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Cruise Through Gold Coast - Discover, Dine & Relax
- Discover the Gold Coast like never before with this land and water tour on Quack'r Duck's amphibious vehicle, perfect for families on a budget.
- What you'll experience: A 1-hour tour by land and water, with live commentary onboard, plus a body tattoo transfer and a complimentary Spot the Difference quiz for kids.
- Sights you'll see: The Esplanade, Main Beach, Sheraton Mirage, Palazzo Versace, SeaWorld, Broadwater, The Southport Yacht Club, Nerang River, and Paradise Waters.
- The Family Saver discount offers fantastic value for two adults and two children to enjoy the land and sea adventure together.
- Discover the Gold Coast like never before with this land and water tour on Quack'r Duck's amphibious vehicle, perfect for families on a budget.
- What you'll experience: A 1-hour tour by land and water, with live commentary onboard, plus a body tattoo transfer and a complimentary Spot the Difference quiz for kids.
- Sights you'll see: The Esplanade, Main Beach, Sheraton Mirage, Palazzo Versace, SeaWorld, Broadwater, The Southport Yacht Club, Nerang River, and Paradise Waters.
- The Family Saver discount offers fantastic value for two adults and two children to enjoy the land and sea adventure together.
Inclusions
- 1-hour Gold Coast city and river tour on Quack'rDuck amphibious bus
- English-speaking guide
- Live commentary
- "Spot the Difference" quiz for kids
- Family saver discount for 2 adults and 2 children (if option selected)
- Tip: For casual dining after your tour, try the Surfers Paradise Beer Garden or Hurricane's Grill, both near the tour departure point.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- Due to vehicle restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
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Enjoy a luxury whale watching cruise aboard a 34-meter superyacht with open ocean views, expert commentary, and a Marine Biologist on board.
- Starting point: Mariner’s Cove Marina, next to Marina Mirage, Gold Coast
- Everything you get: 2.5-hour whale watching cruise aboard a 34-meter luxury superyacht with an expert crew, a marine biologist, and live commentary. Enjoy snacks on arrival plus light morning or afternoon tea, access to multiple indoor and outdoor viewing areas, a kids’ coloring activity sheet, onboard gift shop access, a boarding photo opportunity, and a 100% whale sightings guarantee.
- Sights covered: Watch humpback whales during their annual migration as they breach, tail slap, and surface in the open waters off the Gold Coast, with chances to spot additional marine wildlife along the way.
- Why choose this: Cruise entirely on open water aboard a spacious luxury yacht designed for comfort and panoramic viewing, with expert insights from a Marine Biologist and multiple viewing decks for uninterrupted whale watching.
Enjoy a luxury whale watching cruise aboard a 34-meter superyacht with open ocean views, expert commentary, and a Marine Biologist on board.
- Starting point: Mariner’s Cove Marina, next to Marina Mirage, Gold Coast
- Everything you get: 2.5-hour whale watching cruise aboard a 34-meter luxury superyacht with an expert crew, a marine biologist, and live commentary. Enjoy snacks on arrival plus light morning or afternoon tea, access to multiple indoor and outdoor viewing areas, a kids’ coloring activity sheet, onboard gift shop access, a boarding photo opportunity, and a 100% whale sightings guarantee.
- Sights covered: Watch humpback whales during their annual migration as they breach, tail slap, and surface in the open waters off the Gold Coast, with chances to spot additional marine wildlife along the way.
- Why choose this: Cruise entirely on open water aboard a spacious luxury yacht designed for comfort and panoramic viewing, with expert insights from a Marine Biologist and multiple viewing decks for uninterrupted whale watching.
Inclusions
- Whale watching tour
- Live commentary by the crew
- Experienced crew and marine biologist
- 34-meter luxury super-yacht
- Complimentary snacks on arrival
- Light morning or afternoon tea
- Boarding photo
- Kids' activity coloring-in sheet
- Onboard gift shop
- 100% whale sightings guarantee
Exclusions
- Food and drinks
- Boarding photo and whale photo of the day
What to bring
- Sun protection: Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to stay comfortable on the open decks.
