Hervey Bay

The tag 'whale-watching capital of the world' is perfectly suited to Hervey Bay. The calm, sheltered waters provide an ideal environment for visitors to observe humpback whales up close. Each year, whales migrate from Antarctica to give birth in the warm waters off north Queensland and the mothers and calves use Hervey Bay as a resting spot at which to break their return journey. The younger whales often swim right up to boats to ogle the passengers. There are many whale-watching cruises available, with vessels ranging from large and luxurious ocean-going craft equipped with underwater microphones and cameras to smaller sail-powered catamarans. The smallest is the Blue Dolphin (www.bluedolphintours.com.au), which, at 10.5 metres long, is shorter than most of the whales in these waters. (The whales usually measure between 10 and 13 metres.) The season runs from late July to early November. Visit www.whalewatchingherveybay.com.au for more details.

Even a novice sailor with minimal navigational experience will enjoy chartering a yacht and sailing around the Great Sandy Straits, a tidal waterway that is protected from inclement weather by Fraser Island. Explore mangrove-lined shores, pristine beaches, hidden coves and bays. Share the ocean with dugongs, dolphins and whales. To hire a yacht, contact Fraser Island Rent-A-Yacht (tel: 617 4194 1416 or visit www.rent-a-yacht.com.au). A boating licence is not required.