Whale Watching Gold Coast Specialists
Look beneath the surface into the world of the majestic Humpback Whale. Join Cooly Eco Adventures for an exclusive, unforgettable experience swimming with these gentle giants off the Gold Coast. Book a tour for whale watching Gold Coast or view our other experiences below.
OUR MISSION
To be the most environmentally conscious, informative and fun seafaring adventure company in Australia.
We endeavour to deliver an unparalleled ocean experience for patrons which is fun and illuminating, providing education in the areas of ocean conservation, marine life and ecology, whether that be whale watching tours, swimming with whales or lots more.
We love the ocean, we love the marine life within it and we want nothing more than to share that love and passion with you!
- 15+Years Working and Diving with Whales
- 15+Years of Diving and Commercial Tourism Experience
- 500+5 Star Reviews
- 8+Years of Contributing to Whale, Dolphin, and Turtle Research
SWIM WITH WHALES
GOLD COAST
Look beneath the surface into the world of the majestic Humpback Whale. Enjoy an unforgettable eye-to-eye experience with these gentle giants right here on the Gold Coast.
WHALE WATCHING
GOLD COAST
Join us for an intimate safari style whale-watching experience on our open-ocean adventure vessel. Observe these beautiful creatures at eye level with a maximum of 12 guests, while you also soak in this rich and diverse stretch of coastline.
SWIM WITH TURTLES
GOLD COAST
Join us for our Snorkeling Gold Coast tour and swim with turtles located near the Gold Coast, Coolangatta and Tweed heads area. You will see the wonders of the Pacific Ocean from above and below the surface.
DOLPHIN AND TURTLE
SAFARI GOLD COAST
Join us for a safari style Dolphin & Turtle - watching experience on our open-ocean adventure vessel. Observe these beautiful creatures at eye level with a maximum of 12 guests, while you also soak in the diverse stretch of coastline.
COOLY ECO ADVENTURES
To swim with whales is undoubtedly a remarkable, intimate experience you won’t soon forget.
Each year between May and November the subtropical waters of Australia’s east coast host 40,000 humpback whales on migration from Antarctica. They follow the path of the continental shelf which runs closest to the shoreline between Byron Bay and the Gold Coast, making this the prime location for us to witness the whales in their natural environment.
With a love for the environment comes a strong devotion to sustainability
biodegradable
We use Biodegradable and reef friendly cleaning products and provide reef safe sunscreen onboard. This helps reduce the impact of harsh chemicals on the reef and marine life.
no touch, no take
All our guests are informed about the marine life they are going to see in and out of the water. A no touch, no take policy is implemented on all tours, ensuring minimal disturbance to marine life.
composting
We compost out food scraps, leftovers and our coffee cups so that less ends up in landfill.
plastic free wherever possible
We have reduced our single use plastic waste or cut it out entirely wherever we can.
minimal marine emissions
When only the best is good enough.
The boats engines two best in-class 2025 Suzuki 250hp with ultra low emissions.
They are serviced and updated regularly to ensure efficiency and minimal emissions.a clean, green machine
The company Troop Carrier has been upgraded to a Hydrogen enhancing fuel system, which has increased the mileage by 40% and reduced 99% of the emissions coming out of the tail pipe!!
uniforms
All crew uniforms are made from recycled materials and are fair trade certified.
gear
The gear we provide is purchased from reputable, high quality brands to ensure longevity. When our wetsuits reach the ends of their lives, we give them back to brands that recycle the rubber.
AWARDS & ACHIEVEMENTS
Recognised for Excellence
about our tours
EDUCATE
We endeavour to deliver an unparalleled ocean experience for patrons which is fun and illuminating, providing education in the areas of ocean conservation, marine life and ecology, whether that be whale watching tours, swimming with whales or lots more.
SUSTAINABILITY
With a love of the environment comes a strong devotion to environmental sustainability. Our goal is to stop further deterioration of our planet and its oceans, by educating and encouraging a shift in human behaviour toward a more symbiotic relationship with nature.
PARTNERSHIPS
We team up with brands that share our commitment to sustainability and quality. From top of range gear suppliers to fair trade uniform and merchandise providers, our partnerships ensure we operate responsibly while delivering top-notch experiences. Together, we strive to inspire ocean conservation through every aspect of our tours.
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I CAN'T SAY ENOUGH HOW FANTASTIC OUR WHALE SWIM ADVENTURE WAS, FROM START TO FINISH.
What an incredible experience! Swimming with whales has always been a bucket list item for me, so this trip was amazing. Lachlan the captain and Kas the guide were amazing with how they ran the whole tour and their knowledge of whales and the area. They knew which whales to just watch and which ones to jump in the water with. He tracked down a whale that was breaching so many times, we lost count and even breached right near the boat! Easily one of the best experiences I have had so highly, highly recommend doing it!!
- Rob Barbuto
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Thanks to Lachie and his crew for one of the best wildlife experiences we have had.
Lachie is so knowledgeable and was committed to giving us the best experience possible. The whales welfare was also paramount, as it should be. The crew were super friendly and patient and made us all feel safe with our induction and time in and out of the water. Will definitely go again! A huge thank you to the crew!
- Joanne Aldridge
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Cooly Eco Adventures provided an unforgettable experience!
The team was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the trip so enjoyable. We were lucky to see an abundance of turtles and other incredible marine life up close - truly amazing! Highly recommend for anyone looking to connect with nature and have an amazing day out on the water!
- Travis Wakefield
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ABSOLUTELY AMAZING MORNING!
Attentive and respectful guides, beautiful views, swam with whales twice plus so much spotting. Real once in a lifetime experience.Highly recommend!
- Meg Burns
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AMAZING TEAM AND A WHALE WATCHING EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME!
Forget the large boats, here you will be close and agile and you have a crew who does everything to ensure you get to see, hear and feel these incredible creatures of our seas. Highly recommended!
- Quirin Schwaighofer
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WE HAD A FABULOUS DAY WITH THE COOLY ECO TEAM, SWIMMING WITH TURTLES AROUND COOK ISLAND.
The experience was magical, the guides were knowledgable, and the memories will last a lifetime! Highly recommended.
- Renee Bertolus
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
got questions?we’ve got answers.
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When is the best time of year to see whales?
From June to November on the east coast of Australia. Behaviours change throughout the season. If you want to try see mothers and calf’s, come in late October November. The best time to swim with whales is between the months of August to October
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Where does the tour depart from?
We are departing from:
NSW Tours: 139 Chinderah Bay Dr, Chinderah NSW 2487.
Look for the big trailer parked along the river, and your friendly crew!
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Can I book a private charter?
Yes, Private charters are available. Please call or email us for availability.
