But even Paul Guest from Albany Dolphin and Whale Cruises was surprised when a newborn calf surfaced beside his boat in King George Sound, the eighth humpback cow and calf for the year.

“We were privileged enough to see the calf playing as it swam around us accompanied by mum and another adult, explained as a mid-wife that will accompany the mother for several weeks while she gives birth,” Mr Guest said.

The season has proved a great success for local whale-watching cruises, with whales spotted every trip.