Savvy travelers find Hervey Bay’s boat tours among Queensland’s most rewarding maritime experiences. The bay’s protected waters create perfect conditions for several standout excursions. The Milbi Sunset Cruise impresses with its combo of local prawns, sparkling wine, and reliable sunset views. Whale watching tours merit special attention – they’re so dependable they come with a sighting guarantee.
Two particularly good options: The eco-friendly Fraser Island sailing tour offers intimate 4-hour wildlife encounters, while the western Kgari coastal cruise reveals the island’s less-visited shores. These carefully vetted tours consistently earn high marks from our readers.
Let’s examine the best boat tours for your Hervey Bay adventure.
Key Points
- Milbi Sunset Cruise offers an exceptional sunset experience with fresh local seafood and a 97% traveler recommendation.
- Whale Watching Experiences provide a 100% whale sighting guarantee, hearty meals, and a 5-star average rating from 391 reviews.
- Kgari Tour features a range of activities including swimming, hiking, snorkeling, and beach walks, with a 4.8/5 star rating from 856 reviews.
- Fraser Island Cruises offer a variety of half-day and full-day options, including swimming, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, with high customer ratings.
- Eco-Friendly Sailing Adventures provide a personalized experience with activities like swimming, AquaMat, and boom net, along with complimentary pickup and drop-off.
Milbi Sunset Cruise With Champagne and Prawns
The Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns offers a captivating experience in Hervey Bay.
With a 97% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this 30-reviewed tour provides an exceptional sunset cruise along the Great Sandy Straits.
Guests can enjoy fresh local king prawns, a delicious grazing platter, and a welcome drink on arrival.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a local guide.
Accessible to wheelchair users and stroller-friendly, the cruise accommodates up to 25 travelers.
Booking is easy with a confirmation at booking and a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience.
Priced from $52.40 per person, the Milbi Sunset Cruise is a must-try in Hervey Bay.
Read our full review: Milbi Sunset Cruise With Champagne and Prawns Review
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From Hervey Bay: 1/2 Day Kgari Fraser Island Beach Cruise
Situated just a stone’s throw from the stunning Kgari (Fraser Island), this 1/2 day beach cruise offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the island’s secluded West Coast.
Priced from $97.62 per person, the 5-hour excursion departs from Hervey Bay’s Great Sandy Straits Marina and is led by a knowledgeable live guide.
Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, kayaking, and tube rides, while keeping an eye out for local wildlife like dolphins, turtles, and dugongs.
A delicious BBQ lunch featuring locally-sourced ingredients is included, as are all necessary equipment and amenities.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this cruise is an excellent choice for an unforgettable Fraser Island experience.
Read our full review: From Hervey Bay: 1/2 Day Kgari Fraser Island Beach Cruise Review
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Full Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Hervey Bay’s renowned humpback whale migration, the Full Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise provides travelers with an unparalleled opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and whale sightings guaranteed, the 6-hour cruise operates from mid-July to mid-October, allowing guests to observe the whales’ journey to Antarctica.
The experience includes a freshly prepared buffet lunch, complimentary refreshments, and live commentary from expert guides.
Featuring comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, the tour also offers the chance to see dolphins, turtles, and seabirds, as well as listen to whale vocalizations through an onboard hydrophone.
Read our full review: Full Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise Review
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Fraser Island 4-Hour Eco-Sailing Adventure
For the Fraser Island 4-Hour Eco-Sailing Adventure, travelers can expect a captivating journey through the calm waters of the Great Sandy Strait.
Priced at €67.68 per person, this 4-hour excursion promises an immersive experience in discovering marine life, including dolphins, dugongs, and turtles.
With a capacity of 4 to 24 passengers, the eco-friendly sailing vessel offers a personalized experience.
Highlights include swimming in turquoise waters, testing balance on the AquaMat, and using the boom net.
Travelers will also enjoy morning tea and complimentary pick-up and drop-off services.
With over 30 years of experience, Blue Dolphin Marine Tours delivers an exceptional and eco-friendly sailing adventure.
Read our full review: Fraser Island 4-Hour Eco-Sailing Adventure Review
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Kgari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise From Hervey Bay
The Kgari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise From Hervey Bay takes travelers on a 5-hour journey to explore the stunning beauty of Fraser Island.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 137 reviews, this cruise offers a range of activities, including spotting dolphins and sea turtles, optional kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, swimming, and beach exploration.
The Aussie-style BBQ lunch served onboard features fresh Hervey Bay prawns, and all activities, transportation, and a local guide are included.
With a maximum capacity of 45 travelers, this cruise provides a relaxing and memorable experience, making it an excellent value for money according to many reviewers.
Read our full review: Kgari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise From Hervey Bay Review
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Hervey Bay: Half-Day Whale Watching Cruise With Meal
Hervey Bay’s half-day whale watching cruise provides an unparalleled opportunity to encounter the magnificent humpback whales in their natural habitat.
This 4-hour tour, departing from the Great Sandy Straits Marina, offers a 100% guarantee of whale sightings. Passengers can also spot dolphins, turtles, dugongs, and seabirds while cruising the UNESCO-recognized Whale Heritage Site.
The tour includes a hearty meal and refreshments, and the purpose-built catamaran ensures comfort with its wide decks and multi-level viewing. Knowledgeable crew provide live commentary in multiple languages, enhancing the educational and immersive experience.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 163 reviews, this whale watching cruise is highly recommended for those seeking an engaging and unforgettable encounter with the gentle giants of the sea.
Read our full review: Hervey Bay: Half-Day Whale Watching Cruise With Meal Review
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Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise
Spirit of Hervey Bay’s whale watching cruise offers a captivating 4-hour or 5.5-hour journey to witness the magnificent humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Passengers can spot not only whales but also dolphins, turtles, and potentially even dingoes on Fraser Island.
The cruise features spacious viewing decks, underwater viewing rooms, and a hydrophone for hearing whale sounds.
Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off or free parking are available.
With a 5-star average from 391 reviews and a 97% traveler recommendation, this tour delivers an informative and memorable whale-watching experience.
Prices start at $99.49 per person, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours beforehand.
Read our full review: Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise Review
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Hervey Bay: Relaxing Sunset Cruise With Champagne and Prawns
For those seeking a more leisurely experience on the waters of Hervey Bay, the Relaxing Sunset Cruise With Champagne and Prawns offers a delightful and tranquil option.
At 1.5 hours, this cruise provides a relaxing escape, with highlights including fresh local king prawns, a grazing platter, and beverages ranging from champagne to soft drinks.
Guests can also discover the Indigenous names and meanings of local landmarks, all while enjoying the iconic Urangan Pier as the backdrop to the stunning sunset.
With a 4.5/5 overall rating, this tour is a must-try for those looking to unwind and soak in the beauty of Hervey Bay.
Read our full review: Hervey Bay: Relaxing Sunset Cruise With Champagne and Prawns Review
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Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure
This half-day Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure takes adventurous travelers on an intimate cruise through the tranquil waters of Hervey Bay, offering the chance to spot diverse marine life and explore the renowned K’gari (Fraser Island).
With a 95% chance of seeing dolphins, guests can enjoy dolphin-watching, boom-netting, and swimming at the island. The 38-foot vessel provides a personalized experience, while knowledgeable guides share their expertise.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 with a 98% traveler recommendation, this tour includes national park fees, light refreshments, and hotel pickup.
Positive reviews highlight the excellent crew and opportunities to see wildlife like dugongs and sea turtles.
Read our full review: Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure Review
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From Hervey Bay – Private Sailing Charter
A private sailing charter from Hervey Bay offers adventurous travelers a tailored experience to explore the stunning Great Sandy Strait, a UNESCO Biosphere.
Priced from $780.96 for up to 12 participants, this 4-8 hour private tour is led by local skippers and includes activities like swimming, island stops, and historic walks.
Guests can enjoy full privacy onboard, with the option to bring their own food and drinks.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off as well as a reserve now, pay later policy add to the convenience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private sailing charter is an ideal way to discover the natural wonders of the region.
Read our full review: From Hervey Bay – Private Sailing Charter Review
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From Hervey Bay: Remote Kgari Tour by Boat With Lunch
Explore the remote western side of Kgari (formerly Fraser Island) on this boat tour from Hervey Bay.
At $162.05 per person, the 9-hour tour offers a range of activities, including swimming, hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and beach walks.
Spot marine life like dolphins, turtles, and dugongs, and watch for whales during the mid-July to October season.
Travel in an amphibious vehicle to access remote beaches, and enjoy a buffet lunch served on the boat.
With 4.8/5 stars from 856 reviews, this tour features expert commentary, friendly staff, and complimentary water sports equipment.
Advance reservations are recommended, as this tour is likely to sell out.
Read our full review: From Hervey Bay: Remote Kgari Tour by Boat With Lunch Review
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Hervey Bay: Sunset Cruise to Great Sandy Marine Park
For those seeking a more relaxed and scenic experience in Hervey Bay, the Sunset Cruise to Great Sandy Marine Park offers a delightful evening on the water.
The 2-hour cruise, priced from £28.11 per person, includes a complimentary glass of champagne and expert commentary on the local wildlife and history.
Guests can enjoy watching the sunset over the ocean and looking for dolphins and other marine life.
The cruise departs from Hervey Bay, and participants must check in 30 minutes prior to the departure time.
Customers have rated the experience highly, praising the value, transportation, and the knowledgeable guide.
Read our full review: Hervey Bay: Sunset Cruise to Great Sandy Marine Park Review
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Recap
Hervey Bay offers a variety of cruises and boat tours to suit different interests and budgets. From sunset cruises and whale watching to eco-sailing and private charters, there’s something for all. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing journey or an adventure-filled day, these tours provide an excellent way to explore the stunning waters and coastline around Hervey Bay and Fraser Island.