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WHALE SEASON HAS STARTED!
Daily Whale Watching Cruises available until the end of October, departing from Ballina
Join Ballina and Byron Bay’s most unique whale watching experience – voted as the #1 tour in the region and the only local tour guided by a qualified Marine Biologist.
Encounter astonishing Humpback Whales in their natural habitat as they migrate past the coastline between Ballina and Byron Bay. Departing from Ballina’s Richmond River, cruise along the stunning backdrop and enter the pristine waters of Cape Byron Marine Park. Enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery while listening to live Humpback Whale song using our specialised underwater hydrophone. Our friendly Marine Biologist will share in-depth knowledge of the area & jaw-dropping encounters we experience within Byron’s Marine Park.
Each year, between May and November, Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whales travel north from their Antarctic summer feeding grounds, past Cape Byron headland, and on to their breeding and birthing grounds in the sub-tropics. At more than 10,000kms round trip, this is considered one of the longest migrations in the animal kingdom. Witnessing this stunning spectacle is easy from Australia’s most easterly point.
100% Whale Sighting Guarantee
We are so sure you’ll spot a whale that we offer a free trip in the rare event that you don’t see one on your first whale watching adventure with us!
Cruise Times
Any time is a great time for whale watching! We offer multiple daily departures for flexibility so the the time of your cruise simply comes down to personal preference.
Vessel 1: 7:30am, 10:00am, 12:30pm, 3:00pm
Vessel 2: 7:31am, 10:01am, 12:31am, 3:01pm
Please arrive 20mins prior to your departure time for boarding.
Departure times are subject to change depending on ocean and weather conditions to ensure the safest and most enjoyable experience. Please visit our vessels page for information on our vessels.
Getting to Ballina & Whale Watching Transfers
Our Ballina boarding location is the closest option for guests staying in or visiting Byron Bay and there is plenty of free parking available.
Whale Watching Transfers are available for $35 return. Book online: Ballina Byron Airport Transfers or call: +61 481 553 08
For other transport options, the Route 640 public bus or 641 operate between Byron Bay and Ballina. Please see Blanchs timetables & maps here. Taxis and rideshare services are also readily accessible.
Restrictions
-All children must be accompanied by an adult.
-Minimum age is 5yrs for our ocean based cruises.
-Unsuitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users or anyone with a neck, back or spine injury or condition.
Groups
Booking with others? Add a note or book together and we’ll do our best to seat you together!
Waiting List
If your preferred time is full, please feel free to join our waitlist online.
You’ll only be charged if a spot becomes available and is confirmed!
WHAT TO WEAR & BRING
- Beanie or Warm Hat
- Warm Jumper or Jacket
- Sunglasses
- Drinking Water
- Camera/Phone for photos
- Sunscreen
- Seasick tablets if needed (some require you to take them 30mins prior to departure)
For an image of attire guidance, please CLICK HERE
HOW TO GET HERE
The boarding wharf is in Ballina, which is a 30 minute drive south of Byron Bay and a 15 minute drive from Lennox Head. If you do not have your own transport, please book a transfer through the Ballina Byron Airport Transfers website or call Tony on 0481553081. We board at Lance Ferris Wharf, 12 Fawcett St, Ballina. (In front of Wharf Bar and Restaurant)
PARKING
Cruise is 2hrs so choose parking accordingly. It is not paid parking in this area, only restricted by amount of hours. For an image of parking options and other boarding information, please CLICK HERE
