Wilsons Prom whale watching cruise with Wildlife Coast Cruises
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Wildlife Coast Cruises run whale watching tours at Wilsons Promontory from August to October to align with the annual migration of humpback and southern right whales. Whilst these incredible whales are the main attraction, the 6-hour cruise also provides an opportunity to encounter seals, dolphins and seabirds amidst the untamed beauty of the east coast of Wilsons Promontory. Soak up the amazing scenery of lush forested mountains, sandy beaches tucked in secluded bays, and marvel at the granite boulders covered in orange lichen while hearing wonderful commentary from the crew.
The backdrop of this boat tour is the stunning Wilsons Promontory National Park – also known as the ‘Wilsons Prom’, or simply ‘The Prom’. Spanning 50,000 hectares in size, Wilsons Prom forms the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. Strong preservation of the natural landscape has resulted in Wilsons Prom being flagged as a climate refuge where wildlife and habitats can thrive in the changing climate.
Whilst I had visited Wilsons Promontory many times to camp, hike, swim, and relax, I had never seen Wilsons Prom from the water. I knew this cruise would be amazing even if the whales didn’t make an appearance!
This post is not sponsored by Wildlife Coast Cruises, but if it had been sponsored it would be exactly the same.
What to expect
I did the 6-hour Wilsons Prom Whale Cruise departing from Port Welshpool. This cruise follows the eastern shoreline of Wilsons Promontory and provides epic views of the rugged landscapes. Wildlife is abundant with seals, birds, dolphins and of course the whales (humpback and / or southern right whales).
Did our tour see whales? Yes!
But they were not interested in us and kept diving down away from the boat. The tour operator was very respectful and did not chase them but instead gave excellent commentary and interesting facts about these magnificent creatures.
What if you don’t see whales? Honestly, the whales are a bonus to the incredible scenery of Wilsons Prom with blue waters and the iconic orange and black rocks along the shoreline.
Whilst I loved the whale sightings, I was also amazed by the Australasian gannets. These large sea birds dive from heights of up to 30m to gain speeds up to 140 km/hr before tucking in their wings to “pierce” the surface of the water. They were absolutely mesmerising to watch and I couldn’t believe the force at which they hit the water!
On a side note, this cruise does not go to the famous “Skull Rock” that is visible from the main beach (Norman Beach) accessed from the main campgrounds. However, Wildlife Coast Cruises does offer a full day (8.5 hours) Wilsons Prom cruise which visits Skull Rock. The full day cruise also passes the famous Wilsons Prom Lighthouse.
PLAN| I did this cruise: 6 Hour Wilsons Prom Whale Cruise. But I also want to do this one: Wilsons Prom Full Day Cruise (8.5 hour).
Cost
Current cost for this 6-hour Wilsons Prom Whale Watching Cruise is AUD$235 per adult.
Inclusions for the day were morning tea, lunch, afternoon snacks and complimentary tea and coffee. They also have a licenced bar if you fancy something alcoholic at additional cost.
Book directly with Wildlife Coast Cruises or via a reputable site such as GetYourGuide.
TIP | Follow Wildlife Coast Cruises social media accounts for any early-bird specials.
Getting there
Cruises to Wilsons Promontory leave from Port Welshpool (note: this is not at Wilsons Prom).
When you come into Port Welshpool continue past the Long Jetty and public boat ramp. The jetty for Wildlife Coast Cruises is towards the end of the wharf area and is well signposted. Car parking (no cost) is available near the jetty.
TIP | Squeeze in a visit to the 850m long Port Welshpool Long Jetty. Hold onto your hat though as it gets very windy! After exploring the jetty wander over to the main boat ramp and you might be lucky enough to see some large stingrays.
Tips for visiting
The cruise is very organised and Wildlife Coast Cruises offer excellent customer service if you have any questions before the cruise.
