up-close whale encounters
Whales Sunshine Coast launches this season with Whale Explorer – our signature whale watching experience designed to deliver powerful, up-close encounters with migrating humpback whales.
Whale Explorer is a premium 3+ hour offshore whale watching experience following the annual humpback migration along the Sunshine Coast, operating from the Mooloolaba region. Departing conveniently from Kawana, this incredible adventure offers one of the most immersive and up-close whale watching tours near Mooloolaba.
Expect the unexpected! Watch humpback whales in their natural environment doing what they do best. From explosive breaches and head lunges to powerful tail slaps and full peduncle throws these giants put on aerial displays of pure acrobatics. Dolphins turtles and other marine life. Anything can happen… and it usually does.
The Explorer is a one-of-a-kind vessel – the largest jet-powered whale watching boat in Australia.
Jet propulsion means no exposed propellers and lower impact on marine life.
Guests enjoy faster access to whale activity zones and more time with whales
Larger vessel for greater stability and reduced side-to-side movement
Experienced Local Captains with extensive whale knowledge
Onboard Toilet, Light Snacks, Drinks and Professional Photos available for Purchase.
Book Now
Normally $119
Launch Special extended : Book by July 10th 31st to take advantage of our 2026 Introductory Pricing *
$99
Adult
$75
Kids (4-15yrs)
Whale Explorer is a 3 hour + offshore whale watching experience following the annual humpback migration along the Sunshine Coast.
Aboard The Explorer, guests enjoy more time with whales on a stable offshore platform with experienced local crew.
Expect close encounters including breaches, tail slaps, and surface activity, with the possibility of dolphins and other marine life along the way.
Tour Details & FAQ’s
What happens if we don’t see any whales?
Our Whale Sighting Guarantee
With over 50,000 humpback whales migrating past the Sunshine Coast this year, and Captain “Shorty” at the helm of our high-speed jetboat, our success rate for finding whales is incredibly high. However, we are working with wild animals! In the highly unlikely event that we do not sight any whales during your Whale Explorer tour, we’ve got your back. You will be provided with a complimentary return ticket to come back and try again for free at any time during the 2026 season. (Please note: This guarantee provides a free return trip only and is not redeemable for a refund).
Where does the tour depart from?
We depart from the jetty at the Kawana Waters Hotel at the Kawana Marina.
What is your cancellation or transfer policy?
Once booked, tickets are 100% non-refundable. However, if you need to change your date or time, you can transfer your booking as long as you give us at least 72 hours’ notice prior to your scheduled cruise.
How long is the whale watching tour?
The Whale Explorer is a premium offshore adventure that goes for up to 3 hours.
Are there toilets and food onboard?
Yes! The Explorer is equipped with an onboard toilet, and we have light snacks and drinks available for purchase during the trip.
What should I bring with me?
We recommend bringing sunglasses, a hat, a jacket, your camera, and a water bottle. We provide spray jackets onboard to keep you comfortable.
Is there a minimum age? Can I bring a baby or toddler?
The minimum age for passengers is 4 years old. Unfortunately, children under 4 cannot join the tour because the vessel does not have seatbelts and there are no baby change table facilities onboard. Child pricing applies to kids aged 4 to 16.
Captain Allan “Shorty” Short
The Sunshine Coast’s Most Experienced Captain.
For Captain Allan “Shorty” Short, the ocean has always been more than just water – it’s been a lifelong workplace, playground, and passion.
“You never stop being amazed by whales.”
With decades of experience navigating the waters of the Sunshine Coast, Shorty is widely regarded as one of the region’s most experienced whale watching captains.
Long before whale watching became one of the Sunshine Coast’s most loved marine experiences, Shorty was already on the water learning the rhythms of the ocean and the behaviour of the incredible wildlife that passes along this coastline each year.