- Camera: Bring a camera to capture whale sightings and ocean views.
What’s not allowed
- Outside food and drinks: Do not bring your own food or beverages on board.
Additional information
- Tour duration: Plan for a 2.5-hour whale watching cruise on the Gold Coast.
- Language: Enjoy live commentary in English from the crew and the Marine Biologist.
- Cancellation policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.
- Weather dependency: The tour may be canceled for weather, with rebooking or a refund offered.
- Morning boarding: Check in at 8:30am for a 9am departure and 11:30am return.
- Afternoon boarding: Check in at 1pm for a 1:30pm departure and 4pm return.
- Meeting point: Board at Mariner's Cove next to Marina Mirage.
- Child policy: Kids under 3 years old travel free on this cruise.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
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Combo (Save 5%): Aquaduck Tour + Gold Coast Attraction Choice Tickets
from AU$96.90
AU$92.05
5% off
Gold Coast your way: Aquaduck Tour + your pick of Dreamworld, SkyPoint, or Infinity.
- Everything you get at Aquaduck tour: 1-hour Gold Coast city & river tour on Aquaduck amphibious bus, English-speaking guide, live commentary, boat driving & Captain's certificate for kids.
- Everything you get at Infinity Attraction: Entry to Infinity Attraction Gold Coast with access to 20+ futuristic zones featuring illusions, laser mazes, light tunnels, and trippy soundscapes.
- Everything you get at Dreamworld Gold Coast: Entry to Dreamworld with access to epic rides, live shows, and zones like Tiger Island and Corroboree.
- Everything you get at SkyPoint Observation Deck: Entry to SkyPoint’s 230m-high deck with 360-degree views of the Gold Coast skyline and ocean, plus the chance to relax at SkyPoint Bistro + Bar (at your own expense).
- Why choose this combo: Explore by land and sea on the Aquaduck, then pick your top Gold Coast attraction—Dreamworld, SkyPoint, or Infinity Attraction. Flexible, fun, and perfect for all ages.
Gold Coast your way: Aquaduck Tour + your pick of Dreamworld, SkyPoint, or Infinity.
- Everything you get at Aquaduck tour: 1-hour Gold Coast city & river tour on Aquaduck amphibious bus, English-speaking guide, live commentary, boat driving & Captain's certificate for kids.
- Everything you get at Infinity Attraction: Entry to Infinity Attraction Gold Coast with access to 20+ futuristic zones featuring illusions, laser mazes, light tunnels, and trippy soundscapes.
- Everything you get at Dreamworld Gold Coast: Entry to Dreamworld with access to epic rides, live shows, and zones like Tiger Island and Corroboree.
- Everything you get at SkyPoint Observation Deck: Entry to SkyPoint’s 230m-high deck with 360-degree views of the Gold Coast skyline and ocean, plus the chance to relax at SkyPoint Bistro + Bar (at your own expense).
- Why choose this combo: Explore by land and sea on the Aquaduck, then pick your top Gold Coast attraction—Dreamworld, SkyPoint, or Infinity Attraction. Flexible, fun, and perfect for all ages.
Inclusions
Aquaduck Tour
- 1-hour Gold Coast city & river tour on Aquaduck amphibious bus
- English-speaking guide
- Live commentary
- Boat driving & Captain's certificate for kids
Infinity Attraction (as per option selected)
- Entry to Infinity Attraction Gold Coast
SkyPoint Observation Deck (as per option selected)
- Entry to SkyPoint Observation Deck
Dreamworld (as per option selected)
- Entry to Dreamworld
- Access to all rides, shows, & attractions
Warner Bros. Movie World
- The Flash: Speed Force
- Green Lantern coaster
- DC Rivals HyperCoaster
- The Flight of the Wicked Witch
- Batwing Spaceshot
- Kansas Twister
- Road Runner Rollercoaster
- Superman Escape
- Justice League 3D – The Ride
- Wild West Falls Adventure Ride
- Looney Tunes Carousel
- Junior Driving School
- Looney Tunes Splash Zone
- Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster
Dreamworld
- Steel Taipan triple-launch coaster
- The Giant Drop and The Claw
- Jungle Rush and Murrissippi Motors
- Serpent Slayer, hard or soft
- Motocoaster (motorcycle racing)
- Sky Voyager (sky theater)
- Vintage Cars
- Dreamworld Express
- Deep Sea Dodgems
- Belinda’s Tree House
- Play School Wheel
- Big Red Planes
- Big Red Boat Coaster
Aquaduck Tour
- Due to vehicle restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.
