Duration:
3h
Embark on an unforgettable journey along the ‘Humpback Highway’ and witness the magnificent humpback whales in their natural habitat with Sea World Whale Watch.
Operated By:
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.
Share:
We had an incredible time! The crew was fantastic-so friendly, fun, and super helpful.
Their enthusiasm made all the difference! This cruise was truly unforgettable! Already planning our return!
Their enthusiasm made all the difference! This cruise was truly unforgettable! Already planning our return!
read moreread less
OodlesRus
06 Jul 2025
We went on the whale watching cruise with Sea World today and had such a great time! We got to see both whales and dolphins — absolutely incredible.
What really made the experience even better was how caring the crew was. My wife got seasick during the cruise, and the staff were super kind and attentive. They really looked after her, and we’re so grateful for that.
Amazing cruise, awesome wildlife, and a fantastic team — highly recommend!
What really made the experience even better was how caring the crew was. My wife got seasick during the cruise, and the staff were super kind and attentive. They really looked after her, and we’re so grateful for that.
Amazing cruise, awesome wildlife, and a fantastic team — highly recommend!
read moreread less
Esmond
06 Jul 2025
We are absolutely buzzing after spending 2 hours cruising with Capt Wayne and the wonderful crew. Calm seas and a cloudless sky absolutely accentuated the incredible whale encounters -along the way. The highlight was following a mum and a newborn baby for about 30 minutes. Capt Wayne’s excitement of spotting the baby was delightful. The A-team crew even made all passengers sing happy birthday for our friend. Also very handicapped accessible. Highly recommend
read moreread less
Nirala
04 Jul 2025
Amazing tour, we saw lots of whales at five breaches. Lots of spots to view over the side so you can get great views and pictures. Captain Wayne was hilarious with his jokes and very knowledgeable about the whales. We even spotted a dolphin which came right up to the boat.
read moreread less
Brooke
25 Jun 2025
Thank you.
The complete process, from booking to disembarking the boat was pleasant, informative, comfortable, exciting, thrilling and highly memorable. So good, went back the next day, even better. The whale sightings, awesome, complimented by the very knowledgeable and extremely friendly staff. Way too many businesses today talk about service these days, far too few are capable of delivering it. 5 Stars to this organization, they really deliver.
The complete process, from booking to disembarking the boat was pleasant, informative, comfortable, exciting, thrilling and highly memorable. So good, went back the next day, even better. The whale sightings, awesome, complimented by the very knowledgeable and extremely friendly staff. Way too many businesses today talk about service these days, far too few are capable of delivering it. 5 Stars to this organization, they really deliver.
read moreread less
Bob
12 Jun 2025
It was the most amazing day. From when we left The Spit to the open water we saw whales. Mothers and calves and escorts at times too. There was breaching, so much fin flapping it looked like the whales were dancing. We went to three different spots to get to where they were. Captain Kim was fantastic sharing information. Even one time when the whales breached he was so amazed he lost track. The captain has access to professional equipment that helps them find where the whales are. The information provided is amazing and 99% of time there are marine biologists onboard. These are my friend’s photos but don’t feel like you need to bother as it’s hard getting a great photo as there is also a professional photographer on board who takes photos which you can purchase. We were in the Captain’s Room which is an extra cost but there are snacks and drinks include and you get to sit in with the Captain and have 280degree views. Perfect for a special occasion. What I also liked was safety was taken seriously with safety briefings before departure, life jackets for all and staff who are amazing and properly trained. To top it off we had a bottle of bubbles on the gorgeous deck at the dock to watch the beautiful sunset. Oh my what a perfect afternoon. Do not miss!
read moreread less
Summer
22 Sep 2024
Excellent whale watching. Beautiful day out. Comfortable seating. Great commentary and knowledge shared. Wonderful, friendly service - especially from crew member Maya who regularly checked in with us (as we have an infant) and kindly offered to take a family photo for us. Highly recommend. Thank you Sea World Cruises for a great Father's Day.
read moreread less
Larissa
01 Sep 2024
Amazing!! We had such a fantastic time on our Seaworld Whale Watch tour. Mei at the sales desk was wonderful and so friendly, she even remembered our names when we arrived for the tour two days later. We saw multiple whales on the tour and it was an incredible experience seeing them breach and splash their tails close to the boat. Wow! Kayla and Nicole were brilliant on the boat and were so welcoming. Thank you to everyone. Highly recommend.
read moreread less
Robert
21 Aug 2024
What a wonderful whale watching cruise. The staff were very attentive to everyone. The safety of guests was very important to them, always making sure that we were holding on, helping older guests move around and making sure small children could see. I was surprised at how many whales we actually saw. Far more than I expected. We saw them as soo. As we hit the open water. A wonderful cruise for anyone wanting to see whales. Thank you so much for a great morning..
read moreread less
David
18 Aug 2024
Sea World Whale Watching is an exceptional experience! The captain skillfully guided us to spot the whales, giving us plenty of time to enjoy and take photos. They also provided fascinating insights into the whales' behavior and characteristics throughout the journey. The crew were incredibly friendly, I had the pleasure of meeting Kayla and Nicole, who took some amazing photos, and we had a wonderful conversation. I took the 3 PM tour and was lucky enough to catch a beautiful sunset. This trip was absolutely worth it!
read moreread less
Hanrong
14 Aug 2024
Guarantee = a promise that something will be done or will happen The 100% Whale Sighting Guarantee... do not doubt it!
