DESCRIPTION
Freedom departs daily at 9:30 am from Great Sandy Straits Marina on Buccaneer Road, Urangan, and returns after 3:30 pm, from early July to early October. This period marks the peak whale-watching season in Hervey Bay, the renowned whale-watching capital of Australia. We feel privileged to take our guests to the the pristine Platypus Bay, where hundreds of humpback whales gather each year to rest and play. It is world renowned and the first location accredited by Whale Heritage Site by the World Cetacean Alliance, recognized globally for its unique whale-watching opportunities.
Our guests often experience the thrill of curious humpback whales approaching the boat, sometimes even waving back at them! We also respectfully observe the whales from the proper distance, marveling at their natural behaviors, including pec-slapping, rolling, and the awe-inspiring sight of breaching.
Join us on Freedom as we cruise the calm, sheltered waters of Hervey Bay to Platypus Bay near K’Gari (Fraser Island) and the Great Sandy Marine Park. This area serves as a playground for humpback whales as they journey south to Antarctic waters. Our expert skipper and crew provide informative and engaging commentary about whale behavior throughout the tour. We guarantee whale sightings and guests are interested to learn about the changes in the population during the season. In July, playful juvenile whales are the first to arrive, followed by the larger adults in August, giving visitors an appreciation for the whales’ majestic size. During September and into October, mothers and calves make their appearance, creating unforgettable memories that showcase why Hervey Bay stands out as a premier whale-watching destination.
We’re proud of our outstanding reviews, especially the compliments about our onboard dining. We serve morning tea, a delicious lunch and afternoon tea, offering a point of difference on our cruise. We aim to create a relaxing, memorable experience, knowing many guests have traveled far for this bucket-list adventure. With only one trip per day, we can take our time, allowing for an unhurried experience with plenty of opportunities to admire the whales and breathtaking scenery. Guests can enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and filtered water throughout the day, with additional snacks and drinks available for purchase at our licensed bar. Freedom has three toilets, a comfortable air-conditioned saloon and plenty of room to move around the boat to see the whales wherever they pop-up!
Along with multiple whale sightings, you may also encounter dolphins, turtles, and sea birds, all against the stunning backdrop of K’Gari’s western beaches. Freedom Ecotours operates with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility, ensuring the safety and well-being of both our marine creatures and our valued guests.
Freedom has
- 3 levels of viewing plus a water level platform for really close encounters
- Hydrophone for hearing the whale song
- Low passenger numbers
- Delicious food
- Locally owned and operated with friendly experienced crew
- Eco Accreditation through Ecotourism Australia
- Please Note:Infants are under 4 years of age, children are 4-14 years and students 14-18.
- Select seats on the courtesy bus as ‘extras’ and we will pick up from a Hervey Bay hotel and return you from Great Sandy Straits Marina – capacity 23 on the bus so book early to secure your spot.
Contact us with any questions [email protected]
Please see our other boat tour and charter options if you are travelling to Hervey Bay at other times of the year. We look forward to meeting you and sharing this beautiful part of the world with you.
