Whale Watching Gold Coast: The Best Places to Spot Whales

Whale Watching on the Gold Coast

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Duration: 2.5 hours
Location: Mariners Cove, Gold Coast
Budget: $99
Miles Travelled: The humphack Highway is 5-10 nautical miles from the Coastlines

Whale watching is one of the most exciting and unforgettable experiences you can have on the Gold Coast. With its stunning coastline, the Gold Coast is a perfect place to go on a whale watching tour. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you can witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat in a way that few other experiences can compare. In this blog, we will explore the best places to go whale watching on the Gold Coast.

Why the Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, theme parks, and vibrant nightlife. But what many people don’t know is that it is also a prime location for whale watching. Every year, humpback whales make their annual migration along the eastern coast of Australia, passing by the Gold Coast on their way to breeding grounds in warmer waters. This means that you can spot these gentle giants between June and November each year.

What to expect

Before we delve into the best spots for whale watching on the Gold Coast, let’s talk about what you can expect from a whale watching tour. Whale watching tours are typically offered by boat tour companies that specialize in wildlife encounters. These tours take you out to sea, where you can observe whales in their natural environment.

Whale watching tours usually last between 2-4 hours, and the experience can vary depending on the weather and the time of day. Most tours operate in the morning and afternoon, when the sea is calmer and the whales are more active. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to see humpback whales breach, tail slap, and even sing. These magnificent creatures can grow up to 16 meters long and weigh over 30 tonnes, making them a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold.

Things to consider

If you’re planning a Gold Coast whale watching tour, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to choose a reputable tour operator that follows sustainable and responsible whale watching practices. Look for operators that are licensed by the Department of Environment and Science and follow the guidelines set out by the Australian National Guidelines for Whale and Dolphin Watching.

Second, consider the time of day and weather conditions when booking your tour. Morning and afternoon tours are recommended for the best whale watching experience, as the sea is usually calmer and the whales are more active. If you’re prone to seasickness, you may want to take motion sickness medication before the tour.

Third, dress appropriately for the weather and bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It can get cold out at sea, so bring a jacket or sweater just in case. Finally, don’t forget your camera! You’ll want to capture this unforgettable experience on film.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the best places to go whale watching on the Gold Coast.

Tweed Coast

The Tweed Coast, located just south of the Gold Coast, is one of the best places to go whale watching in the region. The area is known for its clear waters and abundant marine life, making it an ideal spot for whale watching tours. Tweed Coast tours offer a unique perspective of the whales, with views of the surrounding hinterland and Mount Warning in the background.

Gold Coast Seaway

The Gold Coast Seaway, located at the northern end of the Gold Coast, is another popular spot for whale watching. This area is known for its deep-water channel, which attracts large pods of humpback whales during their migration. From the seaway, you can observe these magnificent creatures up close as they breach and tail slap in the water.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise, one of the Gold Coast’s most popular beaches, is also a great spot for whale watching. From the beach, you can often spot whales breaching and playing in the water. If you want to get a closer look, there are several whale watching tours that depart from Surfers Paradise. These tours offer a unique perspective of the whales, with views of the city skyline in the background.

Burleigh Headland

Burleigh Headland, located in the southern part of the Gold Coast, is a popular vantage point for whale watching. The headland offers panoramic views of the coastline and the ocean, making it an ideal spot to spot humpback whales during their migration. From here, you can often see the whales breaching and playing in the water.

Moreton Bay

If you’re willing to venture a little further afield, Moreton Bay, located north of the Gold Coast, is another great spot for whale watching. Moreton Bay is home to a large population of humpback whales, making it one of the best places in the region to spot them. There are several whale watching tours that depart from Moreton Bay, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, the Gold Coast is one of the best places in Australia to go whale watching. From Tweed Coast to Moreton Bay, there are several great spots to observe these gentle giants in their natural environment. Whether you choose to go on a whale watching tour or rent a boat hire and explore the coastline on your own, a whale watching experience on the Gold Coast is one that you will never forget.

When planning your whale watching adventure, remember to choose a reputable tour operator or boat hire company, consider the time of day and weather conditions, and dress appropriately. With a little bit of planning, you can enjoy a safe and unforgettable whale watching experience on the Gold Coast.

