First Time Whale Watching in Dunsborough? Here’s What You Need to Know

Looking for epic whale watching in Dunsborough, Margaret River? This ultimate first-timers guide covers the best time to go, what to expect, and of course, my recommended whale watching tour.

There are a lot of unforgettable experiences in the Margaret River region, but whale watching in Dunsborough easily lands at the top of my list. Tucked along the calm waters of Geographe Bay, this is one of the best spots in Western Australia to see migrating humpback and southern right whales up close.

And I’m not just saying that, I spent a full two weeks exploring the region in October and joined one of the top whale watching tours myself. Spoiler alert: it was magical.

The bay’s protected waters make it an especially great choice for first-time whale watchers, with no open ocean swells, just smooth sailing and front-row views of whales breaching, tail slapping, and gliding through the water. On my tour, a mother and calf surfaced right beside the boat, and honestly, it’s a moment I’ll never forget.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about whale watching in Dunsborough: the best time to go, what to expect on the tour, what to bring, how to choose the right company, and of course, my personal recommendation for the best tour to book.

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I enjoyed and highly recommend this 5-star Dunsborough Whale Watching Tour

Why Go Whale Watching in Dunsborough?

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing whales in the wild, Dunsborough is one of the best places in Australia to do it, especially if it’s your first time. Ultimately, making it one of the best things to do in Margaret River for adventure seekers.

Located along the sheltered Geographe Bay, this spot offers calm, protected waters that make for a smooth and comfortable cruising experience (a big win if you’re prone to seasickness). That’s actually one of the main reasons I chose to do my whale watching tour here over other WA locations.

Every year, humpback whales, southern right whales, and sometimes even blue whales migrate along this coastline, and Geographe Bay is their calm resting stop before heading back south to Antarctic waters.

What makes Dunsborough extra special is how close the whales often come to shore. You don’t need to venture far out to see them breaching, tail slapping, or gliding right next to the boat. On my tour, we were barely 15 minutes from the jetty before spotting our first pod.

And beyond the whales, the backdrop is stunning. Think turquoise water, a curve of white sandy coastline, and Cape Naturaliste in the distance. It’s the kind of experience that makes you stop talking mid-sentence and just take it all in.

Best Time of Year to See Whales in Dunsborough

If you’re planning your trip around whale watching, timing is everything. The best time to see whales in Dunsborough is September through early December, when humpback whales, southern right whales, and the occasional blue whale migrate through Geographe Bay.

This is when the bay becomes a calm resting ground for mothers and calves on their return journey south to Antarctic waters, making sightings almost guaranteed.

I visited in October, which is often considered peak season, and it couldn’t have been more perfect: blue skies, calm seas, and plenty of whales in the bay. In fact, we saw three different pods that morning alone, including a curious calf that popped up beside the boat several times.

Most tours run two to three departures a day, typically in the morning and early afternoon. I recommend the morning tours as the water is usually at its calmest, and the lighting is beautiful for photos. Plus, you’ll beat the wind that tends to pick up later in the day.

If whale watching is high on your Margaret River bucket list, planning your visit in this window gives you the best chance to witness these gentle giants up close.

What to Expect on a Dunsborough Whale Watching Tour

One of the best things about whale watching in Dunsborough is how easy and accessible it is, even for first-time visitors. Tours typically last two to three hours, departing straight from the Dunsborough Boat Ramp or nearby jetty and heading just a short way out into Geographe Bay.

This isn’t an open-ocean trip. You’ll be cruising in calm, protected waters, which makes the whole experience so much more enjoyable (and comfortable).

The boats are usually small to mid-sized vessels, giving you a more personal experience. There’s plenty of deck space, so you can move around freely to get a good vantage point when the whales appear.

On my tour, the crew gave a warm welcome, shared some fascinating whale facts, and even pointed out dolphins and seabirds along the way before we’d even reached the whales.

Most tours spot humpback whales (often in playful pods), but it’s also common to see southern right whales and occasionally blue whales during peak season. You might witness anything from a gentle tail glide to a full-body breach that leaves everyone gasping.

And yes, the whales really can come right up alongside the boat.

What to Bring:

• A light windbreaker or jacket (it gets breezy out on the water)
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• A camera or phone with good zoom for photos
• Seasickness tablets if you’re prone to motion sickness (even calm water can get a little rolly)

Good to Know: There are toilets on board, most vessels have shaded areas, and snacks or drinks are often included.

My Personal Experience on the Recommended Tour

When I booked my whale watching tour in October, I chose a morning departure with Naturaliste Charters, one of the longest-running and most reputable operators in the Margaret River region.

