Augusta Whale Watching: Humpback & Southern Right Tour

Summary

Whale watching in Augusta with marine life sightings and local crew

You’ll feel Augusta’s wild air as you watch humpback and southern right whales glide past — sometimes close enough to hear them breathe. With a local crew sharing stories and tea in hand, you might spot dolphins or seals too. Even if nature keeps its secrets that day, there’s always another chance to return.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the cold salt on my lips — not sure if it was from the wind or just excitement. We’d barely left Augusta’s jetty before someone shouted, “There!” and everyone rushed to one side (I nearly spilled my tea). Our guide, Dave, grinned and pointed out a pair of humpbacks surfacing. He said they were heading north — something about migration patterns I half-remember now, but honestly, I was too busy watching their backs slide through the water like moving shadows.

I didn’t expect to hear so much — the slap of tails, a sudden whoosh when one exhaled. It’s louder than you think. At some point, a kid near me asked if the dolphins ever race the boat. Dave laughed and told us about bottlenose dolphins showing off for tourists (“They’re basically locals here,” he said). The sky kept shifting from blue to grey; someone passed around biscuits while we tried to spot sea birds skimming the surface. It felt like everyone on board was quietly rooting for another breach.

We saw southern right whales too — slower, almost gentle compared to the humpbacks. There was this moment when everything went quiet except for gulls and that low hum of the engine. I still think about that view: wide water, spray hanging in the air, everyone just standing there together not saying much at all. If you don’t see any whales (apparently rare), they let you come back free within a year. That takes some pressure off — but I hope you get lucky on your first try.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching tour and marine life viewing

• Depart for whale watching tour
• View Humpback and Southern Right Whales
• Spot dolphins, seals, and sea birds
• Listen to expert marine commentary
• Enjoy complimentary morning or afternoon tea

Top questions

When is whale watching season in Augusta?

May until August is whale watching season in Augusta.

What types of whales can I see on this tour?

You can see humpback whales and southern right whales during the tour.

Is morning or afternoon tea included?

Yes, complimentary morning or afternoon tea with coffee, tea, milo, green tea, and biscuits is included.

What happens if no whales are sighted?

If no whales are seen during your tour, you receive a free return tour within one year.

Are children allowed on this whale watching tour?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can infants join the whale watching trip?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; prams or strollers are allowed.

What other wildlife might we see besides whales?

You might also spot New Zealand fur seals, bottlenose and common dolphins, and sea birds.

What’s included

Your day includes complimentary morning or afternoon tea with hot drinks and biscuits as you cruise from Augusta with trained marine science guides leading the way; if weather cancels your trip or no whales appear, you’re offered a free return within one year so you never miss out on seeing these giants up close.