Watch these magnificent creatures dance in the water during this year's whale migration along Australia's east coast.
There are few words that can truly describe the true beauty of these large mammals so you'll have to witness them yourself.
We've found whale watching tours for every budget and style from Brisbane to see these majestic creatures on their way to and from warmer waters.
Our top picks:
Best for price: Classic Whale Watching Day Cruise with Tangalooma Island Resort from Viator
Highlights:
- Cost: $129
- Duration: 3 hours
- Available on:Daily during migration season
- Extras: Get access to all resort facilities with a Tangalooma Island Resort day pass and see the “Discover the World of Dolphins” presentation at the Eco Centre
Best for value: Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise – Full-Day with Brisbane Whale Watching from RedBalloon
Highlights:
- Cost: $135
- Duration: Full day
- Available on: Daily during migration season
- Extras: Guaranteed whale sightings, gourmet lunch and the chance to be guided by the South Pacific’s only female captain
Best for experience length: Whale Watching Full-Day Cruise from Brisbane with Whales in Paradise from RedBalloon
Highlights:
- Cost: $139
- Duration: Full day
- Available on: Daily during migration season
- Extras: Small group tour with viewings across decks. Includes river/canal cruise through Surfers Paradise
Best for kids: Cruise with Transfers with Brisbane Whale Watching from RedBalloon
Highlights:
- Cost: $165
- Duration: 5 hours on the water
- Available on: Daily during migration season
- Extras: Gourmet buffet lunch and return transfers from Brisbane to Redcliffe included
Best for guaranteed sightings: VIP Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise with Brisbane Whale Watching from RedBalloon
Highlights:
- Cost: $165
- Duration: 5 hours on the water
- Available on: Daily during migration season
- Extras: VIP package includes priority seating and a guaranteed window table and gourmet buffet lunch. Brisbane Whale Watching also has a 100% whale sightings guarantee.
When is whale watching season in Brisbane?
Catch sightings of humpback whales on the Humpback Highway in Moreton Bay from the beginning of June until the end of October. If you're lucky you may spot some whales just before or after.
Whale watching cruises compared
| Cruise name | Location | Duration | Extras/inclusions | Price (from) | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise with Transfers | Moreton Bay | 5 hours | Return bus transfers, gourmet lunch | $165 | RedBalloon |
| VIP Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise with Transfers | Moreton Bay | 5 hours | Return bus transfers, gourmet lunch, complimentary drink, guaranteed window seats | $195 | RedBalloon |
| VIP Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise | Moreton Bay | 5 hours | Priority boarding, guaranteed window seats, gourmet lunch | $165 | |
| Whale Watching Full-Day Cruise | Brisbane | Full day | Return transfers, tea, coffee and biscuits | $139 | |
| Brisbane Whale Watching Cruise | Moreton Bay | Full day | Return transfers, gourmet buffet luncheon | $135 | |
| Tangalooma Island Resort Classic Whale Watching Day Cruise | Moreton Bay | 10 hours | 3-hour cruise with lunch on board, access pass to Tangalooma Island Resort, 1 standard beverage, "Discover the World of Dolphins" presentation | $129 | |
| Moreton Bay Cruise with Dolphin Feeding and Whale Watching | Moreton Island | 12 hours | Lunch, scenic cruise, access pass to Tangalooma Island Resort, complimentary standard beverage, free digital dolphin-feeding photo | $199 |
Whale watching deals
RedBalloon
2-for-1 experiences and activities
Buy one get one free on a range of experiences across Australia. Offers change regularly, but often include sightseeing cruises, abseiling, dining, hot air ballooning, quadbiking, jet boating, scenic flights, helicopter rides, flying lessons, classic car hire, driving and rally car experiences and more. T&Cs apply.
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Adrenaline
Up to 40% off driving experiences
Valid on select dates and experiences like off-road racing, karting, classic car hire, defensive driving, rally driving, V8 experiences and more. T&Cs apply.
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