Whale watching Perth: Humpback whales from Hillarys
See humpback whales up close from three viewing decks on the Indian Ocean
A 2-hour whale watching cruise from Hillarys Boat Harbour near Perth lets you watch Southern humpback whales during their annual migration from September through November. An onboard marine biologist explains the behaviour and biology of these whales as they move through the warm waters off the Sunset Coast. The air-conditioned vessel has three viewing decks and open spaces for photographs.
Options for this experience
2 optionsWhat’s included
- Air-conditioned vessel with three viewing decks.
- live marine biologist commentary.
- open deck spaces for photography.
Times
- Monday 09:00
- Sunday 09:00 12:00
Last departure this season: 9 Nov
Another day? ›Before you book
Operated by Australian Pinnacle Tours
Prices and times updated today
Traveler reviews
The experience
The boat leaves Hillarys Boat Harbour and reaches whale sightings within minutes. Between September and late November, Southern humpback whales migrate through the waters off Perth's Sunset Coast, and the route puts you directly in their path during this window. The vessel is air-conditioned and built for speed, so you spend more time watching whales and less time traveling than you would on slower boats. Three viewing decks give everyone a clear sightline, and the large open deck spaces let you photograph the whales without crowding.
A marine biologist travels with you and provides live commentary on the whales' behaviour, migration patterns and biology. The explanation goes beyond what you'd pick up from a guidebook. These are animals with specific seasonal movements and social structures, and someone trained in marine science walks you through what you're actually seeing. The whole experience runs 2 hours, which fits into a morning or afternoon without eating your whole day.
Is this one for you?Book the 9:00am departure if you want the morning light for photographs and the rest of your day free. The 12:00pm option works better if you're exploring Perth in the morning first.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years). Children under 4 can't be included in the booking.
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 appear off Perth?
Southern humpback whales migrate through the waters off the Sunset Coast from September through the end of November each year. This is the window when sightings are most reliable, and the boat departs during this season.
How soon after leaving Hillarys Boat Harbour do you see whales?
Whales can be sighted within minutes of leaving the harbour. The route takes you directly into the migration corridor where these whales are moving through the Indian Ocean.
What's included on the boat for a 2-hour cruise?
The air-conditioned vessel is included, along with access to three viewing decks and open deck spaces for photography. A marine biologist provides live educational commentary throughout the cruise. Food and drinks are not included, so bring what you need or purchase them separately before boarding.
What time does the whale watching cruise depart?
Two departure times are available: 9:00am and 12:00pm. You choose which one suits your schedule when you book.
Whale watching Perth: Humpback whales from Hillarys
2h · 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.