9 Best Whale Watching Tours In Gold Coast

The Gold Coast delivers reliable whale watching with several standout operators. Sea World Cruises leads the pack, offering a rare 100% sighting guarantee and consistently high marks from past travelers. I’m particularly impressed by their modern vessels and experienced naturalists. The Gold Coast Whale Watching Cruise earns our thumbs-up for its stellar safety record and intimate group sizes, while budget travelers will appreciate the Half-Day tour’s practical 2.5-hour format. For the adventurous, swimming encounters and luxury yacht options round out the choices. Let’s explore the top whale watching experiences:

Key Points

• Sea World Cruises offers a 94% recommendation rate and a 100% Whale Sighting Guarantee for a 2.5-hour Gold Coast Half-Day whale watching tour.
• The Gold Coast Whale Watching Cruise and Gold Coast Half-Day Whale Watching tours have consistently high ratings of 5-stars and 4.7/5, respectively.
• Affordable tour options like the $50.50 Half-Day Whale Watching and $47.30 Spirit of Gold Coast tour provide accessible whale watching experiences.
• Unique offerings include the Swim With Whales tour and luxury yacht tours with 360-degree views and onboard amenities.
• Tours are generally wheelchair accessible, with comfortable vessels, light refreshments, and knowledgeable crew members for a seamless experience.

Whale Watching by Sea World Cruises

For an unforgettable whale watching experience on the Gold Coast, Sea World Cruises offers unparalleled opportunities.

With an impressive 94% recommendation rate, this whale watching tour boasts a 4.5-star rating from over 180 reviews.

Travelers can expect knowledgeable and attentive crew, stunning ocean views, and the thrilling chance to spot whales, including mothers and calves.

The tour’s 100% Whale Sighting Guarantee ensures a return ticket if no whales are spotted.

While some guests experienced seasickness, the tour is wheelchair accessible and caters to most travelers.

With free parking, no entry fees, and snacks included, Sea World Cruises delivers an exceptional value for whale watching in Gold Coast.

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From Surfers Paradise: Gold Coast Half-Day Whale Watching

Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure from the heart of Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast.

The Gold Coast Half-Day Whale Watching tour provides a 2.5-hour excursion to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Departing from Surfers Paradise, you’ll cruise along the beautiful coastline in search of humpback whales as they migrate.

The tour is led by experienced guides who’ll share their knowledge about the whales’ behaviors and the local marine environment. With a 4.7 rating from 256 customers, this popular activity offers a chance to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring sights.

At $50.50 per person, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of your time on the Gold Coast.

Read our full review: From Surfers Paradise: Gold Coast Half-Day Whale Watching Review
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Gold Coast Whale Watching Cruise

The Gold Coast Whale Watching Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.

This 5-star rated tour boasts a 99% recommendation rate from travelers, who rave about the close wildlife encounters, knowledgeable crew, and comfortable boats.

At just $57.24 per person, this tour provides excellent value, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

With a maximum of 47 participants, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience as you depart from the Kokomo Cruises marina.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a unique adventure, this whale watching cruise is a must-do activity during your time on the Gold Coast.

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Gold Coast: Swim With Whales

Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with majestic humpback whales off the Gold Coast.

This 4-hour tour takes you on a boat cruise to observe whales up close and personal. Swim alongside these gentle giants and enjoy 360-degree views in their natural habitat.

With a limited group size of 8 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention from the skilled skipper and crew. Discover the wonders of these magnificent creatures through informative commentary on their behaviors and the local marine environment.

At just $242.26 per person, this adventure is an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of the Gold Coast’s wildlife.

Don’t miss your chance to create lasting memories with these incredible animals.

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Gold Coast: Whale Watching Guided Tour

Witness the majestic humpback whales of the Gold Coast on this 2.5-hour guided whale watching tour.

Depart from Mariners Cove on the luxury 34-meter superyacht, Sun Goddess, and enjoy 360-degree views as you spot these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

The informative crew will provide live commentary, and light morning or afternoon tea is included.

Children under 3 travel free, and an onboard gift shop and additional snacks/drinks are available.

While the tour is subject to weather conditions, with a full refund if seas are rough, previous guests have praised the beautiful yacht and great whale sightings.

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Gold Coast: Whale Watching Tour

Embark on an unforgettable 2.5-hour guided whale watching adventure aboard the luxury 34-meter superyacht, Sun Goddess, departing from Mariners Cove on the Gold Coast.

Witness the majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the coast, with the chance to see them breaching, tail slapping, and socializing.

This highly-rated tour, with a 4.4 rating from 578 reviews, is priced at $159.16 per person.

Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner while taking in the stunning coastal views.

Upgrade to the Platinum Package for a premium experience, including sparkling wine, canapés, and a front-row seat on the bow.

This is a must-do activity for any visitor to the Gold Coast.

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Gold Coast: Whale Watching

Nestled along the picturesque Gold Coast, the whale watching tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe the majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the coastline.

Aboard a small, open-ocean vessel, you’ll embark on a 2.5-hour adventure, with the chance to encounter these magnificent creatures up close. The tour boasts a whale sighting guarantee, as well as informative commentary from experienced crew.

With scenic coastal views and the possibility of spotting other wildlife, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique way to connect with the wonders of the ocean, this Gold Coast whale watching tour isn’t to be missed.

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Spirit of Gold Coast 2.5-Hour Whale Watching Tour

Departing from the Mariners Cove Marina, the Spirit of Gold Coast 2.5-Hour Whale Watching Tour offers a captivating opportunity to observe the majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the picturesque Gold Coast.

Priced from $47.30 per person, this tour runs from June to October and features commentary from a marine biologist.

Aboard a comfortable 24-meter catamaran, you’ll enjoy 360-degree viewing decks for optimal whale watching.

If no whales are sighted, you can try again for free.

With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from over 500 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable staff and the reliable chance of spotting whales.

Read our full review: Spirit of Gold Coast 2.5-Hour Whale Watching Tour Review
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Whale Watching Tour Tweed Heads

Venture out on the Whale Watching Tour Tweed Heads and witness the magnificent humpback whales as they make their annual migration along the scenic Tweed Coast.

This 1-day excursion offers the chance to observe these majestic creatures up close. The tour departs from Tweed Heads and takes you through the pristine waters of the Tweed Coastline, where you’ll have ample opportunity to spot the whales breaching and frolicking.

Priced at $159.16 per person, the tour includes the boat ride, expert commentary, and the unforgettable experience of seeing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Capture the memories with your camera and take home a treasured souvenir from this remarkable whale watching adventure.

Read our full review: Whale Watching Tour Tweed Heads Review
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The Sum Up

The Gold Coast offers a variety of whale watching tours, catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether you want a half-day cruise, a guided tour, or even a chance to swim with the whales, there’s an option that’ll suit your needs. Take in the stunning coastline and spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat – it’s an experience you won’t forget.