If you haven’t come across the name Migaloo, let us enlighten you about Australia’s beloved humpback whale. Migaloo holds a special place in our oceans as it embarks on its migration journey between the warm tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef and the frigid Antarctic regions along Australia’s east coast.

Are you planning a trip to the east coast anyᴛι̇ɱe soon? It’s highly recommended to include a Migaloo sighting in your itinerary, given the celebrity status it holds. Prior to booking your flights, cruise, or car rental to Queensland, familiarize yourself with these essential Migaloo facts to make the most of your encounter with this majestic creature.

The basics

Migaloo is an adult male albino humpback, esᴛι̇ɱated to have been born in 1986 (now in his 30s). He was first spotted in 1991 when he was passing through Byron Bay, and is one of an esᴛι̇ɱated 35,000 humpback whales that migrate yearly.

He’s a vision

With brown eyes and a white pigmented exterior, Migaloo isn’t hard to spot in a pod of humpback whales. His hypo-pigmentation is likely a genetic mutation, and scientists have speculated whether he is a true albino or if he is leucistic: an inability to produce pigment but with coloured eyes.

He’s protected

Being so unique, Migaloo is protected under Queensland and Commonwealth Government legislation, which states that no vessel is allowed to get within 500 metres of him. They can live up to 50 years so it’s important we look after him as long as possible.

His name is Indigenous

Named after his traditional roots, and being the only known Australian white whale, it’s only fitting that Migaloo’s name means “white fella” in some Indigenous languages.

(Almost) one of a kind

Migaloo is one of a handful of known white whales worldwide and was the first one ever sighted. There are 3-4 other known white humpback whales that Migaloo swim with: Bahloo, Willow and Migaloo Jnr (although it’s unknown whether he is related to Migaloo).

He can carry a tune

Humpbacks are known for their playful dispositions and enchanting whale songs, and Migaloo is no exception.

Where to spot him

There are plenty of places from which to get a good view or a swim with a passing pod, depending on where you are along the East Coast. From day trips to longer stays, there’s options to suit all.

Check out these whale watching boats, and while you’re counting the days for your Migaloo encounter read up on these fun facts, learn how to speak whale (it’s only polite) and brush up on your whale trivia knowledge.

Catch him before he flies the coop

In 2015, scientists explained that Migaloo may start to swim further offshore as he matures, making it possible that we’ll see less of him over the coming years. His migration passes ɱaпy popular spots along the east coast on the way to the birthing and mating grounds of the Great Barrier Reef, between June and November each year.