- Children under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 and above.
- The 5:45pm tour operates in low light conditions. To ensure everyone’s safety, children cannot captain the boat during the twilight trip.
Infinity Attraction
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- This experience is accessible by wheelchair. Please contact the venue at least 24 hours in advance using the number on your voucher to arrange a wheelchair.
- If special effects lighting, sound, dark confined spaces, or illusions of height and depth cause you concern, please make further inquiries before purchasing admission.
- If uneven and unstable floors in some areas might affect you, please make further inquiries before entry.
- This experience is not recommended for babies, toddlers, children under 8 years of age or for anyone with a severe fear of darkness. Children must be able to walk through unassisted.
- Children under the age of 12 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Dreamworld Gold Coast
- Pets are not permitted inside the venue.
- This experience is accessible by wheelchair and pram/stroller. Burleigh Wagons, single and double strollers, and wheelchairs are available. Visit Guest Services on arrival.
- The attractions have individual age or height requirements. Please visit the website for more information.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
SkyPoint Observation Deck
- Pets are not permitted inside the venue.
- This experience is accessible by wheelchair.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
- SkyPoint visitor numbers are capped to prevent overcrowding. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis. When SkyPoint reaches capacity no further entries will be permitted.
- Children aged 18 and below must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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Combo: Aquaduck Sunshine Coast City Tour & River Cruise + SEA LIFE Tickets
from
AU$91.31
- Enjoy a perfect blend of city exploration and aquatic adventure with this cost-saving combo, featuring 2 must-visit attractions at the Sunshine Coast.
- Board the amphibious Aquaduck for a thrilling city tour that transforms from bus to boat, exploring Mooloolaba's waterfront.
- Experience the thrill of driving the Aquaduck and get a free captain’s certificate. Learn about the history and culture of Mooloolaba from your friendly guide.
- Visit SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, home to thousands of marine and freshwater animals, including penguins, sharks, seals, stingrays, and tropical fish.
- Discover the 11 themed zones, such as Tidal Touchpool, Jellyfish Kingdom, and Ocean Tunnel. Enjoy live shows and interactive exhibits.
- Enjoy a perfect blend of city exploration and aquatic adventure with this cost-saving combo, featuring 2 must-visit attractions at the Sunshine Coast.
- Board the amphibious Aquaduck for a thrilling city tour that transforms from bus to boat, exploring Mooloolaba's waterfront.
- Experience the thrill of driving the Aquaduck and get a free captain’s certificate. Learn about the history and culture of Mooloolaba from your friendly guide.
- Visit SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, home to thousands of marine and freshwater animals, including penguins, sharks, seals, stingrays, and tropical fish.
- Discover the 11 themed zones, such as Tidal Touchpool, Jellyfish Kingdom, and Ocean Tunnel. Enjoy live shows and interactive exhibits.
Inclusions
Aquaduck Sunshine Coast: City Tour & River Cruise
- Aquaduck land & water tour
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast
- Entry to SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast
- Digi Photo Pass with 8 photos
Aquaduck Sunshine Coast: City Tour & River Cruise
- Tip: Don't forget your binoculars! Take a peek at the glamorous waterfront homes and bustling Minyama fish market.
- Please arrive at the meeting point 20 minutes before your scheduled time.
- All guests must wear life jackets after boarding the Aquaduck.
- There is no storage for prams and large bags on board or at the departure point. Please leave them in your car or hotel room. You are not permitted to leave unattended strollers on SEA LIFE premises.
