SWIM AND SNORKEL WITH DWARF MINKE WHALES AT THE COD HOLE

During the winter months (particularly June and July) dozens of Dwarf Minke Whales migrate to the area of the Great Barrier Reef around Cod Hole and the Ribbon Reefs. Cairns dive boat operators offer dedicated Minke Whale trips between May and July.

Only recognized as a unique species of whale as recently as the 1980’s, these cousins of the minke whales have a distinct color pattern, and reside exclusively in Southern oceans.

Snorkellers who are approached by these curious and friendly creatures may find the tag ‘dwarf’ to be a misnomer, as these giant mammals can still weigh up to five tonnes and reach nearly eight metres in length. It may be reassuring to keep in mind that Dwarf Minke Whales are toothless and feed on krill, and small fish and crustaceans.

The Australian Government has in place a strict set of guidelines, within which all whale watching operators must conduct their activities. For more information about government regulations concerning whale watching, please click here.