Time to swap your winter coat for a windbreaker and hit the high seas. Whale watching Moreton Bay is back in season, and the locals are making waves—literally. Base yourself in Caboolture, where breakfast is hot and coastal tours are just a short drive away. You’ll meet humpbacks, maybe spot a dolphin or two, and come home with stories better than any fish tale.
Whale Season in Queensland – What You Need to Know
Let’s start with the basics. Knowing what to expect from the season can help you plan a smooth and unforgettable experience.
- Each year, migrating whales travel along the east coast of Australia right through the calm waters of Moreton Bay Marine Park.
- The whale season in QLD runs from June to October, with July and August often offering the most frequent sightings.
- The best sightings usually occur early in the day, when the light is softer and the water calmer.
- Many cruises book out quickly, particularly during school holidays, so early reservations are strongly recommended.
- The region is one of the most accessible spots for experiencing migrating whales in Australia in their natural habitat, just a short drive from Caboolture.
Redcliffe vs Newport – Which Whale Cruise Is Right for You?
Planning a whale watching day trip from Caboolture? Two standout cruise options await just a short drive away.
Brisbane Whale Watching – Redcliffe Jetty
Estimated budget: $135–$150 per adult.
Local tip: Parking can fill up quickly, so arrive early. A coffee from one of the jetty cafés makes the wait worthwhile.
For a classic whale watching Brisbane experience, this flagship tour departs from Redcliffe Jetty, about 35 minutes from Caboolture. The large catamaran offers 360° viewing decks, onboard commentary, and a comfortable ride. It’s a great pick for families, older travellers, or those new to whale watching, Queensland has become known for.
Dolphin Wild Island Cruises – Newport Marina
Estimated budget: $120–$160 per person.
Packing tip: Bring your swimmers, a towel, and motion sickness tablets just in case.
Alternatively, Dolphin Wild Island Cruises offers a more immersive approach. Departing from Newport Marina, this tour blends whale watching with snorkelling and scenic island stops for those wanting to add a touch of adventure. It’s part of the wider selection of Moreton Bay cruises and attracts nature lovers who prefer a smaller group setting.
Make It a Day Out – Scenic Spots Near the Coast
For those exploring what to do in Caboolture and its surroundings, two coastal locations stand out for their beauty, convenience, and chance of spotting migrating whales, which Australia is known for.
Bribie Island Foreshore (Woorim Beach) – 30 mins from Caboolture
Woorim Beach offers a wide, open view of the bay, making it ideal for land-based whale watching. The best time to visit is during clear mornings or late afternoons when whales tend to breach closer to shore. Be sure to bring a light jacket—the sea breeze can pick up—and a pair of binoculars.
Deception Bay Foreshore – 25 mins from Caboolture
For a quieter pace, Deception Bay delivers. The waterfront walkway is lined with parklands and picnic spots, offering a calm setting to watch the water and look for signs of migrating whales.
Tips to Prepare for Whale Watching Tours
A bit of forward planning will help you enjoy the experience without distractions.
Layer your clothing.
Start with a light jacket or windbreaker. Early mornings on the water can be unexpectedly cool, even in Queensland’s winter months. You’ll be glad to have something warm when the breeze picks up.
Protect yourself from the sun.
Sun safety is essential. The glare off the water can be strong, even on overcast days. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and quality sunglasses to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Be prepared for motion sickness.
Whale watching Queensland tours are generally smooth, but even calm seas can be deceiving. Feeling unsure about how you’ll handle the open water? It’s a good idea to take motion sickness tablets about an hour before boarding. It’s a small step that can make a big difference.
Charge your devices in advance.
Keep your camera or phone fully charged the night before. Humpback whales often breach without warning, and a quick tail slap or spyhop can be over in seconds. You’ll want to capture the moment while it lasts.
Book early, especially in peak season.
Whale season QLD runs from June to October, with many tours booking out during school holidays and weekends. To avoid missing out, reserve your spot as early as possible. Operators in Moreton Bay cruises are busiest around mid-season, when sightings are most frequent.
Expect a unique window into nature.
Whale watching Moreton Bay is a seasonal opportunity to witness the migration of humpbacks—part of the larger whale migration along the east coast of Australia, which is known for. The migrating whales that Australia hosts each year offer an unforgettable glimpse into the wild. Plan ahead to make the most of your time on the water.
Tales from the Bay – The Memories You’ll Keep
After all the planning and excitement, what stays with you is the moment itself. Seeing a whale breach just metres away leaves a lasting mark. The feeling stays with you long after the boat docks or the beach chair is packed away.
The Moreton Bay region offers a front-row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular migrations, right along the east coast of Australia. Whale watching Moreton Bay brings you face to face with these giants, without the noise or rush of city crowds. These gentle creatures return each season, moving steadily along their ancient path. All you need to do is show up and watch.
Where to Stay: Caboolture’s Best Base for Whale Watching
After a full day on the water, it helps to know you’ve got a comfortable place to return to. Caboolture Motel offers a quiet, well-positioned base just 30–35 minutes from the best whale watching Moreton Bay has to offer.
In the heart of town, this accommodation in Caboolture is just minutes from shops, restaurants, and the train station. Rooms are air-conditioned with large smart TVS, and ground-floor access makes things easier for all kinds of travellers. There’s on-site parking for large vehicles, plus guest laundry and complimentary WiFi.
For those heading out for a full day of whale watching, Queensland is famous for comfort, convenience, and location, all of which matter, and this property delivers on all three.
Image Credit: Bongaree Foreshore, Bribie Island