It took around some 30mins to get where the sightings usually are, but once there, you get to see... one of the greatest views of Gold Coast! Not joking.
Then after some more minutes, the whales just came out, two or three of them, on either sides, the rear and on the front of the boat. Even if it was still early in the season, as the captain said, they put on a show.
There were dolphins too, though they were a bit spotlight huggers, hahaha.
The whales surfaced every 5-8mins and there were a few times we saw real Whale Tails (I knew what you were thinking...) and it looked gracious how they do the dive and not make any splashes. Always intrigued about the mark they leave on the water, as it does not get disturbed by the waves outright. Upon heading back, I think the whales knew it and gave us a spectacular send-off, those jump-ups and dives you see in videos, very cool. This was one of those experiences you can't just pass up.
As mentioned, they appear wherever, so no seat in the boat is a bad seat, you just try to pick where you'd sit during the journey and take it form there
On the dock, there are facilities to cater persons with mobility issues, but upon boarding the boat, persons on wheelchairs will need assistance. (it is a bit of a steep and narrow push on the boarding plank)
During the journey, if you are sea sick, inform the crew and they will gladly make the trip more comfortable for you.
2nd part was the Gift Shop, it had light snacks and some souvenirs. Though are eyes caught one souvenir item that almost all of the staff did not know it was for sale and they were surprised it had a price tag. They kind of assumed that it was just there hanging on the door of the employee's only room as decoration. If you guys miss it, I've shared a photo of the item here with my review.
The message of the souvenir really fits the experience of the Whale Watching Trip.
It took around some 30mins to get where the sightings usually are, but once there, you get to see... one of the greatest views of Gold Coast! Not joking.
Then after some more minutes, the whales just came out, two or three of them, on either sides, the rear and on the front of the boat. Even if it was still early in the season, as the captain said, they put on a show.
There were dolphins too, though they were a bit spotlight huggers, hahaha.
The whales surfaced every 5-8mins and there were a few times we saw real Whale Tails (I knew what you were thinking...) and it looked gracious how they do the dive and not make any splashes. Always intrigued about the mark they leave on the water, as it does not get disturbed by the waves outright. Upon heading back, I think the whales knew it and gave us a spectacular send-off, those jump-ups and dives you see in videos, very cool. This was one of those experiences you can't just pass up.
As mentioned, they appear wherever, so no seat in the boat is a bad seat, you just try to pick where you'd sit during the journey and take it form there
On the dock, there are facilities to cater persons with mobility issues, but upon boarding the boat, persons on wheelchairs will need assistance. (it is a bit of a steep and narrow push on the boarding plank)
During the journey, if you are sea sick, inform the crew and they will gladly make the trip more comfortable for you.
2nd part was the Gift Shop, it had light snacks and some souvenirs. Though are eyes caught one souvenir item that almost all of the staff did not know it was for sale and they were surprised it had a price tag. They kind of assumed that it was just there hanging on the door of the employee's only room as decoration. If you guys miss it, I've shared a photo of the item here with my review.
The message of the souvenir really fits the experience of the Whale Watching Trip.
read moreread less
Tracy B -
Thank you so much for your review! We look forward to welcoming you back on board soon.
Rey4761
22 Jun 2024
Bucket List - ✔️ Definitely recommend doing, to see whales 🐋 up close was an experience also seeing a week old baby made it more special.
To hear the whales breathe through their air hole it was so strong.
Loved every minute of the tour
Thank you 😊
To hear the whales breathe through their air hole it was so strong.
Loved every minute of the tour
Thank you 😊
read moreread less
Tracy B -
Thank you so much for your review! We look forward to welcoming you back on board soon.
Lisa
19 Jun 2024
whale watching we had a super great time watching the whales and dolphins, definitely one off the bucket list and highly recommended!!
read moreread less
Sandeep
17 Jun 2024
Spectacular. Would highly recommend. Absolutely amazing. Would highly recommend. Didn’t expect to see so many whales or so close. They swam beside and under the boat.
read moreread less
Reservations -
Hi there, thank you for taking the time to leave a glowing review and recommendation of your experience on the Humpback Highway with Sea World Cruises. That is amazing that the whales came so close to the boat!
