humpback whale tours gold coast

Whale Watch Cruises

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Gold Coast Whale Watching Tours

Departure location, sea world cruise terminal, 2024 operating season, may 25th - november 3rd, daily special.

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Cruise with the experts.

Join us for an unforgettable Gold Coast whale watching experience with Sea World Cruises! Your adventure begins at our Sea World Cruises Terminal with complimentary parking and a seamless check-in process. Enjoy house-made treats and a selection of beverages at the terminal café while taking in stunning views of the Gold Coast Broadwater. Before boarding your spacious whale watching vessel, explore our informative humpback whale history exhibit.

Our experienced Captain ensures comfort and safety while searching for whales along the iconic Humpback Highway, right here on the Gold Coast. Learn about whale behaviour from our knowledgeable crew and marine researchers. Witness breathtaking displays of whale action while also watching for playful dolphins and sea turtles. In addition to the experience, your ticket purchase directly contributes to marine conservation efforts through our partnership with the Sea World Foundation.

Upon return to the Sea World Cruises Terminal, browse our ocean-inspired gift shop for keepsakes of your day, with a portion of proceeds furthering the research, rescue, and conservation efforts of the Sea World Foundation. Sea World Cruises can’t wait to have you onboard for the whale watching adventure of a lifetime!

Whale Watch Highlights

Whale watching, with added perks, upgrade to vip captain's lounge, whale watching tickets, daily specials, join the whale watch fun.

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Experience more with Sea World Whale Watch

Hit the humpback highway with us and enjoy a tour overflowing with features that ensure your Gold Coast whale watch experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

Interpretive Displays

Superior Whale Watch Vessel

Live Underwater Mobile Viewing

Underwater Hydrophone

Waterfront Cafe & Gift Shop

Professional Photographers

Indoor Heated Check-In Terminal

100% Whale Sighting Guarantee

Marine Naturalist Guides

Spot the marine life.

See majestic whales, playful dolphins, cruising turtles & soaring seabirds – a stunning display of marine life. More than just a Whale Watching adventure!

Humpback Whales

Bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, minke whale, our vessels.

Our fleet of vessels were designed and built here in South-East Queensland based on a thorough understanding of sea conditions typical of the region, allowing for smoother sailing conditions and passenger comfort.

Whale Watching Vessel

Spirit of Migaloo II

About your Gold Coast whale adventure

Check-in time is at least 20 minutes prior to tour departure time from the Sea World Cruises Main Beach Terminal in the car park outside Sea World at Main Beach, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. Entry to Sea World Marine Park is not required.

Departure Schedule

Departure time, return time, the deck cafe.

The Sea World Cruises chefs prepare daily light refreshments at our stunning waterfront Deck Cafe, perfect for starting or concluding your whale watching adventure.

100% Whale Guarantee

In the unlikely event that your tour fails to sight a whale you will be provided with a FREE return Gold Coast whale watching cruise valid for 12-months.

Getting Here:

Sea World Cruises Terminal, Sea World, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, 4217

Save up to $45

Sea World Combo

Tick off a weekend with a fantastic Whale Watching Cruise and Sea World Entry Combo.

• Buffet Lunch Cruise

Cruise the Gold Coast waterways with a leisurely 2-hour lunch cruise with the best views in the city.

Best Seller

• Buffet Dinner Cruise

Indulge in a 2.5-hour dinner cruise on the Gold Coast Broadwater with stunning night skyline views.

Gold Coast Whale Watching FAQ

When is the whale watching season on the gold coast.

The Gold Coast Whale watching season commences late May and finishes early November.

What months are best to see the whales?

With over 45,000 Whales expected to pass by the Gold Coast this year, any month during the migration season is excellent for whale watching.

What weather conditions are best for whale watching?

Whales continue their migration journey regardless of the weather, allowing you to witness them in all conditions!

Is Whale watching better in the morning or afternoon?

There is no difference in Whale activity between dawn and dusk.

What will I see on my Whale watching tour?

