The Whitsundays is an important calving ground for humpback whales between May and September each year. Most of the waters around the islands are part of the ‘Whale Protection Area’ designed to minimise disturbance to whales. Inside the Whale Protection Area, boats and people must not approach within 300 meters of a whale. Outside the Whale Protection Area, boats must not approach within 100 metres of a whale.
The following points are from the guide to visiting the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park in the Whitsundays
Help protect whales
- Be alert and watch for whales from May to September.
- Keep a lookout and avoid disturbance to mother whales and their calves.
- Reduce your speed to minimise the risk of collision in areas where whales have been sighted
Further information