Have a whale of a time in Moreton Bay this winter

Published 5:03pm 23 May 2022

Thousands of humpback whales are set to pass by the Queensland coast between now and November, with Moreton Bay offering one of the best vantage points to see them in their natural habitat.

More than 25,000 whales will travel up the Humpback Highway from the chilly waters of Antarctica to the tropical waters of Queensland to feed, mate and play before migrating south again.

In celebration of the annual migration, Visit Moreton Bay have launched a new campaign - Welcome to the Whales - to entice visitors to book a winter escape where they guaranteed unforgettable adventures, unique experiences, and exceptional flavours.

As part of the campaign, Visit Moreton Bay have compiled a list of guides and itineraries so visitors can fully explore the region from the bay to the hinterland, best comfort foods to taste test as well as cosy accommodation options.

Photo credits: Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism.

Whales to make a splash in Moreton Bay

Whale watching tours in Moreton Bay are set to commence on June 11, with daily departures every day until November.

Captain Kerry Lopez from Brisbane Whale Watching will welcome visitors aboard her luxury catamaran Eye Spy to see the whales up close as they breach and frolic in the water.

“We’re just so lucky here in Moreton Bay. I’ve been in this industry for 26 years and I’ve seen our whale population grow as people learn how best to respect their needs and care for them,” she says.

“In the early days, it could take more than an hour to find one or two pods at the height of the season. Now we might see 30 whales on a single trip.

“For many people, just seeing a 45-tonne humpback rise from the depths in front of their eyes is itself quite an experience. I’ve seen 90-year-olds through to young children with tears in their eyes, in absolute awe at these amazing animals,” she says.

Captain Kerry, who is believed to be the only female captain who owns and operates a whale watching venture in the South Pacific Rim, also provides informative and engaging commentary of whale behaviour.

“My aim on these tours is to create passenger awareness of the great environmental treasure we have with whales in our waters here,” she says.

“My onboard commentary focuses on them and their habitat and how we can all help their numbers grow.”

Tours are held seven days a week and depart from the Redcliffe Jetty.

To book your whale watching adventure, visit Brisbane Whale Watching.

In addition, visitors might also catch a glimpse of these deep divers in the Moreton Bay Marine Park when booking a tour with Dolphin Wild or River to Bay.

More great adventures to be had on land

The whales are not the only attraction which makes Moreton Bay a must-see winter destination.

Back on land, the region’s farmers, producers, chefs and tourism operators are also dedicated to showing off this beautiful part of Queensland to those who are looking to make the most of a winter getaway.

Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism CEO Shane Newcombe says visitors to the region will not be disappointed with what is on offer.

“With crystal blue waters in the bay, lush scenery in the hinterland, an abundance of fresh food grown right here on our farms and caught in the sea, as well as an array of unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else, Moreton Bay truly is a shining jewel in Queensland’s crown,” Shane says.

“Our amazing tourism operators are ready and waiting to welcome families and groups of friends who are keen to soak up some winter rays in our little slice of paradise.

“Visitors can choose from handpicking fresh strawberries at Luvaberry Farm, take a cultural tour of the region by following the Samford Art Trail, put on their hiking books and take a walk through the beautiful rainforests, book a fishing charter with the team from Bribie Beach Shack, take in the sites of the foreshore on an electric scooter, or even play a round of mini golf at Redcliffe’s very own under the sea-themed course, Undersea Putt and Play.

“For those that like to treat their taste buds, Moreton Bay can only be described as foodie heaven. The region is renowned for its farm grown produce, vineyards and fresh seafood.

“One event that is not to be missed is the upcoming Moreton Bay food and Wine Festival, which will feature more than 40 mouth-watering events from August 19 to September 25.

“With that in mind, there has never been a better time to treat yourself and support Queensland’s tourism sector.”

Extend your stay

With an abundance of accommodation providers, there is no shortage of beds for visitors who choose to stay a few extra days.

John Atkins, who is the owner of Proximity Waterfront Apartments in Redcliffe, says guests love how close their rooms are from the jetty.

“The Whale watching season here in Redcliffe is a major draw for both our local guests and our interstate visitors,” John says.

“Our guests love the fact that Proximity Waterfront Apartments is located just a one-minute walk from Redcliffe Jetty, so you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy a morning coffee before heading out onto the bay for an awesome day of Whale Watching.

“Many of our guests pick the Redcliffe Peninsula as their base to explore the Moreton Bay and Greater Brisbane Area.

“With a host of options including great eateries, hinterland exploration or a trip over to the beautiful Moreton Island, both couples and families find it makes for an ideal getaway.

“Contact the friendly reception team at Proximity Waterfront Apartments for some special deals on accommodation and whale watching tickets.”