Southern right whales are large baleen whales, identifiable by their broad backs without dorsal fins and callosities on their heads.​

Where can I see Southern Right whales in Australia?

Southern right whales are commonly observed along Australia’s southern coastline. Notable aggregation sites include the Great Australian Bight and areas off the coasts of Victoria and Tasmania

When is the best time of year for spotting Southern Right whales?

They migrate from Antarctic feeding grounds to Australian coastal waters between May and October for calving and breeding. Peak sightings of this whale species typically occur from June to August.

Facts about southern right whales:

• Southern right whales are known for their curious behaviour, often approaching vessels.​
• This whale species can reach lengths up to 17 meters and weigh as much as 100 tonnes.
• They were named “right whales” by whalers, who considered them the “right” whales to hunt due to their high blubber content and tendency to float when killed. Their populations have been recovering since the cessation of whaling, but they remain protected and ongoing conservation efforts are essential. ​

Blue whales are the largest animals known to have ever existed, reaching lengths up to 30 meters and weights of approximately 180 tonnes.​

Where can I see Blue whales in Australia?

This whale species are occasionally spotted off the coasts of Western Australia, particularly near the Perth Canyon, and in the Bonney Upwelling off the southern coastline.

When is the best time of year for spotting Blue whales?

Sightings are most common between November and May, corresponding with krill abundance in these regions. ​

Facts about blue whales:

• A blue whale’s heart can weigh as much as a car, underscoring their massive size.​
• Despite their size, this whale species primarily feeds on tiny krill, consuming up to 4 tonnes daily.​
• Their vocalizations are among the loudest of any creature, detectable over hundreds of kilometers underwater.

Dwarf minke whales are the smallest baleen whales, known for their curious nature and interactions with humans.​

Where can I see Dwarf Minke whales in Australia?

The northern Great Barrier Reef, particularly around the Ribbon Reefs, is a prime location for observing these whales. 

When is the best time of year for spotting Dwarf Minke whales?

This whale species are typically encountered between May and August during their migration through the Great Barrier Reef. ​

Facts about dwarf minke whales:

• Dwarf Minke whales have a distinctive white band on their pectoral fins, setting them apart from other minke whale species.​
• Their vocalizations include a series of clicks, pulses, and buzzes, which are subjects of ongoing research.​

Common dolphins are fast, agile, and social animals, easily recognised by their distinctive hourglass pattern along the sides of their bodies. They are among the most widespread and abundant dolphin species in the world.

Where can I see Common dolphins in Australia?

Common dolphins are typically found in offshore waters along the southern and eastern coasts of Australia. They are regularly seen in deeper coastal areas off New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and southern Western Australia. In places like Port Phillip Bay and Eden (NSW), they are known to follow boats and ride the bow waves.

Subheading: When is the best time of year for spotting common dolphins?

Common dolphins can be seen year-round in Australian waters. However, they are more likely to be spotted during periods of calm weather and in areas where prey like schooling fish is abundant – particularly in spring and summer when ocean productivity is high.

Facts about common dolphins:

• Common dolphins are among the fastest marine mammals, reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h.
• They often form large pods, sometimes numbering in the hundreds or even thousands, and are known to mix with other cetacean species.
• These dolphins are highly social and vocal, using a range of whistles and clicks to communicate and coordinate during group hunting.

Dive into more amazing dolphin facts here!