Large pods and a new calf!

We’ve had another incredible week of whale encounters at the Prom, with pods of 4 to 6 humpback whales frequently spotted and even a new calf joining the season’s sightings!

While the weather didn’t always cooperate, the whales certainly stole the show. Adult and subadult humpbacks put on a spectacular display, with dramatic breaches, powerful tail slaps, and thrilling close encounters that left everyone on board buzzing with excitement.

Across just three trips, we encountered 21 individual whales, with even more seen in the surrounding waters.

One special sighting included a mother (cow) and her calf cruising near Rabbit Island, heading southward. This marks the calf’s very first migration to the subantarctic breeding grounds—a truly remarkable journey for such a young traveler.

So far, we’ve spotted two calves on their southbound migration, and we expect many more in the coming weeks. Now that the calves have built up enough body fat to endure the chilly southern waters, they’re ready for the long journey ahead. These little ones, relatively speaking – weighing  at least 3000 kg, still rely entirely on their mothers for both nourishment and navigation. Often, cow-calf pairs are accompanied by protective escorts, keeping a watchful eye for potential threats like orcas.

Everyone on board watched in awe as pods of up to 6 adult humpback whales interacted with one another, throwing their tails, breaching, and showing their immense power.

Plenty of dolphins joined in the fun too, bow-riding and enjoying a feed on bait with the whales.

There’s just over a month left to get on a Wilsons Prom Whale Cruise so don’t miss out!

Thanks to Maree Mooney and Barb Wallace for their fabulous images, taken on board as part of our Citizen Scientist program.