Trish
16 Jun 2024
Great experience Great trip, crew where excellent & very knowledgeable about the whales. They made sure everyone had the opportunity to take photos.
read moreread less
Reservations -
Hi Daza, Thank you for leaving a wonderful review of your Whale Watching tour. We hope you got lots of wonderful photos of the magnificent humpback whales.
Daz
14 Jun 2024
Whale watching It was a good experience. The crew was experienced, knowledgeable and helpful. They helped us find the whales. Our family had a great time.
read moreread less
manishsirnani
10 Jun 2024
Wonderful experience!! I had my parents in from the United States and this was their first time whale watching ????. The caption Mick knew where we could find a whale and within 15 minutes we saw our first one. We spent a good half hour watching that whale then proceeded to go out further and found a pod of 4 sub adults. The weather and trip were perfect.
Kaylee our marine biologist was very informative and answered our questions without hesitation.
We would highly recommend anyone to sail with the Sea World Whale watching tour.
Awesome job crew.????????????
Kaylee our marine biologist was very informative and answered our questions without hesitation.
We would highly recommend anyone to sail with the Sea World Whale watching tour.
Awesome job crew.????????????
read moreread less
Jerra
28 May 2024
A group of four of us went on a lunch buffet cruise, and it was an absolutely amazing experience. The cruise lasted nearly two delightful hours, and the lunch spread was both delicious and diverse, featuring seafood delicacies, fresh salads, bread, ham, a variety of cut fruits, and a dessert to top it off. While the price covers the delectable food, beverages are available for separate purchase.
The service aboard the cruise was impeccable and exceptionally well-organized. The staff went above and beyond in explaining the scenic route and providing insights about the places we passed by. All in all, it was a memorable and truly enjoyable experience.
The service aboard the cruise was impeccable and exceptionally well-organized. The staff went above and beyond in explaining the scenic route and providing insights about the places we passed by. All in all, it was a memorable and truly enjoyable experience.
read moreread less
Kinkini
27 Oct 2023
Great experience I go whale watching every year & this was my 3rd with Seaworld. I will continue to book with Seaworld they do it well & very informative.
read moreread less
Reservations -
Thank you for sharing your review of Sea World Whale Watch! It's fantastic to hear that you've made it a tradition to go whale watching with them every year and that this was your third visit. We look forward to seeing you next season!
Cherie
03 Oct 2023
Outstanding Experience I've been whale watching in many places around the World. Today's experience, added by many pods of whales, with babies, just males, and a solo tail slapper, was up there with the best of the best. Congratulations to Captain, crew, staff for an outstanding experience.
read moreread less
Reservations -
Hi there, thank you for sharing your exceptional experience of our Whale Watching Cruise with us! It's truly heartwarming to hear about the diverse pods of whales you encountered, including bubs and playful whales. We're thrilled that our Captain, crew, and staff could contribute to making this trip one of your best ever. We hope to see you again next season.
Gordon
18 Sep 2023
Surreal experience One of the best experiences!! Seen a mum and baby calf, there was humpback whales breaching out the water and putting on a show for everyone. Surreal! The crew were all lovely too
read moreread less
Reservations -
Hi Rochelle, Thank you so much for sharing your exhilarating experience with us! It sounds like you had a truly remarkable time witnessing the beauty of nature during your whale watching adventure. Seeing a mother and her calf, along with humpback whales breaching and putting on a show, must have been absolutely breathtaking and surreal. These moments create lasting memories that stay with you for a lifetime. We hope to see you again in the future.
Rochelle
16 Sep 2023
One of the best experiences we had in Gold Coast. All the staffs were very helpful and amazing. Unfortunately we weren’t luck enough to encounter whale around still we had some glimpses. And we did encounter lots of dolphins. Overall the experience was very fun I totally loved and enjoyed it.
read moreread less
Reeya
10 Sep 2023
Unbelievable whale watching experience Absolutely sensational! We were so lucky to get a friendly bunch of whales swimming around and under the boat. Even got several breaches… staff and crew were brilliant,
read moreread less
Reservations -
Hi there, what a sensational Whale Watching experience! The unexpected visit from friendly whales, including breathtaking breaches, added to the magic of your trip. Our brilliant staff and crew are dedicated to making your adventure unforgettable. Thank you for choosing us!
Colin
03 Sep 2023
A beautiful day to be alive A lot of tail slapping and quite a few whales. Though none were interested in hanging around, they all had somewhere to be. But still great to see such huge animals in the wild. One has to remember they maybe big and fast, but the ocean in big and deep. So we were lucky to see any.
read moreread less
Reservations -
Hi Sherry, It's incredible to witness those majestic whales in their natural element, even if they were on the move. The vastness of the ocean and their busy lives remind us of the wonders of the wild. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
sherry
29 Aug 2023
A Whale Watching cruise you must do. Sea World Cruises' whale-watching tour is an enthralling escapade into the magnificent world of marine mammals. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from this spectacular tour:
Vessel and Amenities: Sea World Cruises operates state-of-the-art vessels equipped with multiple viewing platforms, ensuring that everyone gets a front-row seat to the action. Comfortable seating and indoor cabins guarantee that you can experience nature's grandeur without compromising on comfort. The on-board café offering light snacks and refreshments is a pleasant touch.