Before arriving at your tour, drop by La Lah Cafe, one of my favourite Margaret River region cafes, for a quick coffee. Or stock up at the farmers market in town, one of my favourite foodie things to do in Margaret River, before your adventure.

You’ll be transferred via a small vessel to the whale watching boat from a small jetty.

Within 20 minutes of leaving the jetty, we spotted our first pod, a mother and calf humpback pair slowly cruising through the calm waters of Geographe Bay. The captain positioned the boat at a respectful distance, letting the whales decide how close to come.

To everyone’s delight, they swam right alongside the vessel, the calf surfacing and rolling playfully just meters away.

What really stood out to me was how educational the tour was. The onboard marine biologist explained the whale migration patterns, their behaviours, and even pointed out subtle signs (like tail lifts and bubble trails) that hinted when a whale was about to breach.

The smooth ride, incredible sightings, and expert commentary made it the perfect tour for both first-timers and wildlife lovers. I left feeling both exhilarated, if not a tad wind-swept.

If you want a more leisurely morning, Dunsborough is a great Margaret River town to stay in if you plan to explore the northern region.

I enjoyed this whale watching tour, I included it in my road trip itinerary from Perth to Esperance.

How to Choose the Right Whale Watching Tour

Departure Location & Water Conditions

Dunsborough is one of the best places to go whale watching in WA because of Geographe Bay’s calm, protected waters. If you’re prone to seasickness or just want a smooth ride, tours from here are ideal. Avoid open-ocean departures if comfort is a priority.

Vessel Size & Experience Level

Look for a smaller or mid-sized vessel. They tend to offer a more personal, less crowded experience. Some operators, like Naturaliste Charters, keep their groups smaller, which means better viewing angles and more time near the whales.

Guide Knowledge & Eco Credentials

An experienced crew makes a huge difference. Tours with marine biologists or naturalists on board give you more than just sightings, as they will give you context. You’ll learn about migration patterns, behaviours, and conservation efforts, which makes the experience richer and more memorable.

Tour Duration & Schedule

Most tours last 2–3 hours, and I recommend booking a morning departure for the calmest seas and best light for photos. Some companies offer afternoon trips too, but mornings tend to be more reliable.

Reviews & Reputation

Read a few recent reviews to check for consistent whale sightings, crew professionalism, and overall experience. A well-reviewed, long-standing company is worth the investment.

Ethical Practices

The best operators follow strict whale-watching guidelines, keeping a safe and respectful distance while allowing the whales to approach naturally. This ensures a responsible experience that doesn’t disturb the animals.

Value & Inclusions

Check what’s included in the ticket. Some tours provide drinks, snacks, or even a second trip guarantee if no whales are sighted.

My Pick: After trying it myself, I highly recommend Naturaliste Charters for first-time whale watchers. Their experienced crew, comfortable boat, and respect for the whales made it a standout experience.

Practical Tips for First-Time Whale Watchers

Dress for the Weather

Even on a sunny day, it can get chilly out on the water. Bring a light windbreaker or jacket, and wear layers so you can adjust if it warms up. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses (the sun reflects off the bay and can be surprisingly strong).

Pack Smart

A camera or phone with a good zoom is essential if you want to capture those incredible breaches and tail slaps. Bring a reusable water bottle, and if you’re prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand just to be safe.

Pick Your Spot on the Boat

The best vantage point is often near the bow (front) or along the side rails, where you’ll have a clear line of sight. If you’re worried about motion, the middle of the boat is the most stable.

Be Patient and Present

Whale watching isn’t like an aquarium; you’re on their schedule. Some sightings happen minutes after departure; others take a little longer. Bring your patience, stay alert, and enjoy the full experience of being on the bay.

Go in the Morning if You Can

Morning tours typically offer calmer seas, fewer winds, and better lighting for photos. Plus, it’s an incredible way to start the day in Margaret River.

Pro tip: Keep your camera ready but don’t spend the entire time looking through the lens. Some of the best moments are the ones you actually watch unfold with your own eyes.

So, is a Dunsborough Whale Watching Tour Worth it?

Whale watching in Dunsborough is one of those bucket-list experiences that truly lives up to the hype, especially for first-timers.

When I went in October, the combination of blue skies, calm seas, and multiple humpback sightings made it a highlight of my Margaret River trip.

For a seamless and memorable experience, I wholeheartedly recommend booking with Naturaliste Charters. Their experienced crew, educational commentary, and respect for the whales made the tour feel both exciting and meaningful.

So if you’re planning a trip to the Margaret River region, don’t skip this. Book a tour, bring a jacket, and get ready to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles.

I also recommend bringing all your beach lounging wear for an afternoon at a nearby Margaret River beach.