Tag: southern right whales

A humpback whale beneath the turquoise waters of Geographe Bay near Dunsborough

Dunsborough: Why Whale Watching Time is Now!

Posted on | by Helena

Dunsborough Whale Watching Season: Why Now Is The Time

23rd August 2025

Dunsborough’s whale watching season is in full swing. Right now, we are seeing many whales on our tours each day. The calm waters of Geographe Bay create ideal viewing. Families, photographers and first-timers are all smiling.

When The Whales Visit Dunsborough

The Dunsborough season runs from August to the end of November. During this time, Humpback Whales migrate south. Southern Right Whales rest close to shore. Later in the season, Blue Whales may pass through the bay. That mix is rare, and it feels magical.

What You Can Expect On Tour

You will watch powerful breaches, pectoral slaps and tail lobs. Calves play near their mothers. At times, curious whales approach the vessel. The bay is often glassy, which helps with spotting. Our crew share expert commentary throughout.

Why Dunsborough Is So Special

Geographe Bay offers shelter from offshore winds. Therefore the water is calmer than many coastal sites. Visibility is excellent, and the vantage points are close. You will enjoy sweeping views of Cape Naturaliste as you travel.

Current Sightings: Daily And Diverse

Right now, sightings are strong. Many Humpbacks are moving through the bay each day. We are also seeing playful juveniles and active mothers with calves. As the season progresses, you may also sight the mighty Blue Whale.

Travel Tips For A Smooth Day Out

Dress in warm layers and bring a beanie. Even on sunny days, the wind can bite. Pack a camera or phone with plenty of storage. Polarised sunglasses help reduce glare. If you are prone to motion sickness, prepare before boarding.

Where To Book With The Master Whaler

Legend Charters is proud to point guests to our master whaler, Naturaliste Charters. For Dunsborough departures and the latest updates, book here: Dunsborough Whale Watching with Naturaliste Charters.
Visiting earlier in the year? Augusta runs from late May to August: Augusta Whale Watching with Naturaliste Charters.

Staying Near Busselton?

Tours no longer depart from Busselton. However, Dunsborough is a short and easy drive away. Parking is close to the boarding point. Plan to arrive early and relax before check-in.

Responsible Wildlife Viewing

We follow strict approach guidelines for whale welfare. The crew manages distances and vessel speed. Your safety, and the whales’ safety, come first. This care delivers calm, close, and respectful encounters.

Ready To Go?

Peak months do book out. Therefore, secure your preferred date now. For availability, pricing and departure details, visit Naturaliste Charters — Dunsborough Whale Watching.

Flinders Bay whale watching from Augusta

Augusta Whale Watching

Posted on | by Legend Charters

The Margaret River Region, Western Australia

May – August

We are fast approaching that time of the year again, where Flinders Bay, Augusta becomes a safe haven and a resting point for thousands of whales who have travelled a phenomenal distance. Leaving the feeding grounds from Antarctica more than 35,000 whales are making their incredible journey north to the warmer waters, along the way they will stop in calm bays like King George Sound, Albany as well as Flinders Bay, Augusta for that much needed break from the open waters. This provides us and many other operators along the West Australian coast line with an amazing opportunity to provide Whale Watching tours in close proximity to land, operating from beautiful bays.

Legend Charters is proud to partner with our legendary sister company Naturaliste Charters to be able to offer Augusta Whale Watching tours for the upcoming season.
Be apart of one natures best offerings and witness the mighty and graceful Humpback and Southern Right Whales as they rest and play in Flinders Bay.
Naturaliste Charters offer 2-2.5 hour family friendly whale watching experiences on board their luxury 23M Catamaran – Alison Maree.
Augusta Whale Watching Tours depart 10am and 2pm daily from May – August.

Below are some great reasons as to why you should join us for a tour:

  • Naturaliste Charters have been operating Whale Watching in the South West since 1993, they are proud to be the original Whale Watching operators in the Margaret River and South West region.
  • Flexible timings with 10am & 2pm departures daily (Weather and minimum passenger numbers permitting).
  • With a 99% success sighting rate we guarantee you will see whales or you can join us again for free.. That’s right, if you don’t see whales you can come back for FREE!!
  • Be inspired with a full commentary from our professional crew, you will learn some fun facts about the region and the whales!
  • Relax in ultimate comfort on board the modern 23M Catamaran Alison Maree ensuring spectacular views from one of the multiple viewing decks or heated cabins. There are modern toilet facilities available and you can say G’day to the Skipper in the Wheelhouse, he is very friendly and always up for a chat.
  • Naturaliste Charters are Eco Tourism certified and apart of Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences collection.
  • Enjoy a light morning of afternoon tea of Tea, Coffee, Milo, Filtered Water and biscuits.

Where is Augusta?

