Mooloolaba Canal Cruise

Mooloolaba is the Sunshine Coast's most relaxed beach-and-harbour town, and a one-hour canal cruise is a gentle way to see it from the water. The Original 1-Hour Mooloolaba Canal Cruise leaves from the river and explores the canals and waterways behind the beach, passing waterfront homes, marinas, boats and mangroves, and heading out toward the river mouth and the harbour. Commentary describes the history of the town, the growth of the canals and the fishing and boating heritage, as well as the birds and sea creatures that you might see. It is a cheerful, low-key outing, ideal for families and visitors who want a short trip rather than a half-day tour, and it fits easily around an aquarium visit, a beach swim or lunch on the Wharf.

The river and canal system is a mix of urban and natural settings. On one side you see the glossy end of the Sunshine Coast, with big houses, jetties and boats at the pontoon, and on the other mangroves, mudflats and bush that shelter fish and birds. Pelicans, cormorants, terns and ospreys are common, and dolphins and turtles sometimes appear near the river mouth.

The cruise is calm, with little rocking, which makes it a good choice for people who are wary of the ocean.Timing options vary. Daytime cruises show off the colours of the water and the details of the houses, while sunset and evening versions focus on the light and the atmosphere.

Check the schedule for the season, and choose a clear day for the best photographs. Shade and drinks are usually available on board, but bring sunscreen and a hat, and a light layer in winter. The cruise is generally suitable for all ages, and strollers can often be folded for boarding.

If you want to see more of Mooloolaba from the water, compare this cruise with the sunset cruise and the whale watching trips from the same part of the coast. The canal cruise is the cheapest and shortest, the sunset version is better for couples and the whale watching option is seasonal and more adventurous.

A visit to Mooloolaba also pairs naturally with the SEA LIFE aquarium, the beach and the Esplanade's cafes. Check the departure point, the length, the age policy and the cancellation terms when you book, because river and weather conditions can occasionally change the timetable. For those staying in Noosa, Mooloolaba is a straightforward drive south, and it makes a good half-day addition on a day when the weather is mixed or you want a change from the Noosa beach scene.

The Wharf area around the departure point has cafes, a bar, a small shopping area and the aquarium, so the cruise slots neatly into a half-day.

Parking can be tight in school holidays and on sunny weekends, so allow extra time or use nearby car parks and walk. If you are staying in Noosa, an early start gives you time to swim at the Mooloolaba beach, take the cruise, eat on the Esplanade and still be back in time for sunset on the river at Noosaville. The area is also a good base for families with younger children, because the beach is patrolled and the Esplanade has playgrounds, water features and plenty of grass for picnics.