Augusta Whale Watching Tour: Humpbacks & Southern Rights

Summary

See wild whales up close from Augusta’s spacious boat decks

You’ll stand shoulder-to-shoulder with locals and travelers as humpback whales surface right beside your boat in Augusta’s chilly bay. Watch for playful splashes from the flybridge or relax inside the cozy cabin. Your whale watching tour includes an experienced local guide and options for anti-nausea wristbands if needed—plus there’s always someone ready to point out which fin belongs to which whale.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely stepped onto the deck in Augusta when someone shouted — “There!” And just like that, everyone rushed to the railings, squinting into the pale blue. I could smell salt and something faintly metallic, maybe from the ropes or the engine. Our guide, Dave (who’s lived here forever), pointed out a dark shape rising near the bow. The first humpback surfaced with this slow exhale — it sounded almost like a sigh. I didn’t expect to feel so small, honestly.

The boat itself was bigger than I thought — there’s a flybridge where you can climb up for a better view if you don’t mind the wind whipping your hair everywhere. Some people stayed inside the cabin with their tea; I couldn’t sit still. Every time we spotted another whale — sometimes two together, rolling lazily — someone would laugh or gasp. There was this one moment when a Southern Right whale drifted closer, and you could actually see the barnacles on its back. It’s weirdly peaceful out here, even with everyone craning for photos.

I tried asking Dave how often they see whales this close (“pretty much daily in season,” he said), but got distracted by a sudden splash behind us. Turns out whales can be surprisingly playful — one flicked its tail and sprayed half the back deck. My shoes got soaked but nobody cared. If you’re prone to seasickness, they offer those wristbands onboard (I saw a couple of people quietly putting them on). The whole thing felt less like a tour and more like being let in on something wild and old — not sure I’ll ever get used to seeing animals that size just hanging out near shore.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching tour from Augusta

• Board Whale Song boat
• View Humpback Whales in bay
• Spot Southern Wright Whales occasionally
• Enjoy luxury cabin and decks

Top questions

What types of whales can I see on an Augusta whale watching tour?

You’ll mostly see humpback whales and sometimes southern right whales resting in the bay before heading north.

Is pickup included for this whale watching tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; passengers meet at the departure point in Augusta.

Are anti-nausea wristbands available onboard?

Yes, anti-nausea wristbands are available for purchase during your whale watching cruise.

Can pregnant travelers join this Augusta whale watching trip?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to safety reasons.

What should I wear for an Augusta whale watching tour?

Bring warm clothing and comfortable shoes (no high heels) so you can move around safely on deck and up to the flybridge.

How close do you get to the whales during the tour?

The boat approaches as closely as regulations allow; often whales come right up to rest or play near the vessel.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the departure point in Augusta.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided whale watching cruise aboard a spacious boat with access to all decks and cabin areas; an experienced local escort throughout; optional anti-nausea wristbands available onboard; plus every passenger gets 10% off at The Colour Patch restaurant after your trip.