Byron Bay is a popular vacation destination on the north coast of New South Wales, Australia. This small town with about 6,000 permanent residents is situated on Cape Byron, the east most point on the continent. The cape provides a unique coastal environment for many ocean-based activities. One of the most popular of these activities is Byron Bay whale watching.
Humpback whales (megaptera novaeangliae) spend their summer feeding in the plankton-rich waters of Antarctica. They swim north to tropical waters to breed. Some whales choose to journey along the coasts of South America and Africa. About 10,000 follow the Australian coast. Their journey allows us a valuable opportunity to enjoy them up close and personal.
Humpbacks are one of the largest animals on the planet. They grow to approximately 16 meters long and up to 50 tonnes in weight. Their name refers to the distinctive arch they form as they dive. They time their migration up and down the coast from May to December. The peak viewing season is June to November.
Byron Bay is a well placed to enjoy these mammoth animals. The boat journey from town to their path is very short, only a handful of kilometers, allowing more time for viewing rather than cruising. The whales often venture even closer to shore. Beachgoers at Cape Byron frequently share the water with whales, as well as dolphins.
Some boats are equipped with a hydrophone to listen to the humpback whale song. Guides on the boat provide visitors with an in depth briefing of whale biology and behavior. Whale watching boats sometimes encounter whales within minutes after leaving Byron Bay. In addition to several whales, visitors are also likely to see other sea life including dolphins, sea turtles and many several different species of sea birds.
A number of whale watching tour operators carry groups a handful of kilometers to watch this wondrous spectacle offshore. Some operators launch their boats at a beach at Byron Bay. Others moor their vessel about 18 kilometers north at Brunswick Heads and provide patrons with a courtesy shuttle bus service.
In conclusion, the tours extend 2 to 3 hours. Most operators conduct at least two tours each day, weather permitting. In addition to its many surf beaches, Byron Bay whale watching is a key highlight visitors are keen to enjoy.
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