Brisbane Tangalooma Wrecks Cruises

Tangalooma Wrecks is a chain of 15 ships deliberately sunk decades ago to form a breakwater for small boats. Over the years, they have transformed into a thriving underwater ecosystem with colourful corals, diverse fish, sea turtles, stingrays, wobbegongs and occasional dolphins—attracting snorkellers from around the world.

Australian Cruise Group’s collection of Tangalooma Wrecks cruises make it easy to experience this unique destination the best way possible. Whether your priority is exploring beneath the water, spotting dolphins, enjoying resort facilities or adding an outdoor adventure to your island escape, there’s always a cruise experience for you!

Getting To Tangalooma Wrecks

Every Tangalooma Wrecks tour departs from Brisbane (usually in the morning) by a ferry or catamaran, and arrives at the Tangalooma Island Resort, the base for exploring the wrecks and the wider island adventures. From here, the cruises split into distinct kinds, built around how guests want to spend their time on the island.

Snorkelling & Marine Life At The Wrecks

This is, of course, the heart of the Tangalooma experience. So, if getting into the water is your main goal, snorkelling cruises take you directly to the wrecks with guided snorkelling sessions and equipment provided, letting you discover the vibrant marine life that now calls these historic vessels home.

For those who prefer to admire the scenery from the surface, dolphin and marine discovery cruises combine scenic cruising around the wrecks with opportunities to spot dolphins, seabirds and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat while also enjoying fish-feeding ops.

Cruise + Adventurous Island Experiences

Many cruises combine the Wrecks visit with adventurous experiences on the Tangalooma Island Resort, creating a full day that goes well beyond sightseeing.

Depending on the cruise you choose, you can:
  • Ride an ATV quad bike through the sandy island tracks
  • Join a thrilling 4WD desert safari and sand toboggan down huge dunes
  • Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding and other water activities around the wrecks
Resort and Beach Time

For a simpler island day, choose a Tangalooma Wrecks day trip that focuses entirely on the Resort and the Tangalooma Beach—which was also named as the “World’s Best Beach to See Nature” by Lonely Planet. You can spend the day relaxing on the beach or making the most of the island resort facilities like the swimming pools, bars and premium restaurants.

Which Cruise Should You Choose?
Every cruise includes ferry transfers, a resort lunch voucher and access to Tangalooma Island Resort's facilities, so the main difference between them comes down to how guests want to spend their time on the island.
  • Snorkellers & marine lovers: Choose a snorkelling or marine discovery cruise to experience the underwater ecosystem.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts: Dolphin cruises combine visits to the wrecks with memorable encounters with Moreton Bay’s most iconic residents.
  • Adventure seekers: Opt for cruises that include ATV bike riding, aquatic activities or a 4WD desert safari.
  • Families: Resort and beach day cruises offer flexibility, with time to swim, relax and enjoy the island at your own pace.
So, all these Tangalooma Wrecks day cruises begin with a scenic journey across Moreton Bay before arriving at the island. From exploring historic shipwrecks to discovering sand dunes, beaches, wildlife and island adventures, these experiences showcase the very best of Moreton Bay in a single day.

Browse our range of Tangalooma Wrecks cruises from Brisbane and choose the experience that suits your perfect island escape!

FAQs

What are the Tangalooma Wrecks?
The Tangalooma Wrecks are a group of 15 deliberately sunken ships located off Moreton Island near Brisbane. Originally created as a breakwater, the wrecks have evolved into a thriving artificial reef that is home to colourful corals, tropical fish, sea turtles, stingrays and other marine life.

How do you get to the Tangalooma Wrecks from Brisbane?
Tangalooma Wrecks cruises depart from Brisbane and travel across Moreton Bay by ferry or catamaran. All tours include return transfers to Tangalooma Island Resort, where guests begin their chosen island activities.

Can you snorkel at the Tangalooma Wrecks?
Yes, most Tangalooma Wrecks cruises include guided snorkelling sessions with equipment provided. It is in fact one of Queensland’s most popular snorkelling destinations.

What activities are available on Tangalooma Wrecks cruises?
Depending on the cruise you choose, activities may include snorkelling, dolphin spotting, ATV quad biking, 4WD desert safari tours, kayaking, paddleboarding or simply relaxing at Tangalooma Island Resort and its beach.

Which Tangalooma Wrecks cruise is best for families?
Families often enjoy the resort and beach day cruises, which provide flexible free time to swim, relax and use the resort facilities. Families looking for more adventure can also choose cruises with aquatic activities or wildlife experiences.

Are Tangalooma Wrecks cruises suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes. While some cruises focus on snorkelling, others are ideal for guests who prefer to stay dry, offering experiences such as dolphin watching, marine discovery tours, resort access and beach time.

What is included in a Tangalooma Wrecks day cruise?
Most cruises include return ferry transfers from Brisbane, access to Tangalooma Island Resort, a lunch voucher and the specific activities associated with your chosen tour. Inclusions may vary depending on the experience selected.

When is the best time to visit the Tangalooma Wrecks?
Tangalooma Wrecks can be visited throughout the year. Weather and water conditions vary by season, but visiting in the morning, especially during the dry season, offers excellent opportunities for snorkelling.

How long does a Tangalooma Wrecks day cruise take?
Most Tangalooma Wrecks cruises are full-day experiences, departing from Brisbane in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or evening.