Saltwater Eco Tours, based in Mooloolaba, is the vision of Simon Thornalley, a young Indigenous man of Torres Strait Island descent who was born on the Sunshine Coast and introduced to the sailing lifestyle by his sea loving parents.
That vision was to establish a unique experience that would inspire a deeper connection to Indigenous culture and the ocean. With Simon’s partner Jenna, Traditional Owner Aunty Bridgette Chilli, and their enthusiastic crew, the company prides themselves in authenticity, passion and a genuine love for being out on the water.
Operating on the peaceful waterways of the Mooloolah River, they offer a range of tours on board a beautifully restored, 114-year-old timber sailing vessel “Spray of the Coral Coast”. Choose from Cultural Tours, Whale Watching, Sunset cruises with live music and Native bushfood and seafood tours.
Collaboration with Local Traditional Owners of the Kabi Kabi first nation people ensures that Saltwater Eco Tours delivers a memorable guest experience, sharing the timeless wisdom of the world’s oldest continuous living cultures, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.