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Whale Watching, Albany WA

Whale Watching Tours in Albany, Western Australia
Whale Watching Tours, Albany Australia - Humpback Whale Photo

Whale Watching Tours are a fantastic way to spend the morning or afternoon. These kings of the ocean visit each year between June and October and can be viewed up close on a whale watching tour. Click/tap to find out about the Whales of the Southern Ocean.

Whale Watching in Albany, WA

If you are coming to Albany to watch the Whales, we recommend booking your whale watching tour in advance.

Whale Watching is a fantastic way to spend the morning or afternoon. The King George Sound is a sheltered harbour offering two passages to the Great Southern Ocean.

The whales come and go in these sheltered water and it is unusual to go out and NOT see these humble, giant creatures.

The great Humpback whales typically migrate up to 25,000 kilometres each year as they migrate between Antarctica and Australia.

Humpback Whale Calf in Albany, Australia

If you are interested in Whale Watching, you can find a Map to the Albany Pier [click here] or scroll down to see the map on this page. This is where you will find the two whale-tour operators. Ample parking and toilets at the pier.

An ideal whale habitat, the sheltered waters around Albany and Denmark are ideal for young whales preparing to take the long journey south to the deep southern ocean around Antarctica.

I'm glad to know our friends of the sea find this area peaceful again. The whales come and go in these sheltered water and it is common to see several of these humble, giant creatures. Both whale-tour operators work from the Albany Pier.

Albany Whale Watching

Whale Watching Tours in Albany, Western Australia

Our whale-watching experiences in Albany, WA have always been fantastic. They are fun for everyone, engaging and refreshing, and the waters of King George Sound are truly beautiful.

Albany Whale Tours - on deck
Whale Watching Tours are Great!
King George Sound, Albany

Heading out of the Princess Royal Harbour into the King George Sound it is easy to see why shipmen rejoyced to see the deep water harbour, offering easy access to land with the deep blue water of the sound emptying into the Southern Ocean.

It is still today one of the worlds best natural deep water channels.

Dolphins and Seals can be seen in the sheltered waters, the seals most often laze in on the warm rocks off of Seal Island (below).

We found "Sail Away" easy and comfortable, the pace most enjoyable in the beautiful sailboat.

John's knowlege of the local wildlife extends back along his years. We have no doubt you'll be delighted.

Sail Away Whale Tours, Albany Australia
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Baby Hump Back Whale, Albany, Australia
Seals in Albany, WA
King George Sound Whale Watching
Seal Island, King George Sound
Seals on Seal Rock, Albany, Western Australia
Humpback Whale and Calf, Albany

Family Friendly Whale Tours

Each time we visit the whales our entire family participates in the adventure, and everyone enjoys the time on the ocean spotting seals, whales and dolphins.

Australian Whale Tours
Whale Watching in Albany, Australia

Albany Whale Watching

If you're visiting the Rainbow Coast btween June and October be sure to take the opportunity to go on a Whale Watching Tour.  It's a memorable experience!

Whale Tale Photograph
Albany Australia Whale Tours and Whale Watching Guide
Whale Watching Tours in Albany Australia

Albany Pier for Whale Watching

Map of Albany Pier for Whale Watching Cruises. Albany Whale Tours start here! Tap the markers for information about the locations on the Map below.

What's on the map? These are the locations plotted above:

Torndirrup National Park Torndirrup National Park
Including The Gap, Natural Bridge, The Blowholes, Jimmy Newells Harbour, Stony Hill, Cable Beach & Stony Hill. Visit Torndirrup National Park
Two Peoples Bay NP Two Peoples Bay NP
Located approximately 25 kilometres north-east of Albany. Rediscovery of the presumed extinct noisy scrub-bird. Visit Two Peoples Bay NP
West Cape Howe National Park West Cape Howe National Park
Containing the southernmost point of Western Australia this national park is astounding. Visit West Cape Howe National Park
Two Peoples Bay Heritage Trail Two Peoples Bay Heritage Trail
Heritage Trail from the Visitors Centre to Little Beach Visit Two Peoples Bay Heritage Trail
Shelley Beach Shelley Beach
Turquoise waters, verdant surrounds and ocean breeze make this beach a popular yet remote destination. Visit Shelley Beach
The Gap The Gap
An impressive rugged granite channel carved by the Great Southern Ocean waves crashing against the granite coastline forming a spectacular sheer drop of almost 25 metres. Visit The Gap
Shelley Beach Lookout Shelley Beach Lookout
A beautiful scenic lookout with hang gliding and paragliding platforms. Visit Shelley Beach Lookout
Natural Bridge Natural Bridge
The Natural Bridge is a granite formation caused by the gradual wearing away of the rock by the Great Southern Ocean. Visit Natural Bridge
Cosy Corner Cosy Corner
White beaches plus camping facilities and lots of picnic benches. Cosy Corner is cosy indeed. Located just east of West Cape National Park between Albany and Denmark. Visit Cosy Corner
Brig Amity Replica Brig Amity Replica
Experience the first settlers arrival in Albany, the first settlement in Western Australia, from onboard a replica of the Amity. Visit Brig Amity Replica
Mount Clarence Mount Clarence
Visit the ANZAC Desert Corps Memorial and view the coast from Padre White Lookout or Apex Lookout at the summit. Visit Mount Clarence
Emu Point Emu Point
The northern end of Middleton Beach, on the shores of Oyster Harbour at the channel to King George Sound. Visit Emu Point
Lowlands Beach Lowlands Beach
Beautiful, secluded beach west of West Cape Howe and east of the Wilson Inlet. Visit Lowlands Beach
Middleton Beach Middleton Beach
The most popular beach in Albany. Swim or relax under the trees. Cafes and amenities. Visit Middleton Beach
Little Beach Little Beach
This gorgeous beach is approximately 25 kilometres north east of Albany in Two Peoples Bay National Park. Visit Little Beach
Waterfall Beach at Two Peoples Bay Waterfall Beach at Two Peoples Bay
A small waterfall winds its way from the heathland to beautiful turquoise waters. Visit Waterfall Beach at Two Peoples Bay
City of Albany City of Albany
Located between the hills of Mount Melville and Mount Clarence, the Nestled along the Princess Royal Harbour & King George Sound. Visit City of Albany
Albany Farmers Market Albany Farmers Market
Saturday mornings. Fresh fruit and veggies from local growers. Organic produce available. Visit Albany Farmers Market
Forsyth Bluff Forsyth Bluff
This eastern most end of the National Park is rugged with large waves and waist to head high heathland. Visit Forsyth Bluff
Albany Pier (Cruises & Whale Watching) Albany Pier (Cruises & Whale Watching)
Albany Pier for embarking on a whale watching tour. Visit Albany Pier (Cruises & Whale Watching)
Boiler Bay Beach Boiler Bay Beach
Walk along Ledge Beach on Boiler Bay in the Gull Rock National Park and view the top of the Awhina Shipwreck. Visit Boiler Bay Beach
Cable Beach Cable Beach
In the middle of the beach is a giant boulder which was lifted by the sea and placed onto the beach by the force of the waves. Visit Cable Beach
Former HMAS Perth Dive Wreck Former HMAS Perth Dive Wreck
The Location of the Former HMAS Perth Dive Wreck for scuba divers. Visit Former HMAS Perth Dive Wreck
Frenchman Bay Frenchman Bay
Located on the southern side of King George Sound this beautiful setting has a grassy picnic area, BBQs and boat launch. Ideal beachfront location for a great day out! Visit Frenchman Bay
