Looking for boat tours in Mooloolaba? This sun-soaked spot on Australia’s Sunshine Coast serves up several excellent options. The 1.5-hour River Sunset Cruise stands out, offering peaceful views of waterfront mansions along the Mooloolaba River. I especially love the Tipple & Tide experience, which smartly pairs local spirits with scenic river views – it’s a wonderful way to unwind after a busy day.
For food lovers, the Seafood Lunch Cruise delivers fresh catches during a relaxed 1.5-hour journey. Nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the 3-hour Whale Watching Experience, where you’ll spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat (seasonal).
Let’s explore the best boat tours Mooloolaba has to offer.
Key Points
- The Mooloolaba River Sunset Cruise offers a 1.5-hour scenic journey with commentary, seafood menu, and cocktails, rated 4.7/5 for its welcoming crew and atmosphere.
- The Tipple & Tide experience combines a distillery tour and relaxing river cruise, providing a unique and memorable activity for visitors, rated 4.9/5.
- The Mooloolaba Seafood Lunch Cruise is a 1.5-hour culinary experience with live commentary and a fully licensed bar, featuring scenic views and an impressive 4.7/5 rating.
- The Mooloolaba Whale Watching Experience is a 3-hour half-day cruise for viewing the whale migration, with an informative English-speaking guide and a rating of 4.3/5.
- The Gourmet Bushtucker Cultural Cruise is a 2-hour culinary and cultural exploration with a gourmet native-contemporary menu, engaging commentary, and a perfect 5/5 rating.
Sunshine Coast: Mooloolaba River Sunset Cruise
The Sunshine Coast: Mooloolaba River Sunset Cruise offers a tranquil and picturesque journey along the Mooloolaba River.
The 1.5-hour cruise takes guests through the harbor, river, and canals, providing an opportunity to admire the luxurious Minyama mansions along Millionaires Row.
The expert commentary from the live tour guide enhances the experience, educating passengers about the sights.
Onboard, guests can indulge in a full seafood menu and enjoy refreshing cocktails from the fully licensed bar.
The cruise operates in most weather conditions and isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or strollers.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 and positive reviews highlighting the welcoming crew and enjoyable atmosphere, this sunset cruise is a must-try for visitors to the Sunshine Coast.
Read our full review: Sunshine Coast: Mooloolaba River Sunset Cruise Review
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Sunshine Coast: Tipple & Tide: Distillery Tour & Cruise
Frequently, visitors to the Sunshine Coast embark on the Tipple & Tide: Distillery Tour & Cruise, an immersive experience that blends the art of distilling with the tranquility of a scenic river cruise.
This 2-hour tour takes guests on a journey through a local distillery, where they can learn about the process of crafting premium spirits.
Afterward, participants board a boat for a relaxing cruise along the Mooloolaba River, taking in the stunning coastal views.
The tour is priced at $48.84 and has received an impressive 4.9 out of 5 rating from 23 reviews, making it a popular choice for those seeking a unique and memorable activity on the Sunshine Coast.
Read our full review: Sunshine Coast: Tipple & Tide: Distillery Tour & Cruise Review
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Mooloolaba: Seafood Lunch Cruise
For those seeking a delectable seafood-focused experience on the Sunshine Coast, the Mooloolaba Seafood Lunch Cruise offers a tantalizing option.
Lasting 1.5 hours and priced from $42.33 per person, this cruise showcases the region’s fresh local produce with a choice of four seafood-based meals.
Onboard, guests can enjoy a commentary from a live guide, browse the fully licensed bar, and take in the scenic views of Mooloolaba’s sparkling rivers and canals from the comfort of the boat’s cozy booths.
With an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 337 reviews, this cruise is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts and those looking to indulge in a relaxing culinary adventure.
Read our full review: Mooloolaba: Seafood Lunch Cruise Review
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Mooloolaba: Canal Cruise With Commentary
Mooloolaba’s picturesque canal system provides a serene and captivating backdrop for the Canal Cruise with Commentary. Priced from $22.79 per person, this 1-hour tour offers an opportunity to explore the Sunshine Coast’s hidden gems.