Educative Experience: Not just a visual feast, the tour is an educational journey too. The crew, some of whom are marine biologists, are eager to share their knowledge about these magnificent creatures. Their insightful commentary adds layers of understanding to what you’re witnessing, transforming the excursion into a rich learning experience.
The Whales: Of course, the stars of the show are the whales themselves. From playful humpbacks performing their acrobatic breaches to the serene sight of a mother and her calf gliding side by side, the experience is simply awe-inspiring. The best part? Sea World Cruises has an impressive sighting record, ensuring that your chances of spotting these gentle giants are high.
Responsible Tourism: The crew's dedication to marine conservation is evident throughout the tour. The vessel maintains a respectful distance from the animals, ensuring their natural behaviors aren’t disturbed. It's clear that Sea World Cruises values and prioritizes the well-being of the marine ecosystem.
Duration and Cost: The tour lasts around 2.5, striking the right balance between offering a fulfilling experience and ensuring guests aren’t fatigued. The pricing is competitive, especially considering the top-notch amenities and the expert crew.
Extras: The cruise company often captures the day's highlights on camera, offering guests the opportunity to take home a tangible memory of their experience.
Room for Improvement: As with any experience, there's always room for betterment. Some might find the vessel's engine a tad noisy. While this is somewhat unavoidable, perhaps future renovations could look into noise-reducing measures. Additionally, while the provided refreshments are tasty, a few more diverse dietary options would be appreciated.
Conclusion: The Sea World Cruises Whale Watching Tour is a mesmerizing journey into the world of whales. From the comfort of the vessel to the expertise of the crew, it’s evident that every detail has been meticulously planned to ensure a magical experience for visitors. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable outing, this tour is not to be missed.
Vessel and Amenities: Sea World Cruises operates state-of-the-art vessels equipped with multiple viewing platforms, ensuring that everyone gets a front-row seat to the action. Comfortable seating and indoor cabins guarantee that you can experience nature's grandeur without compromising on comfort. The on-board café offering light snacks and refreshments is a pleasant touch.
Educative Experience: Not just a visual feast, the tour is an educational journey too. The crew, some of whom are marine biologists, are eager to share their knowledge about these magnificent creatures. Their insightful commentary adds layers of understanding to what you’re witnessing, transforming the excursion into a rich learning experience.
The Whales: Of course, the stars of the show are the whales themselves. From playful humpbacks performing their acrobatic breaches to the serene sight of a mother and her calf gliding side by side, the experience is simply awe-inspiring. The best part? Sea World Cruises has an impressive sighting record, ensuring that your chances of spotting these gentle giants are high.
Responsible Tourism: The crew's dedication to marine conservation is evident throughout the tour. The vessel maintains a respectful distance from the animals, ensuring their natural behaviors aren’t disturbed. It's clear that Sea World Cruises values and prioritizes the well-being of the marine ecosystem.
Duration and Cost: The tour lasts around 2.5, striking the right balance between offering a fulfilling experience and ensuring guests aren’t fatigued. The pricing is competitive, especially considering the top-notch amenities and the expert crew.
Extras: The cruise company often captures the day's highlights on camera, offering guests the opportunity to take home a tangible memory of their experience.
Room for Improvement: As with any experience, there's always room for betterment. Some might find the vessel's engine a tad noisy. While this is somewhat unavoidable, perhaps future renovations could look into noise-reducing measures. Additionally, while the provided refreshments are tasty, a few more diverse dietary options would be appreciated.
Conclusion: The Sea World Cruises Whale Watching Tour is a mesmerizing journey into the world of whales. From the comfort of the vessel to the expertise of the crew, it’s evident that every detail has been meticulously planned to ensure a magical experience for visitors. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable outing, this tour is not to be missed.
read moreread less
Reservations -
Thank you for your detailed and insightful review of Sea World Whale Watch's whale-watching tour! We're delighted that you had such a positive experience and appreciate your thorough feedback. Our commitment to providing an educational and responsible whale-watching adventure is unwavering. Your suggestions regarding noise reduction and dietary options are duly noted as we continually strive to enhance the guest experience. We look forward to welcoming you back for more magical moments with these magnificent creatures.
Khynan
29 Aug 2023
Whales were amazing. Tour needs updating It is a comfortable your to see the whales. I've been on many and run these kind of tours around the world and to be honest the extra fees charged for photos and food should all be included.
