Accessibility Guide
Australia’s most advanced whale watching vessel
Spirit of Migaloo II is a three-level whale watching vessel with an open bow. Purpose-built as one of Australia’s premiere whale watching vessels, it is one of the best ways to the beautiful humpback whales.
Boarding
Guests access the pontoon via a declining ramp that is 1.5 metres at its narrowest point. The ramp to the pontoon can shift in steepness with the tide. It may be difficult to get onto the ramp when shifting tides and individuals may need assistance to get onto it. Our friendly crew are available to assist if required.
Access to Spirit of Migaloo II is via a ramp that is 0.8 metres wide, and 1.6 metres long. Handrails are available on both sides of the ramp at a height of 0.92 metres. The ramp holds guests up to 300kg. Guests with disabilities are offered priority boarding. The crew are able to provide assistance if required.
Wheelchair Access
Spirit of Migaloo II is wheelchair accessible only on the lower deck. It can be accessed from the jetty via ramp. There is one designated space for a wheelchair. We recommend the tethering of wheelchairs by safety tethers to ensure stability and comfort during the tour. The skipper makes it a priority to place the vessel in a prime position for wheelchair users to view whales.
Wheelchairs are permitted to move around the vessel on skipper discretion. Weather and ocean conditions can impact the safety and stability of wheelchair users. However, these are advisers and it is up to the wheelchair user to choose what they would like to do.
Restrooms
There are two standard unisex restrooms on the lower deck and one standard unisex toilet on the mid-deck.
All of these restrooms have a toilet seat height of 0.44m, a handrail that is 0.9 metres high and a sink that is 0.85 metres high. The door frame is 0.69 metres wide.
There is one ambulant restroom.
Change places
A collapsible infant change table is available on request. This is suitable for newborns up to 12 months of age and up to 11 kilograms in weight. There are no adult height adjustable adult-sized change benches or ceiling-tracking hoists available.
Mobility Aids
Mobility aids are welcome. Please ensure your mobility aid conforms with the manoeuvrability assumptions of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002. If you require an alternative device, wheelchair hire is complimentary. A form is required and bookings must be made 24 hours before departure by contacting Guest Services.
Strollers
Due to limited space, we prefer you not bring strollers or prams on board. We can accommodate your stroller’s storage for the duration of your cruise at the Sea World Cruise Terminal.
Visual Considerations
There are handrails around the edges of the boat to hold onto when walking around the vessel. Our experienced skippers will always try and get the best views of the whales. For guests with visual impairments, we recommend brining a pair of binoculars to help see the whales. The crew can help if needed. Assistance animals are welcome aboard. If you would like more information, you can see Assistance Animals.
Auditory Considerations
On transit to the whales, the sound of the engines of the vessel may make it difficult to make conversation for some guests who are hard of hearing. Once we have found whales, the engines slow down and are much quieter. During whale watching time, there is onboard commentary that can be heard from speakers throughout the vessel.
Weather Considerations
The amount of boat movement is dependent on the weather. If there is a risk of rough weather impacting the cruise, passengers will be advised of rough weather prior to the cruise.
Sensory Considerations
There is no sensory room/chill-out space available. Sensory kits in the form of pop bubble fidget toys and earplugs are available onboard. Complimentary children’s activity packs are also available. If you would like more information, you can see Sensory Guide
Environmental Considerations
Spirit of Migaloo II Whale Watching tours operate on the open ocean. As such, there is a risk of seasickness. However, if you want to take precautions, you can find more information at Sea Sickness Advice.
We advise all passengers to have three-point contact on the vessel at all times once we are past the Gold Coast seaway.
Can't Find What You're Looking For?
Head back to the Accessibility Guide home page, chat with one of our friendly team members on +61 (07) 5539 9299 or info@seaworldcruises.com.au or check out our Frequently Asked Questions.