Ocean Defender with whales Hervey Bay Nature Cruise and Hervey Bay's Ultimate Whale Watch Hervey Bay's Ultimate Whale Watch

Discover hands-on learning and meaningful fundraising opportunities in the spectacular Great Sandy Marine Park — a living classroom rich in marine life and coastal ecosystems.

Enjoy the flexibility of your own private charter aboard the 12-metre, smooth-riding ‘Ocean Defender’ Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB). This comfortable vessel features forward facing and covered seating at water level, with panoramic views, perfect for photography and naturalist groups.

Education-Focused Marine Experiences

  • Available year-round, the park is home to diverse marine and birdlife including the Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin, Dugong and Green Turtle, along with thriving bird populations such as the Osprey, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Australasian Gannet and Brahminy Kite. Migratory shorebirds including the Eastern Curlew and Ruddy Turnstone also visit seasonally, providing valuable learning opportunities in biodiversity and conservation.
  • During whale watching season (1 July – late October), education groups can immerse themselves in four decades of local research on the Humpback Whale. Students and community groups learn directly from marine biologists about the latest findings — and can even assist with real-time data collection as part of ongoing research studies, gaining practical insight into marine science and conservation.

Ideal for Schools, Community & Fundraising Groups. Tailored packages are available for:

  • Schools and tertiary education programs
  • Environmental and naturalist groups
  • Youth organizations and community clubs
  • Wildlife photography groups
  • Corporate social responsibility programs

Discounted rates are offered for school, charity and education groups, making these experiences both impactful and accessible. Charters can also be customised for milestone events, corporate groups, sunset cruises, and community fundraising initiatives.

To book a private education or fundraising charter:
📧 herveybay@pacificwhale.org
📞 1800 454 310

Create a memorable, educational, and purpose-driven marine experience while supporting long-term research and conservation efforts.

The Great Sandy Marine Park is home to a number of varieties of dolphin, turtle and dugong year-round, as well as a broad array of bird species; both migrating waders and local populations including osprey, kites, sea-eagles, terns, shearwaters, gannets and gulls.

During the whale watching season (1 July to late October), learn about our 40 years of local humpback whale research including the latest whale findings from marine biologists, and help collect data as part of our ongoing research studies.

In addition to naturalist groups, tailored packages can be booked for schools, wildlife photographers, birthdays, engagements, anniversaries, corporate whale watch or nature cruises, sunset cruises or milestone celebrations.

To book your private charter, email herveybay@pacificwhale.org or call 1800 454 310.

Booking & Payment

  • A 50% deposit is required to confirm your charter booking.
  • Full payment is due no later than 7 days prior to departure.

Cancellation Policy

  • 14+ days prior to departure | No cancellation fee
  • 7-14 days prior to departure | 25% of total booking value
  • Less than 7 days prior to departure | 100% of total booking value (forfeited)

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