Moreton Island: A quick overview

Just a short 75-minute ferry ride from Brisbane, Moreton Island is one of Australia’s most effortless day trips—packed with shipwreck snorkelling, sand dune adventures, wildlife encounters, and pristine beaches. It’s the perfect escape when you want a full-day experience without long travel times.

  • Distance from Brisbane: 40 km offshore
  • Typical travel time: 75 minutes by ferry + short transfer
  • On-site visit duration: 6–8 hours depending on the tour
  • Cost range: AUD 115–289 per person (varies by inclusions)
  • Best season/time of year: September–May for warm water & best visibility; dolphin feeding year-round
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Brisbane Holt Street Wharf (hotel pick-up offered on some tours)
  • Key attractions/sites covered: Tangalooma Wrecks snorkelling, sand tobogganing & desert safari, kayaking, dolphin feeding, Blue Lagoon, Mount Tempest & scenic lookouts, beaches & marine wildlife

What to expect on a Brisbane to Moreton Island day tour?

Moreton Island beach with shipwrecks, kayaks, and 4WD vehicles along the shore.
Group paddleboarding on Moreton Island tour.
Shipwrecks along the coast of Moreton Island with clear blue waters and sandy beach.
4WD vehicle driving on a dirt road through a forest on Moreton Island.
Snorkeler exploring coral reefs near shipwrecks in clear waters of Moreton Island, Brisbane, Australia.
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Smooth transfers

Relax on a scenic ferry ride with seamless return transfers included.

Expert guidance

Knowledgeable guides share island stories, marine life facts, and local insights.

Well-paced itinerary

A balanced mix of guided activities and free time ensures a relaxed experience.

Stress-free travel

Transport, equipment, and on-ground assistance are all taken care of.

Add an adventure

Try snorkelling, kayaking, or sandboarding to make your day even more fun.

Things to know before booking your Brisbane to Moreton Island day trips

  • Ticket types: Choose between a day tour—a guided, easy-going day with ferry transfers, island highlights, and activities like snorkelling, kayaking, sandboarding, or 4WD—and adventure packages, which add more action with equipment access, land/water sports, and guided add-ons like dolphin feeding, Segway tours, or Tangalooma Wrecks Snorkelling.
  • Tour add-ons: Upgrade your day with snorkelling at the Tangalooma Wrecks, dolphin cruises, lighthouse tours, 4WD safaris, or scuba diving. Base tours include snorkelling, kayaking, and a desert tour with lunch, while upgraded tours add cruises, sightseeing, and diving for a fuller experience.
  • Duration: Tours last 8–13 hours, with morning departures and evening returns. For the full adventure, try the 13-hour Snorkelling Tour with lunch and kayaking.
  • Transport & ferries: All tours include round-trip ferry transfers, with pickups from Brisbane, Gold Coast, or Rivergate Marina (Brisbane). The ferry takes 75 minutes each way from Brisbane, the closest and most convenient starting point.
  • Lunch: Some tours, like the Tangalooma Wreck Snorkelling tour, include lunch. Otherwise, bring your own, buy on the island, or add lunch to your tour for a small extra cost.

Which Brisbane to Moreton Island tour is right for you?

FeaturesDay toursAdventure packages

Duration

8-10 hours, morning departure with evening return

9-13 hours, includes adventure activities and extra stops

Inclusions

Return ferry, guided activities, basic sightseeing

Return ferry, guided activities, adventure experiences (snorkeling, kayaking, sandboarding, dolphin feeding, scuba diving), resort access

Transfers

Standard ferry or guided coach

Standard ferry, guided coach, or private transfer

Group size

Larger groups, shared experience

Smaller groups for activities or private options available

Food

Optional lunch on some tours; bring your own or buy on-site

Some include lunch; others allow adding meals; snacks are included for adventure activities

Upgrades / add-ons

Tangalooma Wreck snorkeling, dolphin cruise, lighthouse tour

Additional scuba diving, 4WD desert safari, and multi-activity combo packages

Main stops on your Moreton Island day tour

Shipwrecks near Moreton Island in clear blue water, ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.
Aerial view of Moreton Island coastline, Queensland, Australia.
Moreton Island lighthouse with ocean view in the background.
Person sandboarding on Moreton Island during a 4WD desert adventure.
Dugong swimming underwater near Moreton Island.
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Tangalooma Wrecks

