What’s happening?
The annual migration of humpback whales is underway along Australia’s east coast. From June to November, whales travel from Antarctic waters to the Great Barrier Reef, passing through the Whitsundays’ calm seas where they rest, breach, and nurture calves before heading south.
Why it matters
Each year, tens of thousands of humpback whales follow the “humpback highway” north. This natural event highlights the importance of marine ecosystems. As Donna Gauci, CEO of SeaLink Marine & Tourism, said, “Watching whales in the wild is a truly moving experience — one that reminds us of the power and beauty of the natural world.”
Local Impact
Mackay’s location near the Whitsundays allows residents to access whale watching tours easily. The migration period draws visitors through Mackay, supporting local businesses and encouraging awareness of marine conservation efforts vital to the Great Barrier Reef region.
By the numbers:
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Up to 30,000 humpback whales migrate along Australia’s eastern seaboard each year.
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The Whitsundays migration season, accessible from Mackay, runs June to November.
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Kelsian Group, SeaLink’s parent company, operates 115 vessels and recorded 378 million customer journeys last year.
Zoom In
Whitsundays tours let visitors see breaches, tail slaps, and calves learning to swim in sheltered tropical waters, often combined with visits to sites like Whitehaven Beach.
Zoom Out
Whale watching also occurs in Sydney Harbour, K’gari, North Stradbroke Island, Rottnest Island, Bruny Island, and Kangaroo Island, each offering unique views of migrating humpbacks or southern right whales.
What to look for next?
Details on Whitsundays whale watching schedules and updates on sightings are available at sealink.com.au/whale-watching. Residents can look forward to more chances to see whales as the season continues.
