About Oceanic Odyssey

We are more than a tour company; we are custodians of the sea, passionate educators, and dedicated conservationists sharing the wonder of Australia's marine giants.

Founder of Oceanic Odyssey on a boat, looking at the ocean.

Our Story: A Lifelong Passion

Oceanic Odyssey was born from a simple yet profound love for the ocean. Our founder, Dr. Aris Thorne, a marine biologist who spent decades studying whale behavior, grew concerned by the rise of commercial tours that prioritized profit over the well-being of the animals. In 1998, with a refurbished research vessel and an unshakeable belief in ethical tourism, he launched the first Oceanic Odyssey tour. The goal was not just to show people whales, but to create a deep, lasting connection to the marine world through education and respect. Today, that founding principle guides every journey we undertake.

Our Mission & Values

The principles that guide our every action.

🌍

Conservation First

Our primary commitment is to the protection of whales and their habitat. A portion of every ticket sold directly funds our research and cleanup projects.

🎓

Education & Inspiration

We believe knowledge inspires action. Our onboard marine biologists provide expert commentary, turning every tour into a floating classroom and a call for conservation.

🤝

Ethical Encounters

We strictly adhere to and exceed all national guidelines for marine mammal interaction, ensuring our presence never disturbs the natural behavior of the animals.

Meet Our Passionate Crew

The experts dedicated to making your journey unforgettable and safe.

Portrait of Dr. Elara Vance
Dr. Elara Vance

Lead Marine Biologist & Guide

With a Ph.D. in cetacean acoustics, Elara's passion is decoding the complex songs of humpback whales. Her ability to translate science into captivating stories makes every tour a learning adventure.

Portrait of Ben Carter
Ben Carter

Senior Skipper & Operations Manager

Ben has spent over 30 years navigating Australian waters. His unparalleled knowledge of the coastline and weather patterns ensures a safe, smooth, and perfectly positioned whale watching experience.

Portrait of Maya Singh
Maya Singh

Conservation Coordinator & Photographer

Maya organizes our community cleanup events and documents our research. An award-winning photographer, she also leads our photography workshops, helping guests capture the magic of the moment.

Moments from Our Adventures

A group of tourists watching a whale from the boat.
A marine biologist explaining whale behavior to guests.
An aerial view of the tour boat near a pod of dolphins.
A child looking through binoculars at the ocean.
A close-up shot of a whale's eye.
The crew celebrating after a successful tour.

Ready for Your Own Adventure?

Join us for an unforgettable journey into the world of whales. We have a tour waiting for you.

Contact Us & Book Today