Guests can cruise past luxurious homes, view Steve Irwin’s Croc One, and even try their hand at driving the boat. The fully licensed bar provides snacks and beverages to enhance the relaxing atmosphere.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on over 100 reviews, this cruise promises an entertaining and informative experience, thanks to the knowledgeable commentary on the canal’s history and famous residents.
Suitable for all ages, this tour is sure to delight visitors to Mooloolaba.
Read our full review: Mooloolaba: Canal Cruise With Commentary Review
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Mooloolaba: Whale Watching Cruise
Mooloolaba offers visitors an exhilarating opportunity to witness the annual migration of humpback whales during a half-day whale watching cruise.
Priced at Kč 1,323 per person, the 3-hour tour departs from The Wharf Mooloolaba, providing panoramic views from the boat’s indoor and outdoor seating areas.
Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, passengers may also spot dolphins, turtles, and sea birds along the scenic Mooloolaba coastline.
With a 4.3/5 rating based on 46 reviews, the cruise is praised for its informative crew and memorable experiences, though refunds aren’t provided if no whales are sighted.
Guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early and bring essential items like cameras and sun protection.
Read our full review: Mooloolaba: Whale Watching Cruise Review
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Morning Champagne Cruise
An enchanting 1-hour champagne cruise awaits visitors in Mooloolaba, providing a delightful start to the day. Priced from $78.14 per person, this experience aboard the luxurious 55-ft Crusader 1 vessel offers comfortable seating, scenic views, and complimentary Chandon, beer, or soft drinks.
Guests can upgrade to a bottle of Moet Champagne. The cruise departs from the Tank Bathhouse, with a free car park nearby. Visitors are advised to arrive 20 minutes early.
The experience is flexible, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. An onboard host is available to assist with any needs throughout the 1-hour journey.
Read our full review: Morning Champagne Cruise Review
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Mooloolaba: Sunshine Coast Sunset Canal Cruise
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, visitors to Mooloolaba can embark on a captivating 1-hour sunset canal cruise that showcases the region’s picturesque waterways and stunning Blackall Mountain Range.
Priced from Kč 545 per person, this cruise allows guests to enjoy views of glass-fronted waterside mansions and landmarks like Steve Irwin’s vessel Croc One.
Highlights include Mooloolah Island, Minyama Island, and La Balsa Park. Travelers can take the helm alongside the skipper or relax with a drink from the onboard bar, while enjoying live commentary about the area.
With a cancellation policy offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this sunset cruise is a must-do activity for visitors to Mooloolaba.
Read our full review: Mooloolaba: Sunshine Coast Sunset Canal Cruise Review
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From Mooloolaba: Lux Whale Watching Cruise
Visitors seeking a more luxurious whale watching experience in Mooloolaba can embark on a 3-hour Lux Whale Watching Cruise.
This highly-rated tour, with 4.0 out of 5 stars from 4 reviews, offers an upgraded experience with a smaller group size and more amenities compared to the standard whale watching cruises.
Priced at $57.96 per person, the tour provides the chance to spot humpback whales in their natural habitat, along with other marine life like dolphins and turtles.
With an experienced crew, comfortable seating, and on-board refreshments, this cruise is an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy Mooloolaba’s whale watching in style.
Read our full review: From Mooloolaba: Lux Whale Watching Cruise Review
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Gourmet Bushtucker Cultural Cruise
Mooloolaba’s Gourmet Bushtucker Cultural Cruise offers a unique culinary and cultural experience for visitors.
This 2-hour tour features a gourmet native-contemporary menu crafted by an onboard chef and engaging commentary on local history, ecology, and sustainability.
Passengers can enjoy a glass of champagne or local lager, as well as a specialty cocktail menu featuring native flavors, on the heritage-listed Huon Pine sailing vessel.
The family-friendly cruise allows guests to gain insight into the region’s rich heritage.
With a 5/5 rating from previous customers, the Bushtucker Cultural Cruise is a must-try for coastal foodies and those seeking a memorable cultural adventure in Mooloolaba.
Read our full review: Gourmet Bushtucker Cultural Cruise Review
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Recap
Mooloolaba offers a range of cruises and boat tours that cater to various interests and preferences. From sunset cruises and distillery tours to whale watching and gourmet experiences, there’s something for all. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely sightseeing excursion or a more immersive cultural experience, Mooloolaba’s waterways provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable day out on the water.