Winter is coming, and that means Minkes! The only known predictable aggregation of Dwarf Minke Whales in the world is to be found in our area, and Aroona is the only private yacht offering charters that allow close interaction with these amazing creatures.
With over 20 years of experience offering Dwarf Minke Whale charters, we have identified key locations where encounters with Dwarf Minke Whales are likely. Our guests have been captivated by the whales’ curious nature, as they frequently swim up for close inspection and delight in playful interactions around the boat for extended periods.
A charter onboard Aroona is customised to suit your interest, experience and the level of adventure you would like to experience. With a maximum of 8 guests and 5 crew looking after you, there is simply no better way to experience Minkes and the amazing ribbon reefs.
As well as hanging out with whales, Aroona guests can also mix it up with kitesurfing, island exploring, light tackle fishing, spearfishing and more. Our charters are typically 5 nights and 4 full days, and can include iconic Ribbon Reef locations such as Clam Garden, Tracy’s Wonderland, Steve’s Bommie, The Cod Hole, Google Gardens, Lighthouse Bommie, Pixie’s Pinnacle, Challenger Bay and Twin Towers.
More about Minkes:
The Minke Whale migration through the Great Barrier Reef was only discovered in the 1980’s
The Dwarf Minke Whale is ranked as the second smallest among baleen or “toothless” whales – they typically measure around 7 to 8 meters (23 to 26 feet) in length. Like other baleen whales, they feed on krill and small fish, filtered from gulps of water by the baleen ‘bristles’.
Characterised by a sleek and streamlined body, they exhibit a pointed snout and feature a distinctive white band on each flipper. Commonly found in sub-Antarctic and Antarctic waters, these whale are known to migrate north to the Great Barrier Reef in winter. As such we have a window of only a few months each year to see them on the reef.
Dwarf Minke Whales are renowned for their curiosity – in fact they display a particular fondness for observing humans… These whales are often spotted approaching boats and interacting with divers and snorkelers, providing a remarkable experience for those fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time.
We may actually be able to identify Individual whales, as each has distinct grey and white patches that serve as unique identifiers.
Snorkellers have the opportunity to hear the whales’ vocalisations. The low frequency of these sounds enables them to travel significant distances underwater, perhaps helping communication among dispersed groups.
