🐋 The Unofficial End of the 2026 Whale Season

After several days without any new whale sightings along our operating coastline, it might be time to start calling the unofficial end of the 2026 Southern Right Whale season here on the Fleurieu Peninsula.

It was a later start to the season than we would typically expect, but once our Southern Right Whales arrived, they certainly gave us some wonderful encounters. We were fortunate to spend time with several mothers and their growing calves throughout winter, particularly around Middleton, Goolwa Beach and the sheltered nursery waters of Encounter Bay.

One of the highlights was welcoming back Anu, a returning Southern Right Whale mother who has visited Encounter Bay with previous calves, and getting to know her newest youngster, Logan. From peaceful days loafing together in the shallows to Logan's energetic breaches and aerial displays later in the season, it has been fantastic watching these calves grow stronger and more adventurous throughout their time in the bay.

With spring now upon us and the seasons changing, our Southern Right mothers and calves appear to have moved on, beginning the next stage of their journey away from our coastline.

But we're not quite ready to pack away the binoculars just yet!

Spring also brings the southward migration of Humpback Whales, returning towards the cooler, nutrient-rich Antarctic waters after spending winter in warmer northern breeding grounds. While their main migration routes are along Australia's east and west coasts, we occasionally get lucky with Humpbacks passing through our waters – so there may still be another surprise or two before we officially close the Whale Log for 2026.

For now, a huge thank you to everyone who joined us aboard The Big Duck this winter. Whether you saw your first whale, watched a calf breach, encountered a mum and bub quietly resting in the shallows, or simply enjoyed searching the horizon with us, your excitement makes these wildlife encounters even more special.

And, of course, the end of whale season doesn't mean the end of our adventures! Our Southern Ocean Adventure and Seal Island Tours continue year-round, exploring the spectacular coastline and its resident seals, sea lions, dolphins and seabirds.

Stay tuned – if a late-season Humpback decides to cruise through Encounter Bay on its journey south, you'll hear about it right here in the Whale Log! 🐋👋