What’s happening?
SeaLink Marine & Tourism will operate whale watching cruises departing Townsville during peak humpback migration season, mid-July to August. Cruises are scheduled on catamarans equipped with viewing decks and provide expert commentary as guests observe humpback whales in local waters near Magnetic Island.
Why it matters?
Australia’s east coast is part of the “humpback highway,” a major migration route where tens of thousands of humpback whales travel annually from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef. According to SeaLink Marine & Tourism CEO Donna Gauci, “Watching whales in the wild is a truly moving experience — one that reminds us of the power and beauty of the natural world.” These cruises offer an opportunity to witness this natural event while learning about the significance of the whales’ journey.
Local Impact
The tours operating from Townsville provide a chance for residents and visitors to see whales while increasing awareness of marine conservation. By highlighting the role of these northern waters as resting grounds for mother whales and calves, the tours contribute to understanding the local marine ecosystem.
By the numbers:
- Up to 30,000 humpback whales migrate along Australia’s eastern coastline each year.
- Whale watching tours from Townsville will run during the main migration period from mid-July to August.
- Kelsian Group, SeaLink’s parent company, employs more than 12,600 people and operates over 115 vessels, delivering 378 million customer journeys in the past year.
Zoom In
In Townsville’s nearby waters, encounters often include observing mother whales caring for calves, along with visible breaches and tail slaps. Cruises include live commentary aimed at providing context on whale behaviours and the role of the migration.
Zoom Out
Other whale watching locations operated by SeaLink across Australia include Sydney Harbour, K’gari (Fraser Island), Whitsundays, Rottnest Island, Bruny Island, and Kangaroo Island. Each region offers different habitats where humpback and southern right whales can be observed during their seasonal migrations.
What to look for next?
Information on schedules and details for these Townsville whale watching cruises can be found at sealink.com.au/whale-watching. Updates on the migration and local marine activity are expected as the season progresses.