In addition to the majestic Humpback Whales, look for our resident bottlenose dolphins, minke whales, green sea turtles, and pelagic bird species.

How close will we get to the whales?

As a responsible whale-watching operator, we adhere to the Queensland Government’s Rules for Watching Marine Mammals. We maintain a distance of at least 100 metres from whales, ensuring their safety and comfort. However, if the whales choose to approach us, they can come as close as they like, a behaviour known as “mugging.”

Do you operate in rough conditions?

If the sea conditions are expected to be rough, we will notify you at check-in. You will be given the option to proceed with the tour, reschedule for another day, or receive a full refund.

Plan Your Adventure

Access guide.

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Acknowledgement of Country

Sea World Cruises acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters on which we operate and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

+61 (07) 5539 9299 [email protected]

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Gold Coast’s Boutique  Whale Watching Tour

Ready yourself for an intimate encounter with one of the most remarkable creatures of the deep..

Set sail from Surfers Paradise for a dynamic up-close encounter that will stay with you for a lifetime. Witness one of the animal kingdom’s most breathtaking spectacles 35,000 migrating humpback whales passing close to Gold Coast shores twice each year travelling along an ancient route known as the Humpback Highway. Marvel at their dramatic aerial displays. See mothers tenderly care for calves. Feel dwarfed by their size as they curiously approach the vessel. Keep your camera at the ready because whales aren’t the only stars of the show – our tours routinely encounter charismatic dolphins, enormous green sea turtles and resident and migratory seabirds. A locally owned and family operated business, Whales in Paradise is the ultimate boutique marine wildlife experience.

The whales in paradise difference

Guaranteed Railside Viewing

No Crowds & Ample Space

Expert Commentary

Fully Licensed Bar Onboard

Complimentary Kids Activity Book

100% whale sighting guarantee.

Our team has an innate ability for spotting whales, but on the rare chance they just cannot be found we offer a free return cruise so you can see them another day that suits your schedule.

The Whales migrate up the Eastern Seaboard of Australia each year to mate and play in the warm waters off the Great Barrier Reef. Many Whales spectators can see the breaching Whales and the Whale blows directly off the coast line while walking the white sandy beaches or swimming in the crystal clears ocean. Some excellent vantage points for seeing Whales in their wild environment is in Byron Bay the most easterly point of Australia, Coolangatta and Tweed Heads, The Spit in Northern Gold Coast, Stradbroke Island and Moreton Island.

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What customers say

“ "Fantastic tour. Wayne the skipper was very informative and told us lots of information on the way out to see the whales. The crew were also very helpful. We spent a lot of time with the whales and it’s is an experience we will never forget! Must do whilst at the Gold Coast." - Sharon L

“ "Absolutely 11/10 experience, such a magical day out in the wonderful elements. Captain Wayne and his magnificent crew were absolutely awesome and provided such a special and genuine experience. Saw more than 3 humpbacks and even a couple of very special breaches! Thank you guys so much for a ripper day!" - May Joy

“ "The weather was perfect, the crew was outstanding, the skipper Wayne was friendly and talkative, Matt took over the commentary half way through and was great value cracking jokes, Tomo was great at spotting the whales and a good laugh. They really went above and beyond to find the whales, they are the A Team." - Stuart B

“ "This trip was just sensational! The crew were extremely professional, organised and very friendly. We saw an amazing amount of breaches, spy hopping and the whales were very interested in the boat. All protocols were observed properly and great commentary and energy from Captain Wayne & co. Would definitely go again." - Leanna. Dave & Arianna

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Acknowledgement of Country

Whales in Paradise acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters on which we operate and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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WHALE WATCHING GOLD COAST

100% lifetime whale sighting guarantee.

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WATCH FULL VIDEO

Current Season The Humpback Whale Watching season on the Gold Coast begins in June and runs until October Book your 2024 tour now!

Whale Watching Tours Queensland

Australia’s best whale watching experience is now in Queensland

Australia’s most experienced Whale Watching tour company are delighted to bring our experience and expertise to Queensland’s Gold Coast. Our Gold Coast whale watching season begins in June and runs through until October as over 37,000 Humpback Whales undertake the annual migration along the east coast of Australia.

We offer far more than a tour, we provide an education experience with expert commentary from marine biologists and behavioural scientists aboard every tour.

We are so confident you will see the Humpback Whales that we offer a 100% lifetime guaranteed return tour for FREE.

Join the Pod® this winter departing daily from Surfers Paradise.

Gold Coast Whale Watching Tours

Join The Pod® and Learn The Language of the Whales™ as you are welcomed onboard Australia’s newest, state of the art purpose built Whale Watch vessel to immerse yourself in the world of the whales in the waters off Surfers Paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

You are guaranteed to see the whale of your tour or you are welcome to travel again free of charge. Our guarantee is in place as we have a very accurate sighting record, however we are interacting with wild whales and should the unlikely event of a no sighting day occur you have peace of mind in knowing you will be able to join us again at no charge to sight the whale of your tour.

Our Gold Coast whale watching season begins in June and runs through until October as over 37,000 Humpback Whales undertake the annual migration along the east coast of Australia.

All of our experiences are family friendly and it is largely dependant on your Childs experience onboard vessels and type of experience you would like to join.

A jacket is recommended even on warm days as the sea breeze can be cool, sunglasses, hat, camera and motion sickness medication if required.

Whale Watch Queensland has a duty of care to our guests and we have a 100% safety record and will not operate in extreme weather. Our team constantly monitors the weather forecast for all tours and will advise guests of any adverse weather, please make sure to leave our team with your appropriate contact details so we may advise you of any changes to the weather forecast.

Every tour is different and the amount of whales we can sight on one day or tour is dependant on what whales are around at the time. On average five whales are sighted on each tour and on some occasions we may only sight one whale or break a record for the amount of whales sighted in one day.

Everyone is an individual and we do recommend speaking with your doctor or local chemist if you believe you may be susceptible to motion sickness. Please prepare with motion sickness medication as recommend by your health care professional and this has been proven to lessen the likely hood of becoming unwell. We recommend that preparation is always the best option for guests.

There is no specific time of day or weather that is best for whale watching. The most important factor is how many whales are within the area you will be visiting which is why there are specific seasons in place to ensure the best opportunity for sighting whales.

Yes, tours are perfectly safe for pregnant women but we do recommend consulting with your doctor should you suffer from morning sickness or are susceptible to motion sickness.

You will Learn the Language of the Whales with Whale Watch Queensland. We specialise in teaching our guests all about the language of the different species of whales that we interact with over our different seasons. Our live and educational commentary is run throughout your experience so you understand with in-depth information and stories the life of the amazing whales of Queensland. Our wish is for you to depart being able to speak fluent whale and share your newfound knowledge with family and friends which will ensure that the education of whales is continued. Your time onboard is more than an experience, it is an education!

The Daily Whale™

View our tour adventures in The Daily Whale blog! Australia’s premier whale watching experience updates you daily from Queensland!

Join the Pod®!

Add your email address to keep updated with Whale Watch Queensland. You’ll also have a chance to win a free tour every month!

Part Of The Whale Watch Family Pod

• +61 (07) 5572 7755
• Mariners Cove Marina, Berth 95, Arm D

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Whale Watching Gold Coast

As the chill sets in Antarctica, we prepare to be enthralled by the annual migration of our Antarctic cousins, the Majestic Humpback Whale . Each year, some 30,000 humpbacks make an epic 10,000 km return journey between Antarctica and Australia. With over 25 years of whale watching experience, we are committed to offering you the best customer service and memories to last a lifetime.

This is your opportunity to marvel at the majestic Humpback Whales in their natural environment with the stunning Gold Coast skyline glistening in the background. Take home unique memories that only Mother Nature can provide. You’ll have a whale of a time on the Gold Coast as you learn about mating and migration, baleen and blowholes, flukes and fins. We have the most exciting Whale Watching on the Gold Coast!

The Journey of a lifetime!

Within minutes of departure you’ll see these majestic creatures as they pass along the Gold Coast Humpback Highway on their annual migration along the east coast of Australia. This amazing journey is a truly fascinating experience, as right before your very eyes these 40-tonne Humpback Whales breach, wave their pectoral fins and slap their tails. Spirit crew are passionate about the conservation of these gentle giants, promoting awareness and education of Humpback Whales, marine wildlife and their natural environment. Your journey will be guided by full commentary from our Marine Biologists, and our friendly and knowledgeable staff are ready to answer any questions that you may have. With a 100% Whale Guarantee , you can cruise in comfort knowing that you will see the Humpback Whales or you will receive a free return cruise.

*Our 2024 Whale Watching Season will commence on Saturday 25th of May until Sunday 27th of October.

2.5 to 3 hours adventure Fully Licensed bar Welcome tea, coffee and Biscuits Onsite parking at Mariner's Cove close to the departure deck Marine Biologist on board with full commentary 24 meter power Catamaran purpose-built for whale watching /*! elementor - v3.6.5 - 27-04-2022 */ .elementor-widget-image-carousel .swiper-container{position:static}.elementor-widget-image-carousel .swiper-container .swiper-slide figure{line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-image-carousel .swiper-slide{text-align:center}.elementor-image-carousel-wrapper:not(.swiper-container-initialized) .swiper-slide{max-width:calc(100% / var(--e-image-carousel-slides-to-show, 3))} Previous Next Check more in our Whale Watching Gallery . Tickets & Pricing

We pride ourselves on our work as leaders in the industry. Our Whale Watching Gold Coast tours focus on learning about whales and their natural environment with respect to their habitat.

Spirit Whale Watching tours on the Gold Coast will leave you with a deep respect and love for these majestic creatures.

• 2.5hr Whale Watching Cruise
• Complimentary Morning Tea on arrival
• Luxurious 24 meter power Catamaran
• 360 degree views and fully licensed bar
• Professional crew with detailed commentary

2x Adult Tickets and 2x Children Tickets

SENIORS & STUDENTS

100% guarantee.

Get a free return trip if there are no whales sighted on your cruise. 99% success rate finding whales for over 25 years.

FULL SUPPORT

Our amazing team are always ready to help you with the best customer service experience.

Whale Watching Season Pass

Spirit’s Season Pass provides you with unlimited access (T&C’s apply) to Spirit Whale Watching cruises during the season, so you can experience the Gentle Giants firsthand and as often as you would like.

This is an exclusive offer and it’s only available for 50 lucky Whale Lovers – first in best dressed, and only available before the season starts.

More than having a chance to get on board again, and again, this season, you will have access to special deals to make your Whale Watching journey more exclusive:

✅ FREE snack voucher ✅ Receive 10% off on your bar purchases during the Whale Watching season

WHALE WATCHING CRUISE INFORMATION

You are more than welcome to bring along some light snacks for your children and family if you would prefer. No BYO alcohol. If you feel motion sickness effects, please make sure to take precautions and try to avoid food during the cruise.

Pack a warm jumper or a windproof/waterproof jacket. Conditions at sea can be windier and cooler than on the mainland.

Sun protection

Cap or hats are also recommended on sunny days. The Spirit Crew can provide you with sunscreen if you need extra protection. Remember, always be sun smart!

WHALE GUARANTEE

Spirit has a fully licensed bar where you can purchase drinks and snacks throughout the duration of the cruise.

Appropriate footwear is also important. We recommend you wear fully covered footwear with suitable grip, such as sneakers or deck shoes.

GOOGLE REVIEW 4.7 ★★★★★

We are proud to have achieved great reviews over the years.

TRIP ADVISOR 4.8 ★★★★★

Check what our amazing clients have to say about us!

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