When people go on these kinds of tours what I've found and experienced is EVERYTHING should be included in the ticket price. Otherwise you feel like there's something being missed out on.
Up your prices a bit and include free brekky or morning tea and have photos as complimentary.
Then again what do I know
When people go on these kinds of tours what I've found and experienced is EVERYTHING should be included in the ticket price. Otherwise you feel like there's something being missed out on.
Up your prices a bit and include free brekky or morning tea and have photos as complimentary.
Then again what do I know
read moreread less
Reservations -
Good afternoon Kelly, thank you for sharing your valuable insights and experiences with us. We appreciate your feedback and understand your perspective. We'll certainly take your suggestions into consideration as we strive to enhance our guests' overall experience. Your input helps us continually improve our offerings. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back in the future.
kelly
28 Aug 2023
My partner and I attended the 8am whale watching cruise this morning and we were absolutely blown away! The staff were so friendly, accomodating and made sure to give us all types of amazing facts about ocean life, whales, climate change and everything in between.
The ship was so comfortable and roomy and it was nothing short of such a great experience.
We’re locals, but will definitely be back again soon.
Thanks so much to the whale watching team for providing such a memorable time. ????????
The ship was so comfortable and roomy and it was nothing short of such a great experience.
We’re locals, but will definitely be back again soon.
Thanks so much to the whale watching team for providing such a memorable time. ????????
read moreread less
Shae
26 Aug 2023
Whales Great trip, super fun, kids loved it. Saw some whales and it was a relaxing day out. 2.5hrs was enough
read moreread less
Reservations -
Hi there, we're delighted to hear that you had a great and super fun trip with us! It's fantastic that the kids enjoyed it, and you got to witness some whales while having a relaxing day out. We hope to see you again soon.
Nicky
26 Aug 2023
What an amazing trip. We spent an hour with 2 young whales going around and under the boat. Got a fantastic breach and so many photos. Our enthusiasm matched by the crew who were loving it too.
read moreread less
Denise
23 Aug 2023
The Sea World Whale Watching Afternoon Cruise exceeded our expectations in every way! The Captain's Lounge was a real treat for my family, providing a spacious and luxurious environment to enjoy the journey. The friendly crew members made us feel welcome and attended to our every need. We were thrilled to spot numerous whales and dolphins, witnessing their majestic presence up close. The icing on the cake was the breathtaking sunset over the Gold Coast, creating a truly magical atmosphere. If you're seeking an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature's beauty, this cruise is a must.
read moreread less
Murray
25 Jun 2023
This is the worst experience we have, they ask the passengers to arrive 20 mins before the departure time, and here we are still waiting at the deck at 12.30pm, without any announcement on when the boat is departing.
Updates
The boat finally departed at around 12.45pm after all passengers embarked. The cruise lasted for about 2.5 hours and the captain was kind to bring us to see pods of whales at various points in the ocean, almost reaching NZ. It was an amazing experience!
We would have given a 5-star rating, had the queue was better managed. At the check-in counter where we collected our boarding pass, we had informed the crew that we did not mind the smaller boat. However, while in the queue, passengers were just getting impatient, and there were queue hoppers.
Nonetheless, we enjoyed the whale watching experience. If you have not seen it before, come during June to October, especially in August, when the calves are born.
Updates
The boat finally departed at around 12.45pm after all passengers embarked. The cruise lasted for about 2.5 hours and the captain was kind to bring us to see pods of whales at various points in the ocean, almost reaching NZ. It was an amazing experience!
We would have given a 5-star rating, had the queue was better managed. At the check-in counter where we collected our boarding pass, we had informed the crew that we did not mind the smaller boat. However, while in the queue, passengers were just getting impatient, and there were queue hoppers.
Nonetheless, we enjoyed the whale watching experience. If you have not seen it before, come during June to October, especially in August, when the calves are born.
read moreread less
SY
23 Jun 2023
My friend Bernadette and I went to this lunch buffet cruise in late April. It was absolutely a wonderful trip we ever had on cruise trip. Food are amazing, fresh prawns and they are big and sweet, other food are so tasty and you can always go for a second round. Fresh fruits and desert are also on the buffet table for everyone to enjoy. The route is amazing, all the Gold Coast metro view you can go through all the way to sea. We were lucky as the weather is sunny and we took a lots of nice photos that we enjoyed so much. Staff are also nice and professional, they prepared coffee and tea straight after lunch which made us very accommodated. This is beautiful trip that I would love to tell and share to all the people I know.
read moreread less
Richie
15 Jun 2023
Going on a rainy day but got lucky when we saw 2 whales after 30’ searching. The captain was good at predicting where the whales will come and we always have not-too-far view. Wonderful experience. Remember to bring your warm clothes as it can be pretty cold out there.
read moreread less
khanh
13 Jun 2023
An excellent ride and highly recommended for anyone who likes to look for whales.
