Whale Census Day 2025
Sunday 29 June marked Whale Census Day along the east coast of Australia. Every year, volunteers gather at key headlands to help count the number of migrating whales as they pass through. This season, early reports suggest that humpback activity is stronger than usual and could exceed previous years.
From what we’ve seen out on the water, the numbers are already well above average. Humpbacks have been spotted consistently since mid-May, and the activity has only increased as we move into the heart of the season.
Organised by ORRCA (Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia), Whale Census Day is a citizen science initiative where volunteers count every whale they spot from vantage points along the coastline. The goal is to collect reliable data to support conservation efforts and monitor population trends.
In Sydney, local volunteers gather at well-known whale watching points including Cape Solander, North Head, and various lookouts along the eastern beaches.
Since commercial whaling was banned in Australian waters in the 1980s, the east coast humpback population has steadily recovered. It is now estimated that up to 40,000 humpbacks migrate along the coast each year, with numbers increasing by roughly ten per cent annually.
This is one of the most significant marine conservation stories in the world. The rise in numbers has led to more regular sightings and a wider range of behaviours. Many guests now see breaching, tail slaps, and mothers swimming with calves, especially during the later months of the season.
We’ve already seen an impressive number of whales from the boats this season. Sightings have been consistent since mid-May, with multiple pods passing through each day and showing a range of surface behaviours.
The outlook for the rest of the season is strong, and based on what we’ve seen so far, it may be another record year. Sydney’s proximity to the continental shelf means whales often travel close to shore, making it one of the best locations in Australia for accessible whale watching. Most tours begin spotting activity shortly after leaving King Street Wharf.
Whale Census Day is open to anyone interested in helping from land-based viewing spots. ORRCA provides basic training and materials to guide you through the process. If you’d like to take part in next year’s event, visit the ORRCA website to find out more about how to get involved.
As whale numbers rise, so too does the importance of responsible whale watching. All our tours follow national guidelines that ensure we maintain safe distances, reduce underwater noise, and never interfere with natural behaviours. These protections help keep humpback populations healthy and ensure future generations will continue to see them thrive.
If you would like to join a tour this season, you can view available departures on our whale watching page. Our crew are on the water daily and are always happy to share what we’re seeing.