William Dutton was employed in the whaling industry by Henry Reed from around 1828 and later by the Hentys from around 1834. Between 1833 and 1837 an estimated 700 tons of whale oil was shipped from Portland Bay. Whales disappeared for some years, but have returned over the past 10 years in ever increasing numbers during the winter months.

Whale watching
Whales can occasionally be seen from cliff tops along the coastline between Portland and Cape Bridgewater. The Southern Right Whales can generally be seen between June and September, when on their migratory trip to temperate waters. The Blue Whales can generally be seen between December and April. Don't forget to keep an eye out for dolphins, especially if boating, or in the surf at Bridgewater Bay. Check with the Visitor Information Centre for the latest sightings and for further information. A yellow flag is raised at the Centre and a foghorn is sounded when a whale is sighted in the bay.

Seals
Seals can be observed from Seal Point at Cape Bridgewater. The colony consists of up to 650 Australian Fur Seals, which can be seen basking in the sun on the rocks. If you are feeling a little more adventurous you can take a 45 minute boat ride with 'Seals by Sea Tours' to the rock platforms and into a large cave to view the seals up close.

Penguins
After dark it is possible to see Fairy Penguins that sometimes frequent the Portland foreshore. A penguin habitat is being established on the perimeter of Bulk Berth No.6, courtesy of the Port of Portland.