When you think of Wilsons Promontory, you might think about bustling summer crowds camping, hiking or visiting famous sites like Squeaky Beach. But, this national park is also perfect for winter escapes, particularly because it’s an excellent whale watching spot. If you’re keen to get out on the water in search of these migrating giants, Wildlife Coast Cruises is bringing back their six-hour whale watching adventures this weekend. Running from July 18 to November 8, you’ll take in the windswept beauty of the east coast, while keeping your eyes peeled for friendly whales.
Whale watching cruises at Wilsons Promontory
Leave from the Port Welshpool jetty at 10:30am, then sit back and admire the breathtaking landscapes of Wilsons Prom. Gaze at remote beaches and hidden coves, see forested hills and coastal cliffs and check out some cool rocky islands. As you go, you’ll learn about the history of the area.
If you’re lucky, you’ll see humpback and southern right whales journeying through the water. The experienced skipper and crew will scan the ocean, looking out for any signs of whale activity, such as blows, dorsal fins and even the swirls on the water known as whale footprints. You might see whales swimming calmly, or performing natural behaviours, such as breaching, spy-hopping, tail slapping, peduncle slapping and feeding.
On top of the whales, you might also see frolicking dolphins, playful fur seals, majestic albatrosses and white-bellied sea eagles.
This experience does take place in the wild, so sightings are not guaranteed. But, the team at Wildlife Coast Cruises expect to see whales and dolphins on about 90 per cent of their trips. If you’re one of the unlucky travellers, receive 50% off your next cruise.
This experience includes homemade morning tea, lunch and afternoon snacks. Tea and coffee is complimentary, and available throughout the day. If you’d like something else, beer, wine and mixed drinks can be purchased from the licenced bar on board.
The weather does vary throughout the season, but since you’re out on the water, be sure to rug up! If you’re prone to motion sickness, do take a tablet before you get on the boat.
Whale cruise details
đź“…July 18 to November 8
đź•’Leave at 10:30am
🎫$255 for adults
đź“Ť80 Lewis St, Port Welshpool VIC 3965
What else can you do?
Without the rush of the summer crowds, you’ll feel as though you have The Prom all to yourself. With 50,000 hectares for you to discover, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Stay on the water in search of the striking Skull Rock, a dramatic hunk of granite that looks just like an eerie skull.
If you’d rather stay on dry land, there’s lots of hiking opportunities. For a nice walk between beaches, travel along the Three Bays Walk, a lovely trail that connects Squeaky Beach, Picnic Bay and Whisky Bay. For a trail that’s packed with wildlife, try out the Prom Wildlife Walk, a loop through bushland and grasslands filled with kangaroos, wombats, wallabies and emus. Walk through temperate rainforest on the Lilly Pilly Gully Nature Walk. For sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, make the trek up to the summit of Mount Oberon.
Imagine you’ve left behind the winter cold, and stumbled upon a desert, by walking along the expansive sand dunes of the Big Drift.
For more ideas about what to do in Wilsons Promontory National Park, or any updates about trail conditions, check out the Parks Victoria website.
If you feel like exploring some nearby towns, you’ll find Venus Bay and Inverloch to the west, and Port Albert to the east.
