Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise

Must Do Experiences

• Capture breathtaking photos of humpback whales breaching and tail-slapping from the purpose-built multi-level viewing decks.

• Listen to fascinating live commentary from onboard marine biologists and experts to understand whale behaviour.

• Savour a freshly prepared buffet lunch and morning tea while cruising along the stunning Queensland coastline.

Hidden Gems

• Keep an eye out for the rare albino humpback whale, Migaloo, who occasionally passes through the Queensland migration route.

• Visit the onboard marine research station where scientists collect vital data on whale populations during your cruise.

• Arrive early at Redcliffe Jetty to spot playful bottlenose dolphins and pelicans before the main vessel departs.

What Makes it Special

• A strict whale sighting guarantee ensures you get a free return cruise if no whales are spotted during your trip.

• The eco-friendly vessel is specifically engineered with underwater hydrophones so you can actually listen to the whales communicating.

• All-inclusive dining featuring a hearty buffet lunch and morning tea sets this cruise apart from standard sightseeing tours.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The absolute best time to book is between July and September, which marks the peak of the humpback whale migration season with the highest concentration of marine activity. Morning cruises generally offer calmer sea conditions and softer lighting for photography, while avoiding the harsh midday sun.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a fast shutter speed and burst mode to capture sudden, unpredictable movements like breaching or tail slaps.

• Position yourself on the lower or middle decks for the most stable shots, minimizing camera shake from the vessel's movement.

• Keep a polarizing filter on your lens to cut through the ocean glare and capture the vibrant blues of the Queensland waters.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Australians generally have a relaxed and friendly culture, so casual, comfortable clothing is perfectly acceptable for the cruise, though smart-casual is fine if you prefer. Tipping is not strictly expected in Australia, but it is always appreciated if the crew and marine experts provide an exceptionally memorable and educational experience.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Whale Song Sundays feature special onboard acoustic performances and extended hydrophone listening sessions during the peak migration months.

• The annual Redcliffe Seafair Festival in September coincides with the peak whale season, offering waterfront markets and entertainment near the departure jetty.

• School holiday periods in July and September often include dedicated junior marine biologist programs for kids on select sailings.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always hold onto the handrails when moving between the multiple viewing decks, as the ocean swells can cause sudden vessel movements.

• Stay behind the designated safety barriers and never lean over the edge of the boat when trying to get a closer look at the whales.

• Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding and reapply during the cruise to protect against the strong Australian UV rays reflecting off the water.