If you’re visiting Western Australia and love wildlife, this Whale Watching Tour in Augusta offers an unforgettable glimpse of the ocean’s gentle giants. For just $63 per person, you get a two-hour ride on a purpose-built vessel, where you’ll observe Humpback, Southern Right, and Blue Whales in their natural habitat. Led by an on-board Marine Biologist, this tour promises educational insights and spectacular scenery—all from the comfort of a luxury vessel.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert commentary enhances the thrill, giving you context and stories about these majestic creatures. Second, the high success rate, with a 99% sighting guarantee (or you can join again for free), makes it one of the most reliable whale-watching outings in the area. That said, the boat can get busy, and if you’re sensitive to motion, you might want to prepare for some sea movement.
This tour suits families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone eager for a scenic, educational adventure on the water. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned whale watcher, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding.
Key Points
- High success rate: 99% chance to see whales or rejoin for free.
- Expert guidance: Marine Biologist provides educational commentary.
- Luxury vessel: Cruise on a purpose-built, stable boat with VIP amenities.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages and accessible for wheelchairs.
- Convenient departure point: Augusta Boat Harbour, easily reachable.
- All-inclusive experience: Morning or afternoon tea and meal discounts.
The Itinerary and What You Can Expect
Starting at Augusta Boat Harbour, just a short drive from the town center, we meet the crew and settle onto the ** Alison Maree**, a sturdy vessel designed specifically for whale watching. The boat’s luxury build—costing around $2.5 million—ensures a smooth ride and ample viewing space, with helpful platforms at the front for unobstructed sightings.
Once underway, we cruise into the sheltered waters of Flinders Bay, where two oceans meet—a prime spot for whale activity. Within minutes, the crew’s experience kicks in—we’re often greeted with the sight of dolphins frolicking alongside the boat, and very quickly, the likelihood of spotting a whale is very high. The marine biologist on board shares stories about whale behavior, migration routes, and history, turning what could be a simple boat ride into an educational experience.
The two-hour cruise flies by, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions. The boat’s VIP amenities, including free access to the Skippers Lounge, make it feel more like a relaxed social outing than a hurried tour. During the trip, you’ll enjoy hot drinks or water with biscuits, making it a comfortable outing regardless of the weather.
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Why You’ll Love the Experience
Many travelers praise the knowledgeable crew for their engaging commentary. One reviewer highlighted how Corinna from Australia was “super happy to come back” after seeing dolphins and a southern right whale with calf, emphasizing the consistent sightings and the helpful, friendly crew.
Another aspect travelers love is the scenic beauty: the views of Augusta’s coastline, the meeting of two vast bodies of water, and the chance to see whales in a pristine environment. Harry from Australia appreciated the great viewing platforms and the fact that the crew stayed out longer when whales kept entertaining everyone.
The value for money is clear—at $63, you’re getting a well-organized, educational, and highly successful tour that guarantees whale sightings, or you get to try again at no extra cost. Plus, the added perk of a 10% meal discount at local restaurants is a nice touch for extending your day in Augusta.
Considerations and Possible Drawbacks
While largely positive, some travelers have noted that the boat can be crowded, which makes moving around to get the best view a bit challenging. One reviewer mentioned, “There were too many people on the boat,” which could affect your ability to see whales from certain angles.
Sea sickness might also be a concern for some, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness. It’s wise to bring sea-sickness preventatives if you’re unsure how you’ll handle the boat movements.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This whale-watching trip is perfect for families with children, thanks to its family-friendly nature and accessible design. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the expert commentary and close-up encounters, while those seeking a relaxing scenic cruise will find the boat’s comfort and the stunning surroundings highly enjoyable.
Travelers who value reliable sightings—with a 99% success rate—will find this tour offers excellent value and assurance. If you’re after a well-organized, educational, and scenic experience that emphasizes authenticity and comfort, this tour ticks all those boxes.
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We loved the way this tour combines education and adventure, making it more than just a boat ride. The Marine Biologist’s commentary helps you understand whale behaviors, migration patterns, and history—turning sightings into stories that stick with you long after the boat trip ends.
The vessel itself deserves praise. Being purpose-built for whale watching, it’s designed for stability and comfort, with large viewing platforms and ample space. The VIP access to the skippers’ lounge means you can relax when not scanning the water, and the complimentary refreshments add a friendly, welcoming touch.
The sighting guarantee is a major plus. With over 35,000 Humpbacks migrating past this area annually, the chances of seeing whales are high. The two hours generally feels just right—long enough to see plenty but not so long that it tires you out. And if luck isn’t on your side, you can rebook at no extra cost, making the experience truly risk-free.
Reviewers consistently mention how quickly whales are spotted after departure—often within minutes—and how enthusiastic and helpful the crew is. One traveler from Singapore pointed out how the whole tour lasted slightly longer than two hours because the whales kept playing around, which everyone appreciated.
In terms of cost, $63 provides great value. You’re paying for expert guidance, a luxury vessel, and a guaranteed sighting—far more meaningful than a generic boat trip. Plus, the local restaurant discounts are an added bonus for those wishing to extend their day exploring Augusta.
Practical Tips for an Enjoyable Trip
- Bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing—the weather can change quickly on the water.
- A reusable water bottle ensures you stay hydrated without extra waste.
- If you’re prone to sea sickness, consider taking preventatives before boarding.
- Binoculars aren’t necessary due to the close proximity and good viewing platforms, but feel free to bring your own if you want an even closer look.
- Arrive at the Augusta Boat Harbour a little early to settle in and enjoy the surroundings.
The Sum Up
The Augusta Whale Watching Tour balances reliability, education, and scenic beauty in a way that makes it ideal for a broad range of travelers. Whether you’re a nature lover, a family seeking a memorable outing, or simply someone eager to see these incredible creatures in the wild, this experience offers solid value and authenticity.
The knowledgeable guides and spectacular views keep the experience engaging, while the high success rate reassures you that this is a worthwhile investment. For a two-hour escape into nature, this tour delivers on its promise with enthusiasm and professionalism.
If you’re in Western Australia and love wildlife or scenic cruises, this trip is definitely worth considering. It captures the essence of whale migration season in a way that’s both educational and exhilarating—not to mention incredibly beautiful.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the whale watching tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to see whales and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
What is the departure point?
Tours depart from Augusta Boat Harbour, located on Leeuwin Road, just a 5-minute drive from Augusta’s town center.
What whales might I see?
You can expect to see Humpback, Southern Right, and Blue Whales in the waters off Augusta, especially during migration seasons.
Is there a guarantee of seeing whales?
Yes, the tour boasts a 99% sighting success rate. If you don’t see whales, you can join another tour free of charge.
Is the vessel accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a reusable water bottle. Sea sickness preventatives are recommended if you’re prone to motion sickness.
To sum it up, this whale watching tour in Augusta offers a rich, authentic experience that combines expert knowledge, scenic beauty, and a high success rate. It’s a wonderful choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, educational, and memorable wildlife adventure in Western Australia.
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