Whale-watching cruise Hillarys Boat Harbour: Humpbacks close
Watch humpback whales migrate past the Western Australian coast from the boat deck
A 2-hour whale-watching cruise departs from Hillarys Boat Harbour north of Perth, taking you out onto the Sunset Coast during humpback migration season. A certified marine biologist provides live commentary as you get close to the whales and photograph them. Hotel pickup is available as an add-on option, and free parking is available at the harbour.
Options for this experience
4 optionsStep-by-step itinerary
Whale watching and harbour visit
- Travel to Hillarys Boat Harbour
- Join 2-hour whale-watching cruise
- Listen to marine biologist commentary
- Explore cafes, bars, and shops
What’s included
- 2-hour whale-watching cruise with a certified marine biologist guide.
- hotel pickup and drop-off (available on selected departure times).
- transport by air-conditioned coach (available on selected departure times).
- free parking at Hillarys Boat Harbour.
Times
- Monday and Friday 09:00
- Saturday 12:00
- Sunday 09:00 12:00
Last departure this season: 9 Nov
Another time? ›Before you book
Operated by Rottnest Fast Ferries
Prices and times updated today
Traveler reviews
The experience
The humpback migration runs late August through November, and the cruise times let you pick the departure that fits your day: morning at 9am or midday at 12pm. You can book with or without hotel transfer from selected Perth accommodations. The boat heads out to where the whales pass during their annual journey up the Western Australian coastline, and a marine biologist on board narrates what you're seeing as the whales surface and move through the water.
Hillarys Boat Harbour itself is a working precinct with high-end shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, so you have time to explore before or after the cruise. The harbour has free parking if you're driving, or you can use the complimentary transfer service from your hotel. Bring a swimsuit if you want to use the waterslides or beach at Hillarys afterward. Those are separate paid activities, but the facilities are right there.
Is this one for you?Book the 9am departure if you want the morning light for whale photography and more time to explore Hillarys afterward. The 12pm slot works better if you're staying central Perth and want a later start. Hotel transfer saves the drive north, but free parking and the harbour's location make a self-drive option straightforward too.
Compare the 3 alternatives
Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 17 years); Infant (under 4): free.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
When do the humpback whales migrate past Perth?
Humpback whales travel up the Western Australian coast between late August and November each year, and the cruise operates during this migration window so you have the best chance of seeing them.
What does the marine biologist guide do on the cruise?
A certified marine biologist provides live commentary throughout the 2-hour cruise, explaining what you're seeing as the whales surface and move through the water, and answering questions about their behavior and migration.
Can I book a hotel transfer to Hillarys Boat Harbour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off is available as an option at checkout. You can also choose the cruise without transfer and use the free parking at the harbour.
What is there to do at Hillarys Boat Harbour besides the whale-watching cruise?
Hillarys Boat Harbour has shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, plus waterslides and a beach with swimming. Those additional activities are at your own expense but are located right at the precinct.
Whale-watching cruise Hillarys Boat Harbour: Humpbacks close
2h 30m · EN
from AU$ 78 per person
≈ US$ 56 in your currency
Next, you choose your date and number of travelers and see the final price.