Tangalooma Island Resort Day Cruises

Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island runs a programme of day cruises from Brisbane, making it a straightforward way to visit Moreton Island without an overnight stay. The catamaran leaves from Holt Street Wharf on the Brisbane River, about 15 minutes from the city centre, and the crossing to the island takes around 75 minutes.

Moreton Island, known locally as Mulgumpin, is the traditional Country of the Quandamooka People. Its landmarks include the Tangalooma Wrecks as well as Cape Moreton Lighthouse, the Champagne Pools, Mount Tempest, the Tangalooma Desert, the Blue Lagoon, Honeymoon Bay and Eastern Beach. Lonely Planet has named Tangalooma Beach the World's Best Beach to See Nature and included it in its list of the 100 best beaches in the world.

Day cruises are packaged by theme, so you can choose how active you want to be. The Beach Day Cruise is the simplest option, giving time on the sand and in the water. The Desert Safari includes sand tobogganing, the Snorkel Wrecks cruise takes you out to snorkel among the wrecks, and there are also Aquatic Adventure, Marine Discovery and ATV quad bike cruises. In season, a Whale Watching Day Cruise is offered, and an Afternoon Escape cruise suits those with less time. Several cruises can be combined with add-ons such as wild dolphin feeding, sunset cocktails or a helicopter flight.

Departure and return times vary by cruise and season and are published on the resort's ferry schedule, so check them before booking and plan your transport to the wharf in advance. Reservations can be made by phone within Australia or internationally, or online, and the resort reception has its own number, +61 7 3410 6000, for guests already on the island.

The cruises suit families, couples and active travellers who want a beach and wildlife day away from the city. Snorkelling and quad bike options appeal to those looking for adventure, while the Beach Day Cruise suits a relaxed day. Bring swimwear for a day on the sand, and allow a full day, as the return crossing adds another 75 minutes. Guests wishing to stay longer can book accommodation at the resort itself.