Soak up the sunsets on Moreton Bay

The new owners of one of Moreton Bay’s most popular tourism operators, Dolphin Wild Island Cruises, have exciting plans for their business.

David Boon and Hayley Creamer took over in March and have already put their stamp on the 22m catamaran, renovating the interior and decks.

Known for its popular day trips to Moreton Island (Mulgumpin) and guided snorkeling tours in the Moreton Marine Park, Dolphin Wild is launching sunset cruises this month.

David says the two-hour cruises, departing from Newport Marina, will ferry guests out into Moreton Bay to take in stunning views across to the Glasshouse Mountains as the sun slips from the sky.

Natural beauty

“We’re so lucky to have the amazing backdrop right on our doorstep and our sunset cruises make the most of the Moreton Marine Park’s natural beauty,” he says.

“The marine park is known for its biodiversity – there are dolphins, turtles and dugongs – it’s such a special place to be as the sun goes down.”

Sunset tour guests are treated to platters of cheese and nibbles as they cruise and there’s a fully stocked bar to complete the experience.

Year-round cruising

Hayley and David are also continuing Dolphin Wild’s beloved day cruises and eco marine safaris, with a focus on sustainable tourism and education.

“I used to work for Quicksilver and I was used to taking 400 snorkelers out as the captain for coral expeditions, and also as the captain for Coral Expeditions, doing luxury eco cruises,” David says.

“Once we get to Moreton Island, we put on the snorkel gear and take guests for a guided swim through the wrecks and we have our deckhand in a tender making sure everyone’s safe.

“We don’t do diving because we really want to excel at snorkeling and we removed the boom netting at the back because we wanted to create more time for snorkeling so people can have a really relaxed day.”

After the tour, guests head to the island for a sumptuous lunch that includes fresh chicken, salads and rolls from Margate Hot Bread, and free time on the pristine sandy shores.

Boating in comfort

The Dolphin Wild vessel has four different areas to enjoy.

The Front Deck is great for spotting animals or having quiet time; the Back Deck sports ladders for easy access to swimming and snorkelling and David says it’s also the perfect spot for bombing competitions during the lunch break, while the top deck is where guests gear up for water activities as well as being ideal for spotting marine life and sunbaking.

The lower level is home to the Saloon, with air-conditioning, comfortable lounges, chairs and tables, two toilets/change rooms, a licensed bar, free tea and coffee and large TV screens with movies for the kids.

Special experiences

Aside from eco marine and sunset cruises, Hayley says Dolphin Wild also offers a Riverfire experience, private charters, a facility for team-building trips, Christmas parties, visits to the famed Gutter Bar on Moreton Island, themed nights and bird watching.

“There’s also the opportunity for marriage proposals and people scattering loved ones’ ashes in the ocean – we can fit 65 people, so to be able to be all together is really special.”

Dolphin Wild sunset cruises are $75 for adults and $45 for children and include one complimentary drink and some light refreshments with a small grazing box.

Click here to find out more and to book