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7 Best Moreton Island Tours in 2024 (For Nature & Adventure)

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Have you been wondering best Moreton Island tours? I’ve got you covered!

Welcome to the captivating world of Moreton Island tours!

Discover the hidden treasures of Brisbane’s secret garden – Moreton Island.

With its stunning sand dunes, intriguing sunken shipwrecks, and shimmering beaches, this slice of paradise beckons adventurous travelers to explore its wonders.

Living on the Sunshine Coast has given us the incredible opportunity to explore this gem on multiple occasions.

We have experienced the island both via an organized tour and on a DIY trip.

We have had the pleasure of both visiting the island as a couple and, on a separate occasion, exploring its wonders alongside our three children.

Now, why should you trust our insights? Because we understand the desire for unforgettable experiences and want to help fellow travelers find the best Moreton Island tours.

With our expertise and passion, we’ve curated a selection of the 7 absolute best tours that will leave you in awe.

So, keep reading to unveil the secrets of Moreton Island and discover the extraordinary experiences waiting for you.

It’s time to experience the adventure of a lifetime!

🏆 BEST MORETON ISLAND TOUR

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best choice is this full-day trip to Moreton Island from Brisbane or Gold Coast onboarding a spacious boat Moreton Island Full-Day Trip

Quick Guide: Best Moreton Island Tours

After a quick list of the Moreton Island tours? Here are the best tours.

Moreton Island Full-Day Trip

• Duration: 1 day
• Type of Tour: A full-day trip to Moreton Island onboarding a spacious boat with an outdoor area and a covered seating area.
• Included: Guided tour with lunch and exciting outdoor activities

Dolphin and Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise

• Type of Tour: A full-day trip to Moreton Island paradise via a comfortable catamaran
• Included: Tropical buffet lunch onboard, entrance fees for national parks and marine parks

Tangalooma Day Cruise with ATV Quad Bike Tour

• Type of Tour: A full-day trip to Tangalooma via roundtrip boat transfer
• Included: Complimentary standard beverage, lunch voucher, and an ATV quad bike tour.

Best Moreton Island Tours

Here is your guide to the best Moreton Island tour for those seeking the ultimate tour experience in Morton Island.

Your sole responsibility is to make a choice.

1. Moreton Island Full-Day Trip

Tour Overview:

• Tour Type:  A full-day trip to Moreton Island from Brisbane or the Gold Coast boarding a spacious boat with an outdoor area and a covered seating area.
• Guest Rating: 4.5 Stars (Reviewed by over 550+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Moreton Bay, Tangalooma Wrecks, Gheebulum Coonungai National Park
• Departure Point:  Gold Coast Departure at 5:45 AM, Brisbane Coach Terminal Departure at 7 AM, 14 Howard Smith Drive, Port of Brisbane at 7:30 AM
• Length:  1 day
• Check Tour Price on Get Your Guide

Experience a captivating full-day trip to Moreton Island!

Begin your adventure by sitting back and enjoying the air-conditioned drive to the boat’s departure point.

Once aboard, relax and take in the breathtaking ocean views during the cruise across Moreton Bay.

Indulge in a delectable lunch that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Then, get ready for exciting outdoor activities including kayaking and a snorkeling tour around impressive shipwrecks .

Keep your eyes peeled for enchanting turtles, vibrant fish, and graceful rays. To top it all off, brace yourself for the thrill of sand tobogganing .

This engaging journey promises an unforgettable experience on Moreton Island.

Such a great experience! I was a lone traveler on this experience, made friends instantly and had a blast. All the guides were so nice and welcoming to questions, ready to help out at any moment. The amount of time spent on each activity was great and the lunch was delicious. 10/10 would recommend to anyone looking to try something new and have a fulfilled adventure. Savanna – United States   (Read More  Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Important Note:

– Hotel pickup and drop-off is not included

– Transportation to and from your destination is provided.

– Lunch on the beach is included.

– Visitors are responsible for covering the entrance and the national park fee.

– On designated public holidays, a peak surcharge of $20 AUD is payable directly to the activity provider.

– The package includes an exciting fully guided tour of Moreton Island, complete with snorkeling equipment and kayaks. You’ll also receive a safety vest and orientation, as well as a thrilling 4WD experience on the island.

– Children aged 3 years and younger and pregnant women are not allowed on the tour.

– Please note that the precise tour departure time will be provided when you contact to confirm your reservation.

– Pets and large bags are not allowed.

Why You Will Love This Tour:

• Discover the captivating expanse known as “The Desert” on the island . Embark on an adventure cruising through the rugged terrain in a powerful 4X4, and feel the thrill of sand tobogganing.
• Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Gheebulum Coonungai National Park, spanning across the majority of Moreton Island.
• Experience the opportunity to observe green sea turtles, colorful fish, and rays in their natural habitat as you snorkel around the famous shipwrecks.

Experience the all-encompassing Moreton Island Tour , where you can enjoy a full-day excursion.

Unwind during the cruise, savor a delightful lunch, and engage in thrilling outdoor activities.

Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement!

2. Dolphin and Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise

• Tour Type:  A full-day tour to Moreton Island paradise with delicious tropical buffet lunch onboard the luxurious and comfortable catamaran.
• Guest Rating: 4.5 Stars (Reviewed by over 300+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Moreton Bay Marine Park, Tangalooma Wrecks
• Departure Point:  The designated meeting point may vary based on the selected option.

For seeking an unforgettable adventure on Moreton Island, join the Dolphin and Tangalooma Wreck Day Cruise.

Embark on a journey that includes snorkeling the renowned Tangalooma Wrecks from a dedicated vessel.

Indulge in a delectable tropical buffet lunch featuring succulent ocean king prawns.

Encounter the wonders of the ocean as you come face-to-face with wild dolphins, sea turtles, and dugongs.

Relax aboard the vessel and relish in flavorful frozen cocktails and a fully stocked bar.

Enjoy free time on the beach, where you can engage in activities like fish feeding and kayaking .

Discover the perfect blend of excitement and serenity on this remarkable island getaway.

We experienced snorkelling at the shipwreck, had wonderful lunch on the ferry in the sunshine, did some water activities in free time (sup and kayaking) and watched sea turtles and dolphins! The main activity snorkelling was amazing. Lunch was much better than I expected and fruit was served after water activities. Unfortunately we couldn’t see any dugong but other than that, it was amazing and $199 is really good price Nao – Australia   (Read More  Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included.

– Morning tea and coffee upon boarding and a tropical buffet lunch are included.

– Entrance fees for national parks and the pristine Moreton Bay Marine Park are included.

– Snorkeling equipment, kayaking, and beach sporting equipment are free to use.

– Guests have the option to purchase alcoholic beverages from the well-stocked onboard bar.

• Join the knowledgeable naturalist guides for a captivating fish-feeding session, where you’ll encounter and learn about the diverse array of 200 species that inhabit the area.
• Satisfy your appetite for a delectable gourmet tropical buffet with ocean king prawns.
• Explore the habitat where six out of the seven species of sea turtles and herds of timid and gentle dugongs reside.

Experience the ultimate adventure on the Dolphin and Tangalooma Wreck Day Cruise.

Sail through the day on a modern catamaran, enjoying the freedom to tailor your experience to your liking.

With all activities included and top-quality equipment and water safety items provided, this tour offers the perfect opportunity to discover the wonders of Moreton Island.

Uncover the beauty, excitement, and tranquility this destination has to offer and create unforgettable memories along the way.

3. Moreton Island Adventure with Roundtrip Ferry Transfer

• Tour Type:  A full-day trip to Tangalooma Island Resort with round-trip ferry transfers from Brisbane
• Guest Rating: 4.2 Stars (Reviewed by over 300+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Moreton Island, Tangalooma Island Resort
• Length:  8-9 hours

Experience a thrilling full-day Moreton Island adventure with roundtrip ferry transfers , perfect for travelers seeking an unforgettable tour.

Start by catching the return ferry to Tangalooma Island Resort (popular Tangalooma complex), where pristine white sandy beaches await.

Enjoy a day filled with exciting activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling .

Indulge in the resort’s top-notch facilities, including two refreshing swimming pools, perfect for those who prefer land over sand.

Engage in friendly beach volleyball or cricket matches with loved ones, or simply unwind and soak up the beach vibes.

This exciting trip guarantees a day of fun, relaxation, and cherished memories.

The activity was stellar! They provide transportation to and from the island, as well as 3 hours of kayaking, 3 hours of snorkeling equipment (you can rent a wetsuit for an extra $10) , and 1 hour of stand up paddle boarding! 7 hours worth of activities! The snorkeling is amazing with the wrecks and reefs that have since grown on them. The experience is self guided (except the boat ride, obviously), which we really liked, but it is something to keep in mind. If you are looking for an experience with a guide, this one is not for you. Or you will have to pay extra when you get to the island to have a guide (tour operators) lead you. Katherine – United States (Read More  Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel pick-up, drop-off, and land transfers are not included.

