From May to early October, whales migrate from Antarctica along the Victorian coastline to the north, to warmer waters near Queensland. Whales choose to give birth and raise their calves just off the Victoria coast. In this season, all major cruise companies begin to offer boat trips to see the migration of whales along the coast.
During the season, hundreds of these giant marine mammals can be seen. In the Warrnambool, one ideal watching spot, whales arrive to raise offspring in sheltered bays along the coast. They are easy to see at this time, because they like to be close to the shore. There is a free observation deck near the Logans Beach Road.
Among the most prevalent species of these giant mammals, you can spot humpback whales, southern right whales, orcas, and blue whales. Whales can be spotted at sea all along Victoria's coast, including the Great Ocean Road, around Phillip Island and down to Gippsland's south coast. The best whale-watching areas are located in Portland, Warrnambool, and Phillip Island—a popular day trip from Melbourne. Look for viewing platforms, clifftops and rocky outcrops along the coast for a better view or join a wildlife cruise to get a closer look at these majestic mammals.
The waters of the island and the coast are also abundant with playful dolphins, Australian sea lions, and Seal Rocks offers the chance to meet with thousands of fur seals, frolicking in the sun, as well as beautiful sea birds.
Practical info
When is the best time to see whales in Victoria?
The arrival of whales in Victoria occurs from May to early October as they migrate from Antarctica to breed and raise their young in warmer waters. During this peak period, whale-watching tours are prevalent, and all major cruise lines offer boat trips to observe the migration of whales along the coast. Witnessing these magnificent mammals and their young is a one-of-a-kind experience! Show more
Where are the best locations to go whale-watching in Victoria?
In Victoria, the ideal whale-watching spots are in Portland, Warrnambool, and Phillip Island. You may see whales up close on the Warrnambool shoreline because they breed and raise their young in sheltered bays there. Additionally, various platforms, clifftops, and rocky outcrops along the coast, such as those along the Great Ocean Road and south coast, can provide excellent views of these magnificent creatures. Show more
How many species of whales can be seen in Victoria's waters?
Victoria's waters host numerous whale species, including southern right whales, blue whales, humpback whales, and orcas. Additionally, playful dolphins, Australian sea lions, and thousands of fur seals at Seal Rocks are frequently spotted. On a whale-watching tour, you can also see sea turtles, sharks, and rays, among other marine creatures. Show more
What other marine animals can be seen during a whale-watching tour in Victoria?
Victoria's waters are abundant with playful dolphins, Australian sea lions, and thousands of frolicking fur seals at Seal Rocks. Beautiful sea birds are also a common sight. On a whale-watching tour, some other sea creatures besides whales that can be seen are sea turtles, rays, and sharks. The marine life along Victoria's coastline is a sight worth seeing! Show more
Are there any free whale-watching spots in Victoria?
Several free whale-watching spots offer excellent views of these magnificent creatures in Victoria. One such site is a free observation deck near the Logans Beach Road in Warrnambool. There are also numerous platforms, clifftops, and rocky outcrops that you can use to get a better view of the coast. Although watching from these locations is rewarding, a closer look at these majestic creatures is recommended by joining a wildlife cruise. Show more
