Dreaming of holidaying in Busselton? Or do you live in the southwest and want to experience something different? With the weather warmer up and the plentiful whales in the bay now is the perfect time to head out onto the water. Naturaliste Charters are the premier whale watching company and have been operating the longest out of all tour operators, for 25 years in the south west. We are locally owned and operated by a small family in Dunsborough and employ over 10 local crew. These include management, office staff, skippers, deckhands, marine biologists and tour guides! Our extensive experience and knowledge on the water is what makes us the right whale watching company for you! So you’ve found the right company but as we offer a variety of tours, it is now time to see why Busselton is best!
Busselton whale watching is an activity that is unique for each tour. One day you can witness calm and peaceful whales and the next energetic and acrobatic ones! Sometimes even both in the one tour.
Our vessel departs from the beachside precinct in the main part of town – at the famous Busselton Jetty. From here we head out into the calm protected waters of Geographe Bay. Often within minutes of departure we are accompanied by dolphins who ride in our wake to the end of the 1.8km long jetty.
From here the dense seagrass meadows below host an expanse of marine life which on the glass days you can see from above the water! However, the type of marine life we really want to witness will not be on the sea floor, they will be sending shivers up your spine with the incredible WHOOSH of their exhale! These animals are the mighty whale!
There are three species that often grace this northern part of Geographe bay. Blue Whales, the largest animal on the planet glide quietly past Busselton, sometimes within 100 metres of the end of the jetty! Southern Right Whales can rest in this part of the bay for weeks, even months at a time. Here they can be observed mating, giving birth, and nursing their calves for the months of spring.
Finally, we can witness the magnificent Humpback whales. Having spent almost half a year migrating, the calm protected waters of Busselton allows whales to nurse their calves and prepare for the final stretch of their journey. This stretch is across open water from Australia to Antarctica and will be the first time these newborn calves have been off the Australian continental shelf where the water plummets thousands of metres deep!
If you are concerned about heading far offshore, do not worry as most tours take place less than 10 nautical miles off land so you will always have a view of the beach. For approximately 2-2.5 hours you will be taken around the bay to search of whales. You enjoy the sunshine from the bow and back deck. Or you can position yourself in the helm and enjoy the information from the experienced skipper and crew as you watch the whales.
These tours are $90 per adult and $50 per child with family and senior discounts. We take all ages and all abilities so the whole family can come along! From the smallest of newborn passengers to the older generations who may be unsteady on their feet the crew will look after you so you can have maximum enjoyment from your tour.
With departure from the Busselton Jetty or Port Geographe Marina it is a very stable boarding process for those who are not so stable on their feet. It is wheelchair accessible and there is plenty of space on the back deck to relax and look over the side and a whale gliding past. Our vessels are comfortable and spacious but your individual circumstances will determine your comfort and enjoyment on the day. Assistance from companions is highly recommended if you are in a wheelchair however our staff will also go above and beyond so you can get the most out of your whale watching experience. Our Busselton vessel, Dhu Force is suitable with sheltered rear deck viewing space or seating if these suits. Dhu Force has a smaller passenger capacity than our other vessel in the fleet therefore it can be easier to maneuver on the back deck. Please note that since we operate in the marine environment, movement on the deck does occur. This is where your companion will be necessary. Before booking it is advisable to contact the office on 9750 5500 for more information and to discuss further. We can also arrange to have you boarding early, giving you plenty of time to meet the crew and get comfortable.
So now you’ve read all about our Busselton Whale Watching and want to book. Well making a booking is very easy! You can book online through our website, visit our shop front in Dunsborough, call our friendly staff or send an enquiry email. Whatever avenue you take we will endeavor to make the process as easy and smooth as possible.
Or maybe you are looking at gifting this incredible experience to someone? You can purchase gift vouchers for Busselton whale watching and we may be biased but they make the perfect gift for family or friends. Gift vouchers have a long expiry so do not fret if you miss this season! You can find gift vouchers online in the drop down menu called Tours or by clicking the Book Now button. You can also purchase a gift voucher by contacting us via phone or email. info@whales-australia.com.au (08) 9750 5500.
Busselton whale watching awaits! You won’t know if you never go, so we hope to see you out on the water!