Welcome aboard! Here at Whalesong Cruises, we take immense pride in offering you an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning coastal beauty of Hervey Bay, Queensland. Our passion for the outdoors, nature, and wildlife brought us together as a diverse team, each with unique backgrounds. Today, we want to share with you our unwavering dedication to accessibility and inclusivity, especially during The Year of Accessible Tourism in Queensland.
Nature holds a special place in our hearts, and we firmly believe that it should be accessible to everyone. Our goal is to ensure that every guest, irrespective of their abilities, can partake in the wonder of close encounters with Humpback Whales. We understand that our community comprises individuals with diverse physical, intellectual, developmental, and mental health differences, and it is our duty to cater to all.
Step aboard our vessel, and you’ll find that accessibility is at the core of our design. We have meticulously crafted our boat and operations to create a welcoming space for all. With multiple levels, spacious indoor and outdoor areas, and covered spaces, you can freely explore and move around, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
We are constantly striving to enhance our guests’ experience, and that includes our commitment to inclusivity. We are currently working on providing specialized content for individuals with hearing and visual impairments, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the wonders of the Humpback Whales. As we speak, we already cater to guests with other physical and intellectual challenges, as well as those with specific dietary requirements.
Our proudest initiative, the “Whales for Everyone” program, was launched in June 2021 after months of development starting in September 2020. We believe that everyone deserves to experience the joy of witnessing these majestic creatures, regardless of their ability to venture out to sea. Through innovative technologies, we bring the whales to those who can’t come to us, fostering inclusivity and breaking barriers.
Our dedication to accessibility has been recognized through the Quality Tourism Framework, granting us accreditation as an Accessible Tourism Operator. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional experiences for guests with diverse abilities. We are proud to continuously improve and invest in accessible tourism practices to ensure every guest feels valued and cared for.
As we join the celebration of The Year of Accessible Tourism in Queensland, we are inspired to do even more. This initiative, supported by $12 million in new funding, reinforces our belief in the importance of accessible tourism experiences for all. By participating wholeheartedly, we aim to play our part in creating a more inclusive and empowering tourism landscape in Queensland.
At Whalesong Cruises, we are more than just a tour operator. We are a family that embraces diversity, cherishes nature and strives for inclusivity. Our commitment to accessibility is unwavering, and we take great pride in providing exceptional experiences for every guest who graces our boat. As you embark on this incredible journey with us, know that you are part of a movement that promotes change, celebrates diversity, and creates unforgettable memories for all. Welcome aboard, and let’s embark on this adventure together!
To learn more about our accessibility feel free to check out our accessibility page. We hope to see you aboard soon