Dunsborough Whale Watching: A Week of September Highlights
As September draws to a close, the Dunsborough whale watching season has delivered yet another extraordinary week of encounters with the ocean’s most majestic creatures. From playful calves to powerful breaches, here’s a look back at the remarkable moments experienced between the 25th and 30th of September.
September 25 – Breaches and Bonding
The week began with an explosive display. Within the first 30 minutes of the morning tour, a humpback breached right near the boat, kicking off the day with excitement. Guests watched in awe as the whales followed up with more breaches and pectoral slaps. These dramatic movements aren’t just for show—they help whales clean parasites off their skin by shedding a layer of epidermis upon impact with the water.
Later that afternoon, the magic continued. A mother humpback, her calf, and an escort male travelled together, offering an intimate look at the dynamics of southern migration. Escort males often protect mothers and calves from predators such as orcas, highlighting the cooperative behaviours of these marine giants.
September 26 – Curious Calves and Communicative Whales
The morning brought an unforgettable close encounter. A humpback mother and calf approached the vessel and remained nearby for over an hour, spyhopping and seemingly observing their human spectators. These moments offered a rare and beautiful connection between species. 
During the afternoon tour, the energy soared again. Multiple breaches and powerful pectoral slaps echoed across the bay. These slaps are more than spectacular—they act as acoustic signals, allowing whales to communicate over vast distances.
September 27 – Dolphins and Drama
Conditions were perfect on the morning of the 27th, and so were the sightings. Just minutes after departure, two humpbacks breached beside the boat. A playful pod of Bottlenose Dolphins added to the experience, bow-riding and delighting everyone onboard. 
That afternoon, glassy waters offered a view of seagrass meadows below and whales above. Four energetic humpbacks displayed behaviour often seen in competition pods—jostling, bellowing, and even feeding near diving seabirds.
September 28 – Sunshine, Slaps, and Surprises
The day began with dolphins yet again making an early appearance, setting a joyful tone for the tour. 
In the afternoon, sunshine sparkled across the bay while humpback groups frolicked. Pectoral slaps and playful breaches filled the scene, but a standout moment was a travelling pod of nine whales surfacing together—a breathtaking display of strength, grace, and social cohesion.
September 29 – A Day for the Southern Rights
The morning began with a rare and treasured sight— a Southern Right Whale mother and calf gliding peacefully through the bay. As they prepare to leave for Antarctic waters, these sightings become less common in late September. Alongside them, a humpback calf treated guests to multiple breaches and tail slaps, making the morning especially memorable. 
The afternoon tour continued the theme with several mother-and-calf pairs displaying high energy. Mini breaches, tail slaps, and coordinated movements kept the group entertained. At one point, mothers and calves surged toward the boat in a burst of activity, perhaps chasing baitfish, before veering off with elegant ease.
September 30 – A Grand Finale for the Dunsborough Whale Watching Season
The week concluded with an action-packed final morning. A competition pod of humpbacks put on a powerful show near the Cape, as multiple males vied for the attention of a female. In addition, Bottlenose Dolphins, a Southern Right mother and calf, and even a Dwarf Minke whale made appearances, adding diversity and excitement to an already eventful tour.
Why Dunsborough Whale Watching Never Disappoints
Each day brought unique highlights—whether it was a protective escort, playful calves, or acrobatic breaches. These experiences remind us of the incredible biodiversity found in Geographe Bay and the privilege we have in witnessing it up close.
As we wrap up another sensational week, we look forward to what lies ahead. The whales are still here, and there is so much more to discover.
Join us again for more unforgettable encounters with the giants of the sea on our next Dunsborough Whale Watching tour.
