Dates: 18th – 24th September, 2023
Another thrilling week of whale watching in Dunsborough has come to an end, and what a week it has been! From playful breaches to close encounters with majestic humpbacks, our guests have been treated to a spectacle of nature’s finest. Join us as we recount the highlights of the past week’s unforgettable tours.
September 18, 2023: Humpbacks Galore
On September 18th, several groups of humpback whales were spotted cruising through the waves near Dunsborough. It was a promising start to the week, setting the stage for what was to come.
September 20, 2023 – Morning Tour: A Special Family Encounter
The morning tour on the 20th brought us a heartwarming surprise. Our guests were fortunate to witness the first humpback mother and calf duo of the season, accompanied by an escort male near Cape Naturaliste. This protective male assists the mother in safeguarding her calf during their southern migration. To top it off, a curious Dwarf Minke Whale delighted us by circling our boat for an astonishing half-hour.
September 20, 2023 – Afternoon Tour: Sneaky Breaches and Their Purpose
In the afternoon, the conditions were pristine as we set out for another tour. Humpback whales treated us to sneaky breaches, popping out of the water just moments after diving. This behavior is not just for play; it’s also a way for them to dislodge parasites from their skin when they hit the water’s surface.
September 21, 2023 – Morning Tour: Close Passes and a Sunfish
The morning of September 21st brought multiple humpback whale groups through Geographe Bay. Our guests enjoyed close passes and even received waves from the whales’ enormous pectoral fins. Additionally, we spotted a Sunfish (Mola Mola) floating in the shallows, adding to the day’s excitement.
September 21, 2023 – Afternoon Tour: Spectacular Breaches
With excellent visibility in the water, our afternoon tour was a hit. We witnessed several breathtaking breaches, including one close to the boat, making it a truly memorable day of whale watching in Dunsborough.
September 22, 2023 – Morning Tour: A Bit of Everything
The morning of September 22nd was a lucky one, as we had close encounters with humpbacks at the back of the boat. They seemed to be “people-watching” as they provided us with various displays, including sneaky breaches and head lunges.
September 22, 2023 – Afternoon Tour: The Energetic Calf
In the afternoon, we followed a mother and calf, and the calf stole the show with its incredible energy. Tail slaps, breaches, and head lunges kept us entertained throughout the tour, and we learned that the calf mimics its mother’s movements.
September 23, 2023 – Afternoon Tour: An Unforgettable Experience
The afternoon tour on September 23rd was a highlight of the season. Two humpbacks put on an extraordinary display, circling the boat for an hour, showing off with spyhops, twists, turns, and powerful blows. Their interactions with our excited guests highlighted their curiosity and love for our presence.
September 24, 2023 – Morning Tour: Socializing Humpbacks
The morning tour on September 24th brought us the company of a substantial group of at least 9 humpback whales. While humpbacks don’t form family pods, they do travel and socialize in groups during their migration, providing our guests with a captivating sight.
September 24, 2023 – Afternoon Tour: Tail Slapping Extravaganza
The afternoon tour on September 24th treated us to a spectacle of tail slapping behaviour. Humpbacks communicate through the impact of their flukes against the water, a sound that can be heard from miles away. Against a backdrop of glassy waters, it was a picturesque and memorable experience for all.
As we wrap up another fantastic week of Dunsborough whale watching, we’re grateful for the incredible moments we’ve shared with our guests. Nature’s wonders never cease to amaze, and we can’t wait to see what the next week will bring. Join us again as we continue our journey into the world of these magnificent creatures of the deep.