Luxury Whale Watching with Boattime YC

For those looking to enjoy a whale watching tour with a group of friends or family, Boattime Yacht Charters offers group boat hire options that are perfect for this purpose. Their flagship vessel ‘Sun Goddess’ provides a unique and luxury experience for whale watching on the Gold Coast, and is available for both group boat hire and yacht hire.

Booking a group boat hire with Boattime Yacht Charters allows you to enjoy the whale watching tour with your chosen group of people, all while exploring the picturesque coastline at your own pace. The vessel is captained by an experienced and professional crew who prioritize both your safety and enjoyment, ensuring that everyone has a memorable experience.

In addition to group boat hire, Boattime Yacht Charters also offers yacht hire options for those looking for a more luxurious and private experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in an unforgettable adventure, their yacht hire options aboard the ‘Sun Goddess’ are the perfect choice.

Overall, booking a group boat hire or yacht hire with Boattime Yacht Charters is the perfect way to experience whale watching on the Gold Coast in style and comfort. With a range of packages to suit different group sizes and budgets, they offer the perfect solution for those seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure. You can book tickets here for our Cruises which run from 

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Why Should You Go for Whale Watching?

Many individuals go for vacations or holidays to relax and reduce stress. Some of them would like to soak up in the sun. But if you’re planning to take some time off from your busy schedule, you must do so during the Gold Coast whale watching season. It’s one of the best times to check out Humpback Whales, which travel from Antarctica towards the shores of the Queensland coastline.

Whale watching is unique because it allows you to witness the beauty and strength of the biggest marine creatures in the world. Why must you go whale watching during your holidays? Here are some reasons behind it:

Gold Coast whale watching season


• You will spend funds on experiences, not things


You will benefit greatly when you go whale watching your family or friends. Many studies have provided evidence that individuals who spend their funds on doing things rather than purchasing items receive more happiness from the things they get to experience. This does make sense as the memories of a particular experience are said to stay with a person for a lifetime. But the things you purchase will blend perfectly with your life and be long forgotten. Getting to experience something will make you feel excited just thinking about it, but things that are bought will stop being enjoyable over time.


• It’s an ecstasy


It doesn’t matter how prepared you are; you’re never that ready to see a real-life whale. If you’re fortunate enough to see a pod, you will be astonished due to its mere monstrosity. People who have already gone whale watching have said that they were overwhelmed and terrified simultaneously, which you might get to experience as well. During the Gold Coast whale watching season, take a few shots through the camera if you cannot get over the initial shock of witnessing a Humpback Whale. After that, put the camera down and just stare at them and burn the site right into your memory


• You will gain respect for the oceans


There is nothing in this world that can teach you to love oceans. You can only get to respect and love the oceans when you go out there. When you do, you will surely never forget what blue means. Going out into the ocean to watch the Humpback Whales will be a life-changing experience for you, and it’s something that you should not miss out. Decide whom you take with you and book for the trip. You will not regret it.


Ending Words


Whale watching is a unique activity you can enjoy with your close buddies or family members. It’s one of the best ways to witness the beautiful Humpback Whales who travel from Antarctica. The next time you plan for a vacation, make sure to include whale watching in your list.

Whale Watching Gold Coast Deals: Things To Consider Before Choosing

Do you want to try something new and exciting on your next vacation? Have you ever considered going whale watching on the Gold Coast? There are several exciting packages you will find if you decide to go there for whale watching. However, before choosing any of those packages, you may need to consider some of the aspects.

This blog highlights some of the major aspects you need to think about before choosing any of these whale-watching Gold Coast deals. Let’s check it out!

  • Time Duration Of Whale Watching

Before choosing any packaged deals, first, you should check out the timespan of whale-watching these packages offer you. You can get this specific information from their official website. Also, you can pull off the information from any of their previous clients.

  • A Variety Of Packages

You can get a variety of packages if you choose whale watching Gold Coast deals. All you have to do is check what those packages offer you. Apart from the opportunity of whale watching, you can check whether those packages provide an opportunity to witness other marine animals such as dolphins, pelicans, etc.

  • Quality Of Services

Another thing you must consider is the quality of service of their management. You need to check the arrangements for accommodation, quality of food, etc. Besides, you must check how they arrange their boarders’ entire whale watching program. Try to know the qualities of their provided boats and guides, and check whether there are any rules you need to follow during whale watching. Besides this, collect information about the safety protocols of a whale-watching cruise if you wish to go there with your family and children.

  • Cost Structure

Choosing a package deal that suits the budget is pretty challenging. First, you should estimate your own budget. Then check all price ranges of their different package deals. You can see the price may vary due to the duration of whale watching and the number of days you will stay on the Gold Coast. However, you would be happy to know that almost all whale-watching package deals are pretty affordable there. Besides, if you choose the right season to enjoy whale-watching, the Gold Coast can also offer you a discount on their package deals.

  • Additional Enjoyable Things

Before choosing any of these whale watching gold coast deals, you need to check if those packages have other enjoyable things apart from whale-watching. You must know if there are any arrangements to enjoy the local culture, cuisines, etc. Tourists often prefer to go with local fishers and explore other lesser-known exotic places. You can check whether or not any shopping tour is included in those packages.

The Bottom Line

Deciding to choose whale-watching on the Gold Coast as your next holiday destination can be a lifetime experience for you. Therefore, choosing the right package deal is essential as it is the only way to enjoy the whale-watching episode and many other things in that region. Just consider these aspects and choose one of the perfect package deals for you.

6 Reasons You Should Book A Luxury Whale Watching Tour On A Superyacht (And Save $$ With A Season Special!)

2 for $109

1. Get up Close with Humpback Whales in Their Environment

The Gold Coast Whale Watching Season brings over 20,000 Humpback Whales past the iconic Surfers Paradise coastline and along Gold Coast beaches from late May to early November. The World Class crew at Boattime Yacht Charters know every inch of the ‘Humpback Highway’ and our Hosts are experts at Attracting the curious Giants to come and play (with your help of course!) If you’re keen to see a wee little calf (and by wee, we mean 4-5 meters!) we always suggest booking a tour in the second half of the season when the mothers have given birth in the warm, safe waters of the Great Barrier Reef, and are now heading back to the cold waters of Antarctica with their calfs.

 

2. Get your Kicks in Australias Favourite Holiday Destination (For A Reason!)

The Gold Coast is a known resting place for Humpback Whales and their calves. Due to the protection of the Gold Coast Bay from harsh sea conditions and also lurking predators. The region has 70 kilometres of uninterrupted coastline and is fringed by rainforest hinterland, including world heritage-listed national parks – Discover it in Style from the Ocean on a Luxury Whale Watching Tour.  Theme Parks, Incredible Restaurants, Waves & Wildlife! Its no wonder why the Gold Coast has been Australia’s Favourite Destination since the 1960’s!

 

3. Epic Way To Spend A Day With Your Crew

Every tour can be very different, bu one things always for sure.. its always epic and rewarding! We never know what kind of show are going to be in for, and nature can be both thrilling and exciting and we consider every day to be the perfect time to see these gentle giants! With 

 

4. Experience A Luxury Superyacht With A Surfers Paradise Backdrop

Jump Aboard Boattime’s 110 ft Sleek, Stylish and Spacious Luxury Superyacht “Sun Goddess” and be the envy of the Broadwater as you head out the Seaway in Luxury and Style! Even if you’ve experienced Whale Watching on the Gold Coast before, this tour is truly a unique experience for the Luxury Lovers and is often rebooked multiple times by our Guests! Join Boattime Yacht Charters World Class crew and Hugely popular Hosts, this is definitely one for the scrapbooks you’ll be telling all of your family and friends about!

5. You’ll See More Than Just Whales

When you’re out on the oceans its not just the playful humpbacks you’ll be sharing the water with. Theres a huge amount of Sea Life to experience right on our doorstep! From the common friendly and cheeky dolphin always riding the wake of the boat, to chances of spotting turtles and even the rare Dugong!

6. Its Easy & Affordable

Whale watching is not very expensive in Australia with so many bays and beaches to provide the different cruises for whale watching . There are different packages available from a number of different providers, but all are a different offerings so make sure you check out whats best for you! You can pick the one which fits your schedule and your family, like Boattime Yacht Charters Superyacht Luxury Tour 2 tickets for $109! Next two weeks only and limited spots available so book now!

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