The ride lasts for about 2 hours and some parts of it are a little turbulent at sea. However the people on the boat are very helpful and they have seasickness pills as well.
We got to see a few whales and the experience was wonderful.
Definitely take sunglasses and a jacket along as it gets very sunny and windy.
The ride lasts for about 2 hours and some parts of it are a little turbulent at sea. However the people on the boat are very helpful and they have seasickness pills as well.
We got to see a few whales and the experience was wonderful.
Definitely take sunglasses and a jacket along as it gets very sunny and windy.
read moreread less
Sidhesh
08 Jun 2023
Make sure you add it to your itinerary when you're here. The crew is super knowledgeable, courteous and helpful. It's good value for money since they ensure that they spend sufficient time out there in the ocean to spot and chase the whales so that you can have a close look at them. We were lucky to be out on a sunny day hence advisable to wear sunscreen but still carry some warm clothes since it can get nippy when in the ocean.
read moreread less
Sudipto
29 Nov 2022
Whale watching We had a great experience whale watching with Sea World Cruises. Got to see humpback whales in their natural habitat and have some fantastic photos and memories. The boat was very comfortable and the crew were fantastic. Highly recommended!read moreread less
Nikki P -
Hi Paul, It sounds like you had a fantastic time out on the Humpback Highway and were able to bring home some wonderful memories. Thank you for taking the time to leave such great feedback.
PaulHandLisaE
24 Oct 2022
Spectacular Whale Watching Best whale watching experience. We were also lucky able to see baby whale and mother whale doing flip. Worth the value as the kids enjoy not only the boat ride but also watching whale.read moreread less
Nikki P -
Hi, wow, what a fantastic review! It sounds like you had an incredible time aboard our Whale Watching Cruise. It is great to hear that your kids enjoyed both the boat ride and seeing the amazing humpback whales.
Aquarious79
02 Oct 2022
A must do experience Excellent trip saw many whales and young ones The experience was enhanced by a wonderful in depth knowledge of the commentary by the crew
A great family owned business
Thanks again. see you next time
A must do
read moreread less
Nikki P -
Thank you for leaving such a great review of your experience with Sea World Cruises Whale Watching. We are happy to hear you were able to see plenty of whales and even babies!
818AndrewS818
12 Sep 2022
We had a beautiful day whale watching with Sea World Cruises! The crew are super friendly and knowledgable, the boat is comfortable with lots of great spots to see the whales from. And there are drinks at the bar! We saw lots of whales, two of them came up right to the boat to check us out, it's amazing witnessing their migration along the coast. Just the perfect little adventure!
read moreread less
Kasia
30 Aug 2022
Up close whale encounter There were numerous small pods of whales off in the distance and then we found a Couple of pods that were very interested in the boat and surrounded up flipping their tails, swimming along side and one breaching.read moreread less
Nikki P -
Hi there, thank you for taking the time to leave a wonderful review. That is amazing to hear that you got mugged by some very curious humpback whales! We look forward to seeing you again next season.
Vorgomona
21 Aug 2022
Must do ! This is a must do if you are on the Gold Coast. Captain Kim and the staff were amazing ! The staff were so knowledgeable. We saw a lot of whales. The were breaching flapping and putting their face out of the water. The boat was gorgeous. Would definitely this again in a flash !read moreread less
Nikki P -
Hi Angela, Thank you for this wonderful review of your Whale Watching Cruise. We are happy to hear that you had some epic whale encounters! Spyhopping is my personal favourite behaviour, and glad that they showed off to you! Looking forward to seeing you again,
Angela
20 Aug 2022
First experience whale watching totally worth it!! I went to do whale watching with SeaWorld cruises at the Gold Coast In June 2022 with my family and it was totally worth it as the staff were very friendly and helpful plus the captain was a very smooth driver and he went to a very good spot so that we were able to see the whales in a very clear view in different areas and the research team was very good at giving interesting facts and we were able to see plenty of whales while moving to different seating areas plus the photographers took very good photos. I loved my experience with SeaWorld cruises on the migaloo boat so do my family and we will be coming back in 2023!!read moreread less
Nikki P -
Hi Kasey, wow what a fantastic review! We are so happy that your first-time whale watching was one that you will never forget. Our Skippers have years of experience and know how to find the best spot to see these majestic creatures. We look forward to having your family return next season.
Kasey
17 Aug 2022
Awesome whale watching ???????????????? Awesome day out on the water. The the whales were right next to our boat waving at us and making all sorts of noises it was awesome best day ever.read moreread less
Nikki P -
Wow, that sounds like an incredible day out on the water! Thank you for taking the time to leave a review of your amazing experience with Sea World Cruises.
