Whale Watching In Australia
Get up Close and Personal with Humpback Whales in Queensland
Nov 5, 2009
They say a picture paints a thousand words. All well and good, yet a painting, a print, a drawing or even a photograph or video is a poor substitute in lieu of some first-hand experiences life has to offer. One such example is that of whale watching in the Gold Coast waters of Queensland.
A Premier Whale Watching Opportunity in Tropical Queensland Leaves Lasting Memories
Actually witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is an occurrence that leaves an indelible imprint on the human experience. Not only will a picture or photograph of these magnificent water mammals paint a thousand words, it will evoke in a person all the memories and feelings of wonder that went hand in hand with their close encounter with a Humpback Whale.
A holiday snap shot will then serve to help relive the experience of laying eyes on these massive underwater creatures. The memory of the scent of sea air will return to tickle the senses. So too, the taste of salt sea spray on the lips and the sound and sight of a whale’s huge body playfully thrashing about it the water.
Whale Watching Season Along the Gold Coast Extends From June to November
Whale watching season begins in June and continues through to November. Humpback Whales make an annual pilgrimage from their feeding grounds in Antarctica to the waters of tropical Queensland Thousands of whales travel the 5,000km distance to these warmer waters where they will breed.
Visit the Gold Coast to Sight Humpbacks Journey North
Humpback Whales make a regular appearance along the eastern coast of Australia. Whale Watching tours on the Gold Coast provide locals and tourists alike with the opportunity to get up close and personal with the world’s largest marine mammals. In general, tours usually take about two to three hours during which time sharks, dolphins, turtles and birdlife are often spotted.
Humpbacks are a Favourite When it Comes to Whale Watching in Australian Waters
It is a sight to behold when the Humpback Whales entertain on-lookers with their famous ‘blow’. This is when a whale exhales a huge amount of warm breath which then converts to vapour as it strikes cooler sea air.
They exhibit playful antics and are known to have an inquisitive nature. They move with grace, yet possess impressive power which is often demonstrated in their ability to propel themselves clear of the ocean’s surface, twisting and rotating their bodies.
Humpback Whales Display a Series of Key Behaviours
In a display of mighty strength, Humpback Whales perform a number of key acrobatic behaviours. These include:
- Tail Slap: Raising the tail above the water’s surface and slapping it down.
- Tail Lifts: Pectoral fins are used to keep the body upright, with the tail lifted clear above the surface.
- Breach: Propelling the body out of the water, then with belly up, the whale crashes backwards against the water’s surface.
- Spy Hopping: Poking the head clear of the surface.
Humpback Whales use Song to Attract a Mate
The male Humpback produces complex songs, especially during the breeding season. With the use of underwater microphones, Whale Watching vessels on the Gold Coast provide tourists with the means to listen in on what is often thought to be the mating music of the male Humpback.
Experiencing a close encounter with one of the world’s largest marine mammals is something an onlooker will treasure, and never forget.
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