Brisbane’s whale watching scene delivers big-time results with minimal fuss. From June through November, humpback whales migrate right past the city’s doorstep, making it one of Australia’s most reliable viewing spots. The best tours operate from both downtown Brisbane and nearby Moreton Island, where you’ll typically see whales breaching and playing within the first hour.
I’m especially impressed with the Brisbane Whale Watching tours, which combine expert naturalist guides with stable vessels perfect for photography. Over at Moreton Island, Tangalooma Whale Watch Cruises stands out for its unique combo of whale spotting and wild dolphin feeding.
Let’s look at our favorite whale watching tours in Brisbane that consistently earn top marks from travelers.
Good To Know
- Take a 5-hour whale watching cruise from Brisbane aboard the MV Eye Spy vessel, with a guaranteed whale sighting and freshly made picnic lunchbox.
- Explore Moreton Island on a full-day tour from Brisbane and witness humpback whales breaching, tail-slapping, and socializing during the whale watching cruise.
- Combine a whale watching experience with other activities like dolphin feeding and snorkeling the Tangalooma Wrecks on Moreton Island.
- Enjoy a Moreton Island day trip with round-trip ferry transportation from Brisbane, a whale watching cruise, and the opportunity to hand-feed wild dolphins.
- Experience the best of both Moreton Island and Brisbane’s whale watching offerings, with convenient transportation and a variety of package options to choose from.
Moreton Island: Tangalooma Whale Watching & Dolphin Feeding
Moreton Island, situated just off the coast of Brisbane, offers visitors an unparalleled whale watching and dolphin feeding experience at the Tangalooma Resort. Embark on the Moreton Island: Dolphin and Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise and witness the majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the coast. Afterward, get up close and personal with the friendly dolphins at the Tangalooma Wrecks, where you can participate in the iconic dolphin feeding program.
For a more immersive experience, the Moreton Island: Tangalooma Snorkeling Tour & Dolphin Feeding package allows you to explore the vibrant marine life of the Tangalooma Wrecks before interacting with the dolphins. Alternatively, the Moreton Island: Tangalooma ATV Quad Bike & Dolphin Feeding tour combines thrilling off-road adventures with the unforgettable dolphin feeding encounter. Whether you choose to observe the whales, feed the dolphins, or both, Moreton Island promises an unforgettable wildlife experience just a short distance from Brisbane.
Read our full review: Moreton Island: Tangalooma Whale Watching & Dolphin Feeding Review
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Brisbane: Whale Watching Cruise With Lunch
Alternatively, visitors can embark on a 5-hour whale watching cruise from Brisbane aboard the multi-million dollar vessel MV Eye Spy. This tour offers the opportunity to see humpback whales in their natural habitat.
The cruise departs from a location just a 30-minute drive from Brisbane’s central business district and airport, or a 60-minute drive from the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast.
The tour includes a guaranteed whale sighting and a freshly made picnic lunchbox. The vessel is also wheelchair accessible, and it features a bar, snack, and souvenir counter. A portion of the ticket price is donated to ongoing whale research.
According to reviews, the staff are knowledgeable and provide friendly service, and the experience of seeing the whales up close is incredible. This whale watching cruise is highly recommended for those seeking an unforgettable encounter with these majestic creatures.
Read our full review: Brisbane: Whale Watching Cruise With Lunch Review
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Moreton Island: Tangalooma Whale Watching & Dolphin Viewing
Tangalooma, on Moreton Island, offers another exceptional opportunity for visitors to witness the majestic humpback whales. The Moreton Island: Tangalooma Whale Watching & Dolphin Viewing tour is a full-day experience that allows travelers to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The tour departs from Brisbane and includes the return ferry to Moreton Island, providing easy access to the prime whale-watching locations.
Participants can expect to see humpback whales breaching, tail-slapping, and socializing, as well as the chance to spot dolphins. The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks, where snorkelers can explore the underwater world. With a 4.4 rating and starting at €153.64 per person, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the wonders of marine life in the waters surrounding Moreton Island. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an exciting adventure, the Moreton Island: Tangalooma Whale Watching & Dolphin Viewing tour is a must-do activity during your time in Brisbane.
Read our full review: Moreton Island: Tangalooma Whale Watching & Dolphin Viewing Review
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Moreton Island: Tangalooma Day Trip & Whale Watching Cruise
Visitors often opt for the Moreton Island: Tangalooma Day Trip & Whale Watching Cruise to maximize their experience on the island. This full-day tour includes round-trip ferry transportation from Brisbane, allowing travelers to spend the day exploring the natural wonders of Moreton Island.
The highlight of the tour is the whale watching cruise, where guests have the opportunity to spot humpback whales during their annual migration. With a 4.4 rating and 567 bookings, this cruise is a popular choice for those seeking an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures.
Along With the whale watching, the tour also includes access to the Tangalooma wrecks, a popular snorkeling site teeming with marine life. Visitors can also enjoy the island’s stunning beaches and have the chance to hand-feed the resident wild dolphins at Tangalooma. With a full day of activities, this tour offers an immersive Moreton Island experience for visitors.
Read our full review: Moreton Island: Tangalooma Day Trip & Whale Watching Cruise Review
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The Sum Up
Brisbane and the nearby Moreton Island offer several top-notch whale watching experiences. Visitors can spot humpback whales on cruises, enjoy dolphin feeding at Tangalooma, and take in the stunning scenery of Moreton Island. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or an up-close wildlife encounter, these whale watching opportunities in the Brisbane region are sure to impress.