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Contents
Book tickets for Gold Coast cruises
Whale watching cruises
Sightseeing & dining cruises
Gold Coast ferry timetable (Hop-on hop-off)
Adventure & private experiences
Seasonal schedule (May–October):
- Daily departures: 8am, 9am, 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Guaranteed sightings, with marine naturalist commentary and on-board interactive displays.
Year-round schedule:
- Buffet lunch cruise: Departs 12pm (check-in 11:40am), returns 2pm. (Duration: 2 hours)
- Buffet dinner cruise: Evening departure (varies by season, usually 6:30pm), returns around 9pm. (Duration: 2.5 hours)
- Aquaduck city & river tour: Multiple departures daily from 9:45 am to late afternoon – Duration: 1 hour
- All sightseeing cruises include live commentary, sundeck views, and licensed bars on board.
Year-round schedule:
- Operating hours: Daily, 9:15am to late afternoon
- Frequency: Hourly departures, 7 days a week
- Stops: Surfers Paradise, HOTA, Marina Mirage, Broadwater Parklands, Sea World
- Duration: Flexible, unlimited rides all day with a single ticket
- Great for exploring riverside attractions at your own pace.
Daily schedule:
- Jet Boat Ride: 45 minutes, multiple departures daily
- Dolphin Kayak & Snorkel Tour: Morning 7:30am – 10:30am (with breakfast); Midday 11am – 2pm
- Private Luxury Boat Tour: Departure times tailored to guests – Duration 2 to 3 hours
- Perfect for thrill seekers or private celebrations with custom departure options.
How long do Gold Coast cruises take?
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- Sightseeing Cruises: Most sightseeing cruises last 2 to 2.5 hours. The popular buffet lunch cruise runs from 12pm to 2pm.
- Whale Watching Cruises: Allow 2.5 hours, plus 20 minutes for check-in. Runs daily during the season (late May – October).
- Hop-On Hop-Off Ferry: Valid for the whole day with unlimited rides. Boats depart hourly, so you can spend as much or as little time at each stop as you like.
- Special Experiences: Activities like the Aquaduck or dolphin kayaking range from 1 to 3 hours.
Plan your cruise here.
Frequently asked questions about Gold Coast cruise timings
What are the usual Gold Coast cruise timings?
Most Gold Coast cruises operate throughout the day, starting with serene morning departures around 9-10am, followed by midday sightseeing slots, and finishing with sunset cruises in the late afternoon. Evening dinner cruises often begin around 6–7pm.
Does the ferry timetable change seasonally?
Yes, the Gold Coast ferry timetable can vary with seasons and demand.
What is the best time of day to book a Gold Coast cruise?
If you love calm waters and fewer crowds, morning sailings are ideal. For picture-perfect views and golden skies, sunset cruises are unbeatable. Night cruises add a splash of romance with the city lights. It all depends on the vibe you’re after!
How early should I arrive before my cruise departure?
Arrive 20–30 minutes before your cruise time to check in smoothly.
What happens if I miss my Gold Coast cruise timing?
If you miss your scheduled departure, policies vary depending on the operator. Some may allow rebooking on the next available slot, while others may treat it as a no-show. It’s best to double-check terms when booking your tickets.
Are Gold Coast ferry timetable services different from sightseeing cruises?
Yes. The Gold Coast ferry timetable mainly refers to local transport-style ferries with fixed routes and timings, while sightseeing cruises have flexible schedules tailored for tourists, often including commentary, drinks, or dining.
Do Gold Coast cruise timings get affected by the weather?
Absolutely. While most cruises run rain or shine, departures may be delayed or rescheduled in case of extreme weather or rough seas. Always keep an eye on updates from your cruise operator, especially during storm season.