If you are looking for something to be the highlight of your year, a whale watching tour is a great option. How many people do you know who have been up close and personal with some of nature’s biggest and most interesting creatures? Australia is one of the best countries in the world to go whale watching, if you are in Sydney and you’ve booked a tour, here’s how to make the most out of it.

Selecting the Best Time to Go

We cannot stress the importance of choosing the right time to go whale watching, if you pick the wrong time, you’ll probably see nothing. The humpback whale migration takes these creatures past Sydney as they migrate from the Antarctic to northern New South Wales and Queensland. When you book a trip to go whale watching in Sydney, don’t forget to choose the correct season. Humpback whales can be seen from May to August as they make their way north and from August to November as they migrate south once again.

Be Prepared for the Weather

If you aren’t from Sydney and you aren’t familiar with the weather, you probably assume it is warm for most of the year. Although the city does get good weather and places like Bondi Beach are popular amongst tourists, being out on the sea is a different experience. The best place to see a whale is always going to be on the outer decks, and at most times of the year it will be chilly, despite the warm weather on land. To maximise your comfort, it is essential to dress yourself in layers and waterproof clothing. If you feel too hot, you can always lose a layer and still feel comfortable.

Speak to the Crew

While whale watching is fun, learning more about these creatures makes the entire experience that bit more exciting. The best way to find out about humpbacks or any other aquatic animals you encounter along the way is to talk to the crew. You’ll find that the captain and crew are your best sources of knowledge about recent wildlife sightings. The people who run whale watching tours in Sydney have a passion for all aquatic creatures, giving them a deep knowledge on the subject.

Enjoy the Experience

One thing you’ll see on whale watching tours is everyone taking pictures of every marine creature they encounter on their trip. Although it is good to get pictures of the humpbacks and any other animals you see, you should put the camera down for a while and truly enjoy the experience. Take your time to appreciate your surroundings and talk to other people on the vessel.

Going on a whale watching tour is one of the best things you can do in Sydney, if you are just visiting, it is an experience you shouldn’t miss. To ensure you make the most out of your day, follow the tips mentioned above. Ask the captain and the crew questions, choose the right season to go and take some time away from the lens for an authentic experience.