Tours/Noosa and Sunshine Coast/Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba

Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba

4.8(136)Noosa and Sunshine Coast3 hours
VIATOR5.0(9)TRIPADVISOR4.8(127)
Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba
Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba
Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba
Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba
Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba
Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba
Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba
Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba
Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba

At a glance

Duration
3 hours
Price from
$105 / person
Location
Noosa and Sunshine Coast
Rating
4.8 / 5 · 136 reviews
Languages
EN
Group
Small group, up to 21
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Confirmation
Instant
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Operator
Sunshine Coast Afloat
Meeting point
please note*** Please wait at the Meeting Point sign at Fisheries on the Spit and a staff member will guide you to the vessel.Please contact us on 0412 155 814 if you have not heard from us. We will always send an email the evening prior to your trip as this is a weather dependant activity.

Description

Aboard Crusader 1, our massive 55ft vessel, we offer a truly unique and intimate experience. Originally built as a commercial vessel, Crusader 1 was designed with exceptional safety and stability as its foundation, ensuring a smooth and secure journey even in open-ocean conditions. Unlike larger, crowded tour boats, we strictly limit our 3-hour cruises to just 22 passengers. This low-capacity approach guarantees you a "rail-side position" at all times, providing unobstructed 360-degree views and the perfect vantage point for photos without ever having to jostle for a look. Our open-deck design allows you to fully immerse yourself in the marine environment. You’ll have the chance to see whales in their natural habitat. The experience is as educational as it is breathtaking. Our informative and friendly crew are passionate about the region’s marine life and share in-depth knowledge and local insights, making your encounter both personal and profound.

Schedule & prices

Runs
Every day
Start times
9:00 AM and 1:00 PM
Next available
Sat, Oct 10
Adult (ages 12–80)
$105
Child (ages 0–11)
$91

In demand: 37 of the next 40 departures are already sold out.

From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 7.

Tour Options

Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba

What's included

Included
Light refreshments and non-alcoholic drinks
Cruise
Not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Traveller Ratings

Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor

4.8
136 reviews
5
125
4
6
3
0
2
0
1
5

How it compares in Noosa & Sunshine Coast

  • No. 17 by number of reviews among 132 tours in Noosa & Sunshine Coast
  • Starting price $105 is 57% above the typical $67 for tours of similar length in Noosa & Sunshine Coast

Excurgo comparison of 132 Viator tours, recalculated daily.

Important Information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please bring sunscreen and hat
  • If you have not heard from us by 6.30 pm the evening prior to your trip - please phone 0412 155 814.

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

1+ days before100% refund
0–1 days before0% refund

Frequently asked questions

How long does Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba take?

Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba lasts about 3 hours.

How much does Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba cost?

Prices start at $105 per person for this Noosa and Sunshine Coast experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.

What days does Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba run?

According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, starting at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

How much does Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba cost for children?

Children aged 0–11 pay from $91, adults from $105.

Does Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba sell out?

It can: 37 of the next 40 departures are already sold out, so booking ahead is a good idea.

Can I cancel Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba for free?

Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is please note*** Please wait at the Meeting Point sign at Fisheries on the Spit and a staff member will guide you to the vessel. Please contact us on 0412 155 814 if you have not heard from us. We will always send an email the evening prior to your trip as this is a weather dependant activity. Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.

What languages is Whale Watching Cruise from Mooloolaba offered in?

The experience is available in EN.

Is this a private or a group tour?

It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 21 participants.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Will my booking be confirmed immediately?

Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.

Reviews(136)

Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor

D
Daydream41733710286
September 21, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Best Whale watching on the coast

What a great experience it was going out with Sunshine Coast Afloat. I have experienced other whale watching tours but something felt special and intimate about this one. From the friendly welcome to the small number of passengers with plenty of space for everyone to view these marvellous cratures at close quarters we had a fabulous experience. I took my 80 year old mum, my son and his partner and we had the most amazing day. Highly recommend

Operator response

Thank you so much for sharing such a wonderful review! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that you, your 80-year-old mum, your son and his partner had such a memorable day whale watching with Sunshine Coast Afloat. We love hearing that you noticed the difference our small-group whale watching experience offers. With limited passenger numbers and plenty of space on Crusader 1, guests can move around, relax and enjoy unobstructed views from the open deck without the crowded feeling of a larger whale watching boat. We’re especially pleased that the experience felt special and intimate for your family. Our crew genuinely enjoy welcoming families on board and making sure guests of all ages feel comfortable, cared for and able to enjoy the incredible whales we’re fortunate to see off the Sunshine Coast. Thank you for your recommendation and for choosing Sunshine Coast Afloat for your Mooloolaba whale watching experience. We hope to welcome your family back on board again for another memorable ocean adventure!

S
Stephen_H
September 20, 2026 · via Viator
Good sighting!!

Seeing the whales/dolphins clearly a highlight, enthusiasm of guide infectious. Clean efficient boat.

Operator response

Thank you for your lovely review! We are so pleased to hear that seeing the whales and dolphins was a highlight of your time on board with Sunshine Coast Afloat. It’s fantastic to hear that you enjoyed our guide’s enthusiasm as well. Our crew genuinely love sharing the experience and their knowledge of the marine life we encounter off the Sunshine Coast. We’re also glad you appreciated the clean and well-presented Crusader 1. We take great pride in providing a comfortable, well-maintained vessel for our Mooloolaba whale watching guests. Thank you for joining us and for taking the time to share your experience. We hope to see you back on board again!

D
dnG431FP
September 20, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
An amazing day

An amazing day. 3 whales played along side us most of the trip. The low passenger limit meant that there was plenty of room on the boat to sit, move about and most of to view the whales. It was much less crowded than the larger boats and much more comfortable than the other smaller boats. Highly recommend.

Operator response

Thank you so much for your fantastic review! What an incredible day you had with three whales playing alongside Crusader 1 for much of the trip — those are the encounters that make whale watching from Mooloolaba so memorable! We’re delighted you enjoyed the benefit of our smaller passenger numbers and the extra space on board. One of the things we hear most often from guests is how comfortable it is to be able to move around the open deck, find a great viewing position and enjoy the whales without being packed in with large crowds. Our aim at Sunshine Coast Afloat is to offer a small-group whale watching experience that combines the intimacy of a smaller tour with the stability, space and comfort of our 55-foot vessel, Crusader 1. Thank you for recommending us. We really appreciate you choosing Sunshine Coast Afloat for your Sunshine Coast whale watching experience and hope to see you back on board again!

D
D5752MQnigels
September 19, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Amazing

Excellent time seen many whales

Operator response

Whale Watching on Crusader 1 is ideal as she is a large vessel but we only take a maximum of 23 passengers. So pleased you enjoyed your time out with us and saw lots of whales.

3
365freddieb
September 6, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Absolutely the best

Once again I'm back One of the best trips so far. Whales were all around us breaching, playing, slapping. It's so mesmerising to watch and be out there . Jerry, paddy, and Carlo and whoever else is along as staff on the day, are wonderful people. Treat everyone like they have all been here before. The boat is clean tidy, sometimes we get drinks and snacks as well. Never not seen whales when out with them. Only 22 people on board so we all get a great view. Always great pics ,3 hrs long and they have moved out further now so make sure you check the meet up address

Operator response

Thank you so much for coming back to see us again! It’s wonderful to hear that this was one of your best whale watching trips yet. It sounds like the whales really put on an incredible show — breaching, playing and tail-slapping all around you! That’s exactly what makes a Sunshine Coast whale watching experience so memorable. We’re especially grateful for your kind words about our team. We pride ourselves on creating a friendly, relaxed and personal experience for every guest. With just 22 guests aboard Crusader 1 and a 3-hour whale watching tour from Mooloolaba, everyone gets plenty of room and a great opportunity to see the whales and capture some fantastic photos. Thank you again for your continued support and for choosing Sunshine Coast Afloat. We love having you back on board and look forward to your next adventure with us

F
Fitz54
September 5, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
A great company to go and watch the magnificent humpbacks in great comfort.

The boat was extremely comfortable with great seats and ample shade as well as the opportunity to sit at the front. The staff were knowledgeable friendly and caring. We saw incredible whales a number of different pods and even a whale that breached. We also sold a few pods of dolphins as well. Would highly recommend this company and seeing whales in their natural habitat is amazing.

Operator response

Thank you so much for your wonderful review and recommendation! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed your whale watching cruise from Mooloolaba and found Crusader 1 comfortable, spacious and relaxing. Having plenty of shade while also being able to move around the boat and enjoy the view from the bow is all part of what makes our Sunshine Coast whale watching experience special. It sounds like the humpback whales certainly delivered on the day, with multiple pods, an incredible breach and even dolphins making an appearance! Seeing these magnificent animals in their natural environment is something we never take for granted. Our crew will be thrilled to hear your kind comments about their knowledge, friendliness and care for our guests. With a maximum of just 22 passengers, we’re able to provide a much more personal whale watching experience, with excellent viewing opportunities throughout the 3-hour cruise. Thank you again for choosing Sunshine Coast Afloat. We really appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back on board for another unforgettable whale watching adventure!

F
F8808LFvickih
August 30, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Highly recommend this cruise

It didn't take long to reach the whales, we saw a few putting on a really great show for us. It was a wonderful experience. The smaller boat and limited people on board made the experience so enjoyable, we could see the whales from most places on the boat, my favourite spot was on the bow. The crew were lovely and there if you needed a hand. The blankets for us was a nice touch. The boat and facilities were neat and clean. I would highly recommend this cruise

Operator response

Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for recommending Sunshine Coast Afloat! We’re thrilled to hear you had such a fantastic whale watching experience from Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast. It’s great to know the whales didn’t keep you waiting and put on such a memorable show for you! Our whale watching cruises are limited to just 23 guests aboard Crusader 1, giving everyone plenty of room to move around and enjoy excellent 360° views of the ocean. We especially love hearing that the bow was your favourite viewing spot — it really is a special place to watch whales in their natural environment! We’re also pleased you enjoyed the comfort of the vessel, our clean facilities, the blankets and, most importantly, the friendly service from our crew. We pride ourselves on providing a personal and relaxed whale watching experience rather than a crowded tour. Thank you again for taking the time to share your experience. We’d love to welcome you back aboard Sunshine Coast Afloat for another Mooloolaba whale watching adventure!

J
JeePho
August 26, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Wonderful experience

A clean spacious boat with lovely knowledgeable crews. We could move around to see the whales from the best angles without bumping with each other which was much better than those crowded tours. We got to see a mother whale and her baby that were practising his jump, and other few tail flipping whales. It was a very special experience. Thoroughly enjoyed it and we'll do it again in the near future.

Operator response

Thank you so much for this wonderful review! It sounds like you had an unforgettable day out on the water. There is truly nothing quite like witnessing a mother whale and her calf practicing their breaches, alongside some playful tail-flipping action! We always strive to keep our groups comfortable and uncrowded so everyone has plenty of space to capture the best views and enjoy the experience peacefully, so it’s fantastic to hear that made a big difference for you. Our crew will be thrilled to hear your kind words. We can't wait to welcome you back aboard for another adventure in the near future!

D
donaghb2016
August 25, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
An amazing experience!

Thank you for the opportunity to participate. Perfect weather, delightful staff and beautiful whales - I will never forget this amazing experience!

Operator response

Thank you so much for the fantastic review! We are thrilled that you joined us and that everything came together to make your trip unforgettable—from the gorgeous weather and our wonderful crew to some amazing encounters with the whales. Creating memories like this is what it's all about, and your kind words mean the world to our team. We hope to see you back on the water with us again someday!

C
carolwW7871VH
August 25, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
An amazing experience

Wow what an amazing experience. Would definitely recommend going with Sunshine Coast Afloat. Great communication from start to finish. Staff were amazing and their love and passion for their work and the whales was evident. We were incredibly lucky to witness a mum and calf today. The staff were just as excited as we were. You won’t regret going with this company. The perfect sized boat with the perfect number of people on board. I would definitely go again.

Operator response

Thank you so much for the glowing review! We are absolutely thrilled that you chose Sunshine Coast Afloat for your whale-watching adventure. Our team pours their hearts into what they do, so it means the world to know that their passion shone through—and sharing that genuine excitement right along with you and the calf is truly the best part of our job! We always aim to keep our group sizes comfortable so everyone has plenty of space to take in the magic without feeling crowded. Thank you for the wonderful recommendation. We can't wait to welcome you back on board for another unforgettable trip!

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