2-Hour Whale Watching Cruise from Fremantle

The humpback whale migration off Perth

Every year large numbers of humpback whales travel along the coast of Western Australia, one of the largest humpback migrations in the world. After breeding and calving in the warm northern waters, they return south towards Antarctica, and many pause to rest and socialise in the sheltered waters off Perth and Fremantle. Adult whales are the first to come back south and are often curious, approaching the vessel for a closer look.

From October onwards, mothers and their calves are seen as well. The calves practise the behaviours they need to build strength, breaching, tail slapping and rolling at the surface, and these encounters are among the most memorable moments of any whale watching in Perth. Your expert explains what each behaviour means, and dolphins and other marine life sometimes join the show.

Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour

The cruise departs from Sardine Jetty in the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, a working harbour where fishing boats still unload their catch beside a waterfront of seafood restaurants, cafés and boardwalks. It is a lively place to arrive a little early, watch the boats come and go and enjoy the sea air before boarding.

Fremantle sits at the mouth of the Swan River, about half an hour from central Perth, and parking is available near the departure point. The boat arrives at the jetty before the departure time, and the crew welcome you on board. If you are wondering how to go whale watching from Perth without a long drive, Fremantle is the natural starting point.

On board the catamaran

The vessel was purpose-built for whale watching, with safety, comfort and viewing in mind. Five viewing decks over three levels give uninterrupted views from the water level to the huge open bow and the upper grandstand deck, so there is always room at the rail and no crowding. When the wind picks up, the heated indoor lounge with comfortable seating and large windows keeps you warm while you watch.

Warm blankets and rain ponchos are provided for cool mornings, colouring sets keep younger travellers busy between sightings, and a professional photographer captures the action. The marine mammal expert's live commentary runs throughout the cruise, and the crew are happy to answer questions about the whales and their behaviour.

Exploring Fremantle after your cruise

Fremantle is one of the best-preserved port cities in Australia, with streets of nineteenth-century buildings, a busy café strip and a strong maritime character. After your whale watching tour from Fremantle, it is easy to spend a few hours walking from the Fishing Boat Harbour into the historic centre.

Highlights within walking distance include the Fremantle Markets in their Victorian hall, the Round House, the oldest public building in Western Australia, overlooking the sea, and Fremantle Prison, part of the World Heritage-listed Australian Convict Sites. The harbour restaurants are also a classic place for fish and chips by the water after the cruise. If you are staying in Perth, frequent trains link Fremantle with the city centre, so it is easy to make a full day of it.