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Whale Watch

Sea World Whale Watch FAQ

Why choose Sea World Whale Watch?

Sea World Whale Watch will introduce a new level of education and entertainment to the awe-inspiring natural experience of getting up close and personal with one of the world’s largest mammals.

Sea World Whale Watch’s state of the art whale watching vessel is the newest on the Gold Coast and the only vessel currently operating that is custom designed for environmentally friendly whale watching. Three levels of open viewing platforms, ample deck space and restricted passenger numbers means there is plenty of room to move and the tour remains a personal one – you will never have to look over someone’s shoulder to see a whale!

Our onboard interactive education technology is a first for Australia which means your interactive experience with the whales will be unique. With the expert guidance of our marine tour hosts controlling an amazing array of 3D animation presentations, the world of the whales will be revealed to you as never before. The use of advanced whale location technology also means your interactive experience with the whales will be considerably enhanced.

What are your green/eco credentials?

Our state of the art whale watching vessel is specially designed and constructed for environmentally friendly whale watching. Her custom keel design protects whales from harm and our engines exceed international emission standards and produce minimal underwater noise. Our on-board toilet and grey water waste is never allowed to pollute the ocean. We are entering the world of the whales and so wish to make as little impact upon their world as possible. Sea World, through its Research and Rescue Foundation, has made a meaningful contribution to marine conservation by conducting internationally recognised research studies, promoting marine education and rescuing Humpback Whales which have become stranded or entangled in nets. Sea World has been assisting with the rescue of beached and entrapped Humpback Whales since 1974.

How much does a tour cost?

Adults - $99.00 per person
Pensioners / Children (3-13yrs) - $77.00 per person

The 2009 Whale Watching season has now finished. The 2010 Whale Watching season will commence in June 2010 and tickets will go on sale in early May 2010.

Do you have an exclusive use rate?

Yes, an exclusive use rate is available upon application. Email us to enquire.

Do I have to buy a ticket to Sea World to take Sea World Whale Watch tour?

You do not need to purchase a Sea World ticket to take a Sea World Whale Watch tour. 

Does my Sea World Whale Watch booking include entry to Sea World?

Entry to Sea World is NOT included as part of your Sea World Whale Watch booking. 

Can I take my children?

Yes, however children under three years of age are not permitted on the tour. Our experience is that children under three years of age do not react well to open sea conditions.

Is there disabled access?

Yes, we have a disabled toilet on board and the lower deck has wheelchair access and viewing areas. Please let us know in advance if you are making a disabled person booking so our crew can prepare and assist.

How do I make a booking?

The 2009 Whale Watching season has now finished. The 2010 Whale Watching season will commence in June 2010 and tickets will go on sale in early May 2010.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes. There is a high demand for our tours. We advise you to book well in advance.

What are the tour times?

TOUR TIMES
Tour 1 - Departs 10:00am and Returns 12:30pm.
Tour 2 - Departs 02:00pm and Returns 04:30pm.

You must check-in 30 minutes prior to your tour time.

How long do the tours run for?

Tour duration is approximately 2.5 - 3 hours. Including check-in time, you should allow 3.5 hours in total.

Where does the tour go?

We leave from the Sea World Terminal, travel along the Broadwater, out through the Gold Coast Seaway then from 3 to 15 nautical miles offshore.

What will I see?

Every Sea World Whale Watch tour is a unique experience and the sightings vary. Depending on the day, you’ll see migrating Humpback Whales and maybe Bottlenose or Common Dolphins. You will also get a fantastic view of the Gold Coast skyline and hinterland from the sea.

What are the chances of seeing a whale?

The chances are very high. We are expert whale finders. Our strike rate so far on the Gold Coast is 100%.

Am I guaranteed to see a whale?

There is no guarantee that your tour will see a whale but the chances are very high. Sea World Whale Watch has a very high success rate in finding whales. If your tour does not see a whale, a return trip for the same whale season will be offered. If the tour is cancelled, a full refund will be given.

What happens if the sea and weather conditions are not suitable?

Sea World Whale Watch tours are always dependent on sea conditions. Sea World Whale Watch staff constantly monitor the weather and respond professionally to any changes. This may mean a tour is cancelled or safety restrictions placed on children or passengers with medical problems. Passenger comfort and safety is always our priority.

What happens if the tour is cancelled?

You will receive a full refund.

Can I cancel my booking?

Bookings are non refundable and non-transferable.

How big is the boat?

24 metres (80 feet) long and 9 metres wide (30 feet) with walk around decks and three large viewing platforms. The vessel was purpose built in 2008 for Gold Coast whale watching conditions.

How many passengers does the boat carry?

We restrict passenger numbers to a maximum of 125 to ensure the whale watching experience remains a personal one.

What should I wear on my Whale Watch tour?

Flat shoes. Hat for sun protection. Something warm in case it gets cold. Something in case of a rain shower.

What should I take on my Whale Watch tour?

Sunscreen, hat, camera, seasickness remedy.

Can I buy these items on the boat?

Yes, there is an on-board shop selling these items and a shop within the Sea World Terminal building.

What if I get seasick?

If you are susceptible to motion sickness we offer wrist straps for hire or purchase. We also sell a range of natural motion-sickness tablets. All our whale watch tours are graded with a seasickness warning announced over our PA system prior to tour departure.

Can I buy film aboard?

You can buy disposable cameras aboard the boat.

Is there food and drink on the boat?

Cold drinks and food are available to purchase on board.

Can I take my own food and drink on the boat?

Yes – but not commercially prepared fast foods. Glassware, sharp knives and implements may not be brought onto the boat.

Do you have a Smoking Policy?

Smoking is not permitted aboard the boat or inside the Sea World Whale Watch Terminal.