Whaley good news

What an incredible whale watching season it has been at Wilsons Prom!

More than 260 humpback whales were sighted from the Arafura Pearl during the 10 week season since late August. On average, we encountered at least 2-3 different pods on every cruise, with some days totalling around 20 whales. That’s not even counting the ones spotted on the horizon!

Every year our sightings have been increasing. We are getting a very good understanding of the routes and behaviour of the humpback whales on their southerly migration, enhancing our whale watching encounters. 

This season we have been lucky to have experienced numerous whale muggings, lunge feeding, heat runs, plenty of mum and calf pairs, and countless whale breaching!

Humpback whale populations are increasing worldwide. From being hunted to near extinction, the east coast population crashed to a mere 150 individuals in the 1960s, now estimated to be at least 40,000. A remarkable recovery!

Consider other whales that are sadly not so successful, like the endangered Southern Right Whales for example.

John Dickie, Managing Director of Wildlife Coast Cruises, has noticed firsthand the increased whale activity at Wilsons Promontory.

“In the past 10 years we have not only seen an increase in whale numbers but we have also learnt a lot about their migration routes, feeding and nursery areas and patterns at different times of the year”

“It is obvious that the most consistent whale sightings are East of the Prom with whales actually stopping in this area for several days, to feed or rest with their calves later in the season”

“As the years go on I am sure a lot of the information gathered will allow a solid monitoring of the whales, allowing us to confidently plan our seasons, and communicate with the scientists and managers on any concerns and give feedback on industry planning”.

We wish the whales a safe journey and feeding season in the subantarctic and antarctic waters, and look forward to their return in Autumn!

Thank you to all those who joined our cruises this year, see you on board again :)