whales watching adventure on the Gold Coast July
Winter is time for whale watching on the Gold Coast. The following is an article from a guest who finally took the plunge and went whale watching with SeaWorld Whale Watching, departing from SeaWorld every day.
Whale Watching on the Gold Coast
I finally took the advice of a long-time friend and went whale watching with her. This is one of the best whale watching adventure on the Gold Coast.
It was AWESOME…
Lucky for us, the weather on the Gold Coast couldn’t have been better – the sun was high in the sky, the sea breeze was refreshing, and the glassy ocean made for a smooth ride on our valiant vessel.
During our two-hour tour, we managed to spot seven whales, and witnessed one of these magnificent creatures tail-slapping the water. It was, honestly, amazing!!!
I have only one word to describe the humbling experience of being so close to such colossal and beautiful animals: perfect.
Later, I learned from Stevo, our local whale-watching guide, that the primary focus of whale watching along the East Coast of Australia is the migration of humpback and southern right whales, and that the whale-watching season occurs when the whales are resting close to the coast before another migration cycle.
After this little adventure of ours, the best advice I can give you is that there are only three essential requirements for successful whale watching adventure on the Gold Coast: the location, planning and patience.
South East Queensland residents and visitors are well-served when it comes to selecting the location as we have a great whale-watching spot right here on the Gold Coast, and because the whales tend to concentrate on our shores at the peak season (between July and November).
Planning is essential because migrating whales rarely stay in one place for more than a few months, so you must time your trip according to the migration season.
Making planning easier is the fact that the whale migration season has led to the growth of a flourishing local whale watching specialised industry, that is efficient, informative, and aware of its environmental responsibilities.
It’s also important to bear in mind that whales are majestic and resourceful animals that migrate extremely long distances, and as a result, can be tricky and sometimes unpredictable to find. So be patient and be prepared to be surprised and be amazed for the best whale watching adventure on the Gold Coast!
Having said that, I believe this unknown factor just adds to the experience. There’s always that uncertainty of when it’s going to happen, even though, according to industry numbers, most commercial whale-watching trips have a surprisingly high success rate (in the unlikely event you don’t see a whale, you should consider talking to the tour operator to obtain a voucher for another day trip).
3 Tips to preparing for your whale watching adventure
#1: Bring lots of sunscreen
The sun is out, the water is lovely and warm. Winter on the Gold Coast is the best time to see whales, but also the brightest when on the seas. You will be surprised by how warm the reflection of the sun on the water is so bring lots of sunscreen and apply generously.
#2: Bring your sunglasses
The sun’s glare off the surface of the sea can be quite blinding so make sure you bring your sunglasses to protect your eyes, but also to make it easier to see and enjoy the magnificent creatures.
#3: Book with a money back guarantee operator
In the rare event that you do not see a whale, some tour operators offer a money back guarantee or a free reschedule of your trip. SeaWorld Whale Watching offers a guarantee that you would see a whale during June to October or a full refund will be offered.
Where to Stay for Your Gold Coast Whale Watching Adventure?
Holiday Holiday offers some great Gold Coast accommodation for the family for your whale watching adventure. Stay at the family friendly Chevron Renaissance apartments, and relax in the sandy lagoon pool after your whale watching tour. Check out this 2 bedrooms 1 bathroom river and hinterland view apartment that can comfortably host a family of 5 in the Chevron Renaissance, located above Coles in Surfers Paradise, and within 5 minutes drive to SeaWorld.
Chevron Renaissance apartment with river view