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast
- Tip: Be sure to check out the Jellyfish Kingdom, where you can see hundreds of mesmerizing jellyfish in different shapes, sizes, and colors.
- Guests aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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Discover the best of the Gold Coast on this boat tour with a live guide!
- Get a 1-day unlimited Hop-on Hop-off pass and discover the waterways and superyachts of the Gold Coast at your own pace.
- As boats arrive hourly, you get to hop off and explore at five famous stops along the Gold Coast’s stunning waterways.
- Enjoy incredible 360-degree skyline views from the open-air deck while a live guide entertains you with stories of the city’s culture and heritage.
- Shop for fresh seafood from Peter’s Fish Market, spot luxury homes and mega yachts from the Nerang River, and much more!
Discover the best of the Gold Coast on this boat tour with a live guide!
- Get a 1-day unlimited Hop-on Hop-off pass and discover the waterways and superyachts of the Gold Coast at your own pace.
- As boats arrive hourly, you get to hop off and explore at five famous stops along the Gold Coast’s stunning waterways.
- Enjoy incredible 360-degree skyline views from the open-air deck while a live guide entertains you with stories of the city’s culture and heritage.
- Shop for fresh seafood from Peter’s Fish Market, spot luxury homes and mega yachts from the Nerang River, and much more!
Inclusions
- 1-day unlimited Hop-on Hop-off tour
- Live onboard commentary in English
- Drink onboard
You can join the tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.
Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Boat Tour
This vibrant route highlights the city's sparkling coastal lifestyle, blending world-class arts and culture with luxury waterfront dining and the thrilling marine adventures found along the beautiful Broadwater.
Popular stops: Surfers Paradise, Marina Mirage, Sea World Marine Park
Accessibility
- The boats and piers are wheelchair and pram/stroller-accessible.
Additional Information
- Your bikes are allowed onboard.
- These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 0 hours before the experience begins.
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Combo (Save 5%): Quack'rDuck Tour + Gold Coast Attraction Choice Tickets
from AU$86.90
AU$82.55
5% off
Pair Quack’rDuck Tour with your pick of Dreamworld, SkyPoint, or Infinity—your call.
- Everything you get at Quack'rDuck tour: 1-hour Gold Coast city & river tour on Quack'rDuck amphibious bus, English-speaking guide, live commentary, "Spot the Difference" quiz for kids.
- Everything you get at Infinity Attraction: Entry to Infinity Attraction Gold Coast with access to 20+ futuristic zones.
- Everything you get at Dreamworld Gold Coast: Entry to Dreamworld with access to epic rides, live shows, and zones like Tiger Island and Corroboree.
- Everything you get at SkyPoint Observation Deck: Entry to SkyPoint’s 230m-high deck with 360-degree views of the Gold Coast skyline and ocean, plus the chance to relax at SkyPoint Bistro + Bar (at your own expense).
- Why choose this combo: The easiest way to see the Gold Coast—ride the Quack’rDuck, then choose your favourite experience—Dreamworld, Infinity, or SkyPoint.
Pair Quack’rDuck Tour with your pick of Dreamworld, SkyPoint, or Infinity—your call.
- Everything you get at Quack'rDuck tour: 1-hour Gold Coast city & river tour on Quack'rDuck amphibious bus, English-speaking guide, live commentary, "Spot the Difference" quiz for kids.
- Everything you get at Infinity Attraction: Entry to Infinity Attraction Gold Coast with access to 20+ futuristic zones.
- Everything you get at Dreamworld Gold Coast: Entry to Dreamworld with access to epic rides, live shows, and zones like Tiger Island and Corroboree.
- Everything you get at SkyPoint Observation Deck: Entry to SkyPoint’s 230m-high deck with 360-degree views of the Gold Coast skyline and ocean, plus the chance to relax at SkyPoint Bistro + Bar (at your own expense).
- Why choose this combo: The easiest way to see the Gold Coast—ride the Quack’rDuck, then choose your favourite experience—Dreamworld, Infinity, or SkyPoint.
