4.9(434)· New South Wales· By Out Of The Blue Adventures Free cancellationLikely to sell out
Experience an unforgettable, up-close encounter with Humpback Whales from June to November.
Join our Premier Whale Watching Cruise, guided by a marine biologist, departing from Ballina's Richmond River. Navigate the beautiful waters of Cape Byron Marine Park and witness Humpback Whales in their natural environment as they migrate along the iconic coastline between Byron Bay and Ballina. Enjoy the stunning scenery while listening to the whales' songs through our specialized underwater hydrophone. Our knowledgeable Marine Biologist will share insights about the area, local attractions, and the marine life encountered within Byron's Marine Park. Witnessing the whales' migration, one of the longest in the animal kingdom at over 2,500 km, is a spectacular event as they leap and play.
- ✓Life Jackets
- ✓Qualified Marine Biologist guide
- ✓Waterproof Poncho
- ✓Live commentary on board
- ✓Free Professional Photos uploaded to social media
- ✕Transfers from Byron Bay to the wharf in Ballina
Activity Schedule
2 h 30
Humpback Whales are observed along the coast between Ballina and Cape Byron. The exact location visited will depend on whale sightings. Our Marine Biologist guide will offer engaging commentary while you enjoy the spectacular views and whale encounters. You may also see other marine and bird life, such as local dolphin pods. We are so confident you will see a whale that we offer a whale guarantee: return for a free trip if you don't!
Please meet at Lance Ferris Wharf, directly opposite the Wharf Bar & Restaurant at 12-24 Fawcett St, Ballina. Our captain will greet you at the wharf and escort you to the vessel, where life jackets and waterproof ponchos will be provided.
A brief safety talk will be conducted before we travel a short distance along Ballina's Richmond River and then head out into the Cape Byron Marine Park for our Premier Whale Watching adventure. Please ensure you arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Boarding will begin 20 minutes before departure.
Kindly ensure your arrival 30 minutes prior to your departure time.
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One ticket per booking.
The vessel departs from the Lance Ferris Wharf in Ballina, located at 12-24 Fawcett Street, Ballina, NSW, 2478. This is situated in front of the Wharf Bar & Restaurant, approximately 30 minutes south of Byron Bay, before entering the Cape Byron Marine Park.
Please arrive 30 minutes early.
The vessel departs from the Lance Ferris Wharf in Ballina, located at 12-24 Fawcett Street, Ballina, NSW, 2478. This is situated in front of the Wharf Bar & Restaurant, approximately 30 minutes south of Byron Bay, before entering the Cape Byron Marine Park.
Please arrive 30 minutes early.
Please arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. Boarding commences 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
Minimum numbers are required for the tour to operate. There is a possibility of cancellation if insufficient passengers are confirmed. If this occurs, you will be offered an alternative tour or a full refund.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Not recommended for children under 5 years old
Premier Whale Watching Byron Bay
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time for check-in and boarding.
- Dress in layers as conditions on the water can change.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, even on cloudy days.
- Consider motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness.
- Cameras are recommended to capture the amazing sights.
- Listen to the marine biologist for fascinating insights into whale behavior and the local ecosystem.
For a full refund, please cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 66425P3
Activity offered by Out Of The Blue Adventures via Viator.
- Nature enthusiasts
- Families
- Couples
- Wildlife photographers
- Up-close whale encounters
- Expert marine biologist guide
- Underwater hydrophone to hear whale songs
- Stunning coastal scenery
- Whale sighting guarantee
- Professional photos provided
- Population
- 8,545,100 (2024)
- Elevation
- 160 m
- Currency
- Australian dollar
- Official language
- English
- Driving
- on the left
- Power plugs
- I · 230 V
- Emergency number
- 000
- Capital city
- Canberra
Average temperatures- 23°Jan
- 21°Feb
- 18°Mar
- 15°Apr
- 11°May
- 8°Jun
- 7°Jul
- 8°Aug
- 12°Sept
- 15°Oct
- 18°Nov
- 20°Dec
Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
When is the best time to see whales in Byron Bay?+
The whale watching season in Byron Bay typically runs from June to November, with peak sightings often occurring between July and October.
What happens if we don't see any whales?+
We offer a whale guarantee. If you do not spot any whales during your tour, you are welcome to return for a free trip on another occasion.
What should I bring on the whale watching tour?+
It is recommended to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Life jackets and waterproof ponchos are provided on board.
Is this tour suitable for young children?+
While children are welcome, the tour is not recommended for children under 5 years old.
Where do we meet for the tour?+
Please meet at Lance Ferris Wharf, directly opposite the Wharf Bar & Restaurant at 12-24 Fawcett St, Ballina.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★Viator review
Beautiful experience!...
Vishwaja_R, October 2026
Beautiful experience! Boat ride was thrilling given the slightly choppy water (still enjoyable though!). Got to see many whales and the marine biologist we had on board was very knowledgeable.
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Amazing
JoK986, October 2026
Firstly the meeting point was in Ballina and not Byron Bay which is where we booked accommodation, so just be aware. I was expecting a cruiser type boat but this was more like a fast rib.
We went on the 1/10 at 12.30pm. We had been booked in for the 3pm but the office rang the day before and said the cruise would be cancelled as we were the only people on it and would we like to move to the earlier time slot and thank goodness we did.
The skipper was supper skilled. The waves were high going out and got bigger coming back . He navigated it brilliantly and although very bumpy and fast (like a rollercoaster to be honest) not once did we feel unsafe. In fact the speed and waves added to the experience.
The marine biologist was very warm, friendly and knowledgeable. We loved how she got so excited every time we spotted a whale as her enthusiasm was infectious.
The whales though were the star of the show thank goodness we were on the 12.30pm trip. First slighting was a group of 6 hump back, then a couple of smaller groups, one whale slapping his tail and then was joined by another. Another whale breaching high out of the water. Honestly it was a trip of a lifetime, incredible to watch such raw power so close up. Amazing 🤩 still buzzing!
★★★★★Viator review
Superb experience
Laura_L, October 2026
Superb experience! We saw plenty of whales and saw them "splash" in the water, a great moment.
★★★★★Viator review
The crew was great and...
Scott_M, September 2026
The crew was great and the marine biologist was very informative. They managed to locate a couple of different groupings of Humpbacks during the trip. It was well worth it!
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Good day out
colleenn385, September 2026
We had a wonderful day, saw a few whales & learnt a lot about them as well. We would recommend this trip to everyone.
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