When constant modulus blind equalization algorithm (CMA) is used to equalize high-order QAM signals, there occur the defects of the slow convergence rate and big steady mean square error. In order to overcome these disadvantages, orthogonal wavelet transform weighted multi-modulus blind equalization algorithm based on the quantum particle swarm optimization (QPSO-WTWMMA) is proposed. In this proposed algorithm, quantum particle swarm optimization algorithm and orthogonal wavelet transform are combined into weighted multi-modulus blind equalization algorithm (WMMA) according to the feature of higher-order QAM signal constellations. Accordingly, the equalizer weight vector can be optimized by QPSO algorithm, the autocorrelation of the input signals can be reduced via using orthogonal wavelet transform, and WMMA is used to choose appropriate error models to match QAM constellations. The theoretical analyses and the computer simulations in underwater acoustic channels indicate that the proposed algorithm can obtain the fastest convergence rate and the smallest steady mean square error in equalizing high-order QAM signals. So, the proposed algorithm has important reference value for the underwater acoustic communications.