Inclusions
Quack'rDuck Tour
- 1-hour Gold Coast city & river tour on Quack'rDuck amphibious bus
- English-speaking guide
- Live commentary
- "Spot the Difference" quiz for kids
Infinity Attraction (as per option selected)
- Entry to Infinity Attraction Gold Coast
SkyPoint Observation Deck (as per option selected)
- Entry to SkyPoint Observation Deck
Dreamworld (as per option selected)
- Entry to Dreamworld
- Access to all rides, shows, & attractions
Warner Bros. Movie World
- The Flash: Speed Force
- Green Lantern coaster
- DC Rivals HyperCoaster
- The Flight of the Wicked Witch
- Batwing Spaceshot
- Kansas Twister
- Road Runner Rollercoaster
- Superman Escape
- Justice League 3D – The Ride
- Wild West Falls Adventure Ride
- Looney Tunes Carousel
- Junior Driving School
- Looney Tunes Splash Zone
- Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster
Dreamworld
- Steel Taipan triple-launch coaster
- The Giant Drop and The Claw
- Rivertown's Jungle Rush and Murrissippi Motors
- Serpent Slayer, hard or soft
- Motocoaster (motorcycle racing)
- Sky Voyager (sky theater)
- Vintage Cars
- Dreamworld Express
- Deep Sea Dodgems
- Belinda’s Tree House
- Play School Wheel
- Big Red Planes
- Big Red Boat Coaster
Quack'rDuck Tour
- Due to vehicle restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.
Infinity Attraction
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- This experience is accessible by wheelchair. Please contact the venue at least 24 hours in advance using the number on your voucher to arrange a wheelchair.
- If special effects lighting, sound, dark confined spaces, or illusions of height and depth cause you concern, please make further inquiries before purchasing admission.
- If uneven and unstable floors in some areas might affect you, please make further inquiries before entry.
- This experience is not recommended for babies, toddlers, children under 8 years of age or for anyone with a severe fear of darkness. Children must be able to walk through unassisted.
- Children under the age of 12 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Dreamworld Gold Coast
- Pets are not permitted inside the venue.
- This experience is accessible by wheelchair and pram/stroller. Burleigh Wagons, single and double strollers, and wheelchairs are available. Visit Guest Services on arrival.
- The attractions have individual age or height requirements. Please visit the website for more information.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
SkyPoint Observation Deck
- Pets are not permitted inside the venue.
- This experience is accessible by wheelchair.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
- SkyPoint visitor numbers are capped to prevent overcrowding. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis. When SkyPoint reaches capacity no further entries will be permitted.
- Children aged 18 and below must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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Gold CoastCruises in Gold Coast
Why take a Gold Coast cruise?
Skyline views at sunset
See the Surfers Paradise skyline glow on a 2–3 hour sunset or dinner cruise.
All your Gold Coast cruise options explained
Sightseeing cruises
Best for: Relaxed sightseeing with dining
Price: From AU$99
Duration: ~2–2.5 hours
Cruise past landmarks like Marina Mirage, Palazzo Versace, Sea World, the Broadwater Parklands, and luxury waterfront homes—while enjoying a tropical buffet of prawns, chicken, salads, desserts, and beverages.
Recommended experiences:
- Gold Coast Sightseeing Cruise with Buffet Lunch
- Gold Coast Sightseeing Cruise with Buffet Dinner
Whale watching cruises
Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts & families
Price: From AU$74
Duration: 2.5 hours
Set course to the Humpback Whale migration route from Main Beach and board a vessel with hydrophones, underwater cameras, and marine commentary. Enjoy a 100% sighting guarantee and get close to whales in their natural habitat.
Recommended experiences:
- Premium Whale Watching Cruise by SeaWorld
- Whale Watching Cruise with Beverages & Snacks
Hop-on hop-off cruises
Best for: Flexible exploration
Price: From AU$45
Duration: All-day access
Explore at your pace with unlimited hop-on hop-off access across five stops: Surfers Paradise, HOTA, Marina Mirage, Broadwater Parklands, and Sea World.
