Moreton Bay:
Your guide to whale watching

30 MAY 2024

Like clockwork from June to November, majestic humpback whales swing by South-East Queensland on their 10,000km trek to the warm, tropical water up north. Spot these gentle giants from lookout spots on land or spend a day on the water to get up close and personal to witness these beautiful creatures for yourself.

IN THIS ARTICLE
IN THIS ARTICLE

Tangalooma Whale Watching Cruises

Departing from Holt Street Wharf at Pinkenba, Tangalooma Whale Watching tours start from June continuing through until November. Cruise-goers have four options to choose from, whale watching day cruise, whale watching with sunset cocktails, whale watching with wild dolphin feeding or whale watching with the sea to sky package. All options provide a light lunch on board, a breathtaking adventure, and expert commentary by an Eco Ranger.

Brisbane Whale Watching

Brisbane Whale Watching experience departs from Redcliffe Jetty at 10am (a 30-minute drive north of Brisbane), but boarding begins at 9am, so make sure you arrive early and pack your camera because you are about to tick an unforgettable adventure off your bucket list. Enjoy a five-hour cruise around the bay, which includes a delicious buffet lunch featuring tiger prawns. A fully licensed bar, snack and souvenir counter are also available on board. You will be a whale expert once you've stepped off the boat, with highly entertaining and informative commentary provided by the skipper Kerry and her team of experts.

North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah

In just under an hour’s travel, you can witness one of the greatest natural experiences on Earth, viewing the passing parade of spectacular marine life from Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah. Grab your binoculars and look out to sea as you’re at Queensland’s most easterly point for land-based whale watching. Sea turtles, manta rays and large pods of bottle-nose dolphins also call Point Lookout home can be spotted almost all year round.

Cape Moreton

Cape Moreton, at the most North-East point on Moreton Island/Mulgumpin is also another incredible spot for land-based whale watching. Weather you stand at the heights of the lighthouse, or set up down on the beach, you will be sure to see the majestic marine life passing by. While whales can only be seen from June to November, dolphins, sharks and turtles can be spotted year-round. 

Looking to stay a little longer? Extend your viewing time of these majestic creatures from Moreton Island/Mulgumpin. Here’s where to stay.

A distant shot of a couple sitting on a tree trunk on a beach