  •  Snorkel or kayak around 15 sunken ships now home to vibrant corals and tropical fish. A favorite stop for marine life encounters and underwater photography.
  • Recommended duration: 1–1.5 hours
Visit Tangalooma Wrecks

Blue Lagoon

  • Unwind in this natural freshwater lake surrounded by forest. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing swim or a tranquil break during your adventure.
  • Recommended duration: 1 hour

Cape Moreton & Lighthouse

  • Climb to the island’s first lighthouse for sweeping views over cliffs and the ocean. In whale season, it’s one of the best spots for sightings.
  • Recommended duration: 30–45 minutes

Sandboarding at Desert Dunes

  • Race down massive sand dunes on a board for an adrenaline rush. A signature Moreton experience, great for families and thrill-seekers alike.
  • Recommended duration: 30–45 minutes

Dolphin Feeding at Tangalooma

  • Hand-feed wild bottlenose dolphins at sunset, an unforgettable wildlife interaction unique to Moreton Island. Available as an evening add-on to certain tours.
  • Recommended duration: 45 minutes

Your Brisbane to Moreton Island itinerary

Visitors observing dolphins swimming in clear turquoise water.

Morning

Arrival & first adventures: Start with a scenic ferry ride across Moreton Bay. Guided tours include commentary and island introductions, while private options let you set your own pace. Kick off with beach walks or an easy snorkel at the Tangalooma Wrecks.

Tangalooma Wrecks Snorkel, Clear Kayak, & 4WD Desert Tour with Lunch

Women laughing on a boat before snorkeling at Moreton Island.

Midday

Active exploration: Dive into signature activities: snorkelling, transparent kayaking, or sandboarding down the dunes. Guided tours add context with local stories, while private trips let you choose between adventure or relaxation at spots like Blue Lagoon.

Couple sitting on Moreton Island beach with a boat in the background.

Mid-afternoon

Sightseeing: Visit Cape Moreton Lighthouse for sweeping ocean views, explore quieter coves such as Honeymoon Bay, or enjoy downtime on the beach. This is the best window for wildlife spotting and photography with softer light.

Tangalooma Wrecks & Lighthouse Sightseeing Tour with Lunch

Aerial view of Tangalooma wrecks with boats in Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia.

Evening

Return or stay longer – Join the scheduled ferry back to Brisbane, relaxing after a full day. Some extended tours include dolphin feeding before an evening return. Private itineraries may allow later departures, giving you more time to soak up the island.

Best time to visit Moreton Island

Two women kayaking in transparent kayaks near a rusted shipwreck in clear ocean waters.
  • Weather: Spring (Sept–Nov) and autumn (Mar–May) offer warm, sunny, and calm days.
  • Events: Check seasonal highlights like dolphin feedings and sandboarding competitions.
  • Crowds: Visit outside school holidays and public holidays for a quieter experience.
  • Peak vs non-peak: Peak: Dec–Feb (hot, busy). Non-peak: Mar–May & Sept–Nov (mild, relaxed).
  • Weekday vs weekend: Weekdays are less crowded, making ferry rides and attractions more enjoyable.
  • Best time of day: Morning for full-day adventures; late afternoon for dolphin feeding and sunsets.

Learn more about Moreton Island timings.

How to get from Brisbane to Moreton Island

Tourists on a boat enjoying Moreton Island Marine Discovery Cruise.

Enjoy stress-free door-to-wharf pickup and return, perfectly timed with ferry departures. Ideal for first-time visitors or groups. Sit back and relax while everything is arranged for you.

Getting to Moreton Island.

Shipwrecks and a boat near the shore of Moreton Island, Australia.

Board the ferry from Holt Street Wharf for a scenic 75-minute ride to Moreton Island. Comfortable seating and beautiful views make it a relaxing journey. This is the main route for day trips and tours.

