From Brisbane: Moreton Island Full-Day Trip

Planning a day out on Moreton Island? This popular full-day trip from Brisbane offers a solid mix of adventure, nature, and fun that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re into snorkeling, exploring by 4WD, or just soaking up scenic views, this tour packs a lot into one day, making it a good choice if you’re after a comprehensive experience.

What we really like about this trip is how it combines multiple activities with knowledgeable guides, creating a seamless, well-organized adventure. Plus, the chance to see the famous Tangalooma Shipwrecks up close is pretty hard to beat. However, it’s worth noting that the schedule is pretty packed, which might leave you feeling a bit rushed if you’re hoping for a more relaxed pace.

This tour would suit active travelers, families with older kids, and anyone looking to tick off several key Moreton Island highlights in one go. If you’re after a day of adventure and don’t mind the busy schedule, it’s a fantastic way to get a taste of what this island has to offer.

Key Points

• Multiple activities in one day including snorkeling, kayaking, sand tobogganing, and 4WD adventures.
• Guided experiences ensure safety, local insight, and a more enriching trip.
• Scenic boat cruise across Moreton Bay offers great views and a relaxing start.
• Snorkeling around the Tangalooma Shipwrecks provides an opportunity to see marine life close-up.
• Excellent guides are frequently praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Well-organized lunch with build-your-own wraps and plenty of water makes for a satisfying break.
• Packed schedule means a lot of activity but might feel rushed for some.
• Ferry and park fees are not included in the ticket price, adding extra to your costs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Day

This tour kicks off with a 75-minute cruise across Moreton Bay, giving you a chance to enjoy the ocean views and settle into the day. The boat is spacious, with outdoor and covered seating, so you can relax before jumping into the activities.

Snorkeling Around the Tangalooma Shipwrecks

One of the big highlights is the fully guided snorkeling tour around the Tangalooma Wrecks. These shipwrecks, scattered just off the beach, form an artificial reef teeming with marine life. Expect to see a variety of fish, maybe turtles, and rays if you’re lucky. Multiple reviews mention how the guides are very attentive, especially for less experienced snorkelers. One reviewer raved, “Snorkelling was our favourite activity. The guides were so helpful and kind,” highlighting how this activity appeals even to those new to snorkeling.

Kayaking in Crystal-Clear Waters

Next up is paddle kayaking—a guided tour in transparent kayaks that allows you to see the underwater world while gliding over calm, clear water. Many travelers mention how feeding fish during kayaking added an interactive element, and guides often share interesting facts about the marine life. “The kayaking was cool, and the fish were abundant,” one guest noted, emphasizing how accessible and rewarding this activity can be.

Sand Tobogganing on the Dunes

For thrill-seekers, sand tobogganing is a real treat. You’ll ride down massive dunes on a specially designed sled, reaching speeds of over 40 miles per hour. The exhilaration is undeniable, but a common comment is that the activity can feel a little rushed. Several reviews suggest having slightly more time or smaller groups for sandboarding to maximize fun, as it tends to be a popular activity that can get crowded.

More Great Tours Nearby

4WD Beach and Bushland Drive

The tour includes an exciting guided 4WD drive across the beach and through bushland, exploring the island’s natural beauty and Gheebulum Coonungai National Park. Watching guides expertly navigate the terrain is impressive, and many mention how safe and professional the drivers are. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see more of the island’s diverse landscapes and learn some local stories along the way.

Lunch Break and Free Time

Midday, everyone pauses for a delicious lunch on the beach, where you can build your own wraps with various fillings, along with watermelon and biscuits. Multiple reviews praise the lunch as tasty and well-catered for different dietary needs. After lunch, there’s about 30 to 45 minutes of free time to relax, swim, or explore further—though some find the schedule a bit tight and wish for a little more downtime.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Logistics and Costs

You’ll be picked up from a central Brisbane location (exact coordinates: -27.4643, 153.0184), with options possibly varying depending on your booking. The cruise is comfortable, with outdoor and covered seating, and the entire day is fully guided in English.

One important note is the additional fees: national park and ferry charges of $80 AUD per adult and $60 AUD per child (13 and under) are payable in cash to the driver at departure. It’s easy to overlook these extra costs, so budget accordingly. Also, there’s a $20 AUD surcharge on public holidays.

What to Bring

Make sure to pack sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, cash, and a reusable water bottle. These small essentials will keep you comfortable and prepared for a day outdoors. The guides are proactive about safety, providing plenty of suncream, which is a plus.

