Whale mortality and strandings have risen in recent years, with many deceased whales sent to landfill. Offshore disposal, however, holds ecological significance and is often a more culturally and ethically sensitive approach. It also mitigates risks associated with onshore disposal, such as disease spread and logistical challenges. A key challenge with offshore disposal is determining optimal release locations to prevent remains from drifting ashore or into shipping lanes. This study compared drift model outputs from a forecast model (SARMAP) with the movements of a 14 m whale carcass fitted with a satellite tracker in southeast Queensland, Australia. Over 150 hours, the carcass drift was observed, and models using different ocean products (BLUElink, FOAM, HYCOM, and Copernicus) showed good agreement with its trajectory, despite varying wind conditions and contrasting coastal and offshore currents. Wind emerged as the primary driver of carcass drift due to the whale’s exposed surface area above the water. The drift simulations provided reliable predictions of carcass movement, offering valuable guidance for authorities managing whale disposal. This case study highlights offshore carcass disposal as a sustainable practice, provided it is supported by thorough planning and scientific assessment.