Gull Rock National Park Gull Rock National Park
25k east of Albany, Gull Rock National Park is a reserve for many endangered animals, trees and birds. Visit Gull Rock National Park
Jimmy Newells Harbour Jimmy Newells Harbour
Jimmy Newells Lookout provides a breathtaking view of the harbour and great southern ocean. Visit Jimmy Newells Harbour
Misery Beach Albany Misery Beach Albany
Misery Beach is a hidden gem on the southern coast of Western Australia known for stunning natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. Visit Misery Beach Albany
Nanarup Beach Nanarup Beach
With picnic and barbecues, and easy stairway access, it is a delightful place to stop for lunch. Visit Nanarup Beach
Princess Royal Fortress Princess Royal Fortress
One of the best outdoor military museums in Australia. The Fortress is within the Albany Heritage Park, atop Mount Adelaide. Visit Princess Royal Fortress
Salmon Holes Salmon Holes
Salmon Holes in Torndirrup NP offers incredible views from the lookout or descend to the white beach. Popular beach and rock fishing location. Visit Salmon Holes
Sinker Reef Sinker Reef
It is easy to see why it was given this name as the jagged black rocks rise in rows along the entire stretch of coastline. Visit Sinker Reef
Stony Hill Stony Hill
Stony Hill has a fabulous 500m fairly level circular walk which offers spectacular 360 degree views. Visit Stony Hill
Taylor Inlet Taylor Inlet
Taylor Inlet near Nanarup is a winding Inlet, home to many species of waterbirds. Visit Taylor Inlet
The Blowholes The Blowholes
The Blowholes are crevasses in the granite stretching down to sea level far below. With each wave the holes blow air and water up the channel. Visit The Blowholes
Top 10 Places to Visit Top 10 Places to Visit
Filled with many magical and majestic natural wonders, the best places are on the coast to enjoy... Visit Top 10 Places to Visit
Top Beaches Top Beaches
Pristine, clean and just like paradise. Swim in the rock pools, swim in clear waters, secluded bays, or snorkel around giant boulders all on the Rainbow Coast. Visit Top Beaches
Top Biking Locations Top Biking Locations
Top locations along the coast to start a bike ride. Tap the markers for information about the locations on the Map below. Visit Top Biking Locations
Top Historical Locations Top Historical Locations
The Rainbow Coast is a historical destination. These are the most historical places to visit. Tap the markers for information about the locations on the Map below. Visit Top Historical Locations
Top Picnic Spots Top Picnic Spots
Looking for a nice picnic spot, try these favourite picnic locations along the coast. Tap the markers for information about the locations on the Map below. Visit Top Picnic Spots
Top Places for Dogs Top Places for Dogs
If you have brought your four legged friend with you on holiday then you will need to know when you can take them for exercise and fun. Visit Top Places for Dogs
Top Places for Elders Top Places for Elders
Accessible and elder-friendly locations along the south coast. Tap the markers for information about the locations on the Map below. Visit Top Places for Elders
Top Places to Take Kids Top Places to Take Kids
Kids love it on the Rainbow Coast. The spectacular coastline is family friendly and welcoming. Visit Top Places to Take Kids
Top Surf Spots Top Surf Spots
The waters of the spectacular Rainbow Coast are very tempting and there are quite a few places to catch the waves. Visit Top Surf Spots
Top Views Top Views
Unique views of the south coast of Western Australia.Driving, biking, running, or strolling through The Rainbow Coast Region offers incredible views. Visit Top Views
Torbay Head Torbay Head
Torbay Head is the southern most point of Western Australia Visit Torbay Head
Torbay Inlet Torbay Inlet
Many people find Torbay to be one of the most relaxing and peaceful places along this stretch of coastline. Visit Torbay Inlet

