Skip the boat license and dive into an exhilarating day on the water with Sea the Gold Coast Whale Watching’s 16 Person Boat. Cook fresh pizzas, BBQ on deck, and soak in Gold Coast’s stunning waterways with friends or family.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Full day
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels since the motorized boat handles navigation and propulsion.
Wildlife
History
The Gold Coast waterways have long been vital to the Indigenous Yugambeh people, who relied on the rich marine environment for sustenance and tradition.
Conservation
Sea the Gold Coast emphasizes sustainable boating practices to protect marine life and water quality in this ecologically sensitive area.
Sea the Gold Coast Whale Watching
Skip the boat license and dive into an exhilarating day on the water with Sea the Gold Coast Whale Watching’s 16 Person Boat. Cook fresh pizzas, BBQ on deck, and soak in Gold Coast’s stunning waterways with friends or family.
Sea the Gold Coast Whale Watching operates from Southport, Queensland and offers whale watching, swim-with-whales opportunities, snorkelling and boat hire on the Gold Coast. Operating during the humpback whale season, the company runs intimate whale watching cruises and guided swim-with-whales experiences that keep groups small and prioritize an eco-friendly approach.
The fleet includes multiple vessel options: an 8 person boat and a 16 person boat available for hire without a licence, and a luxury pontoon accommodating up to 12 people. Boats are equipped with a 25hp outboard motor, a gas BBQ and a pizza oven for onboard cooking, a flush toilet and 30L of drinking water.
Guides are experienced in conducting small-group outings and focus on respectful wildlife encounters and minimal environmental impact. Snorkelling trips are offered as part of the seasonal program and are led with attention to safety and local regulations. The swim-with-whales option is presented as a rare, guided encounter in the animals' natural habitat rather than a guaranteed interaction.
Bookings and trip details are listed on adventure and booking platforms, and Sea the Gold Coast Whale Watching is featured on The Adventure Collective. The operator emphasizes informed, low-impact outings and provides clear trip summaries so visitors can choose the right option for their interests and group size. Trip durations vary by offering, with swim experiences and whale watching typically running two to three hours, while private hires vary by request. Dates align with official humpback migration season along the east coast of Australia region.
Location
Southport, QLD
Launches from Southport, Queensland
Fleet Features
25hp outboard
BBQ, pizza oven, flush toilet
Group Style
Small groups
Intimate, guided outings during season
Featured
The Adventure Collective
Included in curated listings
Check available dates during humpback season and choose the right boat for the group's size and comfort.
Book Early for Weekend Trips
Popular weekend departures fill quickly; reserve your spot at least two weeks in advance to secure your preferred date.
Bring Sun Protection
The open deck offers limited shade, so pack sunscreen, hats, and polarized sunglasses for all-day comfort.
Pack Your Own Food Supplies
While the BBQ and pizza oven are provided, you'll need to bring your own ingredients to make the most of the onboard cooking facilities.
Check Weather Before Boarding
Boating conditions vary; strong winds or storms may delay or reschedule trips, so confirm weather updates to avoid surprises.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from prolonged sun exposure on the open water.
summer
Wide-Brim Hat
Provides essential shade and reduces glare during bright daylight.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day with easy access to fresh water onboard.
Light Jacket
Helpful for cooler mornings and evenings on the water.
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