Recommended experience:
- Gold Coast Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise
Special cruise experiences
Best for: A unique, adventurous experience
Price: From AU$58
Duration: Varied
Choose from adventurous and personalised options — take a dolphin-spotting kayak and snorkel tour, book a private luxury boat with a skipper for your group, or ride the Aquaduck amphibious bus for a city-and-river combo.
Recommended experiences:
- Gold Coast Dolphin Kayaking & Snorkel Tour
- Private Luxury Boat Tour with Skipper
- Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour
Plan your Gold Coast cruise experience
Timings & best time to go
Getting there
Facilities
Tips
Dining
- Cruise departures: Daily, usually between 9am and 7pm depending on the tour.
- Best time to visit
- Whale season: June–November, with peak sightings from July to October.
- Morning cruises: Calmer seas and clearer visibility for spotting wildlife.
- Evening cruises: Stunning winter sunsets and cooler breezes on the Broadwater.
Find on Maps.
Cruises depart from 3 main points along the central Gold Coast waterfront:
- Sea World Cruises Terminal (Main Beach)
- Mariners Cove Marina (Main Beach)
- Surfers Paradise Ferry Wharf (Appel Park)
By tram/bus: The G:link light rail stops at Surfers Paradise. Buses connect to Main Beach and Marina Mirage, with short shuttle/taxi links available.
By car/taxi: Both Main Beach and Surfers Paradise are a 5–15 minute drive from central hotels. Parking is available at Marina Mirage and near Surfers Paradise wharf. Taxi or rideshare fares range from AUD 10–20.
Getting to your Gold Coast Cruise boarding point
- Wheelchair access is available on select vessels’ lower decks.
- Boarding ramps at Marina Mirage make boarding easy.
- Onboard toilets and baby-change facilities provided.
- Shaded undercover seating keeps you comfortable.
- Open-air viewing decks are perfect for photos and spotting wildlife.
- Choose the right season! June to October for whales, winter evenings for sunsets.
- Use burst mode and keep elbows braced on rails; avoid standing right at the bow during turns to avoid vibration blur.
- For skyline shots, step to the outer deck corner to avoid reflections.
- Take seasickness tablets before departure if you’re prone to motion sickness.
- If no whales show up, your sighting guarantee means a free return trip. Check with your crew on how to redeem.
- Onboard café/bar for snacks and drinks, and buffets included on some cruises.
- Marina Mirage Dining Precinct: Waterfront restaurants and cafes serving seafood, grills, and global cuisines. Open daily.
- Fisherman’s Wharf Tavern: Local favorite for fresh seafood platters and sunset views over the Broadwater.
- Seascape Restaurant + Bar: Beachfront dining with premium seafood and modern dishes across bistro, bar, and rooftop.
- Glass Dining & Lounge Bar: Contemporary Australian cuisine and cocktails in a stylish marina setting.
Gold Coast cruises' visual highlights
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Frequently asked questions about Gold Coast cruises
What types of Gold Coast boat cruises can I book?
You can choose from various Gold Coast cruises: whale watching adventures with expert commentary, buffet lunch and dinner sightseeing cruises, hop-on hop-off ferry-style tours, high-speed jet boat rides, wildlife kayaking & snorkel tours, luxury private charters, and even the fun amphibious Aquaduck city and river tour. Each experience offers something unique, whether you’re chasing thrills, wildlife, or sunset views.
What’s included in the buffet lunch and dinner cruises?
The buffet lunch cruise aboard Spirit of Elston serves a tropical spread with fresh seafood, salads, hot dishes, and desserts, while the buffet dinner cruise adds a fruit platter, indulgent desserts, and live entertainment to make your evening magical. Both include live commentary and access to AC decks and outdoor sundecks.
Do whale watching cruises come with a sighting guarantee?
Yes! Both the Premium Whale Watching Cruise by Sea World and the Whale Watching Cruise with Beverages & Snacks include a sighting guarantee. If you don’t spot whales, you’ll usually get a free return ticket.
How far in advance should I book whale watching tickets in peak season?
During the peak migration months (June to October), it’s best to book your Gold Coast boat cruise at least 1–2 weeks in advance. Whale watching is extremely popular, and spots sell out quickly.
