The Moreton Bay Region offers some of Queensland’s most engaging water-based experiences. Whether you’re after a close-up with whales, exploring coral wrecks, or catching a sunset on the bay, this area’s diverse marine scenery makes for unforgettable boat trips. We particularly love the Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise from Redcliffe or Sunshine Coast, which provides a rare opportunity to see migrating humpback whales in their natural habitat, and the Moreton Island Eco Marine Safari, perfect for marine life lovers wanting to snorkel with turtles and dolphins without breaking the bank. And for a relaxed evening, the Moreton Bay Sunset Cruise offers a cozy, intimate way to enjoy the bay’s beautiful vistas. Each of these tours highlights different aspects of Moreton Bay’s natural beauty, making it easy to find the right fit for your interests.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we’ll cover the best boat tours & cruises in Moreton Bay, including whale watching, island safaris, and sunset sails. Each offers a unique way to experience the region’s stunning marine environment and is rated highly for quality and value. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly adventures, eco-friendly exploration, or a romantic evening cruise, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise from Redcliffe or Sunshine Coast
At number 1 on our list, the Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise stands out for its close encounters with humpback whales during their annual migration from June to November. The tour runs for approximately 5 hours and departs from either Redcliffe or Sunshine Coast, giving you flexibility depending on where you’re staying. What makes this cruise special is the chance to see these gentle giants breaching and swimming beside a luxurious high-speed catamaran. The onboard buffet lunch is particularly well-reviewed—think gourmet picnic-style fare—and the optional upgrades to premium or VIP seating ensure you get the best views possible.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on nearly 1,000 reviews, this tour delivers a reliable, high-quality experience. Many travelers comment on how amazing it is to see whales so close, describing the trip as “worth every dollar.” The crew is praised for their safety and friendliness, making it suitable even for families with young children. If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sighting in a comfortable setting, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: For whale lovers and families, this cruise offers excellent value, memorable sightings, and top-notch service. Book early, as whale season is popular.
2. Moreton Island Eco Marine Safari Cruise and Snorkel
At number 2, the Moreton Island Eco Marine Safari is perfect for anyone wanting an active day on the water combined with educational insights. Departing from Newport Marina, this 8-hour adventure includes snorkeling at the famous Tangalooma Wrecks, where vibrant fish and marine life are just a snorkel away. The tour’s highlight is the guided snorkel through wreck sites teeming with marine creatures like turtles, dugongs, and stingrays—an experience made better by the fact that the crew shares in-depth knowledge about the region’s natural history.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on eco-friendly exploration and the variety of activities included. After snorkeling, you’ll relax on pristine beaches, climb sand dunes, and enjoy a buffet lunch with fresh bread rolls, salad, and roast chicken. The reviews reflect how well-organized and friendly the family-run operation is, with many calling it their “best trip ever.” While the snorkeling activity requires swimming ability, the overall value for a full day of marine encounters is excellent.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers and families who want to see a wide range of marine life while enjoying the natural beauty of Moreton Island. Book early for popular summer dates.
3. Moreton Bay Sunset Cruise
Finally, the Moreton Bay Sunset Cruise offers a more relaxed, intimate way to experience the bay. This 2-hour cruise is perfect for couples or anyone wanting a peaceful evening on the water. With a maximum number of passengers, the small-group setting avoids the crowds, and the onboard grazing platters and a complimentary glass of bubbles make the outing feel special. As the sun dips behind the Glass House Mountains, a local musician provides gentle acoustic music, creating a laid-back atmosphere.
This cruise is praised for its stunning evening views and friendly service. It’s a great choice if you prefer a shorter experience that still captures the beauty of Moreton Bay, especially during sunset when the scenery is at its most spectacular. Since drinks are available for purchase on the licensed bar, it’s suitable for casual celebration or a quiet, romantic escape.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a romantic or peaceful evening, but keep in mind the shorter duration and smaller group size mean fewer wildlife sightings compared to longer tours.
How to Choose
Choosing between these options depends largely on your interests, time, and budget. If whale watching is your priority, the Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise is hard to beat for its close encounters and family-friendly vibe. For those who love snorkeling and marine life, the Moreton Island Eco Marine Safari provides a full day of active exploration with great value. If you’re after a romantic sunset or just want to unwind, the Moreton Bay Sunset Cruise offers a peaceful escape with beautiful views.
Consider your budget—the whale watching tour is around $108, while the island safari is slightly more at $128 for a full day, and the sunset cruise is more affordable at about $54. Also, think about your interests: wildlife sightings, snorkeling, or relaxing with a drink in hand. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak whale migration months or summer seasons when tours fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Moreton Bay Region has a range of boat tours that suit different tastes and schedules. For a family-friendly wildlife adventure, the whale watching cruise offers spectacular marine mammals in their natural environment. If you prefer a full day of eco-exploration, the island safari provides snorkeling and beach relaxation. And for those seeking a quiet, scenic evening, the sunset cruise delivers a memorable, intimate experience.
No matter which tour you choose, you’ll be enjoying Queensland’s stunning marine scenery. Just remember to book early—these tours are popular and fill quickly. Pack your camera, wear sun protection, and prepare for some truly breathtaking ocean views.