Over the past two days, local whale watchers have been treated to an impressive display of marine life at Victor Harbor. On Sunday, June 30th, 2024, sightings of Southern Right Whales were abundant around Port Elliot's Knights Beach. At 4:00 pm, two whales were confirmed, with their blows visible 800 and 1200 meters south of the beach. Earlier, at 3:45 pm, the same pair was seen engaging in surface activity, rolling and circling about 600-800 meters from the shore. These magnificent creatures were also spotted throughout the day from various vantage points, including Freeman Lookout and Frenchman Rock. Additionally, a Humpback Whale was observed near Granite Island, adding to the excitement.

The excitement continued into yesterday (Monday, July 1st, 2024), with more sightings of Southern Right Whales. At 12:05 pm, two whales were seen turning back and positioning themselves 500 meters off the tip of The Bluff in Encounter Bay. Earlier in the morning, at 11:37 am, the same pair was spotted at Depledge Beach, Victor Harbor, moving towards Kings Beach. By 11:30 am, they had made their way to Petrel Cove, delighting onlookers with their presence.

This period marks the seasonal migration of Southern Right Whales to Victor Harbor, where they come to calve and nurture their young in the region's protected waters. The sightings are a reminder of the natural beauty and biodiversity that Victor Harbor offers, particularly during this time of the year.

Whale Watching Locations

Grab the camera and binoculars and head to one of the many vantage points along the southern Fleurieu Peninsula's coastline during the whale watching season. Click the map to enlarge or download.

Spot a whale? Report a sighting

If you, or someone you know, believes to have seen a whale, there are a couple of ways you can assist us to officially report and confirm the whale sighting:

• Phone 08 8551 0750 between 10am and 4pm daily, or
• Email [email protected] including time, location, activity, whale species or photo through to us. 

Once a team member receives your report, either by phone or email one of our registered whale spotters will be contacted to visit the location and confirm the sighting.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WHALE WATCHING IN VICTOR HARBOR