Noosa and the Sunshine Coast pack a punch with their top-notch boat tours. The real standouts include the Mooloolaba Whale Watching Cruise – perfect for spotting these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat – and the unique Bushtucker Cruise, where you’ll taste authentic Australian dishes while gliding through pristine waters. For adventure seekers, the Whale Swimming experience and the high-octane Noosa Thriller Jet Boat Tour deliver unforgettable thrills. I especially love the Serenity Cruise through Australia’s Everglades – it’s a peaceful journey through one of the region’s most spectacular waterways. Each tour offers good value, with flexible booking options and accessibility features. Let’s explore the best boat tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
Mooloolaba Whale Watching Cruise offers guaranteed whale sightings and free repeat cruises if none are seen, with educational commentary throughout the experience.
Culinary cruises such as the Bushtucker Cruise and Seafood Lunch Cruise provide unique dining experiences featuring local Australian cuisine and scenic views.
Scenic and relaxing cruises, including the Noosa Thriller Jet Boat Tour, Electric Picnic Boat Cruise, and Sunset Cruise Mooloolaba, offer diverse options for adventurous and leisurely experiences.
Premium airport/cruise terminal transfer services provide private, customized transportation with amenities like bottled water and infant seats, as well as a price guarantee.
The region boasts diverse wildlife observation opportunities, such as spotting tawny frogmouths, pelicans, and kingfishers, and stunning natural scenery like the “River of Mirrors”.
Mooloolaba Whale Watching Cruise
The Mooloolaba Whale Watching Cruise offers a thrilling opportunity to spot migrating humpback whales off the Mooloolaba coast. This tour guarantees whale sightings, and if none occur, you’ll get to repeat the excursion for free.
Along with whales, you may also see dolphins, turtles, and other marine life, with educational commentary provided throughout. The cruise departs from 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba, and lasts for an unspecified duration, ending back at the same location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates up to 120 travelers. Souvenir photos, alcoholic drinks, and USB photo packages are available for purchase, and free cancellation is possible up to 3 days in advance.
Read our full review: Mooloolaba Whale Watching Cruise Review
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Bushtucker Cruise
After completing the Mooloolaba Whale Watching Cruise, travelers can embark on the Bushtucker Cruise, an immersive culinary adventure along the Noosa and Sunshine Coast waterways.
With 127 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this 3-hour cruise offers a unique dining experience featuring native Australian cuisine. The menu highlights include mango and macadamia oysters, roasted king prawns, and a deconstructed Davidson plum cheesecake.
Priced from ₹5,508.50 per person, the cruise includes alcoholic beverages, a welcome drink, and vegan/gluten-free options.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the cruise departs from Mooloolaba and can accommodate up to 28 travelers. Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation or rescheduling is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Bushtucker Cruise Review
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Whale Watching and Swim With Whales Cruise From Mooloolaba
Embarking from Mooloolaba, the Whale Watching and Swim With Whales Cruise offers an unforgettable opportunity to encounter these majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this small-group tour provides an intimate experience along the Noosa and Sunshine Coast. Equipped with wetsuits, masks, and snorkels, participants can take the plunge and potentially swim with whales, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.
Lunch is included, and the cruise operates near public transportation. While suitable for moderate fitness levels, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain health conditions.
Read our full review: Whale Watching and Swim With Whales Cruise From Mooloolaba Review
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Seafood Lunch Cruise
Offering a seafood-centric luncheon, the Seafood Lunch Cruise in Noosa and Sunshine Coast provides a 1.5-hour excursion along the picturesque waterways.
With entertaining commentary, the cruise accommodates a maximum of 35 travelers and boasts a Badge of Excellence with 828 reviews.
Guests can expect a table service lunch and a fully licensed bar, though drinks aren’t included.
While reviews highlight the freshness and presentation of seafood, some guests noted issues with food quality and pricing.
The cruise departs from The Wharf Mooloolaba Dock #2, with a starting price of €40.12 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Seafood Lunch Cruise Review
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One Hour Noosa Thriller Powerful Jet Boat Tour – Noosa & Sunshine Coast
For thrill-seekers exploring the Noosa and Sunshine Coast region, the Noosa Thriller Ocean Adventure Ride offers a pulse-pounding one-hour jet boat tour.
Setting out from the Noosa Boathouse Info Centre, this high-octane ride can reach speeds of up to 60 knots as it navigates the waterways.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience where guests may spot whales, dolphins, and manta rays.
While most found the ride exhilarating, some felt it didn’t quite live up to the “thriller” billing.
The Noosa Thriller delivers an adrenaline-fueled adventure along the picturesque Sunshine Coast.
Read our full review: One Hour Noosa Thriller Powerful Jet Boat Tour – Noosa & Sunshine Coast Review
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Relaxing Eco Friendly Electric Picnic Boat Cruise on the Noosa River
The Relaxing Eco Friendly Electric Picnic Boat Cruise on the Noosa River provides a tranquil respite from the thrilling jet boat tour.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this private tour allows you to leisurely explore the river without a boat license.
With a 5.0 rating from 26 reviews, the cruise offers informative briefings and self-drive capabilities for groups of up to 8 people.
The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, and the 2-hour experience concludes back at the starting point.
Pricing starts from $78.30 per group, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Positive reviews highlight the excellent service and enjoyable, relaxing atmosphere of this eco-friendly electric boat tour.
Read our full review: Relaxing Eco Friendly Electric Picnic Boat Cruise on the Noosa River Review
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River Cruise on Historical Vessel
Operated by Saltwater Eco Tours, the River Cruise on Historical Vessel provides travelers with an opportunity to explore the Noosa and Sunshine Coast waterways aboard a historic vessel.
The cruise accommodates a maximum of 28 passengers and departs from the meeting point at 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba.
Onboard, guests can enjoy the available restroom facilities and purchase alcoholic beverages from the onboard bar.
The cruise has received exceptional reviews, earning a 5.0-star rating across various platforms.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and accessible via public transportation, making it a convenient option for a relaxing eco-friendly experience along the coast.
Read our full review: River Cruise on Historical Vessel Review
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Premium Airport/ Cruise Terminal Transfers
Premium airport/cruise terminal transfers allow Noosa and Sunshine Coast travelers to conveniently get to and from their accommodations.
This private service provides bottled water, customized pickup and drop-off points, and infant seats if needed. It’s accessible for service animals and strollers.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and there’s a lowest price guarantee with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Travelers should avoid transport if showing COVID-19 symptoms.
Pricing starts at $231.65 per group of up to 6 people, with availability varying by preferred transportation option.
Read our full review: Premium Airport/ Cruise Terminal Transfers Review
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The Original 1-Hour Mooloolaba Canal Cruise
Embarking from The Wharf Mooloolaba, the original 1-hour Mooloolaba Canal Cruise takes guests on a scenic journey through the picturesque waterways.
With a 99% recommendation rate from 269 reviews, the cruise features stunning views of Mooloolaba Island, exclusive mansions, and Croc One, Steve Irwin’s boat.
Passengers can feed fish on the return journey and enjoy live commentary from the friendly crew.
The fully licensed bar serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, while snacks are available for purchase.
Easily accessible from the shared car park with Sealife aquarium, the cruise is priced from €21.60 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: The Original 1-Hour Mooloolaba Canal Cruise Review
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Sunset Cruise Mooloolaba
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the Sunset Cruise Mooloolaba offers a serene and enchanting experience along the picturesque Mooloolaba waterways.
With a maximum capacity of 12 travelers, this cruise boasts an impressive 5.0-star rating from 275 reviews, with 99% of guests recommending it.
The tour departs at 5:00 PM from 123 Parkyn Parade and includes a delightful dinner featuring fresh oysters and a seafood platter, as well as optional alcoholic beverages.
Guests praise the friendly staff, informative commentary, and the opportunity to witness the sunset and full moon simultaneously.