Some things to consider are:
- The cruise goes into open waters which can get rough
- Take sea sickness tablets if you are prone to motion sickness
- Children are welcome on the cruise but must be supervised
- There are booths on the top deck which are comfortable and sheltered and would be great if you are with a group, or with small children.
- Check the weather forecast so you can dress appropriately. Wildlife Coast Cruises actually contacted us with the weather forecast in advance as they were expecting some rough conditions. Excellent service!
Personal notes | I don’t generally get sea-sick but took precautionary motion sickness tablets in the morning, but didn’t take any after that.
The conditions can be pretty rough but we found this really fun (hanging on, water splashing into the boat etc) – but the guy vomiting on the lower deck didn’t. So, if you are prone to sea-sickness it would be worth taking precautionary motion sickness medication.
ALTERNATIVE | There is another company that operates amphibious boat tours from Norman Beach, which is the main tourist beach at Wilsons Prom. However, I really dislike that a tour company is allowed to operate from this pristine, wild area, and leave their boats sitting on the beach between tours. Sigh, it seems that even the wild places are being over-taken for tourist dollars. Make your own decision though, that’s just my rant!
When to visit
Whale migration past Wilsons Promontory occurs annually from August to October each year. Cruise dates are on the Wildlife Coast Cruises website.
PLAN | Read about the best time to visit the state of Victoria.
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Other cruises and tours
Whale cruises with Wildlife Coast Cruises
If the August – October timeframe for the Wilsons Prom whale cruise isn’t suitable for you then consider going to Phillip Island. Wildlife Coast Cruises offer a 4-hour winter whale watching cruise at the stunning Phillip Island from June – early August They also offer a 3-hour Phillip Island Dolphin and Whale cruise
General cruises with Wildlife Coast Cruises
If you are not fussed about seeing whales then head to the Wildlife Coast Cruises website to see the other cruises on offer. I have my eye on the 9-hour Wilsons Prom cruise which looks absolutely stunning!
Land based tours
But what if you don’t like boats? Well, whilst Wilsons Prom is great to see from the water, it is also stunning to explore on land. Self-driving is the easiest way to explore Wilsons Promontory but day tours from Melbourne are available from tour companies such as Bunyip Tours or via GetYourGuide.
There is no public transport to Wilsons Promontory and you need a vehicle to really explore the park. The closest public V/Line bus stop is Fish Creek which is still 55 km (1 hour) away. Getting a taxi from Fish Creek to Tidal River would require pre-booking with a local company and cost around AUD $200 – $250 return so it is more economical to take a tour.
What to bring
Suitable clothes, sturdy shoes, water bottle, travel sickness tablets, camera, sunscreen and hat as needed.
I suggest packing a lightweight raincoat to keep you dry if the open water conditions are rough.
Where to stay
Turn the cruise into a weekend away and explore the beautiful South Gippsland area! The Gippsland Port towns of Port Welshpool and Port Albert have a range of accommodation options.
Toora Tourist Park (15 minutes from Port Welshpool) is excellent for families with an indoor swimming pool, mini golf, games room and much more!
Things to do nearby
Gosh, where to start! The South Gippsland region has so many beautiful places to visit including:
- Port Welshpool – visit the Long Jetty and enjoy the views over Corner Inlet.
- Port Albert – explore the jetties, walking paths and Maritime Museum. Grab fish and chips for lunch or eat delicious Italian food.
- Toora – enjoy the historical town and local wetlands.
- Agnes Falls – peaceful location with an easy walk to the falls.
- Yarram – wander the streets of this country town while following the street art trail
Is it worth doing a Wilsons Promontory cruise ?
Absolutely! Wildlife Coast Cruises offer a professional, comfortable and reliable cruise with excellent customer service. The food included was delicious, the scenery amazing and the wildlife incredible. What more can you want!? This cruise is wonderful even if you don’t see any whales.
Whether you visit by land or sea, definitely add Wilsons Prom to your Victoria itinerary, it should not be missed!
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