Can I upgrade to a private charter after booking a shared cruise?
Upgrades depend on availability. If you’d like to switch to a Private Luxury Boat Tour with a skipper, reach out to our team as early as possible, and we’ll do our best to arrange it.
Are the hop-on, hop-off ferry passes valid all day?
Yes, your Gold Coast HOPO ferry pass is valid for the entire day, letting you explore riverside attractions at your own pace.
Can I combine my ferry pass with Sea World entry?
Currently, the ferry passes are separate from Sea World entry tickets. However, you can pair them easily in your itinerary for a day of fun, both on water and on land.
Is the sunset dinner cruise suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The buffet dinner cruise offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with spacious seating and entertainment. Children often love spotting the skyline at dusk from the sundeck.
What’s included in the Whale Watching Cruise with Beverages & Snacks?
Along with expert commentary from a marine biologist, you’ll enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and biscuits onboard. Hydrophones and underwater cameras bring the whale world even closer.
What’s the difference between the whale watching premium and snacks-inclusive cruises?
The Premium Whale Watching Cruise includes interactive displays, hydrophones, and a marine naturalist, while the Snacks Cruise keeps it casual with refreshments and biologist commentary. Both offer a 2.5-hour offshore adventure.
Where do the Gold Coast boat cruises depart from?
Most sightseeing and dinner cruises depart from Surfers Paradise or Main Beach. Whale watching cruises usually leave from Sea World’s terminal. Exact details will be shared with your ticket confirmation.
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From happy customers
Sameer
Apr., 2026
It's was easy and convenient. Was able to get the tickets instantly after completion of payment . Enjoyed the service, highly recommended. The scenic view from SkyPoint was amassing.
Combo: Aquaduck Tour + Gold Coast Attraction Choice Tickets
Elma
Papua New GuineaApr., 2026
Fun day for the family our children had the best time. Liked the fact that we ddnt have to show our tickets everytime we wanted to go for a ride. Enjoyed the day and will definitely do it again with the family.
Combo: Aquaduck Tour + Gold Coast Attraction Choice Tickets
Belinda
AustraliaApr., 2026
What a fun time!!! Rhonda was awesome with the kids and the banter between her and Murray kept us amused. The views were spectacular.
Quack'rDuck Gold Coast City and River Tour
Chitrali
AustraliaJan., 2026
Amazing time on this ride. Driver was friendly and guide was funny and friendly. We loved the smooth ride and sailing. Wonderful experience for my 2yr old baby as it was her 1st time in water on a boat. We all loved it . It's a must try experience.
Quack'rDuck Gold Coast City and River Tour
Rebecca
AustraliaFeb., 2026
Morning well spent! The staff were friendly, fun and knowledgeable. Great site seeing spots. The highlight for the kids was driving the boat!! Highly recommend if your in the surfers area.
Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour
Samantha
AustraliaJan., 2026
It was great, my daughter loved it, drivers humour and it was just easy enjoyable process. Would definitly recommend. This is our second year in a row and we always book the experience.
Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour
Laura
New ZealandJuni, 2026
This was great fun. My grandson had so much fun. He was excited to go from the road into the water. He loved seeing the fancy houses & sea world. Rhonda & the Captain were very friendly & really interacted with those on board. They were very informative with local landmarks & the history. I would highly recommend this tour.
Combo: Quack'rDuck Tour + Gold Coast Attraction Choice Tickets
Pearl
AustraliaJuni, 2026
We loved our family visit with the kids even tho it meant no big rides lol, I believe the kids loved it to and it meant a lot to my daughter being able to go on a birthday holiday here with her dad because dad lives in Adelaide and can only visit the 5 kids once a year because of work, dreamworld will and does always has a special place in my heart and we hope we can afford to make the kids dreams continue to come true every year for birthday and just for a fun day out, as me and my oldest sometimes just come here alone because he loves the steel tiapan and especially the seats at the back that turn
Combo: Quack'rDuck Tour + Gold Coast Attraction Choice Tickets