Maria
16 Aug 2022
Lovely trip out, staff were professional yet so friendly and welcoming, they have sea sick tablets available if you need them, the whales were playful and such beautiful gentle giants - plenty of room to move and no issue’s answering questions for guests. Would have loved to see more of the whales as they did not really come up too much from the water but hey, they obviously did not feel up to it that day, bless nature ???? was a beautiful day in the water and the ocean was perfect
read moreread less
Amanda
12 Aug 2022
Magical! Always a wonderful experience on Seaworld Whale watching cruises. We were seeing whales within 10 mins of the seaway. Crew are always fabulous, beautiful vessel, a day spent with the whales is a day spent well!!read moreread less
Nikki P -
Hi, thank you for this magical review. We agree a day spent with the whales is a day spent well. We are happy to know that you had a great day out.
Kelly
08 Aug 2022
Whale watching - an experience to remember! Really nice and clean cruise with multiple viewing platform and sitting area.Staff were helpful and providing live commentary about the whales, their location and their behaviour.
The only con point to mention is that there were no complimentary biscuits or coffee as mentioned in their ad.
read moreread less
Nikki P -
Hi, thank you for taking the time to leave a review of your Whale Watching Cruise. We are happy to hear you had a great experience with us. The complimentary light refreshments are with the Captain's Lounge, with coffee able to be picked up at the Cafe Terminal. Thank you again for traveling with us.
thefastfurious
14 Jul 2022
Although the day we booked (in advance) turned out cold and with patchy showers of rain, we were committed to seeing the tour through and we were not disappointed one bit. The crew are all friendly, enthusiastic and very knowledgeable. We saw an amazing number of groups of whales. Definitely recommend this tour. Great photos taken by crew.
read moreread less
Roderick
09 Jul 2022
It was a great experience and a great family outing. We started the trip with sunny weather but it then started raining when we were chasing the whales and thankfully we weren’t staying at the rainy spot for long while we move along where the whales were heading. Pack some warm clothes or a raincoat in case the weather wasn't too great and don't forget the sunnies and sunscreens. We all had an enjoyable day. Thanks to the wonderful crews for always ensuring everyone is ok and having a fabulous time.
read moreread less
Miyone
08 Jul 2022
Highly Recommend If I could give 6 stars I would. OMG what an amazing experience we had so many Whales that we saw. It was the best b’day present ever. We had whales turn around and come under us we had them wave at us they were that close to us we could feel the spray. I was almost in tears of joy I was that excited.read moreread less
Nikki P -
Hi Michelle, Thank you for your amazing 5-star review. We are so happy to hear that you had the most magical day out with us for your birthday. You even got blessed with some whale sneeze! Wishing you the best and hope to see you again next season, Warm regards Nikki
Michelle
06 Jul 2022
Highly recommended. We had an amazing time. We saw whales which is expected, but we also saw dolphins, got heaps of information about whales from Jill, all the staff and crew were professional and maintained safety during the cruise. The facilities were great. A special shout out to our host Jill who was open to questions and shared information enthusiastically and gave special attention to our daughter. Would definitely recommend and would look to do again on our next trip back. Photos to purchase for $30 or multiple with digital $40. Food and drink available to purchase beforehand and wheelchair friendly.read moreread less
Nikki P -
Hi Thank you for taking the time to leave a 5-star Tripadvisor Review. We are glad to hear that you saw whales AND dolphins! What a fantastic experience. We have passed your feedback to Jill and she is thrilled to hear she helped make your cruise memorable. We can't wait to have you with us again, Warm regards
MrsWest84
27 Jun 2022
Great day out with family. Cpt lounge is worth the extra fee with separate snacks and soft drinks. Beer, wine and soft drinks available at downstairs counter. Dress in jeans, T shirt and warm jacket. Conditions are different on the ocean. Nausea tablets are available on the boat. Capt Kim and crew are outstanding. Knee blankets are also provided. There are photos for sale of your trip on the way back. Card payments available on board. Definite recommendation. Boat is clean and tidy. This is very popular, so book online.
read moreread less
Colin
18 Jun 2022
Accessibile Whalewatching Sea world Cruise- Accessibile WhalewatchingAccessibile Whalewatching,
Wow! What a fabulous day to be out on the ocean looking for whales. Definitely recommend this for anyone!!
Staff friendly and accommodating, sheltered inside so not too cold.
Recent modifications by Seaworld Cruises, made it possible to use my power wheelchair and sit on board next to a big view window, and disabled toilets on board. I can tell you it was a fantastic view. The captain did a great job of maneuvering the boat, so the whales would be on my side. I have some good tail splashing shots taken through the window.
Normally I can only do this land based, at Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island.
read moreread less
Culture57114220625 -
Thank you for taking the time to provide us with feedback, 359joannaf. We're happy to hear you had a great time with us. We also gladly pass on the kind words to the rest of the crew and hope to see you again sometime in the future!
