Friday 11 October 2013

Heavy rains bring early end to Whale Watching Season

September saw the south west of Australia endure some stormy weather for more days than I can remember. With strong winds and heavy rain we lost a total of 14 days cruising for the month. With the rain came very dirty water entering King George Sound from Oyster Harbour. Southern Rights don't seem to like fresh water.

Before the rain started we had up to 15 whales just off marine drive and as the fresh water made its way into the sound every day the whales slowly moved back towards Nanarup Beach. After several weeks of weather the bar broke at Nanarup and no doubt they didn't like the dirty water that was there either.

It was a little disappointing as we were in line for a big year and expecting upwards of 36 whales in the bay for several weeks. Oh well, now we just have to look forward to next year.