The future of whale watching could be at risk if the industry isn’t more strictly monitored, experts warn.

According to researcher John Totterdell, while the regulations are adequate, operators are likely to divert from regulations when they are not being monitored. “People get quite used to the fact that no one’s watching, and they push boundaries.”

Mr Totterdell, who works for the Cetacean Research Centre WA, a non-profit Research Institute, added: “The commercial industry is regulated, and one would hope [whale watching tour companies] follow these regulations. Those in the tourism industry, it’s their livelihood, so we find that they’re usually more responsible. That doesn’t mean you don’t have some occurrences that fall outside.”

WA is one of the biggest hotspots for humpback whale migration. With the movement of 35,000 whales, both commercial tours and recreational boats set out to catch a glimpse.

The industry is regulated; however, each state has its specific set of terms. Western Australia regulated by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

The WA guidelines state boats must stay 100m from a whales’ sides, and 300m from its front and back; not abiding can be fatal for these mammals. While Mr Totterdell raised concerns about a lack of policing, a spokesperson for DBCA Exmouth District claimed ongoing monitoring ensures the 100m distance limit remains effective.

A 2024 Griffith University study monitored boat movement over ten years (2008–2018) and found that most humpback whale collisions along Moreton Bay in Queensland involved smaller, recreational vessels.

Whale Watch Western Australia owner Gemma Sharp said the existing guidelines are effective, especially for industry professionals who interpret whale body language and movements. She said whale behaviours can be altered by boats interacting frequently.

“When vessels fail to adhere to whale rules and regulations, [a whale then makes] decisions influenced by that vessel rather than its own needs. Through our experience, we can ensure that the appropriate distance is maintained consistently.”

Physical strikes aren’t the only way boats can cause an impact, with sound attacking a whale’s main sense: hearing. Sound travels roughly five times faster in water than in air, due to the density difference.

Whales communicate through echolocation, using clicking sounds to bounce off objects and communicate with fellow whale pods.

Associate Professor Rebecca Dunlop, a biological science researcher at the University of Queensland, found in her 2018 study that humpback whales could hear over 130 decibels, within 4km of the sound. For comparison, 130 decibels is equivalent to the sound of an aeroplane taking off nearby.

“The ocean is a very noisy place, particularly with oil and gas exploration and naval sonar,” Dr Dunlop said in an interview with University of Queensland’s Contact Magazine.

While there are no specific decibel limits for boat noise in WA, the DBCA spokesperson said the WA guidelines emphasise “minimising vessel disturbance, including noise, especially during close approaches. Operators are encouraged to maintain low speeds and avoid sudden changes in direction or engine revving near whales.”

Mr Totterdell said tour skippers, operators and crew members contribute highly to scientific documentation. Tour companies supply imagery and behavioural videos, which aid research and projects.

“By prioritising conservation efforts, eco-tourism initiatives can ensure natural habitats are preserved and local wildlife can thrive,” Sharp said. “These activities allow travellers to connect with nature while respecting the habitats they explore.”

The DBCA spokesperson said: “Ecotourism – including whale watching – provides significant economic and educational benefits to regional communities like Exmouth. It supports local businesses, creates employment, and fosters environmental stewardship. The Ningaloo Coast is a prime example of how nature-based tourism can be managed sustainably to benefit both people and wildlife.”