Sunshine Coast offers a fantastic variety of cruises and boat tours that showcase the region’s stunning waterways, abundant wildlife, and vibrant local culture. Unlike many coastal destinations, Sunshine Coast’s waterways are deeply woven into daily life here, making boat tours not just a sightseeing option but an immersive experience. We particularly love the Noosa River Cruise with Seafood Lunch and Commentary for its relaxed pace and delicious food, and the Sunshine Coast whale swim for a unique chance to get close to majestic humpbacks. If you’re after a full day of exploration, the Eumundi & Noosa Everglades tour combines markets, scenic drives, and a tranquil river cruise, providing a well-rounded adventure. Want more details? Check out this Sunshine Coast boat tour overview.
Quick Overview
This list highlights three top-rated tours suited for different interests and schedules. The Noosa River Cruise offers a relaxed two-hour journey with lunch and commentary, ideal for a laid-back afternoon. The Sunshine Coast whale swim is perfect for wildlife lovers wanting a close encounter with humpback whales, despite its mixed reviews. Lastly, the Eumundi & Noosa Everglades tour gives a full-day adventure combining markets, scenic drives, and a peaceful river cruise. Each experience is designed to showcase the best of what Sunshine Coast’s waterways and surrounds have to offer.
1. Noosa River Cruise with Seafood Lunch and Commentary
At number 1, the Noosa River Cruise with Seafood Lunch and Commentary stands out for its combination of scenic cruising, tasty food, and engaging commentary. This 2-hour journey departs from Noosa Marina and offers a relaxing way to see the river’s calm waters while enjoying a generous seafood lunch. The tour includes a choice of 10 delicious options, from oysters to salads, and the fully licensed bar lets you sip cocktails as you take in the views.
What makes this cruise truly special is the informative commentary from the captain, who shares insights into the area’s wildlife and history. The tour also offers an upgrade option for share plates, which is perfect if you’re a seafood lover. The itinerary includes a guided tour segment with scenic views, a meal onboard, and another cruise segment, making it a well-rounded experience. Reviewers praise its value, with a 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 10 reviews. Many mention how relaxing and enjoyable the cruise is, especially if you want a taste of local flavors and scenery without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a leisurely, food-focused cruise with engaging commentary. It’s an excellent choice for a relaxing afternoon with friends or family.
2. Sunshine Coast: Humpback Whale Cruise And Swim
Number 2 on our list is the Sunshine Coast: Humpback Whale Cruise And Swim. This 4-hour tour offers the rare chance to see and swim with humpback whales off Mooloolaba, making it a truly memorable experience. The tour emphasizes safety and responsible whale interaction, with a qualified crew guiding the way. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurous travelers eager for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
What sets this tour apart is the intimacy of the experience — you’re not just watching whales from afar but actually swimming with these gentle giants. The tour’s responsible approach ensures minimal disturbance to the whales, and the crew’s 25 years of experience helps you feel secure during the swim. However, reviews are mixed, with a 3/5 rating based on 5 reviews, citing inconsistency in whale sightings and the challenge of swimming in open water. That said, many who do get to swim report it as unforgettable. The tour includes full safety gear and professional guidance.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers and wildlife lovers who prioritize an immersive, responsible wildlife experience over scenery alone. Be prepared for potential variability in whale encounters.
3. Sunshine Coast: Eumundi & Noosa Everglades with River Cruise
Finally, the Sunshine Coast: Eumundi & Noosa Everglades with River Cruise offers a full-day exploration perfect for those who want variety. Starting with 2 hours at the iconic Eumundi Markets, the tour then takes you to Pomona for a gourmet lunch amid scenic views in the hinterland. The highlight is a 2.5-hour Serenity Cruise through the Noosa Everglades — one of the few places in the world where you can experience pristine, untouched wetlands.
This tour also includes time at Lake Cootharaba, where you can relax, explore, and spot kangaroos. The journey combines sightseeing, local culture, and nature, making it ideal for families, nature lovers, and those with a full day to spare. Reviews are generally positive for its scenic country drives and peaceful river cruise, though some mention that the full-day format requires good planning. The combination of markets, scenic drives, and river exploration makes it a comprehensive way to experience Sunshine Coast’s diverse landscapes.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a full-day experience blending markets, scenic drives, and nature cruises — especially if you enjoy local culture and peaceful landscapes.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a boat tour in Sunshine Coast, consider your priorities. If you prefer a quick, relaxing lunch cruise with good food and commentary, the Noosa River Cruise is a solid choice. For wildlife enthusiasts wanting a once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with whales, the Whale Cruise and Swim offers an unforgettable experience—just be mindful of reviews and whale sighting variability. If you’re after a full day of diverse activities, markets, and serene waterways, the Eumundi & Noosa Everglades tour provides excellent value.
Think about your time availability, budget, and what kind of experience excites you most. For instance, families and those short on time will appreciate the shorter scenic cruise, while adventure seekers may prefer the whale swim. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like winter, when whale watching is at its best.
Overall, Sunshine Coast offers a range of cruise and boat tours that suit different tastes and schedules. Whether you’re after a relaxing lunch, wildlife encounters, or a full-day exploration, you’ll find a tour that fits your travel style. For best results, plan ahead, compare options, and enjoy your time on the water.