When can I see whales / dolphins on the Great Barrier Reef?

If you are hoping to see whales on Cairns’ Great Barrier Reef then June / July is the Dwarf Minke Whale season and they are commonly sighted on the remote reefs of the Far Northern Ribbon Reefs. This is a popular time of year to visit, as these magnificent mammals are very inquisitive and commonly approach snorkellers and divers in the water.

Humpback Whales are shyer and do not normally approach divers or snorkellers in water, however, it is quite common for them to offer displays of breaching, rolling and fin slaps, to passengers travelling to the Outer Reefs on day trips from Cairns, in late August to September.

Dolphins can be seen all year round, most often seen playing in the bow water of a moving vessel. Occasionally divers in water may hear them calling with high pitched whistles and clicking, but it is extremely rare for them to approach Cairns divers.