– The package includes convenient round-trip ferry transfers from Brisbane.

– Meals and drinks are not included.

– Please note that this tour is not recommended for children under the age of 6 or individuals with respiratory conditions.

– A $50 deposit is mandatory for all borrowed equipment, and it will be fully refunded upon the undamaged return of the equipment.

• Enjoy a complimentary 3-hour kayak session or a 1-hour stand-up paddle board experience.
• Join a fantastic array of activities by spending an entire day on lovely Moreton Island.
• Experience unrestricted access to the resort’s extensive range of facilities and amenities, featuring not just one, but two swimming pools.

Experience a delightful day of adventure on Moreton Island with the convenience of roundtrip transfers.

This tour offers an incredible range of activities and complete access to the resort’s facilities and amenities.

This is a wonderful chance for wanderers longing to discover the charms of Moreton Island and indulge in an unforgettable escapade.

4. Day Cruise to Tangalooma Island Resort with Choices of Different Tours

• Tour Type:  A Moreton Island day trip with nature to Tangahooma Island Resort perfect for families including delightful lunch.
• Guest Rating: 4 Stars (Reviewed by over 100+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Tangalooma Island Resort
• Departure Point:  220 Holt St, Pinkenba
• Check Tour Price on Viator

For travelers seeking an unforgettable experience on Moreton Island, look no further than a day cruise to Tangalooma Island Resort .

This enchanting excursion includes a day pass granting access to the resort’s facilities, including variety of pools, good restaurants on-site, and lively bars.

Additionally, a lunch voucher awaits to be savored at the resort’s restaurant.

As for the adventure-seeking souls, you have the privilege to choose and join on a thrilling desert safari tour, a marine-discovery cruise, a snorkeling tour, or an exciting ATV Quad Bike Tour.

Join this remarkable journey, where luxury and excitement intertwine in perfect harmony.

A Exceptionally good day started off with a very pleasant boat trip to the island. Well organised and friendly staff. Once we got to the island, we were made to feel welcome as daytrippers. The snorkelling, the Tangalooma Shipwrecks was awesome. We chose the quad bike riding which was great fun and stayed for dinner, which was very nice and reasonably priced. Then we watched the dolphin feeding and caught the last ferry back. Would definitely recommend this trip we would go again and quite possibly would stay a few nights at Tangalooma resort. Thank you Peter L   (Read More  Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– The lunch voucher includes a value of $25 for adults and $20 for children.

– Choose your adventure, Desert Safari Tour, Marine Discovery Cruise, Snorkel Tour or ATV Quad Bike Tour.

– The age requirement for participating in the ATV Quad Bike tour is 10 years old.

– Participants must be at least 6 years old to join the Snorkel activity.

– Please note that Eco Ranger experiences may be subject to change and animal availability.

– Please ensure you reach Holt St Wharf at least one hour before the scheduled departure time.

• Indulge in an exciting day filled with thrilling activities. Take your pick from sand tobogganing, a wildlife-spotting cruise, snorkeling, or an ATV Quad Bike Tour.
• Feel free to indulge in the resort’s amenities, including the refreshing pool and vibrant bar, if you prefer to unwind and simply enjoy your time.
• Experience the captivating “World of Dolphins” presentation at the Eco Centre.

The day tour to Tangalooma Island Resort offers the perfect opportunity for families to enjoy a fun-filled day with a range of exciting activities and easy access to the resort’s facilities.

With a maximum limit of 100 participants, this tour is curated for travelers seeking an extraordinary experience on Moreton Island.

5. Tangalooma Day Cruise with ATV Quad Bike Tour

• Tour Type:  A full day trip to Tangalooma and experience an exhilarating rush on an ATV quad biking adventure.
• Guest Rating: 4.6 Stars (Reviewed by over 70+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Tangalooma, Moreton Island
• Departure Point: Gather at the ticket hut located at Tangalooma Wharf one hour prior to the scheduled start time of the tour.

Experience the ultimate day cruise at Tangalooma on Moreton Island, perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a thrilling exploration.

Delight in an array of activities including a heart-racing ATV quad bike tour, complete with full resort access, a delectable lunch, immersive Eco Ranger experiences, and a captivating dolphin presentation.

Get ready for a breathtaking journey, one that will ignite your senses and create everlasting memories to treasure.

The ATV riding was fun! We had 2 adults and 2 kids (ages 10 & 13) and our guide split us off from the rest of the group so we didn’t slow the others down but we could still enjoy the ride. She was very patient as my kids learned how to operate the ATVs and let us ride a bit longer. When you arrive at the ferry terminal they give you specific instructions to proceed to the resort desk to receive your tickets with a time to get to the ATV activity. The rest of the time on the island is up to you to do what you wish. Rachel_Japan   (Read More  Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel pickup and drop-off is not included.

– Additional snacks, drinks, and beverages will be at your personal expense.

– The package includes a convenient roundtrip boat transfer from Brisbane.

– Enjoy a complimentary standard beverage of your choice during the boat transfer. Options include soft drinks, tea, coffee, or water.

– Includes an ATV Quad Bike Tour.

– The age requirement for this tour is 10 and above.

• Experience an exhilarating rush with an adventurous ATV quad bike ride.
• Unwind and indulge in the exclusive amenities of Tangalooma Island Resort.
• Gain invaluable knowledge on conservation and the intricate ecosystems from a dedicated team of Eco Rangers.

Experience the ultimate adventure with Tangalooma day cruise and ATV quad bike tour!

Enjoy a full-day pass to Tangalooma Island Resort while getting your adrenaline pumping on a thrilling ATV quad bike ride.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to explore the beauty of Moreton Island and indulge in excitement like never before.

6. Day Trip Wreck Snorkeling and Dolphin Feeding

• Tour Type:  A day trip filled with adventure, relaxation, and delightful discoveries complete with a scrumptious lunch included at Tangalooma Island Resort
• Guest Rating: 4.4 Stars (Reviewed by over 50+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Tangalooma Island Resort, Moreton Island
• Departure Point:  220 Holt Street, Pinkenba (Brisbane Wharf)

Experience an unforgettable day trip to Moreton Island , where adventure blends harmoniously with tranquility.

Begin your journey from Brisbane on a scenic ferry ride, savoring a complimentary beverage along the way.

Upon arrival, be welcomed by the pristine Tangalooma Island Resort, offering an oasis of relaxation and recreation, complete with access to pools, restaurants, and bars.

Immerse yourself in the captivating underwater world as you embark on a guided snorkeling tour of the Tangalooma Wreck.

And to top it all off? Delight in the exhilarating opportunity to hand-feed wild bottlenose dolphins, forging a close, personal connection.

Cherish the memories of this excursion, forever infused with the vibrancy of adventure, the allure of beauty, and the incredible wonders of Moreton Island.

We had a great experience on the day trip. Early morning start was great as it gave us time to walk along the beach to the wrecks, had a great snorkelling experience with us seeing a lion fish and octopus. James the local guide was great and had a wealth of knowledge. Good food options with the voucher, tasty cocktails with a view finished with dolphins. Overall great experience Katrina – Australia (Read More  Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Includes guided snorkeling tour and access to the dolphin feeding program for the wild dolphin feeding experience.

– The dolphin feeding experience relies on factors such as dolphin attendance, tides, and weather conditions.

– The age requirement for this tour is 6 and above.

• Go on an exquisite snorkeling adventure to the enchanting Tangalooma Wrecks, a haven teeming with diverse reef fish, stunning coral formations, and vibrant local marine life.
• Observe the awe-inspiring sight of a magnificent group of dolphins visiting the shore, engaging in a playful symphony before their feeding time begins.
• Enjoy full access to the amenities available, including multiple pools, delightful cafes, restaurants, bars, and, the pristine beach.

Experience a memorable day trip to Moreton Island, where you can experience the tranquility of wreck snorkeling and the joy of hand-feeding dolphins . Yes, you heard us right, you can hand feed dolphins.

Not only will you have full access to Tangalooma Island Resort, but you will also embark on an unforgettable journey that combines relaxation and exploration.

Join fellow travelers in indulging themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying the unique features that this tour has to offer.

7. Whale Watching Day Cruise

• Tour Type:  A 3-hour whale-watching cruise with lunch served onboard for a maximum group of 180 travelers.
• Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 40+ travelers)
• Length:  1 day with a 3-hour whale-watching cruise

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a whale-watching day cruise tailored for travelers seeking the ultimate Moreton Island experience.