Moreton Island Ferry.

Man driving a car on a city street.

Drive your own vehicle to the ferry terminal and enjoy the flexibility to set your own schedule. Parking is available at the terminal. Perfect for independent travelers who prefer to plan their own timing.

Family enjoying a fast train journey together, looking out the window.

Take the train toward Pinkenba Station and connect via shuttle or taxi to the ferry terminal. This is a budget-friendly option for public transport users. Good for travelers comfortable navigating local transport.

Tourists seated inside a bus touring Washington D.C. monuments.

Catch a bus from Brisbane CBD directly to Holt Street Wharf. Pair it with the ferry for a fully public-transport-friendly trip. Best suited for solo travelers or small groups looking for convenience.

All tours include transfers where mentioned, but self-drive and public transport are also viable for independent travelers.

Helpful tips for your Moreton Island day tour

  • Timing: Start early to maximize your day and avoid peak ferry crowds.
  • Clothing & gear: Wear comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, hats, and jackets. Swimwear and towels are handy for water activities.
  • Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to stay safe in the sun.
  • Food: Enjoy local cafés or pack snacks to stay energized during your trip.
  • Shopping: Explore souvenir shops and local markets for unique keepsakes.
  • Etiquette & wildlife: Respect local customs and wildlife; follow guide instructions for feeding programs or water activities.
  • Safety: Follow instructions for sandboarding, swimming, and hiking; watch for tides and slippery areas.
  • Connectivity & cash: Mobile reception can be limited; keep cash handy for small purchases.
  • Insider extras: Capture great photos, allow buffer time between activities, and explore hidden gems.
  • Waste & recycling: Carry a small bag for trash to help keep the island clean.

Frequently asked questions about Brisbane to Moreton Island day trips

How long is a day trip from Brisbane to Moreton Island?

Most day trips last 9-10 hours, including ferry travel, guided activities, and free time to explore the island. See full itinerary for details.

What is included in a Brisbane to Moreton Island day trip package?

Packages typically include round-trip ferry or transfers, guided activities, equipment for water sports, and optional add-ons like sandboarding or snorkeling. Meals may be included on some tours.

What are the different ways to get to Moreton Island from Brisbane?

Options include guided tour transfers, self-drive to Holt Street Wharf, public buses, trains, or direct ferry rides. Guided tours are easiest, as all transport and logistics are handled.

Do I need to book my day trip in advance?

Yes, ferries and tours can sell out, especially on weekends, school holidays, and peak season. Book early to secure your spot.

Can I visit other attractions on Moreton Island during the day trip?

Yes, tours often include stops at Tangalooma Wrecks, Blue Lagoon, Cape Moreton Lighthouse, and sand dunes. Private or customizable tours let you select your preferred activities.

Can I do a day trip to Moreton Island on my own?

DIY is possible but involves planning ferry schedules, equipment rental, and logistics. Guided tours save time and ensure a stress-free experience.

Are meals included in the tour?

Some tours provide light meals, snacks, or optional lunches. Check your specific tour package.

Where is the meeting point for day trips?

Most tours depart from Holt Street Wharf, Brisbane, with pickups available for select guided transfers.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Tours may be rescheduled or refunded in case of unsafe conditions. Ferry operators follow strict safety guidelines.

Are restrooms available on the island?

Yes, facilities are available at key spots like Blue Lagoon, Tangalooma Resort, and Cape Moreton, but not in remote sand dunes.

What’s the best time of year to visit Moreton Island?

Spring (Sept–Nov) and autumn (Mar–May) offer mild weather, calmer waters, and fewer crowds.

Is it safe to travel from Brisbane to Moreton Island for a day trip?

Yes, ferries and tour operators follow strict safety protocols. Water activities are guided, and staff ensure visitor safety.

What should I bring on a Moreton Island day trip?

Essentials include sun protection, water, swimwear, towels, snacks, a camera, and cash. Some tours provide equipment for water sports.

Can I do activities like snorkeling, kayaking, or sandboarding on the same day?

Yes, most tours include or offer optional add-ons for these activities, depending on your chosen package.

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