Joanna
01 Sep 2021
Great day out and an experience we would recommend This was a brilliant cruise, a great boat with lots of room for everyone, friendly crew and we were really lucky with whale activity. We saw numerous breaches (we thought this was just on the ads!) and quite a few groups of whales including am active mother and calf which was amazing. We also enjoyed the commentary and how engaging the captain and entire crew were.
This was a last minute decision and we're so happy that we decided to go. A really well run cruise.
read moreread less
Culture57114220625 -
Hi Jessie, Thank you so much for letting us know about your recent whale watching experience with Sea World Cruises. It sounds like you had a wonderful cruise with us and your feedback is highly appreciated! Hope to see you again soon!:)
JessieMartinez
29 Aug 2021
Amazing day out Great staff, great boat the Spirit of Migaloo II. We saw several whales pretty quickly on our trip August 27. We saw one whale breach multiple times, as well as tail flip and just coast above the water. I didn't know they liked to 'stick around' an area of the coast for a few days to find a mate or feed! We also saw a pod of about 5-7 whales all going after a female. Would really recommend this tour!read moreread less
Culture57114220625 -
Hi Ben, Sounds like the whales really put on a great show for you. Thank you so much for your kind words. It's our pleasure to have you onboard. Thank you also for the feedback towards our staff, will definitely let them know! We're so lucky to have the team we have, everyone is very caring and loves what they do! Hope to see you again sometime in the future! Take care and stay safe!
BennoOzzie
27 Aug 2021
Memorable Experience Highly recommend this incredible experience. We managed to see so many whales with a number of them breaching and showing off for us. Captain Daniel was very informative and entertaining. The trip out through The Spit was exhilarating. Overall a very enjoyable morning.read moreread less
Culture57114220625 -
Hi, Thank you for taking the time to leave this kind review! We're glad to hear you had a fantastic time whale watching with us and we definitely will pass this on to our onboard crew. Looking forward to your next visit!
Melody
24 Jun 2021
It was a amazing, great team great experience.. DO IT !! The whales were so close and playful, the team were great at getting everyone involved and educating us about the magnificent creatures, they were also funny and very entertaining. The vessel was super comfortable, smooth and very well maintained, it departed on time and check in was super easy you just needed to say your name.Will definitely recommend to all and also am keen to bring my family along next time., we saw so many whales and they came so close to use, we even felt the spray when they emerged.
Thank you to the team, Daniel, Tye and Marcello we really appreciate all your efforts.
read moreread less
svenjadesingerTTC -
Thank you for the great feedback and your recommendation. Glad you had a great day out! We will pass on the kind words to our crew and hope to see you again sometime!
Mae
17 Sep 2020
Wonderful experience, great crew This was a very enjoyable experience and the whales didn't disappoint either. The crew of the Migaloo 2 were well organised and professional. I would highly recommend paying the extra for the Captains Lounge, which due to the pandemic was only half capacity, so very comfortable. We had a wonderful clear morning and saw many pods of whales which was remarkable. Would highly recommend taking this particular tour. The boat is only a year old and beautifully appointed. Absolutely loved it!read moreread less
svenjadesingerTTC -
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. We're glad to hear that you had a great time with us Lynne. We love our new vessel Spirit of Migaloo II, glad you did too! Look forward to seeing you again in the future.
AussieEggy
27 Aug 2020
Whale Watching Can’t rate this company and the tour we had highly enough. The Crew were fantastic and made sure we were always heading to an active pod of Whales by constantly searching the ever changing sea.
The Boat handled the water superbly and we moved in between Pods quickly and effortlessly which ensured we were always as close to the most active area we could be.
read moreread less
svenjadesingerTTC -
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and feedback with us. It means so much when our best customers share their experiences. We look forward to having you onboard with us again.
Mark
13 Aug 2020
Incredible! Amazing experience whale watching - we couldn’t believe how much time was spent with whales nearby. It far exceeded our expectations! Captain Wayne & his crew were brilliant and had such extensive knowledge of the whales. Visibility from the boat was great as there are many different vantage points. We went on the 3pm cruise and as we headed back we had the bonus of a beautiful sunset.
Highly, highly recommend this trip with Seaworld Cruises!
read moreread less
Reservations -
Thank you so much for the lovely review and it's wonderful to hear you had such a great time whale watching with us! How lucky you had so much activity of the Humpback Whales on the day and got to soak in the magical sunset on the cruise back. We will make sure to pass on the kind words to the rest of the crew and hope to see you on board again!
SDCS
06 Jul 2020
Blown away with a whale of a time. SeaWorld Pretty much "blew" us out of the water with this experience. Amazing to see these beautiful creatures up so close.. and the breaches! Truely a once in a lifetime experience. I could not be happier, just remember to dress real warm.read moreread less
Reservations -
Thank you for your review, Aaron. We're happy to hear you had a great time whale watching with us! We hope to see you again sometime this season.
aaron
04 Jul 2020
