A Comprehensive Guide to a Moreton Island Full-Day Trip when Coming from Brisbane or Gold Coast

If you are in search of a great outdoors destination near Brisbane or the Gold Coast, a full-day trip to Moreton Island is an excellent option. Located less than 40 miles off the coast of Queensland, Moreton Island is the world’s third-largest sand island, and it’s easy to reach from both of these major coastal cities. From taking advantage of its marine life and rich wildlife, to exploring its stunning beaches, lagoons, and shipwrecks, Moreton Island is the perfect adventure. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day of sunbathing or a more active day exploring the beautiful landscape, you are sure to have an amazing time.

Planning Your Trip

There are a variety of options you can choose from when planning your full-day Moreton Island trip. Your transportation will be the biggest factor in deciding which option is best for you and your group.

Boat Charter

If you are looking for a private day trip to the island, a boat charter is the perfect option. With a boat charter, you’ll be transported from your chosen departure point to the island and back with an experienced skipper. You can choose from a variety of vessel sizes and amenities depending on your needs, such as motor cruisers, sailing yachts, catamarans, sailboats, and more. This option is perfect for those who want to customize their day trip, as you’ll be able to choose your own destinations and activities without the restrictions of a ferry or other day trip package.

Ferry Service

Ferry services are an easy and convenient option for accessing Moreton Island. Transfers operate daily and they provide full-day trips with stops at different points along the island including the Tangalooma Shipwrecks. This option is more restrictive than a boat charter on where and when you can visit, but it’s easy and cost-effective.

Day Trip Packages

If you don’t have the means to charter your own boat, there are also a variety of day trip packages available. These packages typically include boat transfers to the island, along with guided tours or adventure activities such as quad biking, 4WD tours, or sandboarding experiences. There are also package deals that include meals and snorkelling with dolphins or sea turtles. It’s the perfect way to enjoy all that Moreton Island has to offer without having to worry about arranging your own transportation or activities.

Exploring Moreton Island

Once you arrive at Moreton Island, you’ll be able to start exploring all its natural beauty. Depending on which option you chose for your trip, you may have limited or unlimited access to different sights and experiences on the island.

Beaches & Sand Dunes

The expansive white beaches and towering sand dunes make up a large portion of the island. With over 17 miles of powdery white sand on the eastern side of the island, you’ll have plenty of space to explore. Inside the Cape Moreton National Park, you’ll find some of Australia’s most stunning beaches. Some of the most popular beaches include Blue Lagoon and North Point Beach, where you can take advantage of excellent swimming, snorkeling and sandboarding opportunities.

Shipwrecks & Marine Life

One of Moreton Island’s most famous attractions is the Tangalooma Wrecks, located just a short distance off the southern tip of the island. These 15 vessels were intentionally sunk in 1963 to create a safe harbor for fishing boats and other watercraft. Today, they have become some of Queensland’s most beloved dives sites, with plenty of coral and marine life to explore. This area is also home to some beautiful wildlife like dolphins and sea turtles.

Lagoon & Bushwalks

As you explore inland on Moreton Island, you’ll discover crystal clear lagoons surrounded by lush bushland. These areas can be accessed by walking tracks or 4WD tracks for a unique experience off the beaten path. You’ll be able to explore ancient marine fossils amongst native trees and shrubs, with plenty of stunning views along the way.

Tips for Planning Your Trip

Whether you plan your trip using a boat charter, ferry service, or day trip package, there are some tips that you should keep in mind while planning your trip:

• Check the tide times before setting off – if you are planning on coming by boat, it’s important to check tide times in order to settle on an ideal departure time.
• Bring plenty of snacks – while catered meals may be offered depending on which option you chose, make sure to bring plenty of snacks and water bottles in your bag regardless.
• Pack beach towels & sunscreen – don’t forget these essentials when heading out for the day!
• Bring binoculars – if you want to spot some dolphins or whales from afar, binoculars will come in handy.

If you want to make sure your Moreton Island full-day trip is everything that you want it to be and more, it pays off to plan ahead. Whether you opt for a private boat charter, ferry service, or various packages available through recreational adventure organisations like GetYourGuide (https://www.getyourguide.com/activity/-t68037?partner_id=UWJ1LS2), there is an option out there that will ensure your group has a wonderful experience that they won’t soon forget. If you plan ahead and do your research thoroughly while keeping in mind these essential tips, everything should go according to plan on your full-day Moreton Island trip!