Begin your journey with a scenic catamaran cruise that traverses the breathtaking Moreton Bay Marine Park, transporting you from Brisbane to Tangalooma.

As you set sail, enjoy a refreshing standard beverage along with the boat transfer, choosing from a selection of tea, coffee, soft drink, or water.

Delight in a delectable onboard lunch served to satisfy your appetite.

Brace yourself for a captivating 3-hour whale-watching cruise, where majestic marine giants gracefully grace the waters.

To further enhance your experience, the resort access pass grants you entry to the resort facilities, including two swimming pools, restaurants, and bars.

Experience an enchanting adventure and let your wanderlust run wild. Join this captivating escapade of exploration and discovery.

Awesome experience to see whales closeup, make sure you have a windcheater, sunscreen as it can be cold ( windy) and very sunny as well. Great packed lunch with petite ham roll, gourmet chicken salad, nice lemon slice and a crisp red apple which was absolutely fantastic. Good commentary provided by an Eco Ranger and the skipper of the boat found lots of whales. Highlight of the cruise seeing several whales breaching close to the boat. Well worth the effort! Geoffrey Y   (Read More  Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Light lunch is served on board.

– To ensure a smooth departure, kindly arrive at Holt St Wharf 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

– The tour is dependent on prevailing weather conditions.

– Please note that there will be no refund for bookings canceled within 48 hours of travel or in the case of a no-show.

• Join an educational tour and dive deep into the fascinating world of humpback whales.
• Experience the thrill of whale-watching in ultimate comfort aboard a spacious boat, perfect for those who may be prone to seasickness.
• Enjoy a delightful lunch while cruising aboard a boat.

Experience the thrill of whale watching on a day cruise , where a maximum of 180 travelers can indulge in watching these majestic creatures while enjoying a delightful lunch onboard.

As an added bonus, travelers also receive a day pass to Tangalooma Island Resort, providing them the opportunity to explore the wonders of Moreton Island.

FAQs About the Best Moreton Island Tours

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the best Moreton Island tours

Absolutely! Moreton Island, regarded as the gem of Southeast Queensland, offers breathtaking beauty and an incredible range of adventures. This natural wonder is the third largest sand island globally, conveniently situated just over an hour away from Brisbane. Whether you seek a wildlife encounter, an adrenaline-pumping escapade, or a tranquil retreat from city life, Moreton Island has it all!

For an ideal trip to Moreton Island, plan to spend around one to three days. Many travelers flock to this island for a delightful weekend getaway, making it perfect for adventurers seeking excitement or those simply longing to unwind and relax

The ideal time to visit Moreton Island is in autumn. This season offers delightful weather with clear blue skies and perfect water temperatures for swimming. While summer tends to be the busiest, especially during school holidays, avoiding these peak times ensures a more serene experience with fewer crowds.

To fully explore Moreton Island, a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is required as the island can only be traversed using such vehicles. Before arriving on the island, it is necessary to obtain a vehicle permit through proper organization. You have two options: bring your own or hire one in Brisbane. Campers are particularly advised to opt for a 4WD due to its versatility. It’s worth noting that no vehicle recovery service or mechanic is available on the island, so it is strongly recommended to have your own recovery gear handy. 

Yes, it is possible to snorkel at Tangalooma without a tour. While there are snorkeling tours (and other full-day tours) available, they are not necessary. From the resort, it’s a short 25-30 minute walk along the beach to reach the shipwrecks. Once there, you can easily swim out from the shore within 5 minutes. So, you have the freedom to explore and enjoy the snorkeling experience at your own pace.

Final Thoughts on the Best Moreton Island Tours

Looking to experience the best of Moreton Island? Look no further!

Our article highlights three incredible tours: the Morton Island full-day trip, the dolphin and Tangalooma wreck day cruise, and the Tangalooma day cruise with ATV quad bike tour .

These Moreton Island adventures are designed to engage travelers in the beauty and excitement of island.

Curious to learn more about our captivating Moreton Island tour?

Dive into our fascinating blog, where we unveil the highlights of our exhilarating 2-day adventure and share our glowing review of the renowned Tangalooma Island Resort .

But the exploration doesn’t stop here! Dive deeper into Australia’s wonders by checking out our other blogs.

Discover the hidden gems, insider tips, and extraordinary experiences this incredible country has to offer.

Start your Australian adventure today!

More Articles to Help You Plan Your Trip to Australia

Australia is an exquisite destination that promises an unforgettable vacation for anyone seeking a remarkable getaway.

Explore these exquisite dream vacation destinations and discover the captivating wonders that Australia has in store.

Australia offers a wide array of experiences, catering to nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

Whether you seek an exciting outdoor adventure in a Western-Ausrtalia national park , a refreshing dip in pristine beaches of New South Wales , or a leisurely Australian road-trip through picturesque landscapes, Australia has it all.

Interested in experiencing the city? Begin your adventure by exploring Sydney and all it has to offer.

Queensland is a captivating travel destination that should not be overlooked, whether you’re seeking a memorable family getaway in Brisbane or an exhilarating adventure of a road-trip from Brisbane to Cairns .

Andrzej Ejmont

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THE 10 BEST Moreton Island Tours & Excursions

Tours in moreton island.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Segway Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Moreton Island Day Trip (Kayak, Snorkel & Sandboard) frm Brisbane or Gold Coast

2. All-Inclusive Dolphin & Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise Brisbane

3. All-Inclusive Dolphin & Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise (Gold Coast Transfer)

4. Moreton Island Eco Marine Safari Cruise and Snorkel

5. Ultimate 10 Hour Jetski Adventure from Gold Coast to Tangalooma

6. Adventure Moreton Island Wrecks Adventure Package

7. Adventure Moreton Island Day Pass

8. Adventure Moreton Island Scuba Dive Tour

9. Dunwich: Moreton Bay Islands Boat Tour with Swimming

10. Private Tangalooma Wrecks Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Brisbane Story Bridge Adventure Climb

North Stradbroke Island SUNSET Tour

Springbrook andTamborine Rainforest Tour Incl Natural Bridge and Glow Worm Cave

Brisbane Dark Stories True Crime Tour

Sunshine Coast Hinterland and Noosa Day Trip from Brisbane Incl Eumundi Markets

3-Hours Walking Tour in Brisbane

Byron Bay, Bangalow and Gold Coast Day Tour from Brisbane

Bloody Brisbane CBD Crime Tour - Crime Tours Australia | Jack Sim

Haunted Brisbane CBD Ghost Tour

Brisbane Kayak, Bike and Rollerblade Hire

North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) Day Trip from Brisbane

Whale Watching Cruise from Redcliffe, Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast

Brisbane Kayak Tour

Deluxe Wine Tour to Tamborine Mountain, includes two course lunch

Brisbane Brewery Full Day Tour with Lunch

Brisbane Airport International Departure Plaza Premium Lounge

Croc Express to Australia Zoo from Brisbane HB7

1 Hour Single or Double Kayak Rental to the Nth Bribie Island

Abseiling the Kangaroo Point Cliffs in Brisbane

Stradbroke Island: 4WD Tour with Wildlife Watching & Damper

What travellers are saying.

• Moreton Island Day Trip (Kayak, Snorkel & Sandboard) frm Brisbane or Gold Coast
• All-Inclusive Dolphin & Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise Brisbane
• Ultimate 10 Hour Jetski Adventure from Gold Coast to Tangalooma
• Dunwich: Moreton Bay Islands Boat Tour with Swimming
• Adventure Moreton Island Day Pass
• Tangalooma Island Resort - ATV Quad Bike Tours
• Tangalooma Helicopter Service
• Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Feeding Program
• Tangalooma Island Resort Desert Safari Tour
• Moreton Bay Holidays Afloat

The Best Moreton Island Tours

A visit to Moreton Island is on most family’s bucket list, particularly those who love the great outdoors.  However, not everyone owns a 4WD and renting one can be terribly expensive, not to mention super daunting for those without any 4WD experience, which is why I’ve put together this guide on the best Moreton Island tours , so no one has to miss out!

A day trip to Moreton Island can be pricey, particularly for families with a couple of kids.  However, as I mentioned above, so is hiring a 4WD, not to mention the vehicle driving permit and the barge price!  However, the best Moreton Island tour makes things super easy, taking you to all the island highlights, so you don’t have to worry about individual costs.

If you do have your own 4WD or don’t mind hiring one, I recommend you go yourself and spend a few days exploring the island.  You can find our guide on things to do on Moreton Island here and our guide to Moreton Island family accommodation here .  However, for everyone else – this guide on the top Moreton Island day trip options is for you.

