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
Book by July 10th to take advantage of our 2026 Introductory Pricing *
$99
Adult
$75
Kids (5-16yrs)
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
Duration: 3 hours +
Departure: Kawana Waters Hotel
Capacity: Limited passenger numbers
Minimum age? 5 years
What to Bring: Sunglasses, hat, jacket, camera, water bottle.
Provided: Spray Jackets
*Book by July 10th for travel on any date in the 2026 Whale Season at our introductory price.
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.
