Whales and Dolphins of Cairns

There’s no doubt about it – people have always been absolutely fascinated by the majestic whales and dolphins that visit the coasts of Australia during their migration. Even the Indigenous groups, such as the Keppel Islands Woppaburra people, held these mammals close to their hearts, with the whale (Mugga Mugga) representing their clan token that connected them to their ancestors, their land and their ocean.

There are about 30 separate species of whale and dolphin found along the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, with bottlenose dolphins, humpback whales and dwarf minke whales being the most commonly seen. Other les common Great Barrier Reef species include orca (killer whales), false killer whales, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, spinner dolphins, Australian snubfin dolphins, pan-tropical spotted dolphins, sperm whales, short-finned pilot whales and several types of beaked whales, including one single report of a Longman's beaked whale in Mackay. Here, we take a look at some of the most popular protected whale and dolphin species:

Humpback whale

The mighty humpback whale is currently protected and listed as vulnerable (under both the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and Queensland's Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006) in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. The primary reason for their drop in population from around 25,000 to between 200 - 500 individuals earlier last century was thought to be because of heavy whaling from the 1940s to the 1960s.Thankfully, whaling reduced significantly in the 1960s, which has allowed the global population of humpback whales to recover, including those that come to visit the Reef.

Since the 1960s, the east Australian humpback whale population has risen from around 500 individuals to an impressive 10,000 or more individuals. While this is still less than half of the population recorded before whaling began, it is still a great achievement in the eyes of conservationists and whale lovers everywhere.
During migration (May to September), humpback whales travel from the cool Antarctic waters to the Great Barrier Reef to breed and rejuvenate over the winter, before they make the trip back to Antarctic waters for the summer. This is the ideal viewing time for those wishing to see these impressive mammals in their natural habitat. The Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area is a nursery area for the whales, so the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is tasked with ensuring that human interference doesn’t impact the natural habits of the whales. Thankfully, all tour operators within the area are happy to comply with the requests of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, meaning that the whales enjoy peace and security within the Great Barrier Reef.

Dolphins

All dolphin species are protected in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, but the Australian snubfin dolphin (once called the Irrawaddy dolphin) and the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin are both considered high priority for protection by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. This is because there are indications that these particular species are in decline in the northern Australian region, due to poor water quality, boating (not Great Barrier Reef tourist boating) and netting.
There is currently ongoing research in progress to determine the exact population numbers, threats and biology of these gorgeous dolphins, so it is vitally important that the Great Barrier Reef continues to be available as a sanctuary for these species.

If you’d like the chance to spot whales and dolphins in Cairns, there are a number of eco-friendly options available to do so, but the Whale Watching - Reef Magic is one of the best, marine mammal specific options. On this three to three and a half hour adventure, you’re guaranteed to witness the grace and grandeur of a humpback whale (or more) going about its day in its natural environment. You’ll learn about these amazing creatures in detail and you’ll also likely spot other sea life, such as dolphins, on your cruise.