Perth: Whale Watching Cruise from Hillarys Boat Harbour

Imagine catching a glimpse of majestic humpback whales as they journey along the Western Australian coast. For just $49 per person, you can join a 2-hour whale watching cruise from Hillarys Boat Harbour, just north of Perth. Led by a certified marine biologist, the tour promises lively commentary, stunning views, and a chance to see these enormous mammals up close—on a comfortable, air-conditioned catamaran.

Two things we love about this experience are the live expert narration that adds so much depth to what you’re seeing and the multiple viewing decks that maximize your chances of spotting whales from different angles. Another big plus is the guarantee: if you don’t see whales, you’re entitled to another cruise at no extra cost the next day. The only potential downside? It’s not always possible to see whales on every trip, depending on the migration timing and weather conditions. Still, with the high review ratings and positive feedback, this tour seems well worth it for anyone interested in marine life or simply wanting a memorable sea adventure.

This experience suits nature lovers, families, and first-time whale watchers alike—it’s accessible, educational, and offers impressive value. If you’re in Perth during whale migration season (September to November), this cruise could be a highlight of your visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Get close to humpback whales during their migration season.
• Expert Guidance: Live commentary from a certified marine biologist enriches the experience.
• Comfort and Convenience: An air-conditioned vessel with three viewing areas maximizes viewing opportunities.
• Value for Money: At just $49, it’s an affordable way to enjoy a memorable sea adventure.
• Flexible Rescheduling: No whales? You can rebook for free the next day.
• Optional Transfers: Complimentary pickup from select locations can make logistics easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Perth’s Whale Watching Experience

Location and Accessibility

Hillarys Boat Harbour, located just north of Perth, serves as the starting point for this cruise. The ease of access is a notable advantage—whether you drive yourself or opt for the complimentary pickup from various central Perth hotels and landmarks. The meeting point, Shop 56 on Southside Drive, is straightforward to find, and the tour operator provides clear instructions once you book.

For those relying on public transport, the optional bus pickups from places like the Crown (Riverside Entrance), Great Southern Hotel, and Rydges Hotel make it simple to connect to the tour without hassle. Keep in mind, pickup times are confirmed closer to your date and might vary based on traffic, so it’s best to plan your arrival accordingly.

The Catamaran and Onboard Comfort

The vessel used for this trip is a modern, fully-licensed catamaran that offers a comfortable experience even on warmer days thanks to its air-conditioned interior. The three viewing decks are designed to give everyone a good vantage point, whether you prefer to stand at the open-air upper deck or stay inside with a drink from the bar.

From the reviews, we see that travelers find the boat “modern with really comfy seats,” and the onboard snacks and drinks are a nice touch, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. The relaxed environment allows you to focus on whale spotting without feeling cramped.

The Voyage: What to Expect

Once aboard, the captain will head out into the scenic waters off Hillarys, where humpback whales are known to migrate. The cruise duration is typically around 2 hours, but depending on whale activity, it might extend up to 4 hours, giving more chances to see marine life.

What makes this tour stand out is the live commentary from a certified marine biologist—a guide who is eager to share insights about whale behavior, migration patterns, and the local ecosystem. As one reviewer notes, “The guide was great, full of facts about the whales and kept us informed throughout.”

During the cruise, you’ll have the best shot at seeing breaching whales, fin slaps, and even playful calves. Travelers report seeing “loads of breaching and fin slaps,” and being “surrounded by pods of whales on 3 sides of the ferry,” which underscores how close these animals can come. The large open-air decks allow for unobstructed views, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the moment.

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Wildlife Sightings and Guarantees

The one ingredient that can’t be guaranteed in wildlife tours is whale sightings—nature is unpredictable. However, the tour’s policy of offering a free re-ride if no whales are seen during your scheduled cruise provides peace of mind. Many reviewers express satisfaction with their sightings—some remarking “we saw so many whales,” while others note that the whales came quite close.

From the comments, it’s clear that timing is key. The peak whale activity occurs from September through November, and travelers who visit during this window tend to be rewarded with spectacular displays of breaching, tail slaps, and even playful calves.

The Experience Beyond Whale Watching

Besides the main event, the educational narration elevates the experience from simple sightseeing to something more enriching. We particularly appreciated the comments about the guide’s knowledge—“the guide obviously knows what she’s talking about”—adding context and making the experience more engaging.

Some travelers also find it helpful that the boat’s design and facilities allow for a relaxed, social atmosphere. The onboard bar, snacks, and comfortable seats make it easy to spend a couple of hours enjoying the surroundings without feeling hurried.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $49, the tour offers very good value, especially considering the high quality of the experience, the expert guidance, and the likelihood of seeing whales. When you factor in the free rebooking policy if no whales are seen, the risk diminishes further. Many reviews highlight the good value for money—not just for the chance to see whales but for the comfort and educational component.

If you’re planning to visit Rottnest Island afterward, you might find that your ticket includes a 15% discount on the ferry, making the entire day even more economical.

Considerations and Tips

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers mention that getting to Hillarys Harbour can be tricky if relying on public transport, so planning ahead is wise. Also, because whale sightings depend on nature, being flexible with your schedule during migration season increases your chances of success.

Dress in layers—despite the air-conditioned interior, the outdoor decks can be windy and cooler once at sea. Bring your camera, binoculars if you have them, and perhaps a light jacket. Snacks and drinks are available onboard, but not included in the price, so consider bringing some if you want to nibble between sightings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate wildlife and natural wonders. It’s particularly well-suited to those interested in marine biology or nature photography given the live commentary and proximity to the whales. If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative day on the water with a good chance to see whales, this tour hits the mark.

Travelers who value good communication, comfortable vessels, and flexible options are likely to be very pleased. Though sightings aren’t guaranteed, the high satisfaction ratings and repeat bookings suggest most come away with fantastic memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to go whale watching in Perth?
The ideal period is from September to November when humpback whales are migrating along the coast.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours but can extend up to 4 hours depending on whale activity and weather.

Can I get a refund if I don’t see whales?
Yes, if no whales are sighted during your scheduled tour, you can rebook for the next day at no extra charge.

Is there an option for transportation?
Yes, there’s a complimentary bus pickup from several central Perth locations if you book the transfer option.

What should I bring onboard?
Bring your camera, binoculars if available, layers for wind, and maybe some snacks. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Is the vessel suitable for kids?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, with comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours operate in most weather conditions, but if conditions are unsafe, the tour might be rescheduled or canceled, with options for rebooking.

How close do the whales come to the boat?
Many reviews mention whales coming quite close, with sightings including breaching and tail slaps within a short distance from the vessel.

Do I need prior experience to enjoy this tour?
No, the experience is suitable for beginners, with a knowledgeable guide explaining everything along the way.

This whale watching cruise from Hillarys Harbour offers a solid combination of comfort, education, and wildlife encounters—all at an accessible price point. With expertly led commentary and a high chance of whale sightings during migration season, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to connect with nature without venturing too far from Perth. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable day at sea, you’ll find this tour provides genuine value and lots of storytelling potential.

For anyone craving a close-up view of humpbacks and a chance to learn about their journey, this cruise hits the sweet spot. Just remember to go with an open mind and a camera ready—nature’s surprises are often the most memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: