Mooloolaba is a fantastic place to explore by water. With its calm waterways, stunning coastal scenery, and abundant wildlife, it offers some of the best boat tours along the Sunshine Coast. Whether you’re after a leisurely seafood lunch, a romantic sunset, or a close encounter with whales, the variety of options here is impressive. We especially enjoyed the Sunshine Coast: Mooloolaba River Sunset Cruise—watching the sky turn fiery orange from the water is unforgettable—and the Whale Watching Cruise, which offers a rare chance to see these gentle giants up close. Plus, with options like the Canal Cruise with Commentary or the Bushtucker Cultural Cruise, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
If you’re wondering how to pick the right tour, consider your interests and time. Want a relaxed lunch with fresh seafood? The Seafood Lunch Cruise fits perfectly. Craving a scenic sunset with live music? The Sunshine Coast Sunset Canal Cruise is ideal. Love wildlife? The Whale Watching Cruise will be your highlight. For a cultural experience, the Bushtucker Cultural Cruise combines natural beauty with native flavors. Below, you’ll find detailed insights into each tour to help you choose the perfect match.
1. Mooloolaba: Seafood Lunch Cruise
At number 1 on our list, the Mooloolaba: Seafood Lunch Cruise is a superb way to combine relaxation and local flavor. For just $43 per person, you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise along Mooloolaba’s river and canals, all while indulging in fresh, local seafood. The tour is highly rated at 4.7/5 from over 425 reviews, many praising the quality of the seafood and the friendly atmosphere. The fully licensed bar makes it easy to sip a drink as you take in the scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of delicious food, beautiful waterways, and entertaining commentary. The boat glides past sparkling water and charming coastal homes, giving a taste of local life. The onboard staff are attentive, and the cruise offers a relaxed setting for families, couples, or groups of friends. It’s a great choice if you want a short, laid-back experience that showcases Mooloolaba’s culinary and natural appeal.
Bottom line: This is an affordable, tasty, and scenic introduction to Mooloolaba’s waterways—perfect for a quick lunch and a relaxing cruise.
2. Sunshine Coast: Mooloolaba River Sunset Cruise
At number 2, the Sunshine Coast: Mooloolaba River Sunset Cruise offers a 1.5-hour journey that captures the coast’s beauty at golden hour. Rated 4.8/5 from 275 reviews, this tour costs just $30 per person, making it a great value. You’ll cruise through the harbor, river, and canals, watching as the sky shifts colors and the coastline reflects the sunset.
What makes this cruise special is the chance to admire the “Millionaires Row” mansions along the river. You can choose to enjoy fresh seafood or a cocktail while the skipper shares stories about the local area. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a popular choice for couples or anyone wanting a romantic or scenic evening. The commentary adds depth to the experience, giving you insights into the area’s development and lifestyle.
This cruise is perfect if you want to see the coast at its most picturesque time of day, with a gentle pace and a friendly crew. With the option of enjoying local cuisine or a drink, it’s a flexible, memorable evening.
Bottom line: Ideal for sunset lovers and those wanting a quiet, scenic cruise with a touch of luxury.
3. Mooloolaba: Canal Cruise with Commentary
Number 3 on our list, the Canal Cruise with Commentary, is a one-hour trip designed to highlight the opulence of Mooloolaba’s waterfront. For $23 per person, this tour offers a fascinating look at the region’s luxurious homes and the history behind them. It also features a stop at the famed Croc One vessel, made famous by Steve Irwin.
What’s unique about this cruise is its mix of luxury sightseeing and historical insights. The live commentary enhances the experience, making it engaging and informative. The boat’s small size allows for a more intimate view of the mansions, many of which are perched along the canals. The guide shares stories about the area’s development, wildlife, and notable local personalities, making it both educational and fun.
This tour suits travelers interested in local history, architecture, or simply wanting a quick, scenic view of Mooloolaba’s rich lifestyle. The affordability and personal touch make it a compelling choice for those short on time but eager for a memorable experience.
Bottom line: A great pick for those curious about local history and luxury homes, offering a concise yet rich tour of Mooloolaba’s waterways.
4. Mooloolaba: Sunshine Coast Sunset Canal Cruise
Number 4, the Sunshine Coast Sunset Canal Cruise, is a 1-hour journey rated 4.8/5 from 85 reviews. At just $23 per person, it offers excellent value for those wanting a peaceful, scenic experience. The tour departs in the late afternoon, giving you the chance to enjoy stunning sunset views while cruising the calm waterways.
What makes this cruise distinctive is the opportunity to drive the boat yourself or sit back and relax with commentary from your skipper. The atmosphere is laid-back, perfect for friends or couples who want to enjoy a drink and the changing sky. Sights include Steve Irwin’s famous vessel, Croc One, adding a touch of local legend to the cruise.
This experience is best suited for people who want a quick, scenic outing with the option to participate actively or unwind. It’s casual, with a focus on enjoying the natural beauty and the company of loved ones.
Bottom line: A relaxing and flexible sunset cruise that combines scenic views with interactive fun.
5. Mooloolaba: Whale Watching Cruise
Number 5, the Whale Watching Cruise, is a three-hour adventure rated 4.4/5 from 109 reviews. Costing $56 per person, this tour offers the chance to see magnificent humpback whales during their migration season, which is a true highlight for nature lovers.
What makes this cruise stand out is the opportunity to witness these massive mammals breaching and tail-slapping, often from multiple angles thanks to the boat’s design. The tour also showcases the stunning Mooloolaba coastline and the abundant marine life, including turtles and eagle rays. The water tends to be clear with minimal swell, making for good viewing and even some diving if you wish.
This tour is ideal for families or wildlife enthusiasts eager to get close to whales in their natural habitat. The trip is longer but well worth it for the chance to experience one of nature’s most impressive migrations.
Bottom line: A must-do for whale enthusiasts, with excellent viewing conditions and opportunities to spot other marine creatures.
6. Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise with Live Music
Rated 4.8/5 from 43 reviews, the Sunset Cruise with Live Music is a two-hour experience costing $56 per person. It combines the beauty of sunset with the ambiance of acoustic tunes, making for a memorable evening. The cruise is aboard a heritage-listed vessel, adding a nostalgic touch.
Guests can enjoy native-botanical cocktails and a gourmet grazing box while listening to live music. The relaxed tone and scenic setting make it perfect for couples, friends, or families looking for a special night out. The cruise passes through Mooloolaba’s waterways, offering views of the sky turning into shades of pink and orange, with the coast in the background.
The added element of live music creates a lively yet chilled atmosphere, making this cruise suitable for those seeking a combination of scenery and entertainment in one package.
Bottom line: An elegant, musical evening cruise ideal for a romantic or celebratory outing.
7. Bushtucker Cultural Cruise
Last on our list, the Bushtucker Cultural Cruise, offers a two-hour, family-friendly experience with a 5/5 rating from 10 reviews. For $65 per person, it stands out because it includes a 5-course native canape menu, combining natural beauty with rich cultural stories.
Led by knowledgeable hosts, the cruise shares local history, Indigenous significance, and native ingredients, offering a taste of authentic Australian flavors. The boat is historic, and the commentary is engaging, making it an educational and memorable activity. The tour also features a variety of drinks, including beers, wines, and spirits, to complement the native cuisine.
This experience suits travelers interested in culture, food, and nature, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s Indigenous heritage alongside scenic waterways.
Bottom line: A culturally rich, family-friendly cruise that offers good food and storytelling, perfect for those wanting more than just scenery.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Mooloolaba
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your interests and trip timing. If you love seafood, the Seafood Lunch Cruise offers a tasty, scenic option. For a romantic evening, the Sunshine Coast Sunset Canal Cruise or the Sunset Cruise with Live Music deliver memorable sunsets and relaxing atmospheres. Nature lovers should not miss the Whale Watching Cruise during migration season for an awe-inspiring encounter with marine life.
Budget also matters: tours range from about $23 to $65, so think about how much you’re willing to spend for extras like food, drinks, or cultural storytelling. For a quick overview, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Choose based on your mood—whether you’re after adventure (whale watching), culture (Bushtucker Cruise), or pure relaxation (sunset cruises). All these options provide excellent ways to experience Mooloolaba’s waterways and coast.
Mooloolaba’s boat tours cater to all tastes, whether it’s a short scenic cruise, a wildlife adventure, or a cultural journey. For a relaxed, scenic experience, the Sunshine Coast Sunset Canal Cruise is hard to beat. For wildlife fans, the Whale Watching Cruise offers unforgettable moments. And for those interested in local flavors and stories, the Bushtucker Cultural Cruise is both educational and delicious.
Booking early, especially in popular seasons, is wise. No matter which experience you choose, exploring Mooloolaba by boat guarantees a memorable part of your trip—so set sail and enjoy!