Whale Watching by Sea World Cruises

Overview

Available languages

English

2 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Sea World Whale Watch is the Gold Coast’s Closest Operator to the Humpback Highway; spend less time in transit and more time with the whales!

Observe the breathtaking display of whales launching into the air, slapping their mighty tails on the water, and diving deep into the ocean. During close encounters, gain a unique perspective by watching live underwater footage streamed directly to your mobile device (coming soon). You may even hear the iconic whale song through our advanced underwater microphones.

While you anticipate your cruise, enjoy the waterfront deck cafe, enrich your knowledge with informative exhibits, and visit the gift shop at our stunning terminal.

Sea World Whale Watch are the ultimate experts in Gold Coast Whale Watching, offering a 100% Whale Sighting Guarantee that ensures a free return cruise if no whales are spotted.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If you travel with wheelchair, please contact the supplier in advance due to the limited seats.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Complimentary parking

Purpose-built luxury whale watching vessel

Look for dolphins, sea turtles, sea birds and more

Onboard hydrophones and underwater cameras (subject to daily conditions)

100% Whale Sighting Guarantee

Expert commentary from experienced captains and marine naturalist guides

Up to 2.5 hour Whale Watching Cruise

Food and beverages

Hotel transfers

Photos. Available for purchase on the day of the cruise

What To Expect

Experience the thrill of being in the presence of majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat on this 2.5hr whale watching cruise! Departing from the Sea World Cruise Terminal in Main Beach, soak up the iconic views of the Gold Coast as you embark on a whale-watching cruise aboard our luxurious purpose-built vessel, the 'Spirit of Migaloo II'.

Options

Sea World Whale Watch Cruise

Reviews

4.76

315 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

277

Dishonest and expensive
726amanda,
Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00
Not honest about the possibility to see whales. Had three days of touring without whales, and all we godt back was a return ticket to next year… and they are flashing 100% possibility. Dishonest and expensive.
Dream come true
D1466DCjanetr,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I can’t say enough about our experience. It was a dream come true. Captain Wayne and crew did a fantastic job of finding the whales. Captain Wayne had a great knowledge and answered all questions with enthusiasm. I really believe he enjoyed the experience just as much as we did. A trip of a life time
following whales and waste
brookewJ4797LY,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00
we saw one mum and baby, whilst I did love seeing them - I didn’t think following them around everytime they moved away / driving that close to them was aloud. I also thought turning the boat off was a thing. I thought it would more so be on the whales terms to come near us if they wanted rather than us chase them around I also don’t get why a company like SeaWorld that advocates for less waste / sustainability etc would print out everyone’s photos prior to asking people if they’re wanting to buy them.. over half of the people didn’t buy their photos - it’s not like anyone else can buy photos of other people meaning they’d be going straight into the bin
Exceptional, Professional
Mamta C,
Oct 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
It was an amazing experience. It was quite a dull day, but everyone at Sea World cruises tried for over 3 hrs. to give us the experience. Ultimately we experienced one of the best viewing of a bunch of whales. Thanks a lot for the experience
Whale watching success
DeanT1172,
Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We started out cruising north along Stradbroke Island but had no luck other than a pod of dolphins, we headed south and were off Surfers Paradise when we spotted a Humpback mother and calf. The calf was very playful, coming super close to the boat, an amazing experience.
Amazing treat to see beautiful mammals.
Ian A,
Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Great start with very friendly staff, safty was covered and noted, went out to see a mum a baby hump back whales, amazing to see this in Nature, and a first time for this family of 4. Really enjoyed and was looked after very well and informative running commentary, would recommend everyone trying this, and we will love to come back and do again earlier in the year.
Fabulous trip
G1371MTjennym,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
An excellent trip, our Captain Wayne and his crew were brilliant, Captain Wayne had lots of knowledge about the whales. We upgraded on arrival for the VIP tickets which were really good and worth paying the extra for. We saw several whales ,which was amazing, the whole trip along the Gold Coast was fantastic.
Whales up close
db40melbourne,
Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Amazing experience, highly recommend. I've never seen whales up close before and I was not disappointed. We saw at least 30 whales who were extremely active. Lots of breaching and fin slapping! It was an absolute highlight of my trip to the Gold Coast.
Whale watching 1st time
Michael J,
Oct 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00
Good experience. However, l would have loved to see some whales jumped high out of the water. But that's nature. You can't have everything you wish.
A Nice Day on the Water
Lindajwil,
Oct 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00
Our trip out yesterday was very pleasant. We were a little disappointed by the inactivity of the whales we encountered but we did see 3 small pods clearly from the boat. My hopes are always high when I go on whale watching tours but of course we are there in their environment and take what you get. The boat, crew and Captain were great. We did take the option for the Captain’s Lounge Seating which was an extra $30. Not sure if I think thats value but it was very pleasant. I have been on a few whale watch tours now and one of the best pluses this one has is such easy close access out and in on the boat to view them.