Guests on a recent Red Cat Adventures cruise in the Whitsundays were treated to an unforgettable moment coming face-to-face with one of the ocean's most majestic creatures.

The rare close encounter with a humpback whale took place as the Thundercat vessel paused in calm waters off the coast. To the surprise and delight of everyone onboard, a humpback surfaced just metres from the bow, lingering curiously beside the boat. Cameras and phones were quickly raised as the whale swam peacefully alongside the vessel, creating an awe-inspiring moment that left guests speechless.

“This is exactly the kind of magic the Whitsundays is known for,” said Asher Telford, General Manager of SeaLink Whitsundays. “We're fortunate to operate in one of the most pristine marine environments in the world, and this up-close encounter is a powerful reminder of the natural beauty and wonder our guests can experience here.”

Shannon Burke, Skipper and Master Reef Guide at Red Cat Adventures, added: “The whale seemed just as interested in us as we were in it. It was calm, playful, and incredibly close—truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment for everyone on board.”

The Whitsundays lie along the annual migratory path of humpback whales, who journey to the warm, protected waters of the Great Barrier Reef between June and November each year to rest, breed, and nurture their young. These winter sightings are becoming a seasonal highlight for guests aboard Red Cat Adventures.

Red Cat Adventures, part of the SeaLink Whitsundays family and the broader SeaLink Marine & Tourism group, delivers award-winning marine tours that showcase the very best of the Whitsundays, both above and below the water. This recent whale encounter reinforces the region's status as one of Australia's premier destinations for wildlife, eco-tourism, and unforgettable natural moments.

SeaLink Whitsundays offers a range of experiences designed to immerse visitors in the magic of the region. From cruising aboard the Purely Whitehaven full-day tour to iconic destinations like Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet, to venturing to the Great Barrier Reef on the Outer Reef Snorkelling Adventure, exploring with Red Cat Adventures' Thundercat and Tongarra, skimming across the water on a Whitsunday Jetski Tour or for the land lovers an informative guided walk to and swim at the stunning Cedar Creek Falls, every journey offers the potential for extraordinary encounters.

Book your next Whitsundays adventure:

• Red Cat Adventures
• Whitsunday Jetski Tours

• SeaLink Whitsundays

Watch the video of this incredible encounter: Click here to view