The Sunshine Coast delivers Australia’s most reliable whale watching, with daily sightings from June through October.
For the best experience, I’m sold on two standout options: The intimate Mooloolaba cruise includes expert commentary and professional photos, while their unique swim-with-whales program lets adventurous travelers share the water with these magnificent creatures (conditions permitting).
In Noosa, the small-group tours aboard the Thriller boat offer close-up encounters without the crowds – perfect for photographers. Let’s check out the top whale watching tours in the region.
Good To Know
- Mooloolaba Whale Watching Cruise offers educational commentary and a personalized experience with a maximum capacity of 120 travelers.
- Whale Watching and Swim With Whales Cruise From Mooloolaba provides the opportunity to spot and potentially swim with whales.
- 2-Hour Guided Whale Watching Tour at Noosa allows visitors to join a small group and spot humpback whales with a 97% approval rating.
- Noosa Whale Watching offers a prime vantage point to witness humpback whales in their natural habitat with a maximum group size of 12.
- The whale watching experiences in Noosa and Sunshine Coast cater to various preferences, from personalized cruises to small group tours.
Mooloolaba Whale Watching Cruise
The Mooloolaba Whale Watching Cruise offers a captivating opportunity to witness the majestic migration of whales along the Noosa and Sunshine Coast. This tour provides an educational commentary that enhances the whale watching experience, allowing visitors to learn about the fascinating creatures. Guests can also purchase souvenir photos and USB photos to commemorate their trip. While alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.
The cruise departs from the meeting point inside The Wharf Complex in Mooloolaba, Queensland, and returns to the same location at the end of the tour. With a maximum capacity of 120 travelers, this intimate experience ensures a personalized and immersive encounter with the whales. The tour also offers a guarantee – if no whales are sighted, guests can cruise again for free during the same season. With a 4.5-star rating from 67 reviews, the Mooloolaba Whale Watching Cruise is a must-do activity for those visiting the Noosa and Sunshine Coast region.
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Whale Watching and Swim With Whales Cruise From Mooloolaba
Although whales are a common sight off the Mooloolaba coast, especially during their winter migration, this whale watching and swim with whales cruise offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. The half-day cruise provides the chance to spot and potentially swim with whales, with all necessary equipment like wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins provided. While no lunch is included, food and drinks are provided on board.
The cruise departs from 123 Parkyn Parade in Mooloolaba and has a maximum group size of 15 travelers. However, it’s important to note that the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant travelers. Children under 8 must have an adult guardian, and those aged 8-15 must be strong swimmers. Plus, there’s no guarantee of a whale sighting or swimming opportunity, as the final decision is made by the staff based on weather and other factors. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the cruise may be canceled due to poor weather, with another day scheduled instead.
Read our full review: Whale Watching and Swim With Whales Cruise From Mooloolaba Review
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2-Hour Guided Whale Watching Tour at Noosa
Conveniently, the 2-hour guided whale watching tour at Noosa allows visitors to join a small group and board a vessel in search of the majestic humpback whales that make their way to the area during the winter months. These gentle giants put on a show for spectators, breaching the waters, tail slapping, and swimming with their calves.
Guests will learn about whales and other species in the area from the knowledgeable guides. The tour includes essential equipment like life jackets, rain coats, and action goggles to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. Meeting at the Noosa Marina, participants should arrive 15 minutes prior to the 2 pm departure.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour comes highly recommended, earning a 97% approval rating from previous guests. Travelers should have a moderate fitness level, as the activity ends back at the meeting point. The 2-hour guided whale watching tour in Noosa provides an excellent opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring display of these magnificent creatures.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Guided Whale Watching Tour at Noosa Review
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Noosa Whale Watching
Offering a prime vantage point to witness the magnificent humpback whales, Noosa Whale Watching provides an unforgettable adventure along the stunning Noosa coastline. Aboard the thrilling Noosa Thriller boat, adventurous travelers can embark on a guided tour to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. With an expert guide leading the way, guests will learn fascinating facts about the whales and their behaviors while enjoying panoramic views of the Noosa National Park.
The tour departs from the Noosa Boathouse Info Centre, with participants arriving 30 minutes early for a safety briefing. The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations, the moderate fitness level required guarantees an exciting and splashing boat ride towards the ocean’s edge. With 32 positive reviews and a 4.5-star rating, Noosa Whale Watching is a must-do activity for those seeking an up-close encounter with the region’s marine wildlife.
Read our full review: Noosa Whale Watching Review
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The Sum Up
The Sunshine Coast and Noosa offer exceptional whale watching experiences. From Mooloolaba’s cruises to Noosa’s guided tours, visitors can witness these majestic creatures up close. Whether watching from the boat or even swimming alongside them, these adventures provide an unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature. With a variety of options available, there’s a whale watching experience to suit every traveler’s interests and budget.