Sunreef Mooloolaba (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Sunreef Mooloolaba?
What makes it 73% Kids-Friendly: Sunset and whale cruises discount kids 4-12 and offer life jackets, yet decks lack play areas, tours run 2-3 h and snorkel or dive age limits exclude under-8s, so parents must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Infants ride free: Children under 4 travel free on all cruises and boat hires.
- Life jackets for all ages: Sunreef provides free, correctly sized life jackets for children.
Challenges:
- No stroller storage: Prams must be folded and left at the dock due to limited onboard space.
- No changing tables: Unisex bathrooms on the boat have no baby change facilities; bring a portable mat.
What is Sunreef Mooloolaba?
- A marine adventure operator headquartered at Mooloolaba Wharf on the Sunshine Coast
- A watersports centre offering boat charters, kayak and paddleboard hire, and scuba diving services
- Owner-operator of the Whale One catamaran, facilitating licensed cruises and marine research support
What is so special about Sunreef Mooloolaba for with kids?
- Sunreef Mooloolaba offers whale watching cruises with free returns if no whales are seen
- Infants under 4 travel free and life jackets are provided for all children
- Private boat hire lets families explore calm bay waters at their own pace
- Morning departures in summer mean gentler waters and cooler air for young guests
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for a 2–3 hour cruise plus a short boat hire without tiring young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Sunreef Mooloolaba
Sunset Cruise on Whale One:
A 2-hour evening cruise with live acoustic music and a welcome drink.
Tip: Bring a light jacket; deck temperatures drop after sunset.
Whale Watching Cruise:
2–3 hour guided cruise with morning tea and guaranteed whale sightings or free return.
Tip: Choose a morning departure for calmer waters and better animal activity.
Private Boat Hire:
Rent a 4-passenger motorboat with full safety briefing and life jackets included.
Tip: Depart early to explore calm bay areas and let older kids try steering under supervision.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Sunreef Mooloolaba
- Book morning departures: Early cruises avoid crowds and offer smoother seas for young travelers.
- Pack snacks and drinks: Bring water and light snacks to keep kids comfortable between activities.
Reviews of Sunreef Mooloolaba
Sarah Burns
Magical experience for my teenagers and I whale watching on Whale One with the Sunreef crew. We were lucky enough to see many whales breaching and fin and fluke slapping, and we saw a mother and calf very close - we felt so lucky and will never forget the experience. We were right at the bow which I think made for the best viewing experience, but you did need to be confident and steady on your fee...
Mrs C
Incredible experience whale watching with Sunreef. We saw so many whales and saw breaching, slapping and males showing off. To get to hear the whales breathing and making their sounds was incredible. I felt quite emotional. The commentary right throughout our time was so good! Super informative and really engaging. I would highly rate this day out! We were also lucky as we experienced the cross ...
Billie Lovejoy
Wonderful experience diving with sunreef (with my unidive group) at the Ex-HMAS Brisbane this weekend. Big thanks to everyone who helped, wonderful skipper (I believe Annette), and especially to my guide Mark - an eye for octopus and a calm, friendly, supporting guide who made it an easy, stress-free, fun dive. Always grateful for guides who accommodate new divers with patience and encouragement. ...
Carly Peters
We did the swim with whales boat trip. It was sensational. The guides and captain were awesome, very friendly, great communication and clear instructions to keep everyone safe and have the best experience. We were exceptionally fortunate to have found some really curious and playful whales which kept us thoroughly entertained. The team at Sunreef really strive to make the experience awesome for ev...
Jamie Richardson
Amazing!! Took a trip on Whale One, and we followed a couple of whales on their adventures for a few hours. The entire experience was made better by the positivity of the crew (special mention to Heidi and Sarah on the mic!) who seemed more excited about the whales than me…!! 100% recommend.
When is the best time to visit Sunreef Mooloolaba (Sunshine Coast, Australia)?
Plan cruises from June to November to spot migrating whales. In summer (Dec–Feb), book morning trips for calmer seas and cooler temperatures.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Whale Watching Cruise (2 adults + 1 child + infant) | AUD 235 |
| Private Boat Hire (1 hour) | AUD 60 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 295 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Sunreef Mooloolaba
Address: 11 &, 12/123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557, Australia
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About Sunreef Mooloolaba
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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