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Join Australia’s highest-award-winning whale-watching operator, Sea World Whale Watch, for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience and witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat!
Departing from the Sea World Cruise Terminal in Main Beach, soak up the iconic views of the Gold Coast as you embark on a whale-watching cruise aboard our luxurious purpose-built vessel, the ‘Spirit of Migaloo II’.
Setting sail up to six times daily from late May until early November, we journey to the famous Humpback Highway, where 40,000 whales pass close to Gold Coast shores on their annual migration from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef.
Observe the breathtaking display of whales launching into the air, slapping their mighty tails on the water, and diving deep into the ocean. During close encounters, gain a unique perspective by watching live underwater footage streamed directly to your mobile device. You may even hear the iconic whale song through our advanced underwater microphones.
Enjoy expert commentary from our knowledgeable crew as you witness these playful and curious gentle giants showcase their acrobatic skills. Look for other fascinating wildlife, including dolphins, turtles, and sea birds.
While you anticipate your cruise , indulge in eating on the waterfront deck cafe, enrich your knowledge with informative exhibits, and visit the gift shop at our stunning terminal.
Sea World Whale Watch are the ultimate experts in Gold Coast Whale Watching, offering a 100% Whale Sighting Guarantee that ensures a free return cruise if no whales are spotted. With this guarantee, you can be confident that you’ll witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Highlights
Gold Coast’s Closest Operator to the Humpback Highway, spend less time in transit and more time with the whales!
Watch our live underwater video feed broadcast direct to your phone
Listen to the whales singing live via the underwater hydrophones
Learn from our experienced captains and marine naturalist guides
Look out for three species of dolphins, sea turtles, sea birds and more
Share in the excitement of an ocean adventure with the whole family
Inclusions
2.5 hour whale watching cruise
100% Whale Sighting Guarantee
Ample deck space and rail side viewing
Guided commentary
Live underwater video stream (coming soon)
Live underwater microphones
Audio-visual presentations
Fully stocked onboard bar
Professional photographer
Free kids ocean activity booklet
Informative exhibits and displays
Waterfront Cafe and Gift Shop
Departure time and location
Tours depart daily from early June to early November
Allow up to 2.5hrs for this experience
Please check in 30 mins before your boarding time
9 AM, 12 PM and 3 PM tours with vessel Spirit of Migaloo II
Additional departure times run at 8 AM, 11 AM and 2 PM with vessel Kaiala
Our departures are subject to seasonal changes and may be adjusted in response to weather conditions to ensure your safety and comfort.
Tours depart from the Sea World Cruises Main Beach Terminal, located in the car park outside of Sea World Theme Park, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach.
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Oh my goodness, what a spectacular day for whale watching. Captain Pedro and the crew on the 10am cruise today did an outstanding job, finding and following the whales. We saw, adult whales, juvenile whales and dolphins. Breaching, slapping and rolls.
Keep up the awesome work team.
Our 3-year-old daughter had so much fun and absolutely loved every minute of it. A huge thank you to Nicole, who went above and beyond to make sure everyone had a great experience. She was so friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared that everyone on board was having the best time.
We couldn’t have asked for a better day and would highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting the Gold Coast!
The staff were excellent - courteous & a very informative commentary during our cruise. And a stunning sunset to end the cruise as we returned to Seaworld. Well done.
The staff were lovely, pointing out other whales ensuring that everyone was able to enjoy it as much as possible.
I would 100% recommend Sea World whale watching to anyone wanting the best whale watching experience on the Gold Coast!
I think it was great that they provided guests with the opportunity to purchase travacalm prior to leaving to try combat the motion sickness and they were empathetic to those who were overcome by it.
We only had one whale for our sighting but they still made it extremely special for us - ensuring the boat was moved to the direction the what was at and always giving us directions on where to look.
We would absolutely recommend and book again.
We had a wheelchair and they were very accommodating. Provided us with window seats and took us to the back of the boat and turned it so we had full view of the whales. They kept checking in and helped us get on and off the boat. Very lovely and helpful.
They spoke about the whales history, life and about ways to contribute and take care of them in the future. It was educational and we had a lovely time.
So many whales were seen. I did the tour on Tuesday 23rd at 9:00am
What an amazing experience!
Captain Uayne and assistant Nicoh were both fantastic throughout the tour. They were professional, friendly, and made everyone feel welcome and safe on board.
Seeing the whales up close was absolutely breathtaking and truly unforgettable. It was such a powerful and emotional experience watching these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. The crew shared interesting information and made sure everyone had a great view.
Thank you to the Sea World team for such a wonderful whale watching tour. Highly recommended to anyone visiting the Gold Coast!
I had an amazing day out on the water today. Our whale watching adventure with Captain Wayne and crew was perfect. The weather couldn't have been more perfect, the ride out into the ocean was perfect, the commentary and information captain Wayne delivered was so informative and interesting. I learnt so much about the humpback 🐋 and to top it of a whale decided to give a spectacular display. It was incredible.
Thank you captain Wayne and crew for a wonderful day.
She is, undoubtedly, a gem within your staff. I want to trust that Nicole in is fairly rewarded for her effort to make your business shine in the midst of any competition!
I didn't like the part before getting aboard when the staff insisted on taking a photo for all guests that they will try to sell you after the trip.
I really enjoyed the cruise (apart from hearing people vomiting around me!). We only saw a few whales but it was still a great morning out. Staff were lovely and very helpful to the unwell.
We were lucky enough to see a baby whale with its mother, truly a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
Highly recommend
A special mention to the photographer, Nicole, who was absolutely amazing! They captured beautiful moments and were so patient and professional, ensuring everyone had a chance to get great photos without feeling rushed.
Thank you to the whole crew for making the experience so memorable. I’ll definitely recommend this cruise to others looking for an exciting and well-organised whale watching adventure!
I also don’t get why a company like SeaWorld that advocates for less waste / sustainability etc would print out everyone’s photos prior to asking people if they’re wanting to buy them.. over half of the people didn’t buy their photos - it’s not like anyone else can buy photos of other people meaning they’d be going straight into the bin
Really enjoyed and was looked after very well and informative running commentary, would recommend everyone trying this, and we will love to come back and do again earlier in the year.
The boat, crew and Captain were great. We did take the option for the Captain’s Lounge Seating which was an extra $30. Not sure if I think thats value but it was very pleasant.
I have been on a few whale watch tours now and one of the best pluses this one has is such easy close access out and in on the boat to view them.
Really enjoyed and was looked after very well and informative running commentary, would recommend everyone trying this, and we will love to come back and do again earlier in the year.
The boat, crew and Captain were great. We did take the option for the Captain’s Lounge Seating which was an extra $30. Not sure if I think thats value but it was very pleasant.
I have been on a few whale watch tours now and one of the best pluses this one has is such easy close access out and in on the boat to view them.
We got up close to a number of humpback whales.
Crew were very knowledgeable and helpful.
Highly recommended!
The captain and crew were excellent on the day- very helpful, polite and professional. It was a longer wait to find the whales- when the whales appeared the captain did his best to follow/find them for the passengers. We didn't really see that many whales. Just as we were due to return to base, a pod was spotted a fair distance from us, but he turned and followed them to allow us a lasting experience - it was magical to see the pod together... Although no breaching ones.
Our cruise was extended due to this manoeuvre which is most appreciated by all on the cruise.
Thank you Captain Wayne and crew!
Definitely would recommend Sea World Whale Watching cruises to family and friends!








































