From Brisbane: Moreton Island Full-Day Trip

Planning a day trip from Brisbane to Moreton Island promises adventure, stunning views, and plenty of fun. This full-day tour, operated by Australian Sunset Safaris, offers a mix of guided activities that appeal to outdoor lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those simply looking to escape the city for a while. Whether you’re into snorkeling around shipwrecks, zooming across sand dunes on a toboggan, or exploring the island’s pristine bushland by 4WD, this trip packs a punch.

What I particularly love about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized — from the pick-up to the return. Plus, the variety of activities means you get a real taste of what Moreton Island has to offer, making it a good value for your money. A potential downside? The schedule can feel a little rushed at times, especially if you’re eager to linger longer in water-based activities. Still, for most travelers, this is an excellent way to tick off multiple highlights in just one day.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy guided outdoor adventures, those curious about marine life and shipwrecks, and anyone eager for a quick but comprehensive escape from Brisbane. Keep in mind, it’s ideal for those comfortable with a full schedule and willing to participate in physical activities. It’s not perfect for wheelchair users or very young children, but with the right expectations, it offers a memorable day on one of Queensland’s most inviting islands.

Key Points

• All-in-one adventure: Combines snorkeling, kayaking, sand tobogganing, and 4WD drives.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and friendly, they ensure safety and fun.
• Stunning scenery: Expect pristine beaches, colorful marine life, and vast sand dunes.
• Good value: Multiple activities, transport, and lunch included, with options to cancel or reschedule.
• Time for relaxation: A brief window to breathe and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
• Accessibility note: Not suitable for those with walking disabilities or in wheelchairs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

Starting with the Cruise: A Scenic Journey

Your day begins with a 75-minute cruise across Moreton Bay, providing a chance to see some local wildlife and enjoy fresh air before the land-based activities. The boat is spacious, with outdoor and covered seating, so you can sit back, soak in the views, and get excited for the day ahead. Many reviewers appreciate the smooth ride and the ocean vistas, which set a relaxed tone for the adventure.

Snorkeling at the Tangalooma Shipwrecks

One of the trip’s main highlights is the fully guided snorkeling tour around the Tangalooma Shipwrecks. These wrecks are a colorful underwater playground teeming with fish, turtles, rays, and other marine creatures. Several reviewers have raved about the abundance of fish and the helpful guides who make snorkeling accessible, even for beginners. As one traveler put it, “The snorkelling was our favourite activity — so many colorful fish and a very helpful guide.”

The guides provide all the gear needed—mask, fins, snorkel—and ensure safety while pointing out the diverse marine life. Expect around 45 minutes of underwater exploration, which is ample time to see the wrecks and enjoy the calm, clear waters. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a turtle or stingray gliding past.

Paddling a Transparent Kayak

Next, you’ll hop into transparent kayaks for a guided paddle over the wrecks. This activity offers a completely different perspective—gliding just above the fish and coral, giving you a front-row seat to the underwater scene. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable guides enhance this experience, often catching fish to show the group or sharing stories about the reef. You’ll likely spend about 45 minutes in the water, making it an ideal introduction to kayaking for beginners.

More Great Tours Nearby

Towering Sand Dunes and Tobogganing Fun

After water adventures, it’s time for sand tobogganing—a thrill that’s hard to beat. You’ll ascend the massive dunes on a 4WD vehicle, then slide down at speeds over 40 miles per hour. The guides emphasize safety, and most reviews describe this as a “blast,” with some mentioning it being a bit of a workout climbing the dunes. Be prepared to get a little sandy and perhaps mouthfuls of sand if you’re not careful, but the fun outweighs the minor mess.

Some feedback suggests the sandboarding groups can feel rushed, especially if you really want more runs down the dunes. Still, the exhilaration makes it worth the effort, and the scenery from the top of the dunes offers fantastic photo opportunities.

4WD Beach and Bushland Exploration

Next, your guide takes you on a guided 4WD tour around the island’s desert-like interior and beach. This part of the trip offers insight into the island’s environment, including Gheebulum Coonungai National Park. Expect to see unique bushland and perhaps spot wildlife. This segment provides a break from the more active pursuits and helps you appreciate the island’s vast, untouched landscape.

Lunch and Relaxation

Around midday, you’ll stop for a lunch break on the beach. The meal is generally a build-your-own wrap with a variety of fillings, along with fresh watermelon, cookies, and plenty of water. Several reviewers praise the quality and variety of the food, noting it caters well to different dietary needs. It’s a good moment to chat with fellow travelers, reflect on the morning’s adventures, and soak up the sun.

Optional Extra Activities and Free Time

After lunch, there’s about 30-45 minutes of free time. Some travelers have mentioned that this period could be a bit more flexible to allow for a quick swim or exploration, but most appreciate having a little downtime before heading back to Brisbane.

Return Cruise

The day wraps up with the cruise back across Moreton Bay, giving you one last chance to enjoy the views and perhaps spot more wildlife. The entire trip typically lasts around 10 hours, leaving plenty of room for activities and relaxation.

How the Tour Feels to Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention how well-organized and fun the experience is. Guides like Will, Ryan, Byron, Kyle, and others are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and safety-first attitude. Many mention how they felt supported, especially in water activities — snorkeling and kayaking.

For example, one traveler noted, “The guides tried their best to be engaging and had good energy, great communication leading up to the day.” Another added, “All crew members were very helpful and supportive during each activity.” The guides clearly make a big difference in making this trip feel safe, relaxed, and enjoyable.

The activities are described as well paced, with just enough time for each without feeling rushed. Still, some reviews suggest that a slightly longer water time or more flexibility between activities would elevate the experience even further.

Food and Value

Most travelers agree that the lunch quality is surprisingly good, with build-your-own wraps that satisfy different tastes. The inclusion of snacks and water keeps everyone hydrated and energized, which is especially important on a full-day outdoor trip. Considering the transport, equipment, guides, and multiple activities, many find the overall value to be quite fair.

Challenges and Considerations

While the tour is packed with activities, a few reviews mention the schedule feeling “a little rushed,” particularly in the water-based parts. If you’re someone who loves lingering or exploring at a slower pace, this might be a minor drawback. Also, the activity isn’t suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those in wheelchairs, due to the physical nature and terrain involved.

Price includes ferry and national park fees of AUD 80 per adult (or AUD 60 for children 13 and under), payable in cash at the start. Some reviewers recommend being prepared for this additional expense.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a lively, engaging way to experience Moreton Island’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. You get a good mix of marine adventures, dune thrills, and island scenery, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an active day out, full of variety and fun activities. The emphasis on safety and organization means even those new to water sports or outdoor exploration can enjoy themselves.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, energetic day trip that combines adventure with comfort, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for a schedule that’s full from start to finish, and pack accordingly — sunscreen, swimwear, hats, and cash for park fees.

For anyone eager to see the underwater world, enjoy some sand dune adrenaline, and explore Queensland’s natural beauty in a single day, this trip is a solid choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a 75-minute cruise, guided snorkeling around the Tangalooma Shipwrecks, a guided kayak paddle, sand tobogganing, a 4WD tour of the island, and lunch on the beach.

How long is the total trip?
The entire day usually lasts around 10 hours, from pick-up in Brisbane to return. The schedule is full, with activities carefully timed.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, cash (for park fees), and a reusable water bottle. Luggage or large bags are not allowed.

Are the activities suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide all equipment and instructions. Many reviews highlight how helpful and friendly guides are, making water activities accessible even for novices.

Can I opt for fewer activities or customize my day?
The tour is designed as a full package, but some free time is allowed after lunch. The schedule is somewhat tight, so while you can enjoy some downtime, the main activities are part of the plan.

How much does the national park and ferry fee cost?
$80 AUD per adult and $60 AUD per child 13 years and younger, payable in cash at the start of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the activity is not recommended for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to terrain and activity demands.

What if the weather turns bad?
The trip is planned with weather considerations, but in cases of poor weather, the schedule might be adjusted. Some reviews note that activities can be weather-dependent.

How do I book and what if I need to cancel?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours beforehand. Confirming your departure time is done when you call to confirm your reservation.

In the end, this full-day trip to Moreton Island offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and laid-back fun — perfect for active travelers wanting a taste of Queensland’s incredible natural environment without spending too much time on logistics. Whether you’re snorkeling among colorful fish, sliding down towering dunes, or exploring remote beaches, you’ll come away with stories worth sharing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby