Watch the majestic creatures that frequent Portland Bay. Cape Nelson and Cape Bridgewater.

There are many vantage points to watch as the blue whales and southern right whales frolic.

If the whale flag is flying outside the Portland Visitor Information Centre  there is a great chance visitors will catch a glimpse of southern right whales, which often visit Portland and Cape Bridgewater bays in winter.

Southern right whales are easily distinguished by large white bumps on the top and sides of the head.

They visit from May to October, on their annual migration from the deep Southern Ocean, to the warm waters of southern Australia to mate and calve.

During the summer months when the Bonney Upwelling occurs, the earth’s largest mammal the blue whale visits.

The average length of a ” Big Blue” is about 22- 24 metres and they can weigh over 100 tonnes. Blue whales are mostly spotted from November to May. Cape Nelson and Cape Bridgewater are two of a few places in the world where blue whales can be seen feeding.

Please note that boats must be at least 200 metres, jet ski’s 300 metres distance from whales.

 

To receive updates on southern right and blue whale sightings and movements visit  www.whalemail.com.au