Join Captain Mike and his son with Noosa Oceanrider for a two-hour journey witnessing humpback whales breaching off the Sunshine Coast. Discover why this intimate cruise is a standout marine adventure in Tewantin’s coastal waters.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, requires basic mobility to board the boat and move around the deck.
Wildlife
History
Noosa’s coastal waters have supported Indigenous fishing communities for thousands of years and are now a focal point for marine conservation efforts.
Conservation
Noosa Oceanrider practices responsible whale watching, adhering to strict guidelines that minimize disturbance to wildlife and protect the marine environment.
Noosa Oceanrider
Join Captain Mike and his son with Noosa Oceanrider for a two-hour journey witnessing humpback whales breaching off the Sunshine Coast. Discover why this intimate cruise is a standout marine adventure in Tewantin’s coastal waters.
Noosa Oceanrider is a small tour operator based in Tewantin, Queensland, offering marine wildlife excursions along the Noosa coastline. The business operates the Oceanrider vessel and runs two primary experiences: Whale Watching Noosa and the Noosa Ocean Tour & Dolphin Safari.
Whale Watching Noosa is led by seasoned Captain Mike and his son on a leisurely cruise through local waters during the humpback migration, giving passengers the opportunity to observe breaches, tail slaps and possible mother-and-calf pairs. The Noosa Ocean Tour & Dolphin Safari delivers a higher-adrenaline ride, featuring high-speed maneuvers, ocean spray, and close coastal scenery while searching for dolphins and other marine life.
Noosa Oceanrider focuses on direct, guided encounters with local marine life and provides clear expectations about each trip’s pace and activity level. Tours depart from Tewantin and operate along recognised Noosa waterways and coastal zones. The operator highlights natural viewing opportunities rather than guaranteed sightings, and the presence of an experienced skipper offers local knowledge of whale and dolphin behaviour and likely sighting areas.
Safety and practical comfort are considered for all guests; tour descriptions specify the nature of each experience so travellers can choose leisure cruising or a more dynamic ride. Noosa Oceanrider’s offerings appeal to nature observers seeking humpback whales during migration and to adventure seekers looking for a fast, scenic ocean tour. Booking information and seasonal availability are provided by the operator, allowing visitors to select appropriate dates for migration season or for adrenaline-packed ocean tour departures along the Noosa coastline directly.
Location
Tewantin, QLD
Departures from the Noosa region
Vessel
Oceanrider
Small-boat coastal cruises
Crew
Captain Mike
Led by a seasoned skipper
Tours Offered
2 Tours
Whale watching and dolphin safari
Select Whale Watching Noosa or the Noosa Ocean Tour & Dolphin Safari — check availability and secure seats for a Tewantin departure.
Dress in layers
Ocean temperatures can be cool and wind-chill increases on open water; bring a warm jacket even in mild weather.
Bring waterproof bags
Protect cameras and electronics from sea spray with waterproof storage or cases during the cruise.
Arrive early at Noosa Marina
Give yourself time to check in and get briefed by Captain Mike before departure to avoid any rush.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
To protect the local marine environment, use sunscreen that doesn’t contain harmful chemicals.
Warm jacket
Keeps you comfortable against wind chill on open water.
fall|winter
Waterproof camera case
Protects gear from salt spray and unexpected splashes.
Sunscreen
Essential to protect skin during long exposure on deck.
spring|summer|fall
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the trip under sun and wind.