This guide will cover a range of Moreton Island day tour options and a few multi day tours too. It covers tours that depart from various places, including Brisbane, Redcliffe and the Gold Coast.

Are you planning a trip to Queensland? Have any questions? Join our Queensland Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to my disclaimer here for more information.

Page Contents

• 1 Best Moreton Island Tours
• 2.1 Tangalooma Wrecks and Snorkel Tour
• 2.2 Tangalooma Island Resort with Dolphin Feeding
• 2.3 Tangalooma Day Trip with 3 Activities
• 2.4 Moreton Island Get Wrecked Tour
• 2.5 Full Day 4WD Tour
• 2.6 Day Trip at Tangalooma
• 2.7 Moreton Island Snorkel and Sandboard
• 2.8 Moreton Island Day Trip with Scuba Dive
• 2.9 Whale Watching and Tangalooma Resort Day Pass
• 2.10 2 Days Explorer Tour
• 2.11 2 Day Camping Tour
• 3 Gold Coast to Moreton Island Day Trip
• 4 Redcliffe to Moreton Island Day Trip

Best Moreton Island Tours

Below is a simple table where you can easily see all the different Moreton Island tours in this guide.  The table below makes it easy to compare tours and decide which day tour to Moreton Island is right for you.

Brisbane to Moreton Island Day Trip

While Redcliffe is the closest point on the mainland to Moreton Island. the majority of tours depart from Brisbane.  There are quite a lot of tours to choose from – however, given there is so much to do on Moreton Island, you’ll find that most tours cover one or two activities and often include some free time on the beach.  So when choosing a day trip to Moreton Island from Brisbane, you’ll need to decide whats activity you want to do and then consider if you want the tour to includes things like lunch or transfers.

Below is a range of Brisbane day trips Moreton Island offers and a brief description of what each tour covers.   Also included is information on where you can book your Brisbane to Moreton Island day trip – it generally doesn’t matter where you book from as the price will be the same – nevertheless, we give you options when available.

Tangalooma Wrecks and Snorkel Tour

One of the most popular activities on Moreton Island is a guided snorkelling tour of the Tangalooma Wrecks.  So for a good value day tour Moreton Island offers, which includes snorkelling, consider this Tangalooma Wrecks and snorkel tour.

This tour includes a cruise to Moreton Island, including time for spotting marine life on the way.   With any luck, you’ll see dolphins, turtles and even dugongs!  During your Brisbane to Moreton Island cruise , your guide will also provide a bit of commentary about the marine life you see.

On arrival at the island, you’ll join a guided snorkel tour of the Tangalooma Wrecks, where you’ll see loads of colourful subtropical fish.  It will then be time to enjoy a tropical buffet lunch on the boat, after which you’ll have some free time for relaxing on the beach.

In addition, this day trip from Brisbane to Moreton Island includes morning tea, all your snorkelling gear, and transfers can also be arranged from Brisbane or the Gold Coast for an additional fee.

This Moreton Island day cruise operates from mid November to early May and departs from the Rivergate Marina in Brisbane from 9.30 am, returning at 5 pm.  Pick up from the Gold Coast is at 7.30 am and 8.40 am from the Brisbane CBD.

The tour is $159 per adult and $129 per child (3-13 yrs).  Transfers from either the Gold Coast or Brisbane are an additional $20 per person.

Click the following links for information or to book: Experience Oz (departs Brisbane or Gold Coast | Viator (departs Brisbane) | Viator (departs Gold Coast)

Tangalooma Island Resort with Dolphin Feeding

In addition to the Tangalooma Wrecks, a 4WD tour to the Desert and feeding the resident dolphins are super popular activities on Moreton Island.  So if you’d rather go sandboarding than snorkelling and feeding dolphins than coming face to face with fish, then this day tour Moreton Island has might be what you’re looking for.

This tour starts at 8.45 am, where you’ll cruise from Brisbane to Moreton Island.   You’ll then have access to a range of activities at the Tangalooma Island Resort, including the resort’s two swimming pools, restaurants and bars.

You’ll then have a choice of one of three activities. You could join a 4WD tour to the island’s Desert, where you’ll have the option of sand tobogganing down one of the islands’ giant sand dunes. If you prefer, you can do the 1.5 hour snorkelling tour of the wrecks or take the Marine Discovery Cruise, where you’ll go in search of marine animals.

In the evening, you’ll join the nightly dolphin feeding program, where you’ll get the opportunity to feed one of these magical creatures before heading home.  The boat will arrive back in Brisbane at 8.40 pm.

This Moreton Island 1 day tour, includes transfers from Brisbane hotels and a lunch voucher ($20 per adult and $15 per child) which you can use at one of the Tangalooma restaurants or cafes.

Click the following links for information or to book: Experience Oz

Tangalooma Day Trip with 3 Activities

If you’re heading over to Moreton Island with younger kids and the dolphin feeding makes for too long of a day, then this three activity Tangalooma day trip may be a better fit.  This tour gives you a choice of a range of different activities, so you can pick and choose what best suits your family.

This tour departs Brisbane at 8 am from Pinkena.  You’ll then cruise over to the island, where you’ll get to make use of all of Tangalooma’s facilities.  You can go swimming, start a beach volleyball game, or relax around the restaurants and bars.

You’ll also choose 3 paid activities from a great list of 8 different things.  There’s a segway tour, SUP hire, guided snorkelling tour, banana boat rides, beach bike hire, fish feeding tour, kayak hire or even fishing gear available.

When you’re not off on an adventure, you’ll be able to relax along the beach or make the most of the free activities on offer at the resort.  

Lunch is not included in this Tangalooma Resort Moreton Island day cruise , so bring a picnic or choose to eat at any of the resort’s restaurants and cafes.

There is also an option on this tour to pay an additional $45 per person and stay for the dolphin viewing.  Otherwise, the boat arrives back in Brisbane at 5.15 pm.

Click the following links for information or to book: Viator

Moreton Island Get Wrecked Tour

This Moreton Island Tour is great for those wanting to do all the island’s most popular activities.  On this tour, you’ll snorkel or kayak the Tangalooma Wrecks, sandboard down the island’s largest sand dunes, enjoy lunch on the beach and more.

This tour departs bright and early with transfers from Brisbane or the Gold Coast – or you can self drive to the ferry.  Once you get to Moreton Island, you’ll head on over to the Tangalooma Wrecks, where you’ll take a guided snorkelling tour.  You’ll then enjoy a picnic lunch followed by some kayaking.

Now to see some of the island’s inland highlights.  You’ll jump on board a 4WD where you’ll take the inland track to the Desert.  Here you’ll get the opportunity to climb one of these giant sand dunes and sandboard down.

If there is still time to spare, you’ll get some free time to chill on the beach or maybe have a swim before heading back to the mainland.

This tour includes transfers to and from the Gold Coast or Brisbane, lunch, wetsuits, kayaks and snorkelling gear.

Full Day 4WD Tour

If you’ve been to Moreton Island before and seen most of the more popular attractions, then this day trip might be what you’re after.  This full day 4WD tour takes you to some of the island’s attractions on the eastern side and northern tip of the island, which day trippers don’t always get to see.

On arrival at the island, you’ll board a 4WD and head off along the beach to the Blue Lagoon.  Here you’ll get to swim in this beautiful lagoon and afterwards enjoy a picnic lunch.

After lunch, you’ll head on over to Cape Moreton, where you’ll see the old lighthouse – the first one to be built in Queensland.  You can then swim in the gorgeous Champagne Pools or take a walk down to Honeymoon Bay.

You’ll then continue driving along the beach, where you’ll see the famous Tangalooma Wrecks before boarding the ferry to head back to Brisbane.

This tour includes transfers to and from either the Gold Coast or Brisbane and lunch.

Day Trip at Tangalooma

If you’re looking for the cheapest tour that will get you over to Moreton Island, then this day trip to Tangalooma Island Resort is it!  It’s the cheapest tour in this guide and will allow you to make use of all the free facilities at the resort (including the pool) as well as a few other activities.

This tour departs Brisbane at 7 am and once you arrive on the island, you’re pretty much free to do as you please.  Your tour gives you complete access to all that the Tangalooma Island Resort offers.  You can swim in the pools, play tennis, play in the playground and relax on the gorgeous stretch of beach right outside the resort. In addition, you’ll get all the snorkel gear you need to go and explore the wrecks, as well as kayak and SUP hire.

Lunch isn’t included, so to save costs, bring over a picnic.  Or you’re welcome to eat lunch at any of the resort’s restaurants and cafes.

Your ferry back to Brisbane departs the island at 4 pm, giving you a full day to enjoy Moreton Island.

