Phillip Island Whale Watching Tour: Humpback & Right Whales

Thousands of seals at Seal Rocks, dolphins in the waves, and whales on their northward migration

A 4-hour whale watching cruise around Phillip Island in Victoria searches for Humpback and Southern Right Whales during their annual migration, with a live English-speaking guide, morning tea and captain's commentary included. Whale sightings are expected 70–90% of the time between June and August. Infants and small children can travel in a pram or stroller, and the tour suits all fitness levels.

The Experience

The boat circumnavigates Phillip Island in search of migrating whales, and the route regularly crosses paths with Common Dolphins, curious fur seals and seabirds including the Wandering Albatross and Shy Albatross. Seal Rocks holds thousands of playful fur seals — the sheer number of them is what makes that stop worth the detour. The captain provides live commentary throughout, pointing out local highlights and explaining what you're watching as it happens.

Morning tea arrives on board: coffee, tea, muffin and pastry while you're scanning the water. The 4-hour duration means the cruise covers serious ground without eating the whole day, and the timing is built around the migration season when sightings are most likely. Whale sightings aren't guaranteed, but the operator expects them 70–90% of the time between June and August, when Humpback and Southern Right Whales travel past the island on their way north.

The tour runs year-round, though the migration window is the peak season for whale encounters. All fitness levels are welcome, and if you're traveling with infants or small children, specialized infant seats are available, or you can bring a pram or stroller on board. Let the operator know about any dietary requirements when you book.

What’s included

Local English-speaking guide with live captain's commentary throughout the cruise; morning tea with coffee, tea, muffin and pastry served on board.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyInfant seats available

Operated by Wildlife Coast Cruises

Is this one for you?The 4-hour timeframe suits a half-day outing when you want to see migrating whales without committing the full day, and the morning tea keeps you comfortable while the captain explains what you're watching. Families with small children or infants will find the tour accessible, with specialized seats and room for prams on board.

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Top questions

What whales am I likely to see on this Phillip Island cruise?

Humpback Whales and Southern Right Whales are the main species during their annual migration, typically June through August. The tour also regularly encounters Common Dolphins, and you'll see fur seals at Seal Rocks plus seabirds like the Wandering Albatross and Shy Albatross.

How long is the whale watching tour around Phillip Island?

The cruise runs 4 hours total, with the boat circumnavigating the island in search of whales and other marine wildlife while the captain provides live commentary on board.

What's included in the morning tea on this tour?

Morning tea includes coffee, tea, a muffin and a pastry, served on board while you're watching for whales and other wildlife.

What are the chances of seeing whales on this Phillip Island tour?

Between June and August, the operator expects whale sightings 70–90% of the time. Sightings are not guaranteed, but the tour is timed around the peak migration season when encounters are most likely.

Can I bring a baby or small child on this whale watching cruise?

Yes, infants and small children are welcome. Specialized infant seats are available on board, or you can bring a pram or stroller with you.