Humpback Whale Cruises from Mooloolaba & Noosa (June–October)
View Whale Watching ToursEach winter, the waters off Queensland’s Sunshine Coast become one of the most spectacular wildlife viewing locations in Australia. Between June and October, over 40,000 humpback whales migrate north from Antarctic feeding grounds to the warm breeding waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
The Sunshine Coast sits directly along this migration highway. Departing from Mooloolaba and Noosa, whale watching tours reach prime whale territory within minutes — making this one of the most reliable and dramatic whale watching regions in the country.
Unlike southern whale watching regions that require longer travel to reach migration routes, the continental shelf near the Sunshine Coast allows operators to access deep water quickly. This means less travel time and more whale interaction time.
Encounters frequently include:
On many tours, whales approach vessels out of curiosity — creating unforgettable, close-range experiences.
Mooloolaba is the primary whale watching hub of the Sunshine Coast. Purpose-built catamarans and high-speed vessels depart daily during the season. The harbour provides calm departure conditions and rapid access to open ocean.
Noosa departures offer scenic cruising past Noosa National Park’s dramatic coastline before reaching migration waters. These tours often feel more boutique and intimate.
Stable multi-deck vessels with onboard commentary. Ideal for families and first-time visitors.
Smaller, faster vessels offering thrilling open-air experiences and dynamic positioning near whale pods.
Luxury whale watching experiences for corporate groups or special occasions.
Tours include marine-certified skippers, wildlife commentary, and strict adherence to Queensland marine wildlife regulations. Safety briefings occur prior to departure, and vessels are equipped with life jackets and modern navigation systems.
Morning tours typically offer calmer seas, while afternoon departures sometimes coincide with increased surface activity.
The Sunshine Coast whale season runs from mid-June to late October. Early season sees whales travelling north, while late season features mothers returning south with newborn calves.
Peak activity occurs during July, August and September.
Most cruises operate for 2 to 3 hours.
Yes. Larger catamarans are ideal for families with young children.
Warm jacket, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and camera with zoom lens.
Spaces fill quickly during peak migration months. Advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly during school holidays.
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