Click the following links for information or to book: Get Your Guide | Viator

Moreton Island Snorkel and Sandboard

If you’ve never been to Moreton Island and want to do the two most popular activities – snorkel and sandboard – then you’ll want to sign up for this day trip. Given this tour includes snorkelling, sandboarding and lunch, it offers great value for money.

On this tour, you’ll depart Brisbane at 7 am.  As soon as you arrive on Moreton Island, you’ll jump on board a 4WD and head to the Desert – where you’ll find some of the island’s largest sand dunes. If you’re game, you’ll then sandboard down one of the dunes, reaching speeds of up to 50km.

After your sandboarding experience, you’ll head to the Blue Lagoon, where you can swim.  Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch on the sandy beach.

Next up, you’ll head to the famous Tangalooma Wrecks, where you’ll join a guided snorkel tour.  Another option is to kayak around the wrecks if you prefer.

Overall this tour offers first time visitors to Moreton Island great value for money.  It covers the most popular activities and includes lunch.

Moreton Island Day Trip with Scuba Dive

Like to dive?  If so, this Moreton Island day trip with scuba diving is the perfect tour for you.  As well as getting to spend the day hanging at the Tangalooma Island Resort, this tour also includes a dive around the famous Tangalooma Wrecks.

This tour will have you spending the day enjoying all the facilities around the Tangalooma Resort.  As well as having access to all the free activities and swimming pools, you’ll also get 1 hour of SUP hire, 1 hour of snorkel equipment, 1 hour of kayak hire and of course, your dive.

Whale Watching and Tangalooma Resort Day Pass

If you’re heading to Tangalooma Resort during whale watching season, why not join a tour which includes some whale watching.  As well as getting to spend the day enjoying all that the resort has to offer, you’ll also take a 3 hour cruise watching the whales around the island.

As well as your whale watching cruise, you’ll get to relax around the resort.  You can make use of all the free activities such as swimming in the pools, dining at the restaurants and cafes and relaxing along the beach.

You’ll also be served lunch on board the whale watching cruise.

If you want to upgrade your day trip, you can stay to watch the dolphin feeding or actually take part in the dolphin feeding.

Click the following links for information or to book: Whale Watching only | +Watch Dolphin Feeding | +Dolphin Feeding 

2 Days Explorer Tour

If you want to see all the islands highlights, you’ll definitely need more than one day, which is where this 2 Day Explorer Tour comes into play.  On this Moreton Island 2 day tour, you’ll snorkel, sandboard, see marine life and more!

You’ll spend the morning of your first day on the island, relaxing on the beach and either kayaking or snorkelling the famous Tangalooma Wrecks.  Next up, you’ll visit the Desert, where you’ll find some of the islands’ largest sand dunes and if you’re game, you can sandboard down one.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Castaways, where you’ll be staying for the night after enjoying dinner.  

On the following day, you’ll visit more of the island’s highlights, including Champagne Pools, Honeymoon Bay, North Point and the lighthouse at Cape Moreton.

These Moreton Island 4WD tours are great for those that want to see all of the island’s best attractions over two days.  It includes all your activities, meals, transport and accommodation, making it quite good value for money.  It even includes transfers from Brisbane and the Gold Coast should you need it.

2 Day Camping Tour

If you like the idea of camping on beautiful Moreton Island but don’t have your own gear, then this 2 Day Camping Tour is one to consider.  It’s a great way to experience all the best activities the island offers as well as visiting all the popular places.

Over your two days on the island, you’ll join a guided snorkel tour of the famous Tangalooma Wrecks, sandboard down some of the island’s largest sand dunes, climb up Five Hills Lookout and swim in the tranquil Blue Lagoon.  You’ll also visit Cape Moreton and Queensland’s oldest lighthouse, Honeymoon Bay and more. 

This is a great way to see all of the island’s best attractions over two days, particularly those who don’t have their own 4WD or camping gear.  The tour includes all your activities, meals, transport and camping gear.

Gold Coast to Moreton Island Day Trip

If you’re staying on the Gold Coast and keen on heading over to Moreton Island for the day, then you’ll need to head to Brisbane and join one of the tours above.  

If you have your own vehicle, you can join any of the above tours.  However, even if you don’t have your own transport, some of the tours above offer transfers from the Gold Coast.  In the tour descriptions above, I’ve noted if the tour provides transfers from the Gold Coast.

Redcliffe to Moreton Island Day Trip

While Redcliffe is geographically closer to Tangalooma, only one tour goes from Redcliffe to Moreton Island – the Dolphin Wild Island Cruise.

This tour departs from Redcliffe at 8.30 am and the journey to Moreton Island takes around 50 minutes.  On route, you can even experience boom netting!

On arrival at Moreton Island, change into your swimming gear and join a guided snorkelling tour around the famous Tangalooma Wrecks (although this is an optional extra – $20 per person).  You’ll also have plenty of free time for relaxing on the beach and swimming in the ocean.

This tour includes morning tea, a buffet lunch and afternoon tea.

Click the following links for information or to book: Experience Oz | Get Your Guide | Viator

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Hopefully you found this guide on the best Moreton Island tours helpful.  If you have more time, I highly recommend you do your own trip over to Moreton Island and stay a few days.  See our guide for things to do at Moreton Island with kids here and our guide on where to stay on Moreton Island here .

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Dolphin & Tangalooma Wrecks Cruise

Cruise with The Experts

Take a journey with us to the pristine waters of Moreton Bay Marine Park.

Our full-day tours are all about freedom and flexibility, allowing you to choose the pace of your day from deeply relaxed to high-energy adventure. Snorkel around the Tangalooma Wrecks, spot the big three: dolphins, dugongs and sea turtles, swim in crystal clear waters, spend time exploring untouched beaches or kick back on our boat and enjoy the licensed bar onboard. Do it all or do as little as you please.

Locally owned and operated, you will soon discover why See Moreton is TripAdvisor’s #1 Brisbane Boat Tour Company

What to Bring

• Getting Here

Your Day at a Glance

We’re all about freedom + flexibility, allowing you to choose the pace of your day from high energy adventure to deeply relaxed with no hidden fees. Do it all or do as little as you please.

Snorkeling Tour

Our naturalist guides have been visiting the Tangalooma Wrecks for over a decade and will ensure you see the very best that this underwater treasure has to offer.

Marine Discovery

Join us in spotting dolphins, dugongs, turtles, and birdlife accompanied by expert commentary to foster a deeper connection with the natural and cultural heritage of the region

Tropical Lunch Buffet

When all that adventuring works up an appetite, we’ve got you covered with a delicious tropical buffet lunch, as well as morning tea, sliced season melons and fruits in the afternoon

Free Island Time

There’s plenty of free time to cool off with a swim, relax on white-sand beaches, climb one of the famous sand dunes or challenge your friends to a game of beach soccer.

Fish Feeding Session

The Tangalooma Wrecks are home to an eye-watering 200 species of fish. Join our guides as they lead a fish feeding session – a firm favorite with the little ones.

• Paddle Boarding

Explore the calm waters surrounding the island at your own pace by stand-up paddle board. Keep your eyes peeled for abundant marine life in the crystal-clear waters below.

Tour Itinerary

Order and times of the itinerary and the snorkeling location may vary due to daily conditions and operational requirements.

• Gold Coast pickup (optional)
• Brisbane pickup (optional)
• Check-in opens, Rivergate Marina
• Depart, Rivergate Marina 
• Arrive, Moreton Island
• Snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks 
• Tropical Buffet Lunch
• Free Island Beach Time & Paddle Boarding
• Marine Discovery Cruise
• Depart, Moreton Island
• Arrive, Rivergate Marina

7:30 am Gold Coast pickup (optional)

8:40 am Brisbane pickup (optional)

9:00 am Check-in opens, Rivergate Marina

9:30 am Depart, Rivergate Marina

10:45 am Arrive, Moreton Island

11:00 am Snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks

12:00 pm Tropical Buffet Lunch

1:00 pm Free Island Beach Time & Paddle Boarding

2:30 pm Marine Discovery Cruise

3:45 pm Depart, Moreton Island

5:00 pm Arrive, Rivergate Marina

You have the whole day to enjoy Moreton Island, don’t forget to pack a day bag! No need to worry about bringing snorkel gear or beach games, we’ve got all that covered!

Whether you’re driving yourself or jumping on one of our coach transfers, we have all the details to get you to the departure marina on time! Check below prior to your day trip to Moreton Island to ensure you’re ready to go.

Check-in: 9:00 am Depart: 9:30 am Return: 5:00 pm (approx.)

Jetty/Wharf A, Rivergate Marina, 17 Rivergate Place, Murrarie QLD.

