Albany's Historic Whaling Station

The Basics

Visitors to Albany's Historic Whaling Station can enjoy a guided tour of the station and peek behind the scenes of the factory, which still has the original equipment used to process the whales. Additional attractions include exhibitions on Australia’s almost 200-year history of whale hunting and the closure of the Cheynes Beach Whaling Company; a series of whale skeletons, including the last sperm whale that was caught in Albany; and video footage showcased in the former oil tanks. The highlight is the chance to explore onboard a remarkably preserved Cheynes IV whale-chaser ship and walk the deck where the gigantic creatures were hoisted aboard.

Tours from Albany often combine a visit to Albany's Historic Whaling Station with a whale-watching cruise, setting sail from Albany Marina, or a stop at Torndirrup National Park to admire natural wonders such as the Gap and the Natural Bridge.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Guided 40-minute tours, held hourly throughout the day, are included in the entrance price.

• Plan around three hours to take in all the exhibitions.

• Visitor facilities include the Whaler’s Galley Café, a whale-themed children’s playground, a gift shop, and picnic and BBQ areas.

• The station is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but the whale-chaser ship can only be accessed by stairs.

How to Get There

The station is located along Frenchman Bay, 13 miles (21 kilometers) south of downtown Albany, about a 25-minute drive. There is no public transport to the station, so the best way to arrive is by private vehicle or taxi.

When to Get There

The whaling station is open daily year-round. Visit between 10am and 3pm to make the most of the guided tours, or time your visit to coincide with Albany’s whale-migration season—May to October—and combine it with a whale-watching tour around the bay.

Discovery Bay

Albany’s Historic Whaling Station is part of the Discovery Bay Precinct, and tickets also include access to the bay’s other sites. Follow the scenic walkways and enjoy views across the bay; visit the Australian Wildlife Park, where you can spot koalas, flying foxes, and rare white kangaroos; and stroll around the Regional Wildflower Garden, home to more than 100,000 indigenous plants.