Moreton Island: Tangalooma Whale Watching & Dolphin Feeding

Traveling from Brisbane to Moreton Island with a day tour for $151 per person offers a blend of marine wildlife encounters, relaxing beach time, and scenic views. This 1-day experience, operated by Tangalooma Island Resort Day Cruises, promises a guaranteed whale sighting, a hands-on wild dolphin feeding, and plenty of time to unwind at the iconic Tangalooma Resort.

What we love most? First, the comprehensive nature of the trip — it’s not just about the wildlife, but also about enjoying the island’s facilities and scenery. Second, the knowledgeable Eco Rangers who bring the marine life to life with engaging commentary, making the experience both educational and fun.

A potential consideration? The dolphin feeding depends heavily on weather, tides, and dolphin attendance, which might mean shorter interaction time than some expect.

This tour appeals best to travelers who enjoy a mix of wildlife adventures, relaxing beach vibes, and a touch of eco-education — perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see whales and dolphins while soaking in Queensland’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Guaranteed whale sightings on a 3-hour cruise and opportunity to hand-feed wild dolphins.
• Full-Day Access: Use of pools, beaches, restaurants, and bars at Tangalooma Island Resort.
• Expert Guidance: Eco Rangers provide engaging commentary, enriching your understanding of marine animals.
• Flexible Itinerary: Free time to explore the island and enjoy its facilities before and after whale and dolphin activities.
• Value for Money: Combines transport, activities, and access to facilities at a reasonable price.
• Weather Dependency: Dolphin feeding and marine encounters depend on tides and weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Your Day: From Brisbane to Moreton Island

Once you check in at the Brisbane wharf, the staff will inform you of the day’s schedule. The ferry ride itself lasts about 75 minutes, giving you a scenic introduction to the waterways of Queensland. You’ll likely appreciate the complimentary beverage offered during the journey, whether on the way there or back — a nice touch that adds to the relaxing vibe of the trip.

As you arrive on Moreton Island, you’re free to explore. The island is home to stunning beaches, inviting pools, and a variety of restaurants and bars. We loved that you could immediately dive into leisure activities — whether lounging by the pool or strolling along the sands — making it clear that this isn’t just a wildlife tour, but a full-day escape.

Midday: Whale Watching Cruise

At around 12:00 PM, the highlight for many: a 3-hour whale watching cruise on a comfortable catamaran. This isn’t a cramped boat — it’s a smooth, stable vessel that offers fantastic vantage points. The full commentary on whales’ habitats and behaviors enhances the experience, transforming whale sightings from mere spectacle into an educational moment.

The reviews mention “seeing humpback whales several times,” which underscores how reliable the sighting guarantee is. We found that the onboard lunch, a light yet satisfying meal with coffee and refreshments, worked well amidst the excitement.

Afternoon: Exploring the Island & Eco Presentation

After the cruise, you can choose to participate in the “Discover the World of Dolphins” presentation at the Eco Centre. This session, beginning at 3:15 PM, offers insight into dolphin behavior and conservation efforts — an engaging activity that adds depth to your day.

Alternatively, you may prefer to explore the island’s various beaches or wrecks — a favorite for snorkelers. One reviewer highlights the wreck zone as “insane” and highly recommends snorkeling there, making it a great optional activity if you’re into underwater exploration.

Sunset: Dolphin Feeding Adventure

As evening approaches, the dolphin feeding begins at the jetty. Seeing the wild bottlenose dolphins visit the shore and play is a magical moment. The Eco Rangers assist you into shallow water, guiding you through the process of hand-feeding these intelligent creatures.

Reviews note that the dolphin interaction itself is brief — around 30 seconds — but still an unforgettable experience. One reviewer expressed concern about ethics but acknowledged it as a rare chance to get close to wild dolphins.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return to Brisbane

By approximately 7:00 PM (winter) or 7:30 PM (spring/autumn), the tour concludes with a ferry ride back, arriving around 8:15 PM. The day’s schedule is well-paced, balancing activities with leisure time, and allowing for a full day of memorable experiences.

The combination of wildlife, relaxation, and guided education makes this tour stand out. The guaranteed whale sightings ensure that you won’t leave disappointed, while the knowledgeable Eco Rangers turn what might be a simple boat trip into an enlightening journey.

Many travelers rave about the value for money, noting that the inclusion of transport, lunch, access to pools and beaches, and unique wildlife encounters make it a comprehensive package. The scenic ferry ride adds a peaceful start and finish, framing your day in Queensland’s beautiful marine environment.

The price of $151 covers most essentials: ferry transfers, full access to the resort facilities, the whale cruise with lunch, and the dolphin interaction. The tour does not include photos of dolphin feeding or extra snacks, so if those are important, plan on bringing extra.

Tour timing varies with the seasons, with departure from Moreton Island around 7:00 PM in winter and slightly later in other seasons, which aligns well with sunset views and adds a touch of magic to the dolphin feeding.

The activity’s physical demands are moderate — expect some walking and getting into shallow water for dolphin feeding. If you have health concerns or injuries, it’s best to inform staff in advance.

This experience is ideal for anyone eager to see whales in their natural habitat, especially during the migration season. It’s also perfect for nature lovers who enjoy observing wild dolphins and exploring Australian beaches. Families will appreciate the educational aspect, while couples and solo travelers can indulge in the serene beauty of Moreton Island’s landscapes and marine life.

If you’re looking for a balanced day of adventure and relaxation without diving into strenuous activities, this tour offers that in spades. Plus, if you’re interested in learning about marine animals, the Eco Ranger talks are a bonus.

For $151, this tour offers a rich mix of wildlife, scenic views, and relaxation — with a good chance of seeing whales and wild dolphins up close. The full-day access to resort facilities adds value, making it a flexible experience suited for different interests.

While the dolphin feeding is weather-dependent and brief, the overall package delivers a memorable day that balances education, wildlife, and leisure. If you’re someone who appreciates guided insights, beautiful scenery, and authentic marine encounters, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Queensland trip.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want more than just a boat ride — they want a well-rounded day immersed in nature, with plenty of opportunities to relax and learn.

Is the whale sighting guaranteed?
Yes, the tour guarantees whale sightings during the 3-hour cruise, making it a reliable choice for whale lovers.

How long is the ferry ride from Brisbane to Moreton Island?
The ferry takes about 75 minutes each way, offering scenic views and a relaxing start and end to your day.

What facilities are available at Tangalooma Island Resort?
You’ll have access to pools, beaches, cafes, restaurants, and bars, so you can unwind or grab a meal whenever you like.

Can I participate in the dolphin feeding if I’m shy?
While the experience is brief (around 30 seconds), it is available to all participants, but participation depends on dolphin attendance and weather.

What should I wear for the dolphin feeding?
Bring something you don’t mind getting wet — it’s part of the fun and essential for participating safely.

Are there any physical limitations I should consider?
Activities involve some walking and shallow water entry, so inform staff if you have health issues or mobility concerns.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers ferry transfers, access to resort facilities, the whale-watching cruise with lunch, dolphin presentation, and dolphin feeding.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a light lunch, coffee, tea, and refreshments are served on the whale cruise.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup; you need to meet at the designated wharf for departure.

This tour offers a well-rounded adventure for those eager to connect with Queensland’s marine life while enjoying a relaxing day on an island paradise. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking fun, or someone wanting a scenic escape, it’s a worthy addition to your travel plans.