What to do at Moreton Bay

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: October 26, 2018

Reading time: 3 mins

On Brisbane’s doorstep, nestled in between the east coast of Queensland and Moreton Island, lies Moreton Bay.

Stretching 125km from Caloundra down to the Gold Coast Seaway. Sparkling in the many shades of blue, the bay is known for biodiversity and ecological significance in Australia. There is a total of 360 different islands in the bay, all ranging in size and populace. The main islands include Moreton Island, North Stradbroke Island, and Bribie Island.

Morton’s Bay’s name came from Captain Cook in 1770, when he voyaged passed the area on the 15th of May. The name was to honour Lord Morton, the president of the Royal Society. Unfortunately, there was an error in spelling Morton, to Moreton, when Cook’s account was published.

Things to do at Moreton Bay?

  • Whale Watching (June – October)

    A spectacular event in the Moreton bay brings over 18, 000 humpback whales into its waters. The humpback’s migration period is within June to October, involving these whales to travel over 10,000 kilometres from Antarctica, up to the Great Barrier Reef for the breeding season. Spot these peaceful creatures swim the Humpback highway as you cruise along the surface.

  • Dolphin Feeding

    Make some unique friends as you get up close and personal with one of the most beloved marine mammals. Head to the shores of Moreton Island and see the local pod of dolphins come to the shallow shores for feeding time. Stand waist deep in the water as these friendly creature’s frolic around you, brushing against your legs as you give them their dinner for the night. The dolphin feeding is a sustainable program for wild animals, only giving a small amount of food to ensure they remain hunting by themselves.

  • Jet Boat Tour

    Zoom along the water as you enjoy this 45-minute boat ride adventure. Have your stomach drop as the boat maneuvers such as 360-degree spins, a wave jumps as well as tail slides. The adrenaline rush is sure to get a smile on your face.

  • Wreck Snorkelling Tour

    For a snorkelling adventure, see where marine life has formed over the 15 ships along the coast of Moreton Island. The cluster of ships were deliberately sunk in the 1960s to offer a safe waterfront for small boats. Dive or snorkel below the water surface to discover the abundant marine life midst the rusting ships. With over a hundred species of fish and other beloved creatures such as dolphins, turtles, and dugongs.

  • Pelican feeding

    If you haven’t had enough of animals, visit the morning Pelican feeds! These birds are famous for their huge bill along with its stretchy throat pouch. collecting up to 13 litres of water in their pouches at once. What these birds gobble up their breakie in their unusual method of eating. Scooping up a fish along the surrounding water, draining the water, and jerking their heads upwards to swallow the fish.

Related article: Is Moreton Island worth visiting?

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.