*Free street parking available or 10$ a day on site*

Self-driving from Brisbane City We recommend leaving by 8:30 am

Self-driving from the Gold Coast We recommend leaving by 7:30 am

Or jump on a coach transfer and let us get you there in time!

All-day enjoying the beauty of Moreton Island, with the freedom to spend it as you please.

3 – 13 Years

0 – 2 Years

SPECIAl      (RRP $716.00) 2 Adults + 1 Child + 1 Child FREE

The VIP Captain’s Lounge

Take your island adventure to the next level with our VIP Captain's Lounge experience. Offering the best views onboard and an upmarket, spacious area that is yours to enjoy for the entire day, this is genuinely the most luxurious way to explore the region. Exclusively available to a small number of guests, book early to avoid disappointment.

Acknowledgement of Country

See Moreton acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters on which we operate and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

THE TOUR COLLECTIVE

• Privacy Policy
• Conditions of Travel
• The Wildlife
• Image Gallery
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MORE INFORMATION

• Frequently Asked Questions
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• Fish Feeding
• Free Island Beach Time
• Island Transfers
• Sustainability
• Trade & Media Centre

Your Moreton Island

Adventure starts here: , ami day pass.

Spend the day exploring the crystal clear waters and the Tangalooma Shipwrecks at your own pace with  kayak ,  stand up paddle board  and  snorkeling equipment hire

Wrecks Adventure Tour

You’re the boss when it comes to our Wrecks Adventure Tour! Choose up to 3 unique adventures for your  Moreton Island Day Trip . Come and experience that Tangalooma Island has to offer with Adventure Moreton Island.

Create Your own adventure

Pack your swimmers & towel, grab your friends & family and discover the aquatic adventures waiting for you in the crystal clear waters of the bay and Tangalooma Shipwrecks. Come see all that Adventure Moreton Island has to offer at your leisure.

Whether you’re an Introductory (beginner/unlicensed) or Certified Diver (licensed),  Adventure Moreton Island  has a Scuba diving experience to suit you!  The Tangalooma Shipwrecks are Moreton Island’s premier dive location.

Your Adventure starts here:

Adventure Moreton Island is your one-stop shop with a wide range of activities, including snorkelling, kayaking, glass bottom boat cruises, scuba diving, parasailing and much more!  See the beauty of Moreton Island in full swing over at Tangalooma Island Resort. From your ferry trip over to your activities on the island, Adventure Moreton Island has it all. Find your adventure today!

Experience Adventure Moreton Island with us! For the best range of  outdoor activities and Island Day Trips! 

AMI is based at Tangalooma Island Resort, so you will also have access to all Tangalooma Vendors!

All Adventure Moreton Island packages include a return ferry transfer from Brisbane.

Meet our local wildlife:

Green Sea Turtles

Moreton Island is home to 5 different species of Sea Turtles and while snorkelling the wrecks it’s not uncommon to come across one going about their day. Sea Turtles often nest on the same beaches they were born on and the temperature of the sand is what determines the sex of the turtle. Moreton Islands cool sands mean that male turtles are more likely to hatch than females.

Wobbegong Sharks

Reading the word shark probably sounds intimidating however the Wobbegong Sharks that inhabit the wrecks are harmless. These bottom-dwelling sharks spend most of their time on the sea floor eating crabs and other smaller fish. The name “Wobbegong” comes from the “Australian-Aboriginal” language meaning “shaggy beard” which refers to the many growths on the bottom of it’s mouth.

Want to speak to one of our friendly staff? 1300 652 250

Includes Boat Transfers, Desert Safari, Helicopter Tour, Wild Dolphin Feeding & ATV Quad Bikes

What's Included Book Now

• Accommodation
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• Gift Vouchers

Tangalooma Island Resort

Beachfront resort accommodation on queensland's beautiful moreton island.

Tangalooma Island Resort, named among Lonely Planet's 100 Best Beaches of the World , is only a 75-minute catamaran cruise from Brisbane . The Resort is the perfect family holiday destination for guests seeking an understated yet unique adventure, educational or nature based experience - right on Brisbane’s doorstep on the incredible Moreton Island .

Protected and treasured, this is nature’s theme park where amazing natural encounters are just part of the everyday experience. With heaps of tours and activities on offer, Tangalooma is the jewel of Moreton Bay and islands. Activities on offer include Brisbane's best Whale Watching Cruise, ATV Quad Bike Tours, Marine Discovery Cruise, the Desert Safari Tour with sand tobogganing, Snorkelling the Tangalooma Wrecks and so much more! The star attraction at the Resort is the unique guest activity of hand feeding a pod of wild bottlenose dolphins !

Life's better uncomplicated!

Accommodation and Rooms

There are five beachfront resort accommodation styles ranging from 3½ to 4 Star quality, including hotels, units, villas & apartments, each set amidst luscious landscaped gardens and natural bush land, most with ocean views.

Day Cruises from Brisbane

Switch to cruise mode and enjoy a Day Trip to Tangalooma from Brisbane! Laze by the pools and enjoy Tangalooma's bars and restaurants. With lunch, a complimentary refreshment on the boat and an option of wild dolphin feeding and more...

• Wild Dolphin Feeding

The highlight of any visit to Tangalooma is the opportunity to hand feed one of the wild bottlenose dolphins that visit the shores each evening at sunset. There is a large family of these playful dolphins that visit regularly.

Activities and Tours

With lots on offer and plenty of ways to discover and connect with the natural wildlife and environment of Moreton Island, it is not hard to see why Tangalooma is known as natures themepark.

Brisbane Whale Watching

Only Tangalooma Island Resort offers you Brisbane's closest whale watching day cruise, plus the opportunity to enjoy island life for the day, and night if you stay over.

Tangalooma Gift Vouchers

Give the Gift of Travel with a Tangalooma Gift Voucher or Gift Certificate! The unique Christmas or birthday present you've been looking for. Let your recipient choose how they would like to use it for their next trip to Tangalooma Island Resort.

Lonely Planet's 100 Best Beaches of the World

Tangalooma Beach has been awarded the prestigious title of the ' World's Best Beach to See Nature ' by Lonely Planet, securing its place among the top 100 beaches globally. The book praises the easily accessible Tangalooma Wrecks as 'encrusted with corals that attract plenty of fish, making for excellent snorkelling.'

Brisbane's Best Day Trip to Moreton Island

With activities, beach and lunch included, and ferry departures located just 10 minutes from the heart of the city, Tangalooma Island Resort really is Brisbane's best day out. Tangalooma also operates the only Whale Watching Cruise directly from Brisbane. Add in Wild Dolphin Feeding and this should definitely be on your bucket list of things to do in Brisbane!

View Day Trip Options

Stay Overnight at Moreton Island

Tangalooma Island Resort offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes, ranging from Hotel rooms, Resort Units, Family Suites and Beachfront Villas, through to our premium modern Deep Blue Apartments and hilltop Holiday Homes - all located with easy access what is known internationally as one of Australia's best beaches!

View Accommodation Options

• Run of House - Budget Rooms
• Hotel Standard Rooms
• Hotel Deluxe Rooms
• Resort Units
• Family Suites
• Beachfront Villas
• Deep Blue Apartments
• Holiday Homes
• Penthouse 25 (Premium)
• Beach Day Cruise
• Add Sunset Cocktails Package
• Add Wild Dolphin Feeding Package
• Add Sea to Sky Package
• Add Sea to Sky Heli Package
• Land Based Activities
• Water Based Activities
• Free Resort Activities
• Explore Moreton Island
• Whale Watching Cruise
• Eat & Drink
• Weekly Resort Guide
• General Resort Facilities & Services
• What's On Guide (Resort Times)
• Before You Arrive (Prestay)
• Shops & Service Providers
• Disability & Accessibility Access
• Renovations & Construction
• Boat Transfer Times & Prices
• Where do Ferries depart Brisbane?
• Bus & Coach Transfers
• Helicopter Transfers
• Personal 4WD Vehicle Access
• Personal Boat & Watercraft Access
• Luggage Allowances & Restrictions
• Anchorage Café
• Beach BBQ Bistro
• Fire & Stone Restaurant
• The Coffee Lounge
• Tursiops Breakfast Buffet
• B&B's Resort Bar
• The Resort Shop
• Maps & Location
• Casual Visitor Pass (Public Access for Non-Guests)
• TangaClub & Email Signup
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• Tangalooma EcoMarines
• EarthCheck Accreditation
• Download & Purchase Dolphin Feeding Photos

Moreton Island Day Trip

Don’t put your head in the sand too quick if you don’t have a 4WD, the Micat ferry also transfers foot passengers to the island and it’s the perfect place for a play in the bay! Why brave the crowds at the local beach or sit in Sunday afternoon traffic when you have Brissie’s slice of paradise right in our backyard? Just short of a 20 min drive from Brissie, you can be onboard the Micat ferry kicking back with a cold beer while cruising across magical Moreton Bay. We’ll have you stepping off the ferry onto the beach in around 75 minutes from leaving port. And the best bit is it’s just as easy on the way back.

