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wildlife · Mooloolaba

Swim with Whales: Australia's Only In-Water Whale Experience

Slip into the Coral Sea alongside humpback whales on Australia's first and only permitted Swim with Whales experience. An intimate group, a world-class marine guide, and a moment that redefines bucket-list forever.

What to expect

A custom, purpose-built vessel departs Mooloolaba Marina and tracks humpback whales during their annual migration. Once a pod is located and conditions assessed, guests don wetsuits and snorkel gear and slip quietly into the water beside these 40-tonne gentle giants. Expert guides position you safely and narrate every behaviour — spy-hops, pec-slaps, mother-calf interactions. The emotional impact of eye-contact with a humpback at arm's length is something photographs simply cannot capture.

Book it with
Sunreef Mooloolaba
AUD 795 per person (swim permit season: Aug–Nov)
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Good to know

Season runs August through November — confirm your cruise date. Pre-booking months in advance is essential; spaces sell out the day they open. The marina is a 5-minute taxi ride from the cruise terminal. Wetsuit and snorkel gear included. All-aboard timing is comfortable for a morning departure.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Mooloolaba — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Azamara · Azamara Pursuit
20 nights · calls at Mooloolaba
from $4,587
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Oceania · Oceania Vista
15 nights · calls at Mooloolaba
from $5,760
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Viking Ocean · Viking Venus
16 nights · calls at Mooloolaba
from $6,999
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Regent · Seven Seas Navigator
16 nights · calls at Mooloolaba
from $8,499
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See all cruises to Mooloolaba →
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