Home of World Heritage Listed natural gems!
Swim With Whales
Experience one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters in Australia with Salty Safaris. Our swim with whales tours offer a rare opportunity to get in the water alongside the gentle giants of the ocean in the calm, protected waters of Hervey Bay.
Our backyard
Hervey Bay
Every winter, humpback whales migrate along the Queensland coast, and Hervey Bay becomes a natural resting place for mothers and calves. This unique behaviour makes it one of the very few locations in the world where swimming with whales is possible in a respectful and low impact way.
Why Hervey Bay is the
Best Place to Swim with Whales
Hervey Bay is widely known as the whale watching capital of Australia, and for good reason. Unlike other destinations where whales are constantly on the move, the bay provides a sheltered environment where whales stop, rest, socialise, and nurture their young.
This means longer, more relaxed encounters and a much higher chance of natural interactions. Curious whales, especially juveniles, will often approach vessels and swimmers on their own terms, creating truly magical moments.
The calm waters of the Great Sandy Straits also provide ideal conditions for entering the water safely, making the experience more comfortable and enjoyable for guests.
Best Time of Year to
Swim With Whales
The prime time to swim with whales in Hervey Bay is from mid July through to the end of August. During this period, the bay sees an increase in older whales, which are typically the most inquisitive and interactive.
From September onwards, more mothers and calves enter the Bay. Government restrictions are in place to protect the babies, so we do not swim with them. While we still have successful swims in September, chances are higher earlier in the season.
our Approach to
Swimming with Whales
At Salty Safaris, we operate with a strong focus on safety, conservation, and respect for wildlife. All swim with whales experiences are conducted in accordance with Queensland government regulations and guidelines.
We never chase or pressure whales. Instead, we position the vessel at a safe distance and allow the whales to choose whether to approach. If the conditions are right and the whales are comfortable, guests may be invited to enter the water under the guidance of our experienced crew.
Swimming with whales is a natural wildlife experience and is not guaranteed on every tour. Whale behaviour, weather conditions, and safety requirements all influence whether an in-water interaction is possible.
If getting in the water is a priority, we recommend booking multiple tours to improve your chances. Please note that we do not offer refunds or complimentary return trips if a whale swim does not occur.
Even without entering the water, our small group tours provide exceptional close encounters and an intimate whale watching experience.
A Premium
Small Group Experience
Our tours are designed for small groups, allowing for a more personal and immersive experience. With fewer guests on board, you will enjoy better viewing opportunities, more space, and more time with the whales.
Our vessel, Wipeout, is the fastest in Hervey Bay, meaning we can reach the whales quickly and maximise your time on the water.
A maximum of 10 guests are allowed in the water at one time. With our small groups, guests can rotate, allowing more time in the water for each person and a more relaxed, personal experience.
Once in the water, all guests are required to hold onto a floating line at all times. This system is designed to minimise our impact on the whales by keeping the group together in one place. When swimmers stay grouped, whales can comfortably observe and approach on their own terms. If the group were spread out, it would create a larger, less predictable presence, which can make whales feel less at ease.
The line also provides flotation, giving guests extra confidence and support while in the open ocean.
Frequently asked questions:
Do I need to be able to swim to do this tour?
Yes. You need to have a basic level of swimming ability. You will be in the open ocean where you cannot see or touch the bottom, so being comfortable in deep water is important.
Can I wear a life jacket?
No. Life jackets are not permitted during whale swims.
Do I need a wetsuit?
Water temperatures range from approximately 20–24°C between June and October. As you will be mostly stationary in the water, you may feel cooler than expected.
Wetsuits are available to hire for $10 and are recommended for warmth and comfort. They also provide natural buoyancy, helping you stay afloat more easily.
How long do I get in the water?
Time in the water varies depending on whale behaviour and conditions, but guests are rotated in small groups to maximise each person’s opportunity.
Is swimming with whales guaranteed?
No. Whale swims are a natural wildlife experience and depend on whale behaviour, weather conditions, and safety regulations. While we do everything we can to create opportunities, in-water interactions cannot be guaranteed.
What happens if we don’t get in the water?
In-water whale swims are not guaranteed. If conditions or whale behaviour do not allow swimming, you will still enjoy a full whale watching experience from the vessel. We do not offer refunds or discounts to rebook if the in-water swims are unsuccessful.
How many tours should I book?
As in-water whale swims are not guaranteed and depend entirely on whale behaviour and ocean conditions, we recommend booking more than one tour if swimming with whales is a priority for you. Booking multiple days gives you a better chance of entering the water and also allows you to experience different whale behaviours and conditions across each day, making your overall experience even more rewarding.
What if I’m nervous in the water?
That’s completely normal. The floating line provides support, and our crew will guide you throughout the experience. Many guests who are initially nervous feel much more comfortable once in the water.
Can I touch the whales?
No. For the safety of both guests and whales, touching is strictly not permitted. All interactions are passive and on the whales’ terms.
Do I have to swim with whales?
No, you do not have to get into the water. Whale sightings from the vessel are fantastic in their own right!
What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat, and a warm layer for after your swim are recommended.
When is whale swimming season?
Whale swimming season runs from Mid July to Mid October, when humpback whales migrate into the bay. Peak whale swimming is between Mid July and August.
