee in season.

A 3-hour small-group whale watch from Hervey Bay on the purpose-built Ocean Defender (max 38 passengers), led by scientists, with live whale songs on hydrophones and a sighting guarantee from 15 July to 9 October.

⭑ 4.8 941 TripAdvisor reviews 📍 K'gari (Fraser Island) ⏱ 3 Hours 👥 Up to 36 🔥 Chill 🎂 Ages 5+

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$119 AUD

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4.8 from 941 TripAdvisor reviews

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Overview

This cruise is run by a marine research and conservation charity, and the tour is led by scientists who interpret the whale behaviour you see. The Ocean Defender is a purpose-built wildlife vessel carrying a maximum of 38 passengers, with forward-facing seats at water level, shade and a toilet on board.

You can listen to live whale songs through underwater hydrophones and learn the latest findings from over 40 years of whale research in Hervey Bay. A cold drink and freshly baked snack are included, and kids get a free naturalist activity booklet. Whale sightings are guaranteed from 15 July to 9 October, or you get a free return ticket, as the operator states. Proceeds support whale research and conservation.

There are two departures each day, 8am to 11am and 12pm to 3pm, with boarding 30 minutes earlier from the Ocean Store at Great Sandy Straits Marina. Children under 5 aren't allowed on this cruise.

Why you'll love it

  1. 1

    Scientist-led commentary

  2. 2

    Live whale songs on hydrophones

  3. 3

    Maximum of 38 passengers

  4. 4

    Sighting guarantee 15 July to 9 October (or a free return ticket)

  5. 5

    Two departures daily

What's included

✓ What's included

  • Cold drink and freshly baked snack
  • Whale watch guide
  • Cruise on Ocean Defender

✕ Not included

  • ✕Transport to the marina

Common questions about this trip

  • What's the cancellation policy?
    Cancellation terms for this trip are set by the operator and confirmed on your booking voucher. Refunds mirror the operator's policy, if they can refund, so can we. Wanderlust handles the refund for you, refunds mirror the operator's terms 1:1 (including if the operator cancels) and we chase it on your behalf. Message us for the exact day-by-day terms before you book.

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What travellers say

Reviews from real travellers

Public reviews of the operator who runs this tour on the ground.

The operator's track record

4.8 on TripAdvisor · 941 reviews

Review excerpts below are from Tripadvisor.

⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
via Tripadvisor
"What an amazing experience, the whales really put on a show … We had superb conditions; whales everywhere! Majestic scenery and a whole boat of great people. Plus, the money for the tour benefits nature and the whales."
N

Natasha S

Tripadvisor review

⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
via Tripadvisor
"Loved it. This was my second time whale watching. Totally worth it. Small group, the best guide that explained everything very detailed. Very informative."
A

Aygin S

Tripadvisor review

⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
via Tripadvisor
"We were well looked after with snacks and drinks. Lots of whale action (jumping and splashing) Very good guidance and teaching. … Very good for the price."
V

Victor W

Tripadvisor review

Traveller reviews, source shown on each · shown as excerpts.

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