What to expect whale watching on the Gold Coast at a glance
Our safari-style whale watching tour runs for about 2.5 hours from departure, with a maximum of 12 guests on a 32ft open-ocean rigid inflatable boat. Daily departures are 7:00am, 10:30am and 2:00pm (weather and tide dependent), and every tour leaves from Chinderah on the Tweed River, about 10 minutes drive from Coolangatta.
Arrival and check-in
On arrival you will be greeted by one of the friendly crew, who will check you in on the iPad. Look for the big trailer parked along the river. Our departure point guide has the address, directions and parking, and a note on Queensland time: we run on QLD time, which is one hour behind NSW during daylight saving.
Safety briefing and the Tweed River
Before we head to the Pacific Ocean via the Tweed River, the skipper runs a short safety briefing and an overview of the day's itinerary, with time for any questions. Your lifejacket is fitted, then we board the vessel. On the river you may see eagles, dolphins and even the occasional kangaroo.
All crew are trained in First Aid, CPR/Oxygen and Advanced resuscitation, and oxygen, a defibrillator and a comprehensive Australian Maritime Safety Authority first aid kit are kept onboard.
The boat
We operate a customised commercial safari-style open-ocean RIB (rigid inflatable boat), 32ft long and seating 12 guests plus captain and crew. RIBs were originally designed and built as rescue craft and patrol vessels. Ours has 'jockey' seating, and each seat opens up to give water-tight storage for valuables.
Two 250HP Suzuki engines let us travel at up to 35 knots (65km/h), with the captain deciding the safe speed at any time. Seating is close to the water with 360 degree viewing, so you watch the whales at eye level and nobody has to fight for the best spot.
How close do we get?
There are rules for watching whales: we must stay at least 100m from a whale. Luckily the whales never get a copy of the regulations. Humpbacks are curious and often come over for a closer look, and on a boat this low a whale's blow or pec splash might actually spray your face. Read how we look after the animals on our conservation page.
What you might see
Every whale watch is different. Expect blows, breaching, tail-slapping and sometimes spy hopping, along with the chance of dolphins, sea turtles, eagles and flying fish. Our on-board naturalist gives commentary on whales and ocean conservation, as well as Australian Aboriginal and European history and the local area. Whale sightings from the boat are 100% guaranteed, or you return for free.
Learn more about the humpback whales you will meet, or check the whale watching season for the best time to go.
What to bring and wear
It is colder out on the water, so come prepared with layers. We recommend:
- Beanie and a warm jumper or jacket
- Spray jacket or rain coat
- Sunglasses and hat
- Camera, GoPro and the like
- Drinking water
To confirm with Lachy: are basic ponchos provided on whale watching tours (live tour page), spray jackets available on request (Rezdy listing), or both?
We do not sell bottled water, but you can refill your bottle with us. Light snacks are welcome. Backpacks and large bags are not allowed onboard; we provide dry bags, and the seats store wallets and phones. If you are prone to seasickness, see your doctor or pharmacist before the day; we also sell seasickness tablets before departure. Will you get wet? Possibly, but it is all part of the adventure.
Who can come
- Minimum age 6 years
- Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
- Not suitable for pregnant women or anyone with a back injury
After a few hours of unforgettable moments we head back up the river to the jetty.
More questions
Will I get wet on a whale watching tour?
Possibly, but it is all part of the adventure. The boat sits low to the water, so a whale's blow or splash might reach you. Bring a spray jacket or rain coat.
