Our 2026 whale watching season runs from 21st August to 9th November. Book your tickets now for incredible close-up encounters on the Humpback Highway!
100% Whale Sighting Guarantee
It is one of our most frequently asked questions!
“What if we don’t see whales?”
If on any tour whales are NOT sighted, passengers are entitled to join us again free of charge. The return trip must be within the same whale season (August – November). If travel is in the last two weeks of the season, you may re-book for the next season.
All our tours feature live and educational commentary from a marine biologist!
Our expert guides and crew, well-versed in the nuances of whale behaviour and the local marine ecosystem, are dedicated to ensuring that you not only witness this incredible natural spectacle but also gain a deeper understanding of these magnificent creatures and the importance of their conservation.
Experience the breathtaking annual southern migration of humpback whales and get up close to these majestic creatures on a scenic 2-hour whale watching cruise departing from Hillarys Boat Harbour, a premier destination for whale watching in Perth. The thrilling whale watching season in Perth runs from late August through to early November, offering you the chance to witness this extraordinary phenomenon up close.
Join us on an unforgettable whale watching tour
A snapshot into our 2025 season
Thank you – to the wonderful whales and our valued passengers – for an incredible 2025 whale watching season, which was our most successful yet. We look forward to welcoming you back on board next year! Tickets are on sale now – book to join us and these magnificent mammals from Friday 21st August 2026.
What our customers say about their experience
Why our whale watching experience is the best
Meet the Humpback Whales
Perth is home to one of the world’s most incredible natural events – the annual migration of humpback whales. Each year, more than 45,000 whales travel along the Western Australian coastline, offering locals and visitors the chance to witness this extraordinary journey.
From the waters off Perth, you can often spot these gentle giants showcasing playful and acrobatic behaviours. Breaching, tail lobbing, and pec slapping are common sights during the migration season, creating unforgettable moments on the open ocean.
The Whale Watching Perth fleet follows responsible whale watching practices, allowing you to enjoy close-up encounters while ensuring the whales’ safety and well-being. It’s an experience that blends marine education, conservation, and awe-inspiring nature all in one.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers
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All Whale Watching Perth tours depart exclusively from Hillarys Boat Harbour, just 20 minutes north of Perth CBD at Shop 56, Southside Drive.ion text goes here
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You can drive directly to Hillarys Boat Harbour, where free parking is available close to the departure point. Whale Watching Perth also offers a complimentary courtesy coach pickup and drop-off service from select Perth locations.
If you prefer public transport, take a train on the Joondalup Line to Warwick Station, then transfer to bus No. 423 to Hillarys Boat Harbour. The bus stop is just a short walk from the departure point.
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Tours are conducted aboard a state-of-the-art, air-conditioned vessel with three viewing decks, spacious open-air areas, and a licensed snack bar — designed for both comfort and the best whale-spotting experience.
The Ocean Master is a purpose-built, 32-metre catamaran launched in 2024 from Hillarys Boat Harbour. With expansive decks — including a unique stepped “whale-watching king deck” — it offers exceptional viewing angles, smooth cruising, and eco-friendly performance. While primarily serving Rottnest routes, its design is perfectly suited for future whale-watching operations.
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In Perth, whale watching season generally runs from late August to early November, coinciding with the southern migration of humpback whales along the Western Australian coastline. This is when whales travel from their breeding grounds in the warmer northern waters back to the feeding grounds of Antarctica.
The peak months are usually September and October, when whale sightings are most frequent and behaviours such as breaching, tail slapping, and pectoral fin waves are common. Depending on the time of season, you may also encounter southern right whales, blue whales, dolphins, Australian sea lions, and a variety of seabirds.
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Absolutely. If no whales are sighted, you can join another tour free of charge during the same season (or the next, if your booking is within the final two weeks of the season).
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Tours last about 2 hours and include live commentary from marine biologists, panoramic views from three decks, and access to onboard refreshment facilities.
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Bring a warm layer (it can get chilly on the water), sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. A camera is essential to capture the action, and binoculars are great for spotting whales and marine life from a distance. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking preventative medication. A licensed snack bar is available onboard.
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With experienced marine biologists, comfortable multi-deck vessels, a whale-sighting guarantee, and easy access via free parking, courtesy coach, or public transport, Whale Watching Perth offers one of the most reliable and enjoyable whale-watching experiences in WA.