Limitations and Considerations

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with walking disabilities, as some activities involve physical effort or are not accessible. Large luggage or big bags are not allowed, so travel light.

Duration and Pace

This is a full-day experience, and reviews show it’s packed with activities, leaving little room for rest. If you prefer a slower pace or more flexibility, this might feel a little rushed, especially during activities like sand tobogganing.

Weather and Rescheduling

The weather can influence the experience—some reviews mention that activities were rescheduled due to bad weather, but the staff were accommodating. It’s worth noting that refunds aren’t available if you miss out due to COVID or weather, so stay flexible.

What the Reviews Say

With an impressive 4.5-star rating based on numerous positive reviews, the overall feedback is glowing. Many reviewers highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the variety of activities as standouts. Multiple travelers mention how much fun they had and how well-organized the day was, from start to finish.

Guests appreciate the lunch offering, praising the build-your-own wraps and the abundance of water. The snorkelling around the wrecks and the chance to spot marine life like turtles and fish is a common highlight. Several note how they felt safe and well-supported during the aquatic activities, especially those who were inexperienced.

One reviewer summed it up nicely: “The guides were all so friendly and willing to help and really made sure to put safety first. You get about 45 mins for kayaking and another 45 for snorkelling, the sand tobogganing was a bit longer. It was a really fun day trying lots of new activities and getting to explore Moreton Island.”

A few minor suggestions for improvement include smaller activity groups during sandboarding and slightly longer water activities, but these are small points in an otherwise excellent experience.

The Bottom Line: Who’s This Tour For?

This tour is ideal for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts looking to cram a variety of activities into one day. If you’re someone who enjoys guided experiences with friendly, professional staff, you’ll find this trip engaging and hassle-free. It also suits travelers who want to see iconic spots like the Tangalooma Shipwrecks and explore the island’s dunes and bushland.

It’s less suited for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed pace or need accessible options—since some activities involve physical effort and the schedule is fairly tight. Families with older children will likely enjoy it, but it’s not recommended for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

This trip delivers great value for those wanting a full, active day out with plenty of opportunities to see marine life, try new activities, and enjoy spectacular scenery.

FAQs

Is transportation provided from Brisbane?
Yes, you will be picked up from a centrally-located Brisbane meeting point, and the cruise to Moreton Island is included in the tour.

How much extra will I need to pay?
You’ll need to pay cash for the national park and ferry fees, which total $80 AUD per adult and $60 AUD per child (13 and under). These are payable to the driver at departure.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, cash, and a reusable water bottle. These essentials will help you stay comfortable and protected.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling and kayaking are included, guides are attentive to safety, and those who are not confident swimmers have enjoyed the activities, especially with the equipment and support provided. However, the tour isn’t specifically designed for non-swimmers.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children aged 3 years and younger are not permitted, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with walking disabilities or in wheelchairs.

How long are the activities?
You’ll get about 45 minutes each for kayaking and snorkeling, with sand tobogganing slightly longer. The schedule is quite packed, so expect a busy day.

Can I expect good food?
Yes, lunch is shared on the beach, with build-your-own wraps and plenty of water. Many reviews praise the food for being tasty and accommodating different dietary needs.

What if the weather is bad?
Activities can be rescheduled due to weather, but refunds aren’t offered for weather-related cancellations. The guides are experienced at managing changing conditions.

Is there a peak surcharge?
Yes, on gazetted public holidays, there’s a $20 AUD surcharge payable on the day.

Final Thoughts

For those craving a full, active exploration of Moreton Island, this guided day trip hits most of the highlights in a single, well-organized package. The combination of underwater adventures, dune sliding, and scenic 4WD drives makes it a compelling option if you’re after variety and a bit of adrenaline.

While the schedule can feel tight and activities are quite scheduled, many travelers find that the energy and friendliness of the guides, along with the breathtaking surroundings, make it all worthwhile. It’s a chance to experience the best of Moreton Island without the hassle of planning each activity yourself.

If you’re looking for a lively, fun-packed day that leaves you with plenty of stories and pictures, this trip could be just what you’re after. Just pack your sense of adventure and a good pair of sunblock, and you’re set for a memorable day on one of Queensland’s most beautiful spots.

Note: Always double-check the latest details, including pickup times and fees, closer to your trip, as schedules and policies can change.

You can check availability for your dates here: