Best Humpback Whale Watching Tips for Exmouth

Exmouth, a stunning coastal town in Western Australia, is widely regarded as one of the premier destinations for humpback whale watching.

Each year, these magnificent marine giants migrate through the crystal-clear waters of the Ningaloo Reef, offering visitors the extraordinary opportunity to witness their acrobatic displays and hear their lovely songs up close.

Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or embarking on your first whale watching adventure, Exmouth provides an amazing experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.

In this blog, we’ll share the best tips to help you make the most of your humpback whale watching trip in Exmouth, ensuring an unforgettable and respectful encounter with these incredible creatures.

1. Choose the Right Time of Year

Timing is crucial when it comes to humpback whale watching in Exmouth. These majestic creatures migrate through the Ningaloo Reef from June to October, making this the prime period to witness their spectacular displays. During these months, you can observe humpback whales breaching, tail slapping, and possibly even interacting with their calves in the warm, sheltered waters.

To make the most of your visit, we recommend checking out our Ningaloo Reef Marine Calendar. This resource not only highlights the optimal times for humpback whale watching but also provides information on the best periods to see other incredible marine animals such as whale sharks, dugongs, manta rays, and more. By consulting the calendar, you can plan a trip that maximises your chances of encountering the diverse and vibrant marine life that calls the Ningaloo Reef home.

2. Join an Eco-Friendly Tour Operator

Choosing Three Islands Whale Shark Dive ensures an exceptional humpback whale watching experience. Our spotter plane, operated by Ningaloo Aviation, helps us locate whales away from the crowds, giving you more time in the water.

As a locally operated, eco-certified business, our passionate and knowledgeable crew provides personalised service. We're also a multi-award-winning operator, reflecting our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

3. Prepare for Your Tour

For a smooth and enjoyable humpback whale watching trip, here’s what we recommend bringing:

• Protective gear from the sun: Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses.
• Towel and bathers: Essential for swimming and drying off.
• Camera: While we have our own photographer to capture your magical moments, feel free to bring your own.
• Dry clothing and a warm jacket: It can get windy out on the water.
• Seasickness medication: If you’re prone to seasickness, it's best to be prepared.
• Snorkelling gear: Bring your own if you prefer, though we provide gear.
• Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin and the environment.
• Water & snacks: We provide water and snacks throughout the tour to keep your energy up. However, feel free to bring your own!

With these essentials, you'll be ready for an unforgettable day of whale watching in Exmouth!

4. Follow Safety and Respect Guidelines

Ensuring a safe and respectful interaction with humpback whales is crucial for their well-being and your enjoyment. Here are some important guidelines to follow:

• Give Whales Space: Allow them ample room to move freely and avoid disturbing their natural behaviour.
• Approach Slowly: Move towards whales calmly and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them.
• Avoid Swimming in Front: Never swim directly in front of a whale, as this can be perceived as threatening.
• No Touching or Riding: Do not touch or attempt to ride the whales, as this can cause them stress and injury.
• No Flash Photography: Avoid using flash photography or bright lights, which can disorient the whales.
• Do Not Feed: Feeding whales is unnecessary and can disrupt their dietary needs.
• Follow Guide Instructions: Listen to your guide, who is trained in responsible whale interaction and will ensure the safety of both you and the animals.
• Stay with Your Group: Stay with your designated group to ensure everyone’s safety and avoid chaotic situations.
• Be Aware of Surroundings: Watch out for other boats, divers, and snorkelers to prevent collisions.
• Move Calmly: Move slowly and calmly in the water to avoid startling the whales.
• Respect Other Participants: Be considerate of other participants and enjoy the experience responsibly.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can help protect the whales and ensure a memorable and respectful whale watching experience in Exmouth!

5. Capture the Moment

While you'll want to capture stunning photos of humpback whales, remember that we'll have a professional photographer on board to document your adventure, so you can fully immerse yourself in the experience. Here are some tips for making the most of your time:

• Photography Tips: If you do bring a camera, use fast shutter speeds to freeze the action and adjust your settings for bright, sunny conditions.
• Use Binoculars: For a closer look at the whales, bring binoculars. They can enhance your viewing experience and allow you to observe intricate details and behaviours.
• Enjoy the Moment: Take breaks from the camera to fully appreciate the spectacle of these majestic creatures. Trust that our photographer will capture all the magical moments for you.

By following these tips, you'll be able to relax and enjoy the incredible experience of humpback whale watching, knowing that your memories are being professionally documented.

6. Learn About the Humpback Whales

During your trip, our knowledgeable guides will share amazing facts about humpback whales, their behaviour, migration patterns, and conservation status. This will enhance your whale watching experience, providing a deeper understanding of these magnificent creatures.

For even more insights, enhance your experience by learning about humpback whales beforehand. These fascinating creatures are known for their acrobatic displays and complex songs. You can read our other blogs, which dive deeper into the lives of these beautiful animals. Engaging with our tour guides and marine biologists on board will ensure a comprehensive and enriching whale watching adventure.

Book Your Humpback Whale Tour Today!

Joining a humpback whale tour in Exmouth offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. With our expert guides, eco-friendly practices, and commitment to conservation, Three Islands Whale Shark Dive ensures an unforgettable and responsible whale watching experience.

As we approach the peak season for humpback whale sightings, our tours are in high demand and tend to book out quickly. Don’t miss your chance to embark on this extraordinary adventure. Book your humpback whale tour in Exmouth with us today and be part of an experience that not only captivates but also contributes to the conservation of these incredible marine giants.