Whalesong Cruises

Slip out from Urangan and into Hervey Bay's calm waters on a purpose‑built vessel designed for close, comfortable encounters with wildlife and the Great Sandy Strait.

Award‑winning, eco‑accredited half‑day cruises with low passenger numbers, expert commentary and generous inclusions all year round.

Whalesong Cruises runs twice‑daily humpback whale watching (mid‑July to late‑October) with real‑time commentary, wide decks and intentionally small groups for unhurried viewing. Pre‑season, join a Whale Search/Dolphin Watch (late‑June to mid‑July). Outside whale season, cruise to a remote west coast K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) beach for a half‑day of swimming, kayaking and relaxing in a sheltered setting (November to early June), or savour a short, scenic Sunset Cruise (November to mid‑July). Private charters are available year‑round. Daytime cruises typically feature catering including morning or afternoon tea and a main meal; the sunset experience comes with canapés and a welcome drink.

What makes it special? The vessel is purpose‑built and spacious, with passenger numbers deliberately kept well below capacity on whale tours so guests enjoy unobstructed views at the rails — and even fewer on the West Coast K'gari Beach day for a genuinely relaxed, unhurried outing. Whalesong carries eco and quality tourism credentials recognising sustainable and accessible practices, with an all‑abilities focus woven into daily operations and genuine respect shown for Butchulla culture. Cruise departures leave from the marina precinct at Urangan; check the operator website for current schedules and bookings.

What's the best time for whale watching in Hervey Bay? Mid‑July to late‑October is prime time on Whalesong's half‑day whale cruises, offered twice daily with expert, real‑time commentary. The purpose‑built vessel's wide decks and intentionally small groups create outstanding views and a relaxed atmosphere while you watch for breaches, tail slaps and close passes.

What cruises run outside whale season? From November to early June, jump aboard the West Coast K'gari Beach + BBQ Cruise for a half‑day at a remote, sheltered beach with safe swimming and activities. A 1.5–2 hour Sunset Cruise (November to mid‑July) showcases golden skies and calm bay conditions. Private charters operate throughout the year.

What's included and what should I bring? Most daytime cruises feature catering — typically morning or afternoon tea alongside lunch or dinner — while the Sunset Cruise comes with canapés and a welcome drink, plus hot drinks and water throughout. Pack comfortable clothing and shoes, a jumper, hat, sunglasses and a camera. On beach days, equipment is brought on board so you can simply relax and enjoy.

How accessible and sustainable is the experience? Whalesong carries recognised ecotourism certification at an advanced level, as well as quality tourism accreditation covering both sustainability and accessible tourism. The crew emphasises minimal impact practices, wide‑deck access and all‑abilities inclusion, alongside cultural respect for the Butchulla people, Traditional Owners of K'gari and Hervey Bay.

Where do cruises depart and how flexible is booking? Cruises depart from the marina precinct at Urangan. Whalesong offers straightforward booking with clear cancellation terms: guests who give sufficient advance notice before departure are eligible for a full refund, and optional cancel‑for‑any‑reason cover provides further flexibility to cancel closer to departure for a partial refund or to reschedule. Check the operator website for the latest booking conditions.