Let’s Keep Our Distance and Keep Whales Safe

The whale migration is a critical time for these wild, protected animals – especially mothers with calves who need space to rest, feed, and bond without disturbance. These simple rules help ensure their safety – and yours.

In the Water

• Never enter the water within 100m of a whale.
• If you’re already in the water and a whale approaches:
  • Stay calm, do not touch or swim towards it.
  • Keep at least 30m away and avoid blocking their path or trying to get too close.

It is illegal to deliberately swim with whales in Australian waters without a permit. If you are lucky enough to experience a whale choosing to come near you, observe them respectfully and enjoy magical moments.

Drones

• Do not fly drones within 300m of a whale – that includes height as well as distance.

These rules reflect the Australian National Guidelines for Whale and Dolphin Watching and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Regulations 2019, under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, issued by the Australian Government.