Where does the tour depart from?
Our vessel is located in Berth B1, at the Great Sandy Straits Marina located at 17 Buccaneer Drive, Urangan 4655. Please check your booking confirmation for more details.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather dependent. If conditions are unsafe or unsuitable, we may cancel or reschedule the trip. You will be offered an alternative date or a refund if the tour cannot go ahead.
What is your cancellation policy?
Customer cancellation policies will apply as per our booking terms, which can be found here. If the operator cancels due to weather or safety reasons, you will be offered a reschedule or refund.
Will I get seasick?
Conditions can vary, and some days may be rougher than others. If you are prone to seasickness, we recommend taking preventative medication before the tour. Tablets need to be taken at least one hour before boarding.
Are there change rooms onboard?
No, there are no change rooms onboard. We recommend arriving wearing your swimwear under your clothes and bringing a towel and dry clothes to change into after the tour if needed.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
This experience is not suitable for children under 12 years old or for guests with mobility limitations. The tour involves time in the open ocean and requires the ability to move safely around the vessel and enter and exit the water. All guests must be physically capable and comfortable in these conditions to participate safely.
Can I swim with whales if I am pregnant?
For safety reasons, we do not recommend in-water whale swims for guests who are pregnant. Ocean conditions can be unpredictable, and entering and exiting the water from the vessel can be physically demanding. You are welcome to join the tour and enjoy whale watching from the boat.
What is the difference between whale watching and whale swimming?
Whale watching takes place from the vessel, while whale swimming allows guests the opportunity to enter the water and observe whales in their natural environment, when conditions and whale behaviour permit.
Book Your
Swim with Whales Experience
If you are looking for a once in a lifetime wildlife encounter, our swim with whales tours in Hervey Bay deliver something truly special. Join Salty Safaris during the peak season from mid July to August for your best chance to experience these incredible animals up close.
Secure your spot today and discover why Hervey Bay is the ultimate destination to swim with whales.
Tour Info
Departure + Return
Look for our K’gari Salty Safari flag at the bottom of the walkway to the main commercial pontoon where all of the other charter boats leave from. Our vessel is in berth B1 of the Great Sandy Straits Marina on Buccaneer Drive in Urangan, Hervey Bay.
Morning Tour: Please arrive at 7.45am for a 8.00am departure. We return to the boat harbour approximately 12.30pm.
Afternoon Tour: Please arrive at 1.00pm for a 1.30pm departure. We return to the boat harbour approximately 5:30pm.
There is free open aired parking. No secure parking options.
(NOTE: It is encouraged to bring a very warm jacket and/or wind breaker as it can get cold with the wind chill factor while the boat is at speed)
What We Bring
- Uncrowded vessel with 360° views of the whales
- Fastest vessel in the fleet getting you to the whales quicker. We swap travel time for WHALE time!!
- Sitting on the vessel pontoons, you are LITERALLY within arms reach of the whales
- If the whales allow, swimming with the whales is INCLUDED in your ticket price
- Our vessel offers the closest possible interactions with the whales aside from actually being in the water with them
- Naturalist talks about the wildlife and Great Sandy Region
- Fun and experienced crew
- Beach activities
- Individual boxes to put your personal gear in
- Instagram gold
- A selection of soft drinks, beer and select alcohol available for purchase on board.
(NOTE: It is encouraged to bring a very warm jacket and/or wind breaker as it can get cold with the wind chill factor while the boat is at speed)
What To Expect
Expect a fun and memorable day. We meet at 7:45am for a 8:00am departure from the Urangan Boat Harbour. Return time to harbour is approx 12:30pm. NOTE: Return time may vary if we are unable to leave the whales on time, due to permit conditions. (NOTE: It is encouraged to bring a very warm jacket and/or wind breaker as it can get cold with the wind chill factor while the boat is at speed)
Once checked in and your gear sorted, jump on board and the crew will give you a run-down of the day and a safety brief. Once we’re out of the harbour we’ll crank the tunes, show off the boat’s water-acrobatics and see where the tides take us! Our experienced skippers’ base the itinerary on the weather and the passengers’ interests, so you get the best possible experience.
When you’re not onboard cruising the waterways or speeding from hotspot to hotspot, there will be plenty of time to jump off the boat for a swim, snorkel or sunbathe. We also have sporting gear if you want to challenge your mates to a game of beach cricket, frisbee, or footy.
There is so much to see and do as we explore the islands and waterways between K’gari (Fraser Island) and Hervey Bay!
(NOTE: It is encouraged to bring a very warm jacket and/or wind breaker as it can get cold with the wind chill factor while the boat is at speed)
Tour Highlights
- Epic whale watching experience in the sheltered waters of one of the World’s first Whale Heritage Sites.
- Dedicated whale swimming (Swimming strictly on the whales terms) We may have to locate several different whales should some not be accommodating to our presence.
- Explore the waters surrounding World Heritage listed K’gari and the northern Great Sandy Strait
- Exhilarating boat ride
- Beautiful scenery
- Snorkelling and swimming opportunities
- Personalised adventure with a small group (up to 18 passengers)
- Soft drink and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.
- Fully licensed vessel
(NOTE: It is encouraged to bring a very warm jacket and/or wind breaker as it can get cold with the wind chill factor while the boat is at speed)