Let’s Go Whale Watching in Augusta
If you are looking for a breathtaking marine experience, it is time to go whale watching in Augusta. Nestled at the meeting point of the Southern and Indian Oceans, Augusta is one of the best places along the coast of Australia to witness the incredible annual migration of whales. From late May to August, Flinders Bay becomes a sheltered haven for two iconic marine mammal species – the humpback whale and the endangered southern right whale.
Whales on the Move: The Antarctic Migration Begins
Each year, around 35,000 humpback whales begin their journey from the cold, food-rich feeding grounds of Antarctica. They travel thousands of kilometres north to the warmer breeding grounds along the coast of Australia. One of their first stopovers is Flinders Bay, where the calm, protected waters provide the perfect place to rest and recover.
Here, you can on occasion see mothers and calves near the surface, sometimes breaching or tail-slapping as they socialise or communicate. The safety of this bay makes it a preferred place for these interactions before continuing north. The sight of these giant marine mammals so close to shore is one of the great natural wonders of the region and a compelling reason to go whale watching.
Southern Right Whales: A Story of Survival
The southern right whale is one of the most fascinating species to visit Flinders Bay. Once nearly wiped out by commercial whale hunting, they earned the name “right” whale because they were the right ones to hunt — slow, full of oil-rich blubber, and prone to floating after death. These characteristics made them easy targets.
Their numbers declined dramatically during the height of whaling. Today, thanks to strong global conservation measures and Australia’s ban on commercial whaling, southern right whales are slowly returning. Still listed as endangered, their increasing presence in Flinders Bay is a hopeful sign that long-term protection of marine mammals can work. These gentle giants are identifiable by their callosities — rough patches of skin — and lack of a dorsal fin. Their behaviour near the shore and alongside our vessel can be incredibly moving to witness.
Humpbacks: The Acrobat of the Open Ocean
Humpback whales, on the other hand, are a true comeback story. Their global population has grown steadily since hunting ceased, with Australian populations seeing significant recovery. Known for their long pectoral fins and acrobatic displays, they are among the most recognisable whales in the world.
Watching a humpback breach — lifting its body entirely out of the water — is a spectacular highlight for any whale watching trip. You might also see them tail-lob, flipper-slap or perform a behaviour known as spy-hopping, where they lift their heads vertically from the water to take a look around.
These whales are highly social and vocal, and their presence in Flinders Bay offers one of the first major viewing opportunities of the season. Whether you are on your first tour or returning again, the chance to observe humpbacks is a powerful reason to go whale watching in Augusta.
More Than Whales: What Else You Might See
When you head out on a tour, whales are the headline act — but they are far from the only wildlife in Flinders Bay. You might also spot bottlenose dolphins racing the bow or gliding beneath the waves. These intelligent and curious marine mammals are often seen in pods and sometimes surf the pressure waves around our catamaran.
Augusta’s offshore skies are equally busy. Keep your eyes peeled for albatross, petrels, and Australasian gannets, all of which soar gracefully above the ocean in search of fish. With a bit of luck, you may even spot multiple species on the same day — every trip offers something different.
This variety of marine and birdlife makes Augusta one of the most accessible and diverse destinations along the coast of Australia for marine wildlife encounters.
Step Aboard: Meet the Alison Maree
Naturaliste Charters operates from the Augusta Boat Harbour during the migration season, offering daily departures to witness the incredible movement of whales through Flinders Bay. Our custom-built vessel, Alison Maree, is designed specifically for whale watching and marine wildlife tours.
At 20 metres in length, this stable and spacious catamaran is equipped with multiple viewing decks, indoor and outdoor seating, and toilet facilities. Accessibility is also a priority, with disabled access available for passengers requiring support.
With low engine noise and ample space to move around safely, Alison Maree is ideal for wildlife observation without disturbing the animals. Whether you are on deck or in the cabin, you will enjoy excellent views and live commentary from our expert guides. Our team combines marine biology knowledge with decades of experience to ensure you leave with a greater understanding of whale behaviour, migration patterns, and conservation status.
Make a Weekend of It: Where to Stay and Eat
To get the most out of your whale watching experience, consider spending a night or two in Augusta. This peaceful seaside town is full of charm, offering easy access to walking trails, lighthouses, fishing spots, and of course, Flinders Bay.
Accommodation in Augusta ranges from waterfront cabins and motels to charming retreats nestled in the forest. You can browse the full list at Margaret River Region – Augusta Accommodation or read our top picks on our Augusta Location page.
Hungry after your tour? Whether you are after a warm coffee, a pub meal, or fresh fish and chips by the bay, Augusta has some great local spots to try. The Augusta Hotel and The Colourpatch both offer a 10% discount on meals when you show your whale watch booking on the day of your tour. We also have listed our favourite options in our Places to Eat in Augusta guide.
Why Now Is the Time to Go Whale Watching in Augusta
Augusta is a natural amphitheatre for observing whales and other marine wildlife in their element. With easy access, expert-led tours, and a spectacular location on the coast of Australia, there is no better place to witness the migration of humpback and southern right whales.
Whether it is your first time or you are returning to relive the magic, go whale watching with Naturaliste Charters for an unforgettable experience guided by passion, knowledge, and respect for our oceans.
All images were taken onboard an Augusta Whale Watching tour from 9-11 June 2025.
