With whale season officially here, it’s a timely reminder for boaties and surfers to be alert when out on the water as we play host to thousands of 40-tonne humpbacks heading north on their annual migration!
Spirit of Gold Coast says if you’re on a boat and see a whale in the vicinity, or ahead of you, to always make sure you slow down and keep your eyes on the water. And if you see a blow, to approach with caution but never from behind as this can startle the whale and disrupt its pathway. The perfect way to witness these giants of the ocean is onboard the Spirit of Gold Coast, who are also proud to be the only boat in Australia to have sighted Migaloo during whale season over three consecutive years.
Have you heard of Migaloo? He’s Australia’s most well-known humpback whale (and only all white whale in the world) and has been seen in Queensland waters nearly every year since 1991. As he migrates up the east coast of Australia from Antarctica to the warmer waters of Tropical North Queensland, his distinctive all white colouring allows people to report sightings.
So, if you would like to experience the whales this season, do so in a safe manner either onboard a whale watching vessel or remaining cautious while out on the water yourself, and remember to always maintain a 300 metre ‘caution zone’ where possible and travel at low speed. If a whale does decide to get up close and personal with you, give way and just say “wow”! Just be sure to pop the boat back into neutral and sit back and enjoy.
Check out our Instagram to keep up with the Creek crew’s adventures and see here for more whale season tips from Scotty!
