Good morning Joanne
Thank you for your enquiry. We would advise Augusta as the better location for your family to join us on a whale watching tour. Augusta is only a short 30 minute drive from Margaret River, whereas Albany is much further at around 4 hours one way.
The Vessel we operate out of Augusta is the Alison Maree, she is a very stable and large 20m Catamaran with lots of safe and comfortable viewing areas, as well as warm indoor saloon area in case of cooler conditions.
It can be choppy but we are unable to forecast weather conditions this far out. The tour only lasts 2.5 hours and we generally are on whales within the first 30mins, but again, as they are wild animals we cannot guarantee timings.
We can guarantee that if you don not sight whales on your tour you are welcome to join us again free.
With regard to timing, the morning or afternoon session are both successful in their sightings, conditions can vary morning to afternoon on a daily basis so this can affect your choice on tour times, also your own schedule for your family that you may need to factor in.
Hopefully this answers all your questions please don't hesitate to ask if you have any further questions.
Kind Regards
Krysten
Naturaliste Charters