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The Great Lakes is a fantastic place to observe the annual whale migration. Last year almost 2000 whales were recorded travelling through our region.
The humpback whales migrate north past the Great Lakes from mid May to the end of July and then return home again past us from mid September to late November. This is not set in stone however and can be earlier or later some years depending on ocean currents, feeding habits, pregnant females etc.
The whales spend the summer months in the cold waters of the Antarctica where they feed no enourmous quantities of krill. And then in Autumn as the temperature falls and the ice begins to form on the sea surface, the whales being their northern migration to the warmer waters of Queensland, mostly to Hervey Bay and surrounding areas where they give birth and mate before returning to Antarctic waters by mid December.
Most of the whales that pass our area are the huge humpback whales, but occasionally we see Southern Right whales, Minke Whales and Bryde’s Whales. An adult Humpback can weigh up to 40 tons.
The Great Lakes offers some amazing viewing opportunities. Simply grab a pair of binoculars & look for the 'blow' at one of the many easily accessible viewing points, such as Yacaaba Head at Hawks Nest, Sugarloaf Point at Seal Rocks, Cape Hawke, Bennett’s Head or Second head in Forster.
Or give yourself a real treat and get an even closer look by hopping on board one of our special Whale Watching Charter Boats (See below), all of which have a high success rate of sighting a whale.
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WHALE WATCHING CHARTER BOATS
 AMAROO CRUISES - FORSTER
Amaroo Cruises is a family owned & run business. They have been running whale watch cruises in Forster for over 10 years. Amaroo Cruises operate every day at 10am (weather permitting). More cruises are scheduled during the school holidays. Cruise duration is approx. 2-2.5 hrs depending on whale proximity. Morning tea is included in the cruise. Prices: Adults $45, Senior/Concession $40, Child (4-16yrs) $25, Family (2A, 2C) $125.
 ACTION DIVERS - FORSTER
Action Divers are diving & deep sea fishing specialists. They invite you aboard their super fast, super stable vessel the 'Habana' for an initimate, up close & personal look at these magnigicent creatures! With just 12 people on board & an upstairs viewing platform this is the perfect way to capture memborable images of Humpacks at play. Cruises 1.5hrs, depart daily: 8am & 1:30pm. Prices: $40pp. Min numbers apply. Bookings 0427 777 139 / 6555 4053.
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For more information contact Great Lakes Tourism on FREECALL 1800 802 692.
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