If you are looking for information about whale watching on the Gold Coast you are in the right place. We’ve lived on the Gold Coast for over thirty years, so we can share some insider tips.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to the Gold Coast. Many come during winter to escape the cooler southern weather, and some make the Gold Coast a quick stopover as they continue their journey north to warmer climates.
But not all these visitors are land-based. Of course, I’m talking about the hundreds of Humpback Whales that pass through the Gold Coast waters as they head for warmer waters.
Sometimes, if you’re lucky, you can see these majestic creatures frolicking offshore, as we often did from the balcony or out of a window in our apartment.
However, if you want to take a closer look, I highly recommend going whale watching on the Gold Coast from a whale-watching boat. I had the opportunity, along with some other lovely bloggers, to go Whale-Watching aboard the Spirit of the Gold Coast.
Spirit Of The Gold Coast
Spirit Whale Watching is a family-run business with over 20 years of experience. They are pioneers of Whale Watching on the eastern coast of Australia. More than just tour operators, they are also passionate about conservation and raising awareness of these magnificent creatures.
The Spirit of the Gold Coast is a purpose-built 24-metre powered catamaran. With two levels and plenty of deck space, everyone is guaranteed a great view. There is also ample seating inside.
Location For Boarding
Spirit of the Gold Coast is located at the Mariners Cove Marina, which is next door to Marina Mirage. Tours depart daily at 9.30 am, with boarding from 9.00 am. The whale-watching season usually runs from June to November. If weather permits, an afternoon tour departing at 1.30 pm is sometimes offered. Of course, all tours are dependent on the weather. Tours won’t run if bad weather is forecast.
On Board The Spirit Of Gold Coast
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the friendly Spirit staff. You can have your photo taken just before boarding, which you can purchase later as a souvenir of your trip.
Complimentary tea and coffee are available on board, or you can purchase snacks, soft drinks, beer, and wine. Most importantly, if you think there is the slightest chance that you may become sea sick, you can purchase some seasickness medication.
As the water was a little choppy, I did end up taking something, and I did note that there were a few people who were feeling unwell, but the staff did a great job of looking after them.
The view from the boat as we headed out through the broad water was pretty spectacular.
SEARCHING FOR WHALES
As we made for more open water, all eyes on board were peeled for any sign of whales. As we cruised out, we saw some pods of dolphins off in the distance, which excited everyone. A Spirit crew member climbed up onto the roof of the boat and then up into the ‘crow’s nest’ lookout. Everyone was keen to be the first to see a whale.
Feeling a little ‘queasy’, I decided to head down to the lower deck. I found a spot in the corner against the railing, and it wasn’t very long before our patience was rewarded with the flip of a very large whale tail.
They sure move quickly for a very large creature, but I managed to snap a couple of pics.
We continued our search, and when it was almost time to return to shore, we were rewarded with a second sighting. It was almost like she (or he) was racing the boat.
As our second whale swam off into the depths of the ocean, it was time for us to head back in. Two and a half hours had passed so quickly, and we had been so lucky to see these beautiful mammals up close.
A Bit Of Lunch
On our return to shore, we all decided to have lunch. We headed for the Gold Coast Seafood Market which is located within the Mariners Cove precinct and enjoyed a delicious lunch of fish and chips.
The fish was beautiful, fresh, and perfectly cooked. Gold Coast Seafood Market is also licenced so I enjoyed a cold beer as well.
If you want more menu options, I can also recommend the Fisherman’s Wharf Tavern. Or, while you are in the area, why not explore more of The Spit?
WHAT TO BRING
There are a few things I recommend that you take with you on your Whale Watching cruise.
- Sea sickness tablets
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Sunhat and sunscreen
- A spray jacket
HOW TO BOOK
Bookings can be made online at Spirit Whale Watching. An adult ticket is $99.00, but it is most certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so it is well worth it.
***As per our Disclosure Policy, we received a discounted rate on the purchase price of our ticket***
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Christmas in July 2018 was great on the Saturday 7.7.18 the atmosphere, food and the live music in Jazz style including some Christmas songs was great and people seemed to enjoy themselves.