Whale watching season has officially begun with several humpback whales spotted during first tours

The first whales of the season have officially been spotted off the Gold Coast, with tens of thousands more set to pass through the sunshine state this season. SEE PHOTOS AND VIDEO

The whale watching season has officially begun with a splash, with the first humpback whales spotted off the Gold Coast.

Sea World Cruises launched their first whale watching charter of the season on Friday and despite some not-so-perfect conditions, passengers were still treated to the sight of curious humpback whales swimming up close and personal.

With more than 40,000 whales expected to pass through the region, whale watching businesses are hoping for a sell-out season.

The first whales of the season have been spotted off the Gold Coast as the first tours head out on the water. Picture: Supplied/Anthony Coles

KOMOMO Cruises’ Nic Jones said the season was looking to be one for the history books, with pre-season sales already twice 2023.

“Last year for us was pretty spectacular so if we could beat last year, we’re going to be very happy,” Mr Jones said.

“Our business is still building and (2022) was very close to being a sellout year for us, so we’re definitely hoping to tick that box.”

The first whales of the season have been spotted off the Gold Coast as the first tours head out on the water. Picture: Supplied/Anthony Coles

KOMOMO will launch their first whale watching tour on May 31, before hitting the ground running from the weekend onwards.

“We have been seeing whales out there for the past couple of weeks, there’s been the odd one coming through which is incredibly early,” Mr Jones said.

Last season was a near sell-out year for KOMOMO. Picture: Supplied

“We are expecting to be pretty full on this season. The number (of whales) keep increasing ... just every year it keeps getting better.”

The Gold Coast has an upper hand in terms of whale watching with not only a longer season compared to other regions, but quick access to the sea.

With the first boats now hitting the water Mr Jones said it was an exciting time for tourists and locals.

“I love having newcomers on the boat because seeing their faces when they see a whale is unreal. It’s just taking people out into what is such an unknown world to normal people living on the land and seeing these animals in the ocean,” he said.