When to see the Whales along the Coast - June, July, Aug, Sept, Oct

We saw our first whale off the Torndirrup Peninsula near the Blowholes, since then we have sighted dozens of whales from both the shore and Whale Tours. It was beautiful to watch the humpback whales glide and splash, spouting water into the sky every so often. Majestic and magical creatures these are... Read more detailed information on the Whales of the Southern Ocean along the Rainbow Coast.

Whaling? Still?

There is an attraction in Albany called Whaleworld which once was once a whaling-station (Ick!) and is now a historical monument to our carelessness. Call the tourist information for details. We find it not very appealing to discuss, except to point out its brief history and to oppose those still 'hunting' whales in the open ocean. Really! Ick. Leave them alone!

JAPAN STILL WHALING DESPITE SANCTUARY:
The Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary was established by the IWC in 1994 with 5 countries supporting the agreement and Japan opposing it. The status of the Southern Ocean Sanctuary is reviewed and open to change by the IWC every 10 years. During the 2004 meeting a proposal was made by Japan to remove the sanctuary, but it failed to reach the 75% majority required (it received 25 votes in favour and 30 votes against with two abstentions).

As sanctuaries only apply to commercial whaling, Japan has continued to hunt whales inside the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary because its whaling is done in accordance with a provision in the IWC charter permitting whaling for the purposes of . Japan also lodged a formal objection to the sanctuary with regard to minke whales, meaning that under IWC rules, the terms of the sanctuary do not apply to Japan with respect to minkes. The catch of the 2005 season (Dec 05-Mar 06) inside the sanctuary included 856 minke whales and ten of the endangered Fin whale. In 2007 - 2008 Japan planned to take 935 minke whales and 50 fin whales.

(*source Wikipedia Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary)

History of Whaling in WA

Whaling in Western Australia was one of the first viable industries established in the Swan River Colony following the arrival of British settlers in 1829. The industry had numerous ups and downs until the last whaling station closed in Albany in 1978.

There are two main species of whales (order Cetacea) which form aggregations along the Western Australian coastline: the Southern Right Whale (Eubalaena australis), and the Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae). The Southern Rights are slow swimmers and their carcases tend to float due to the high concentration of oil in the blubber - hence the name "right" as it made the task of the whale chasers easier. Its conservation status is now listed as "endangered" as result of more than 150 years of hunting.

Both species migrated along the north-south coastline stopping in bays such as Geographe Bay (east of Cape Naturaliste) and Flinders Bay (east of Cape Leeuwin) for mating and breeding. Other species occasionally caught were Sperm Whales and Blue Whales, although these tended to be seen mainly along the southern coast of Western Australia.

(*An entire history of the Western Australian Whaling 'Industry' can be found on wikipedia: Whaling in Western Australia)

Current Weather on the Coast


Weather in Albany

Weather in Denmark

Weather in Walpole

Additional resources for visiting the Rainbow Coast:

Rainbows Rainbows
The coast is perfectly placed to see Rainbows! And perfectly named. Green trees, mountains, forests beaches, and winter rainbows. Visit Rainbows
Seasons of the Coast Seasons of the Coast
You will find a Seasons Calendar with Wildflower and a Whales to help you plan your visit to the South Coast - The Rainbow Coast! Visit Seasons of the Coast
South Coast Beaches Map South Coast Beaches Map
South Coast Beaches from west of Walpole to East of Albany all on one map! Visit South Coast Beaches Map
South Coast Weather South Coast Weather
The climate of the Rainbow Coast is considered to be "the best in the world," according to those who live here. Visit South Coast Weather

Rainbow Coast Regions:

Albany Region Albany Region
The Albany Region of Western Australia is a land of mountains and waterways. An amazing region to explore. Visit Albany Region
Denmark Region Denmark Region
The Denmark Region is gorgeous. Trees, hills, beaches, rocks, wildlife around the river and the inlet. Visit Denmark Region
Walpole Region Walpole Region
Walpole is the western end of the Rainbow Coast and is surrounded by National Park and forested wilderness. Visit Walpole Region

Main Attractions on the Coast:

Ocean Beach Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is set between the Wilson Inlet and the Great Southern Ocean, and is the closest beach to Denmark Town. A popular surfing spot and lookout.. Visit Ocean Beach
Greens Pool Greens Pool
Almost completely sheltered from the waves of the Great Southern Ocean, Greens Pool is a paradise. Visit Greens Pool
Elephant Rocks Elephant Rocks
Giant rocks shaped like elephants stand together facing into the waves of the Great Southern Ocean Visit Elephant Rocks
Mount Frankland Mount Frankland
Starting in the karri trees you wind up and through towards the summit of Mt Frankland way above the tree top canopy. Visit Mount Frankland
Two Peoples Bay NP Two Peoples Bay NP
Located approximately 25 kilometres north-east of Albany. Rediscovery of the presumed extinct noisy scrub-bird. Visit Two Peoples Bay NP
West Cape Howe National Park West Cape Howe National Park
Containing the southernmost point of Western Australia this national park is astounding. Visit West Cape Howe National Park
Shelley Beach Shelley Beach
Turquoise waters, verdant surrounds and ocean breeze make this beach a popular yet remote destination. Visit Shelley Beach
The Gap The Gap
An impressive rugged granite channel carved by the Great Southern Ocean waves crashing against the granite coastline forming a spectacular sheer drop of almost 25 metres. Visit The Gap
Natural Bridge Natural Bridge
The Natural Bridge is a granite formation caused by the gradual wearing away of the rock by the Great Southern Ocean. Visit Natural Bridge
Brig Amity Replica Brig Amity Replica
Experience the first settlers arrival in Albany, the first settlement in Western Australia, from onboard a replica of the Amity. Visit Brig Amity Replica
Middleton Beach Middleton Beach
The most popular beach in Albany. Swim or relax under the trees. Cafes and amenities. Visit Middleton Beach
Little Beach Little Beach
This gorgeous beach is approximately 25 kilometres north east of Albany in Two Peoples Bay National Park. Visit Little Beach
Albany Wind Farm Albany Wind Farm
Beautiful and productive green energy from the wind of the Torndirrup, just outside Albany City towards Frenchman Bay. Visit Albany Wind Farm
Ancient Empires Walk Ancient Empires Walk
The Ancient Empires Walk takes you through the forest at the base of the Giant Tingle Trees at the Treetop Walk. Visit Ancient Empires Walk
Bibbulmun Track Bibbulmun Track
The Bibbulmun Track stretches from Kalamunda in the Perth hills to Albany, through many locations in the heart of the Rainbow Coast. Visit Bibbulmun Track
Denmark Wineries Denmark Wineries
Denmark Wineries and Vineyards to visit while on holiday along the Rainbow Coast. Wineries with restaurants, music, cellar doors and more! Visit Denmark Wineries
Frenchman Bay Frenchman Bay
Located on the southern side of King George Sound this beautiful setting has a grassy picnic area, BBQs and boat launch. Ideal beachfront location for a great day out! Visit Frenchman Bay
Giant Tingle Tree Giant Tingle Tree
This Giant Tingle Tree is special because it the oldest living eucalypt in the world. It is an 800 metre walk from the car park to the Giant Tingle and back. Visit Giant Tingle Tree
Lights Beach Lights Beach
Inspiring lookout and beach offering spectacular views of William Bay from the east. A favourite local beach. Visit Lights Beach
Mandalay Beach Mandalay Beach
Spectacular views to Chatham Island, gorgeous white sandy beach it is a must-see... sometimes the shipwreck is visible too. Visit Mandalay Beach
Misery Beach Albany Misery Beach Albany
Misery Beach is a hidden gem on the southern coast of Western Australia known for stunning natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. Visit Misery Beach Albany
Monkey Rock Monkey Rock
Spectacular elevated views over William Bay Nat. Park, Ratcliffe Bay, Ocean Beach and the Nullaki Peninsula. Visit Monkey Rock
Princess Royal Fortress Princess Royal Fortress
One of the best outdoor military museums in Australia. The Fortress is within the Albany Heritage Park, atop Mount Adelaide. Visit Princess Royal Fortress
Rainbows Rainbows
The coast is perfectly placed to see Rainbows! And perfectly named. Green trees, mountains, forests beaches, and winter rainbows. Visit Rainbows
South Coast Beaches Map South Coast Beaches Map
South Coast Beaches from west of Walpole to East of Albany all on one map! Visit South Coast Beaches Map
Valley of the Giants Valley of the Giants
The Valley of the Giants Wilderness Discovery Centre at the Treetop Walk is the most visited place on the Rainbow Coast. Visit Valley of the Giants