Blessing of the Fleet and Whale Season Launch
Friday, July 10, 2026 – Urangan Harbour Boat Ramp Carpark
Fraser Coast Regional Council, Media Release, 8 July 2026
Join us as we officially welcome the start of whale season in Hervey Bay with this annual maritime event. This special community tradition brings together the region’s maritime operators, local clergy, and community members to celebrate the arrival of the humpback whales and wish our vessels and crews a safe and successful season on the water.
What to expect
Enjoy an afternoon and evening by the waterfront featuring delicious street eats, market stalls, live music from Rave The Bay.
Witness the traditional Blessing of the Fleet ceremony as local ministers offer blessings for participating vessels and their crews, wishing them a safe and successful season on the water.
The event will also feature a ceremonial display by the TS Krait Navy Cadets, adding to the proud maritime tradition of this special occasion.
A tradition with deep roots
The Blessing of the Fleet is steeped in history, tracing back to the Mediterranean fishing villages where communities sought blessings for protection and prosperity at sea. Today, we carry on that tradition right here in Hervey Bay – a place known across the globe as the whale watching capital.
Mark your calendar, bring your crew, and celebrate
Bring the family along and join us in celebrating the start of another unforgettable whale season in Hervey Bay.
Whale season kickoff and Blessing of the Fleet
- Friday, July 10, 2026
- 4:00pm – 7:00pm
- New location: Urangan Harbour Boat Ramp Carpark
- Cost: Free
- 4:00pm: Live Music by Rave the Bay, Food Stalls, Market Stalls and Marine Education
- 5:00pm:Â Blessing of the Fleet Ceremony and Welcome to Country
- 5:15pm: Boat Float By Begins
- 7:00pm Event Concludes
