Sightseeing Cruises

Perth Whale Watching Cruise from Hillarys

Tourists on a boat watch a humpback whale in the ocean.

Humpback whale pod swimming in blue ocean water.

Guide holding model whale on boat with tourists in background.

Woman in "Sea For Yourself" jacket gazes at ocean, Aquarium of Western Australia.

Duration

2 hr 30 min

See the annual humpback whale migration off Perth’s Sunset Coast from mid-August to early November, with a 100% whale sighting guarantee or a free return trip within the same season.

You'll travel aboard a state-of-the-art, air-conditioned catamaran departing from Hillarys Boat Harbour, designed with three spacious viewing decks and panoramic windows.

Enjoy live commentary from a marine biologist who shares fascinating whale facts and explains behaviours like breaches, tail slaps, and whale songs recorded through the onboard hydrophone.

With ample opportunities to capture photos of humpbacks (and occasionally dolphins) from safe outdoor decks, you can also relax indoors with comfy seating, snacks, and a fully licensed bar.

Enjoy ideal wildlife viewing conditions with a vessel large enough for stability but spacious enough for movement, making your journey comfortable throughout.

2-hour whale watching cruise from Hillarys, Perth

Guaranteed humpback whale sightings

Expert live commentary by onboard marine biologist

Hydrophone to hear whale songs underwater

Spacious catamaran with air-conditioning and bar

Open viewing decks with panoramic windows

Meals & drinks (available to buy onboard)

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Getting started

Your journey begins at Hillarys Boat Harbour, just 25 minutes north of Perth. The marina buzzes with cafés, boutiques, and sea air as you check in at Shop 56, Southside Drive. Boarding closes 15 minutes before departure, giving you time to settle into your spot on a purpose-built, air-conditioned catamaran with:

Three spacious viewing decks

Panoramic windows for sheltered views

Comfortable indoor lounge seating

Licensed bar and light snacks

What to expect

As the boat slips into the Indian Ocean, excitement builds. For the next two hours, watch whales breach, slap their fins, and glide gracefully past the boat, often just meters away. Playful calves and powerful adults turn the ocean into their stage. A marine biologist guide adds depth to every sighting with fascinating stories of whale behaviour and migration. On some cruises, the crew lowers a hydrophone, letting you hear the haunting songs of humpbacks beneath the waves. And if, on the rare occasion, the whales don’t appear? You’re covered by the Whale Sighting Guarantee—a free return trip within the season.

Features

Purpose-built catamaran with three open decks and panoramic windows for the best views

Close encounters with migrating humpback whales, just meters from the boat

Expert commentary from a qualified marine biologist, turning sightings into stories

Hydrophone experience: Listen to live whale songs beneath the surface (weather permitting)

Family-friendly & accessible: Stroller- and wheelchair-friendly layout with shaded seating

Comfort onboard: Air-conditioned lounge, licensed bar, snacks, and onboard toilets

Whale sighting guarantee: Free return trip if no whales are seen

What to bring

A light jacket: The ocean breeze can be chilly, especially in the morning or late afternoon.

Sunglasses: Cut the glare off the water and make it easier to spot whales.

Camera or smartphone: Keep it handy, you don’t want to miss a breaching whale.

Seasickness remedies (optional): If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring what works for you. Pro tip: staying on deck and focusing on the horizon can help, too.

What’s not allowed

Sightings aren’t guaranteed: Whales are wild. If none are spotted, you’ll get a free return trip within the same season (not combinable with other offers).

Arrive on time: Check-in closes 30 minutes before departure; boarding ends 15 minutes prior. Late arrivals or no-shows mean forfeiting your ticket.

Ticket rules: Cancellations less than 1 hour before departure, or no-shows, are non-refundable. Cancel earlier than 1 hour, and you’ll get credit valid for 12 months.

Onboard rules: Footwear is required, and smoking is strictly prohibited.

Accessibility

Wheelchair & stroller friendly: Wide walkways, ramps, and multiple decks for easy movement.

Family-friendly: Safe and comfortable for toddlers, seniors, and everyone in between. Shaded seating is available inside and out.

Capacity: Up to 200 guests per tour, spacious, but still personal.

Companion Card: Carers travel free with concession card holders. Just notify staff at booking and present your card on arrival.

Additional information

Booking confirmation: Sent within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Complimentary coach transfers: Available from select pick-up points (CBD, Northbridge, Sunset Coast). Pre-book required.

Eco-responsible: Tours follow ethical whale-watching guidelines: safe distances, minimal vessel congestion, and onboard commentary supporting marine research.

Weather & mechanical issues: If your cruise is cancelled, you’ll get a full refund or reschedule option.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

Boarding point

Board your cruise at Hillarys Boat Harbour.

Address: 86 Southside Dr, Hillarys WA 6025, Australia.

Get directions to the boarding point