our TOUR GALLERY
WHAT IS INCLUDED
- Whale sighting guarantee or return for free
- Private/intimate experience with small groups (up to 12 passengers per tour)
- Experienced, knowledgeable and friendly crew
- Unique commentary from our knowledgeable & fun on-board naturalist on all things whale & ocean conservation
- Observe stunning coastline and an abundance of wildlife, including the possibility of seeing eagles, dolphins, turtles and flying fish.
Each year between May and November the subtropical waters of Australia’s east coast host 40,000 humpback whales on migration from Antarctica.
They follow the path of the continental shelf which runs closest to the shoreline between Byron Bay and the Gold Coast, making this the prime location for us to witness whales in their natural environment.
From departure to return you will enjoy stunning coastal scenery along with informative and captivating commentary from our experienced skipper and crew. We guarantee you will encounter whales and be mesmerised as you observe them in their natural habitat.
Cooly Eco Adventures provides the closest and most intimate encounters in the region due to the eye-level viewing offered by the safari-style vessel.
Every whale watch is unique, and our highly experienced skipper and crew are on hand throughout to make this experience personal as well as professional. They have a wealth of knowledge and passion for whales and the stunning Gold Coast region they look forward to sharing with you.
what to expect
On arrival you will be greeted by one of the friendly crew, they will check you in on the iPad and get you amped for an epic adventure!
Prior to departure to the Pacific Ocean via the Tweed River, our Skipper will go through a short safety briefing and overview of the day's itinerary. Whilst cruising along the scenic Tweed River we will see a myriad of passing local wildlife. Expect to possibly see eagles, dolphins and even the occasional kangaroo. After being fitted with your lifejackets, we will board the vessel for your Whale watch tour!
It is colder out on the water so come prepared with layers.
We recommend:
- Beanie, warm jumper/ jacket
- Spray jacket/ Rain coat (basic ponchos are provided)
- Sunglasses and hat
- Camera, Gopro etc
- Towel
- Water bottle (to stay hydrated!!)
HOW TO GET HERE
Our departure location is Chinderah, situated 10 minutes drive from Coolangatta
139-151 Chinderah bay drive Nsw 2487
Directions
If you are driving from the south on the pacific motorway, take the Kingscliff/ Cudgen exit. and go left at the round about, follow this road.
If you are driving from the north on the Pacific Motorway, take the Kingscliff/Cudgen exit, and go right at the round about. Passing under the motor way and then follow this road.
PARKING
There is street parking available along Chinderah Bay Dr.
Please Note: Do not park in front of the Cubby Bakehouse or in the
Chinderah pub car park.
OUR vessel
Cooly Eco Adventures operates with a customised commercial safari style open ocean RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) vessel, at 32ft in length and seating 12 guests plus captain and crew.
It is an efficient, fast and fun vessel offering the most intimate encounters available for Gold Coast whale watching.
The vessel provides ‘jockey’ seating, which offers a secure, comfortable and fun means of travel. Each seat opens up to provide water-tight storage for valuables.
Perfectly geared for off-shore Gold Coast water adventure, it is powered by two best-in-class 250HP Suzuki Engines, allowing us to cover greater distances quickly and efficiently, with less fuel burn. This ultimately means more successful whale watching and marine life encounters for you!
REDUCING OUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Biodegradable
We use Biodegradable and reef friendly cleaning products and provide reef safe sunscreen onboard. This helps reduce the impact of harsh chemicals on the reef and marine life.
Plastic free wherever possible
We have reduced our single use plastic waste or cut it out entirely wherever we can.
No touch, no take
All our guests are informed about the marine life they are going to see in and out of the water. A no touch, no take policy implemented on all tours, ensures minimal disturbance to marine life.
Minimal marine emissions
When only the best is good enough. The boats engines two best in-class 2025 Suzuki 250hp with ultra low emissions. They are serviced and updated regularly to ensure efficiency and minimal emissions.
A Clean, Green machine
The company Troop Carrier has been upgraded to a Hydrogen enhancing fuel system, which has increased the mileage by 40% and reduced 99% of the emissions coming out of the tail pipe!!
Composting
We compost our food scraps, leftovers and our coffee cups so that less ends up in landfill.
Uniforms
All crew uniforms are made from recycled materials and are fair trade certified.
gear
The gear we provide is purchased from reputable, high quality brands to ensure longevity. When our wetsuits reach the ends of their lives, we give them back to brands that recycle the rubber.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
got questions?
we’ve got answers.
Yes, Private charters are available. Please call or email us for availability.