5 Whale Watching in Noosa & Sunshine Coast That Survive a Second Look

1.Noosa; Noosa Ocean Adventures – Whale Watching

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 213 reviews · 2 hours · from $70Our pick

Join Brent and Min on a two-hour Noosa Thriller cruise from Noosaville, with up to 12 passengers aboard a fast, open-view boat. After a safety briefing, you head toward Noosa National Park to look for migrating humpback whales, dolphins, turtles, and seabirds. Expect expert commentary, padded seats, possible spray, and a lively ride.

“A real thrill seeking adventure! The sea was pretty rough and the ride was crazy! We saw beautiful dolphins and as hard as Brent tried we couldn’t find and whales :( it was still a great trip and would highly recommend - but do bring a change of clothes! It gets pretty wet!”

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2.Mooloolaba: Whale Watching Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 153 reviews · 3 hours · from $60Best value

From Sunreef Mooloolaba, cruise beyond the river mouth to search for humpback whales on their seasonal migration. You get indoor and outdoor seating, an upstairs viewing area, onboard bathrooms, live English commentary, and a whale guarantee that gives you a free return trip if none are sighted. Dolphins, turtles, and seabirds may join the show.

“very friendly and we saw several whales and some dolphins”

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3.Noosa Whale Watching Cruise – Humpback Whale Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 144 reviews · from $71Top rated

Set out from Noosa Marina in Tewantin with Noosa Oceanrider for a two-hour whale-watching trip capped at 12 people. Your skipper, including guides such as Christian and Mike, tracks humpback whales near Noosa Heads. Expect binoculars, a lively ride, and possible sightings of dolphins, turtles, rays, and breaching whales.

“Best experience. Saw many breaching whales. Captain was super knowledgeable and kind. Highly recommend.”

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4.Humpback Whale Watching Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 129 reviews · from $76

Cruise from Noosa Marina down the river and out past the headland with captain Michael or Mike, watching for humpback whales, dolphins, and dramatic coastal scenery. The fast boat can move between pods quickly, but ocean conditions may be rough. Bring water, sunscreen, a camera, and a waterproof bag.

“Excellent guide. Saw lots of whales and loved the joy and excitement on our grandsons face. Such a memorable experience.”

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5.Mooloolaba: Whale Watching Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 108 reviews · 2 hours · from $63

Join Adventure Rafting at Mooloolaba Wharf for a two-hour whale watching trip on a fast raft. Jack, Nina, Izzy, Georgia, Rod, and other local crew members have guided past departures, using onboard commentary, a hydrophone, and HD underwater cameras to help you see and hear humpback whales. The ride is exciting but can be rough in a swell.

“Had an awesome day - skipper & crew knew their stuff and found lots of pods for us to photograph.”

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