adventure, history and nature… all in one incredible experience
December – May · Wed, Sat & Sun · From Saturday 5 December 2026
The Coastal Explorer – Jet Boat Discovery Tour is our signature two-hour sightseeing adventure aboard Australia’s largest jet boat — Mooloolaba’s luxury canals, the open Pacific Ocean, Old Woman (Mudjimba) Island and the Maroochy River, all in one morning. Running Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, December to May.
Departs Kawana Waters Hotel at 9:30am, returning at approximately 11:30am — allow around two hours for the full experience. A second 12:00pm tour runs on demand when scheduled.
Glide through Mooloolaba’s famous canals and venture into the Pacific Ocean while hearing traditional local stories. Explore pristine islands and rivers teeming with wildlife — dolphins, turtles and seabirds — with our local guide sharing the region’s history along the way.
Your two-hour adventure
Canals, ocean, island storytelling, river wildlife and a musical coastal run home — here’s how the morning unfolds, with our guide sharing the stories of the region along the way.
1. Mooloolaba Canal Discovery
Cruise the famous waterfront canals as your skipper shares how Mooloolaba grew from a fishing village into one of Australia’s premier coastal destinations — multi-million-dollar homes, celebrity stories and local landmarks.
2. Into the Pacific
Cruise past the beautiful La Balsa Park and Pt Cartwright lighthouse and out the rivermouth — welcome to the open ocean. Watch for dolphins, turtles and seabirds on the run north, with a few fun facts about the Sunshine Coast’s surfing history along the way.
3. Old Woman (Mudjimba) Island
The highlight. Drift slowly around the island for coral viewing (weather permitting), turtles, seabirds and fish life — while traditional local stories bring the island, the mountains and the Maroochy River to life.
4. Maroochy River Discovery
Conditions permitting, cross the bar into the Maroochy River — North Shore’s untouched white sand beaches, Twin Waters, mangroves and estuary wildlife. A peaceful contrast to the open ocean.
5. Coastal Run Home
Sit back as the commentary wraps up and the music comes on. Cruise south along the coastline — beautiful beaches, photo opportunities and wildlife watching all the way back to Mooloolaba.
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.
A larger, more stable platform means a smooth, comfortable ride for all ages — with an onboard toilet, light snacks and drinks available.
Book Now
$89
Adult
$69
Children (4–14yrs)
The Coastal Explorer – Jet Boat Discovery Tour is a two-hour premium sightseeing experience departing Kawana Waters Hotel at 9:30am — Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, from Saturday 5 December.
Luxury canals, the open Pacific, traditional local stories at Old Woman (Mudjimba) Island and the Maroochy River — two rivers, one island and the ocean in a single morning.
Dolphins, turtles, seabirds and coral viewing are all possible along the way — every cruise is different.
No family or infant tickets available. Minimum age 4 years.
Tour Details & FAQ’s
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.
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.
