Winter Whale Fest 2025 – A Month of Wonder, Culture and Coastal Connection

2 June 2025

Each winter, the Southern Right Whales return to the Fleurieu Peninsula — and with them comes Winter Whale Fest, Victor Harbor’s much-loved celebration of its marine environment and community spirit.

Presented by the City of Victor Harbor, the Winter Whale Fest is a month-long program of experiences that invites locals and visitors alike to connect with the magic of the marine world. From hands-on workshops and cultural ceremonies to expert talks and ocean adventures, the festival offers something for everyone.

We have rounded up a few of the events on during the festival, but be sure to check the program to make sure you don’t miss anything!

Whale Art Trail – Self-Guided Tour

11:00am, 1 June - 30 June 2025

Take a self-guided journey through Victor Harbor and discover eight unique whale-inspired artworks along the trail.

Trail maps are available online or can be collected from the Victor Harbor Visitor Centre or Coral Street Art Space.

Cost: Free.

Southern Ocean Adventure – Big Duck Boat Tour

11:00am, 2 June - 30 June 2025 (Monday /Wednesday / Saturday / Sunday)

Departing from the Granite Island Causeway, this 90-minute ocean tour on the custom vessel Kondoli is designed for whale season. Travel between the mainland and the northern side of Granite Island to take in spectacular coastal views — and keep an eye out for whales.

Tours run four days a week, with additional departures added as the season progresses.

Cost: Adult $80 | Child (2–15) $62 | Family (2 adults + 2 children) $250.

Welcoming of the Whales and Smoking Ceremony

9:00am, Saturday 7 June 2025

Begin the day with a Ngarrindjeri Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony on the foreshore. This special gathering honours the seasonal return of the whales and offers a moment of reflection and cultural connection.

Cost: Free.

Ocean Creatures Drawing Workshops with Paul Rutter

9:30am-10:30am for children aged 6-14 and 10:45am-11:45am for over 14’s and adults, Saturday 7 June 2025

Join artist Paul Rutter for a playful and educational drawing session focused on our ocean’s most iconic creatures.

Children will explore characters like the magic dolphin, Granny Shark and Hugo the Humpback, while older participants will learn how to illustrate the Southern Right Whale, Orca, Bryde’s Whale and more.

Cost: Free.

Winter Solstice Drumming Circle

5:00pm-6:00pm, Saturday 21 June 2025

Celebrate the turning of the season and the arrival of the whales with a powerful, participatory drumming circle. Facilitated by Jo Richards from The Joyful Path, this session is open to all experience levels — no drumming background needed.

Cost: $25 per person, bookings essential.

Kondoli Lantern Festival Parade

5:00pm-8:00pm, Sunday 29 June 2025

A festival favourite, the Kondoli Lantern Parade brings the community together in a moving celebration of land, sea and sky. Inspired by the Ngarrindjeri creation story of Kondoli the whale, this evening of light, music, storytelling and food is open to all.

Bring a lantern or simply come along and enjoy the warmth and wonder of the parade as it lights up the coast.

Cost: Free.

To find out more and to book your tickets, visit: City of Victor Harbor | Winter Whale Fest

Image credit: City of Victor Harbor.