So what’s the big deal about a day trip to Moreton? We’ve got crystal clear blue waters, stunning coral formations and endless fish varieties, pristine white sandy beaches and Brisbane’s only shipwreck snorkelling site to boot! That’s not bad for a short ferry ride from the city! Bring your own snorkel gear and explore the amazing sealife or just kick back and relax on the white sandy beach. Don’t forget to pack your esky with cold drinks, snacks and enough tucker to get you through the day!

Interested in a guided tour? Why not join in on all the action with our mates from Sunset Safaris! The tours include shipwreck snorkelling, sand boarding and the ultimate transparent kayaking! Discounted combo deals are also available. The guided tours are perfect for day trippers and a great way to experience all that Moreton has to offer! For more information about guided island activities or to book see the guys from Sunset Safaris! CLICK HERE or phone 1300 553 606.  

Day Trips to Moreton Island

Interested in booking a day trip to Moreton Island? Click here to visit Sunset Safaris and to book. Book Now

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Moreton Island Day Trip From The Gold Coast

Moreton Island is a great sandy island off the east coast of Queensland.

• About Moreton Island
• Moreton Island Facts
• Moreton Island History
• Moreton Island Geology
• Getting to Moreton Island
• Moreton Island Weather
• Moreton Island Flora & Fauna

Moreton Island is an iconic destination with so much to to do and experience.

• Explore Moreton Island
• Blue Lagoon/ Moreton Island
• Cape Moreton Lighthouse
• Champagne Pools
• Honeymoon Bay
• Moreton Island Towns
• Moreton Island's Beaches
• Mount Tempest
• Tangalooma Wrecks
• Moreton Island Experiences
• Banana Boat Rides
• Catamaran Hire
• Day Tours From Brisbane
• Day Tours From Gold Coast
• Desert Safari Tour
• Eating and Drinking
• Parasailing
• Quad Bike ATV Hire
• Scenic Helicopter Flights
• Segway Tours
• Snorkeling Wrecks
• Stand Up Paddleboarding

Moreton Island has a wide choice of accommodation from budget to pure luxury.

• Moreton Island Accommodation
• Tangalooma Resort
• Castaways Units
• Moreton Island Camping
• Nearby Hotels
• Brisbane Accommodation
• Gold Coast Accommodation

Day Tours From The Gold Coast Day Tours Departing From The Gold Coast to Moreton Island

The easiest way to get to and experience Moreton Island is by booking a day tour from Brisbane or Gold Coast . Luckily, the options are countless when it comes to tours and visitors can pick the activities that suit their traveling style.

Moreton Island is still a bit off-the-beaten-path, but it’s getting recognized by tourists and the numbers of visitors is growing exponentially.

It’s not a surprising fact since the island is the hidden gem that is surrounded by crystal clear waters, preserved coral reef, endless sandy beaches, sand dunes, huge biodiversity and much more.

What sounds better than escaping a stressful lifestyle of the city and enjoying sandy beaches with family and friends? The island’s location is more than ideal for one-day tours since the cruise from Gold Coast to Moreton Island lasts for only 75 minutes.

Visitors can book a cruise and relax at the Tangalooma beach every day with the departures starting at 7.30 am from Gold Coast and expected return around 8.30pm.

Tangalooma Beach is the most popular beach with a luxury resort offering their visitors nothing less than an amazing time.

Visitors can enjoy all the facilities and equipment in the resort free of charges, watch the dolphins from the beach, immerse in the sports like tennis or just swimming in the crystal clear waters.

Tour provides its visitors with a $20 voucher for adults and $15 for kids that is valid at any restaurant in the resort.

Whale Watching From Gold Coast

A substantial annual migration of stunning Humpback whales is taking place between June and September. These colossal animals migrate from Antarctica to the waters surrounding Gold Coast, and that’s the perfect chance for visitors to observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

Tours are daily, but only available from 16th of June till 30th of September starting from Gold Coast. Depart time is at 7.30am and projected return is around 6 pm.

Visitors can enjoy a boat ride around clear waters overlooking Moreton Island, stunning Gold Coast and most importantly watching the gigantic whales! The educated crew will be responsible for explaining every detail about the whales, their migration and waters of the Gold Coast.

The delicious lunch prepared with local ingredients is served on the boat and visitors can enjoy their free time using Tangalooma Resort facilities.

Dolphin Feeding and Island Exploration Day Tour

This day tour offers daily departures and returns from Moreton Island to its visitors along with observation of beautiful dolphins and few adrenaline activities to pick from.

Moreton Island is a very biodiverse island with endless sandy beaches accompanied by crystal clear waters around. This day tour provides its visitors with unforgetting experience while feeding dolphins during the night.

All the visitors will get a beautiful photo while feeding this beautiful animal. Once on the Tangalooma Resort, visitors will get access to all of the facilities and a free drink by choice.

The $20 voucher is available and can be used in the restaurants at Tangalooma Resort. The visitors can pick between two-day activities; safari tour or marine discovery cruise. The departures are daily starting at 7.30am from Gold Coast, and projected return is around 10 pm.

Moreton Island Adventure Day Tour

Visitors who’re looking for the adventure on Moreton Island should definitely check out this daily tour with daily departs from Gold Coast.

This tour is fully guided which means the professional guide is always around watching at visitors and educating them about the natural life and environment on the island.

There are few activities included in this tour which will fill every adventure soul including kayaking in the transparent boats, snorkeling around Tangalooma shipwrecks , exploring the ocean life on the coast, enjoying sand dunes while sand tobogganing and much more.

The depart starts at 5.45 am in front of Mantra on View Hotel, Gold Coast and planned return time is around 9 pm.

Map of Moreton Island

Explore more with our Moreton Island map and find your way around Australia’s world famous sand island. Zoom in on the map to discover more.

Facts + Weather

Moreton Island Weather Moreton Island is gloriously mild and sunny, enabling visitors to enjoy many activities during their stay.

How to get there? Located off the coast of Queensland, Moreton Island is easily accessible by road and sea.

History Learn about the long cultural history of Moreton Island and find out more about this fascinating place.

Australia's great sandy island

More great australian travel destinations.

• Great Barrier Reef
• Uluru Australia
• Blue Mountains
• Great Ocean Road
• Lord Howe Island
• Fraser Island
• Hunter Valley
• Kangaroo Island
• Port Stephens
• Australia's Best Beaches
• Wiki Australia
• Kimberley Australia

About 'Moreton Island Australia'

Moreton Island Australia is a 'Web Magazine' website that is dedicated to all things related to Queensland's iconic great sandy island. We are passionate about Australia's great natural wonder, its vast beaches and lakes, its incredible vistas, its natural beauty and the unforgettable experiences that are waiting for all who visit. Our aim is to discuss Moreton Island, its history, its environment, its wildlife and its spectacular destinations. We hope that this website will inspire all who visit, just as much as Moreton Island has inspired us.

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How To Plan A Day Trip To Moreton Island With Tangalooma Island Resort

Looking to do a day trip to Moreton Island but unsure how to plan your day? In this guide, we’re going to help you make the most of your day trip from Brisbane or from Gold Coast so you can enjoy one of the best gems in South East Queensland!

Let’s get things straight! While you can bring your 4wd over on the Micat Ferry to Moreton Island, you don’t need one to see the highlights of this amazing island near Brisbane. So in this guide we’re going to talk about how to do a day trip to Moreton Island with Tangalooma Island Resort, just like we did!

Did you know Moreton Island is the third largest sand island in the world?

If you were wondering, Fraser Island gets the top spot, then Stradroke Island, Moreton Island and then Bribie Island. This means you can’t bring a normal 2WD car onto the island as the roads are full of sand.

Even though the island is stunning, the highlights really are the activities led by Tangalooma Island Resort. You don’t need to stay at the resort to book the activities and best of all, you don’t need a car to do them either.

So, in this day trip to Moreton Island guide, we’re sharing the activities you can book with Tangalooma Island Resort. You’ll need to either book one of their packages or book the Beach Day Cruise, and go to the Tour Desk when you arrive to see what availability there is to take part in the activities on the day. You can’t just turn up to the island and book the activities without being a guest of the resort.

Table of Contents

Why do a day trip to Moreton Island?