Augusta is apart of the breathtaking Margaret River Region, an area known for its natural beauty, delicious produce, beautiful wildlife and award winning wines. Augusta is based at the southern end of the Margaret River Region and is approximately a 3.5 hour drive South of Perth, or a 40 minute drive from Margaret River itself.

Where do tours depart from?

Our Augusta Whale Watching tours depart from the state-of-the-art Augusta Boat Harbour. This modern boat Harbour is a real draw card for the town which boasts great facilities, including commercial and recreational boating pens, toilets and free of charge parking. You can find the Augusta Boat Harbour on Leeuwin Road, Augusta, just a 5 minute drive from the Augusta town centre.

What does an Augusta Whale Watching Tour cost?

Adults: $95

Seniors (65+): $85

Children (3-14): $55

Infants (0-2): FREE

Family Pass (2A & 2C) : $275

How can I book?

You can book direct through our website here.

Humpback whale pectoral fin

The Best Time to Whale Watch in Dunsborough

Posted on | by Legend Charters

Whale Watching in Dunsborough

Nestled along the stunning shores of Geographe Bay, Dunsborough in Western Australia’s South West region has become a top destination for whale watchers. Each year, the area plays host to several species of whales, particularly during the peak migration months. August until November stands out as the prime time to catch glimpses of various whale species as they journey southward after giving birth in warmer northern waters. Humpbacks, often seen with their calves, dominate the sightings, while visitors may also encounter majestic blue whales, southern right whales with their young, and even the elusive dwarf minke whale.

Commonly Sighted Whale Species

Humpback Whales

  • When: May through December (heading north to calving grounds and back south to feeding areas).
  • Traits: Recognised for their acrobatic breaching and impressive pectoral fins, humpbacks are the most commonly sighted species in Geographe Bay.

Southern Right Whales

  • When: June through November.
  • Traits: These whales stay close to shore, making Geographe Bay a favoured spot for calving and nursing. Unlike humpbacks, they are slower and less agile, with no dorsal fin and unique callosities on their heads.

Blue Whales

  • When: Occasionally spotted from October to December.
  • Traits: Known as the largest creatures on Earth, blue whales are more elusive but awe-inspiring. Their slim yet towering form can reach up to 100 feet in length and over 200 tons in weight, making them an extraordinary sight.

Minke Whales

  • When: Occasionally spotted, though less frequently than humpbacks or southern rights.
  • Traits: Minke whales are smaller and more difficult to spot due to their elusive nature, though the dwarf minke whale is occasionally seen here.

Pygmy Blue Whales

  • When: Often migrating through in late spring and early summer.
  • Traits: These smaller relatives of the blue whale sometimes swim in the deeper areas of Geographe Bay.

Orcas (Killer Whales)

  • When: Rare sightings, generally offshore.
  • Traits: Identified by their black-and-white coloring, orcas are top ocean predators occasionally observed in the bay.

Pilot Whales

  • When: Occasionally seen offshore.
  • Traits: With a rounded forehead and tendency to travel in large groups, pilot whales are distinguishable from other species.

With such diversity, whale watching in Geographe Bay offers an unparalleled experience, especially during humpback and southern right whale migrations.

Why Dunsborough Stands Out for Whale Watching

Strategic Spot on the Whale Migration Route
Dunsborough sits right along the migratory pathways for several whale species, including humpbacks, southern right whales, blue whales, and minkes, as they traverse from Antarctic feeding zones to warmer breeding grounds. The calm waters of Geographe Bay provide a resting stop, where whales often pause to rest and nurture their young.

Close Proximity for Shore-Based Viewing
The bay’s unique shape and sheltered waters draw whales close to the shore, allowing for fantastic sightings right from the coast. This proximity offers an incredible opportunity for both boat tours and shore-based whale watching, especially from popular locations like Point Piquet and Eagle Bay. Southern right whales, in particular, venture near the coastline, making for impressive sightings from the beach.

An Extended Whale-Watching Season
Unlike many locations where whales pass by briefly, Dunsborough boasts an extended season from September through December. Humpbacks are the first arrivals, followed by southern rights, and pygmy blue whales appear later in the season.

Diverse Marine Life
Alongside its variety of whale species, Dunsborough is known for sightings of dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life in Geographe Bay. This diversity adds richness to each tour, ensuring every trip is unique.

Ideal Whale-Watching Conditions
The turquoise, clear waters of Geographe Bay provide an excellent environment for whale watching, enhancing visibility and minimising cancellations due to rough seas. This makes for a smoother, more enjoyable experience in all conditions.

Commitment to Conservation and Sustainable Tourism
Dunsborough whale-watching operators adhere to responsible tourism practices, focusing on eco-friendly interactions that respect whale habitats. This commitment to conservation ensures an educational and meaningful experience for all visitors while supporting local environmental efforts.

With these exceptional qualities, Dunsborough promises a memorable and captivating whale-watching experience set against the beautiful backdrop of Geographe Bay. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime!

BOOK NOW!