Every year, when temperatures fall in Antarctica, the great migration begins. Tens of thousands of humpback whales—more than 45,000 by some estimates—set off on an epic 6,200-mile journey north that runs along Australia’s east coast. The whales are headed for tropical waters to breed and calve, before returning the same way back to the Southern Ocean. The Humpback highway is known by locals and offers one of the most amazing and reliable whale-watching opportunities in the world from June to November.
The heart of the show is Moreton BayThe whales migrate through this protected stretch of ocean just off Brisbane. The peak of the migration occurs in August when larger pods arrive and there’s a surge of social behavior, including tail-slapping, waving pectorally, and the unmistakable breaches.
This year’s outlook is very promising. The sightings have already begun, and the humpback whale population increasingSome skippers predict that this could be the busiest season ever. Accessibility is easy for travelers. Brisbane is one of the only major cities in the world where you can leave your hotel after breakfast and be scanning the ocean for whales by midmorning—no long drives or complicated transfers required.
Tour companies such as Brisbane Whale Watching We pick you up 40 minutes north of the City and offer a guarantee that whales will be seen. Larger groups or small VIP experiences are available. Sovereign Lady CharteThe 74-foot yacht can accommodate up to 30 guests. It departs for the east, about 30 minutes from Brisbane’s downtown.
From North Stradbroke Island, in Moreton Bay, you can also see the migration. Cape Moreton, on Moreton Island, is a great land-based viewing spot. The cape is reached by following the directions below. take a ferry Cape Moreton Lighthouse – Queensland’s one and only stone lighthouse – is located on Moreton Island. This is the perfect place to watch the Humpback Highway passing by the island’s shores.
Whale watching does not always require a boat. North Stradbroke Island, also known as “Straddie” by locals, is accessible via ferry. It offers stunning views. Point LookoutThe path is a clifftop where you can see whales breaching off shore. Moreton Island has towering sand-dunes and quiet beaches. From the ferry landingHike the Cape Moreton Track Take in the views from the historic Cape Moreton Lighthouse. It is the only stone-built lighthouse in Queensland.
The peak of the whale season is in August. It runs from June through November. According to a new study from Griffith University, Moreton Bay is becoming more than just a migratory corridor—it’s now a key resting and nursing zone for mother whales and their calves on their return journey south.