There’s so much more to Moreton Island than you think. We had no idea how many activities there are to fit into a day trip with Tangalooma Island Resort that you’ll be ending your day planning your next trip here.

The beaches are beautiful with white sand, crystal clear waters and plenty of palm trees to make you feel like you’re a million miles away from the city.

There are heaps of activities to do here, from massage to snorkelling the famous Tangalooma Wrecks, sand boarding and quad biking too. Honestly, the list goes on and on for awesome things to do in Moreton Island with Tangalooma Island Resort.

Here’s a Moreton Island itinerary to plan your day trip from Brisbane.

Pre-book your day trip package

As we mentioned above, you’ll need to pre-book your day trip package with Tangalooma Island Resort. They offer loads of packages that include your ferry transfers, lunch vouchers and activities so you don’t need to think about how to book when you get to the island.

These include a Desert Safari Day Cruise, Snorkel the Wrecks Day Cruise and ATV Quad Biking Day Cruise, plus more! The packages offer inclusions like the famous dolphin feeding experience. Luckily, the last ferry departs from the same location as the dolphin feeding after it finishes at 7pm.

You’ll be given a package when you jump on the ferry which includes a map of the island, vouchers for your tours and lunch and more.

Just reminding you that you can only do the activities mentioned in this guide with Tangalooma Island Resort. You’ll need to book the Beach Day Cruise and then book the activities at the Tour Desk when you arrive, or book one of the packages mentioned above.

Jump on the Tangalooma Island ferry

You’ll need to get over to Holt Street Wharf in Pinkenba to jump on the Tangalooma ferry. We wondered if we were heading the wrong way on the way there, but you’ll see the sign for the ferry when you reach the water.

There’s a coffee shop converted from a shipping container at the ferry port so you can get a coffee while you’re waiting for the ferry. It’s advised to arrive an hour early and you can safely park your car in a secure car park for the duration of your visit.

There’s three ferries running to the island and we ended up being on the largest one which has a deck up the top. Bring sea sickness tablets if you don’t fare well on boats as it is a 75 minute ferry ride.

Check the  ferry schedule times for the Tangalooma ferry .

Head straight for the tour desk

If you’ve only booked the Beach Day Cruise, then head straight to the reception desk at Tangalooma Island Resort. It’s wise to do some research on the activities you’re interested in before you arrive because there are so many to choose from and also you might run the risk of some of the activities being booked up. If you’re keen to do certain activities, I would book one of the packages instead.

Some of Tangalooma Island Resort’s unique attractions include; snorkelling the Tangalooma Wrecks which is not far from the resort, ATV quad biking, sand boarding the massive dunes and feeding the wild bottlenose dolphins. The unforgettable kayaking experiences in the transparent kayaks around the sunken shipwrecks to see some sea turtles and unbelievable local marine life are not to be missed.

Snorkel the Tangalooma wrecks first

We recommend starting your day snorkelling the famous Tangalooma Wrecks when you first arrive on your day trip from Brisbane. We spoke to some of the tour guides and they suggested the best time to snorkel the wrecks is in the morning as the fish are waking up and it’s completely full of life.

When we went snorkelling, it was around 1pm and the water was super choppy that we didn’t see much because of the visibility. When we woke up the next day, the water was flat as a pancake. Personally we would have gone in the morning as the water was calmer and clearer so we would have had a better chance at seeing the hidden underwater wonders that lie beneath the water.

When you go snorkelling, there are lockers you can pay $10 to put your belongings in, or leave them above the lockers for free. We were told only to take our GoPro as the boat can get quite wet.

Got time for one more activity?

If you arrive early to Moreton Island and have time for another activity then you must do the 4wd Desert Safari Tour. Be careful with planning your trip because you might find the activities run for a little longer between getting changed for them and getting to and from each activity.

But, if you arrive on the early boat, you might have time to squeeze in another activity before lunch. We recommend doing the 4WD Desert Safari tour, which takes about 45m. You’ll get to see some of the island while driven in a 4WD bus before landing on the amazing Tangalooma sand dunes.

The dunes are much bigger than we were expecting and although I’m not a fan of heights, I found courage and went down the dunes, which was great fun. The adults were having more fun than the kids! It’s one of those must do activities in Moreton Island with Tangalooma Island Resort for sure.

Lunch at The Beach Cafe

When you’ve dried off, head over to The Beach Cafe for lunch. The outside is nicer than indoors so grab a seat in the sunshine and enjoy the ocean views. The menu is quite simple with salads, fish & chips, burgers and pizzas. I ordered the beef nachos which were pretty good to be honest!

Afternoon quad biking

After lunch, I would get ready to go on the ATV quad biking tour. Although I was a little apprehensive about quad biking initially, we had a brilliant time. Honestly, I would go as far to say the quad biking is the best Moreton Island activity – and that’s coming from someone who isn’t even into quad biking.

There’s a whole route designed for quad biking on the sand and it’s full of bends and paths up high so you’ve got an amazing view of the ocean.

I wish we could have gone a little slower purely because I wanted to take it all in but I suppose quad biking is all about the adrenaline and adventure! If you’re worried about keeping up with the others in your group (you’ll be grouped with other people), you might end up splitting up mid tour with another guide like we did.

While I thought we were going slow, turns out we were faster than everyone else and the entire group ended up splitting up with separate guides.

The quad biking tour takes about 1h30m total so it will leave you enough time to come back and chill out at one of the swimming pools you can use or on the beach for the day.

Dinner at Fire & Stone

We recommend heading for an early dinner at Fire & Stone which is an Asian restaurant serving up Chinese and Vietnamese food. You can then head over to The Wheelhouse Deck for a cocktail and watch the sunset from there.

We must admit, the sunset we saw was one of the best sunsets we’ve seen in ages. The sun sets over the water and it sure will be a memorable one!

Feed Wild Dolphins

Just after sunset, the wild dolphins come over to the jetty and wait patiently to be feed by the resort guests. You’ll need to book in for this once in a lifetime experience but it’s totally worth it. I was a little unsure how I felt about the idea of feeding wild dolphins but it’s actually quite an amazing experience.

When lights were fitted onto the jetty in 1980, the dolphins would turn up to hunt over fish. While fishermen would throw in their reject fish, the Tangalooma Island Resort owners decided to start feeding them fresh fish instead, while being mindful that it was regarded as more of a snack rather than their main meals of the day.

When the owner started hand feeding the dolphins, they have continued it on to this day and allow up to two guests and a guide to feed a dolphin at any one time. It’s a must do experience when you’re visiting Moreton Island and Tangalooma Island Resort.

Catch the ferry back

Like I said earlier, you can jump on the last ferry of the day at 7pm after the dolphin feeding has finished back to Brisbane so you can tick it off your bucket list. You’ll be back in Brisbane at 8:15pm ready to end an amazing day trip to Moreton Island with Tangalooma Island Resort.

Things to know before doing a day trip to Moreton Island

There are a couple of things you should know before doing a day trip to Moreton Island with Tangalooma Island Resort which we’ll mention below.

Bring warm clothes

You’ll need some warm clothes for the ferry ride (if you end up getting the big ferry) as it can get chilly if you’re sitting up at the top deck like we did. We visited in June which was actually quite warm in the day time but cold at night.

Lockers at the resort

There are lockers behind the reception desk at Tangalooma Island Resort you can use for $2. If you open the locker at anytime, you’ll need to pop another $2 into it to keep your belongings secure. If you’re going on any of the activities, you might want to use the lockers to secure your things.

There is a photographer on-site for most of the activities, so you can purchase photos of yourself doing the dolphin feeding, quad biking, sand tobogganing etc.

Leave your drone at home

You can’t fly your drone within 5km of Tangalooma Island Resort and that includes the famous Tangalooma Wrecks too. There are helicopter flights taking place throughout the day so you can’t fly your drone because of it (we were granted approval from the marketing department as we visited Moreton Island to bring you our guides).

No dogs on Moreton Island

Unfortunately you can’t bring your dog to Moreton Island as it’s part of the Moreton Island National Park. We always use Mad Paws for pet sitting in our local area which has worked out really well.

Is it really one of the best day trips from Brisbane?

We’ve visited a lot of islands in Queensland and we were totally blown away by Moreton Island given its proximity to Brisbane. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Brisbane and bored of going to the shops or to the beach, look no further.

A Moreton Island day trip with Tangalooma Island Resort is much more than just going to another beach, it’s an adventurers paradise with so many unique activities you’ll come away wondering why you hadn’t visited sooner.

If you want to make the most of the island, we recommend staying at the resort, so check out our review of What Is It Really Like To Stay At Tangalooma Island Resort so you can make up your own mind.

Day Trip To Moreton Island

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