Accessible by public transportation and with easy ramp access, the Sunset Cruise Mooloolaba provides a relaxed and value-for-money experience on the Sunshine Coast.
Read our full review: Sunset Cruise Mooloolaba Review
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Serenity Cruise to Australia’s Everglades
The Serenity Cruise to Australia’s Everglades provides a tranquil journey through the serene waterways of the Noosa and Sunshine Coast region.
This 2-hour tour offers a chance to spot local wildlife, including tawny frogmouths, pelicans, and kingfishers, while enjoying the “River of Mirrors” and its stunning mirrored reflections.
Passengers can indulge in complimentary alcoholic beverages and appreciate the knowledgeable commentary from friendly guides.
While the cruise generally receives positive reviews for its relaxing atmosphere and beautiful scenery, some customers have reported issues with communication and lack of compassion in resolving problems.
Read our full review: Serenity Cruise to Australia’s Everglades Review
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Noosa Everglades Cruise and Highlights Private Tour Inc. Lunch
Travelers on the Noosa Everglades Cruise and Highlights Private Tour can expect a comprehensive journey through the stunning Noosa and Sunshine Coast region.
The 3-hour cruise includes a 45-minute ferry ride, 90 minutes of free time, and a 2-course lunch at a top-rated restaurant.
With a maximum of 13 participants, the tour offers a personalized experience, complete with light nibbles, afternoon snacks, and access to a 65-acre eco camp.
Pick-up and drop-off from accommodations are available, with various pickup locations across the Sunshine Coast.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for most travelers.
With a 5-star rating across multiple platforms, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in the Noosa Everglades.
Read our full review: Noosa Everglades Cruise and Highlights Private Tour Inc. Lunch Review
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1 Hour Tour Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise
A 1-hour sunset cruise along Mooloolaba’s picturesque waterways awaits travelers seeking a serene and magical experience.
This tour, with a maximum of 30 participants, boasts an impressive 94% recommendation rate from previous guests. The cruise features stunning sunset views, a friendly skipper, and entertaining commentary, as well as the opportunity to see Steve Irwin’s famous vessel, Croc One.
The tour includes all fees and taxes, with infant seats and service animals allowed. Conveniently located near public transportation, the cruise departs from The Wharf Mooloolaba and ends back at the same point.
With a 5.0 overall rating, this sunset cruise promises an unforgettable experience on the picturesque Sunshine Coast.
Read our full review: 1 Hour Tour Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise Review
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Common Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Go on a Boat Tour?
The best time to go on a boat tour is typically during the peak season, when weather conditions are most favorable. Boat tours often operate year-round, but the spring and summer months offer the most comfortable and enjoyable experiences.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Cruises?
Most boat tours and cruises allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks aboard, though some may have restrictions or provide catering options. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to understand their policies.
Are the Boats Wheelchair Accessible?
Most boat tours and cruises offer wheelchair accessibility, allowing passengers to comfortably enjoy the scenic views. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility features when booking to ensure the cruise meets the needs of all travelers.
Are Life Jackets Provided on the Boat Tours?
Life jackets are typically provided on boat tours for safety. Tour operators ensure passengers’ wellbeing by supplying life jackets, which are mandatory for most watercraft activities. Passengers should check with the tour company to confirm life jacket availability.
Do the Boat Tours Offer Any Discounts for Seniors or Children?
Many boat tour operators offer discounts for seniors and children. Guests should inquire about specific pricing and package deals when booking their tour. Some companies may provide additional savings for group bookings or online reservations.
The Sum Up
Noosa and the Sunshine Coast offer a variety of immersive boat tours and cruises. From whale watching to sunset cruises, visitors can enjoy the region’s natural beauty and wildlife. Whether seeking a thrilling jet boat ride or a serene Everglades exploration, these tour options cater to diverse interests and preferences. With so many choices, travelers can easily find the perfect on-the-water experience to enhance their Sunshine Coast adventure.