Gold Coast Cruises for the Whole Family
The Gold Coast's canal system is bigger than Amsterdam and Venice combined, so it only makes sense to see at least part of your holiday from the water. Whether the kids want to steer the boat themselves, settle in for a proper lunch while the scenery slides by, or hop on and off at their own pace, there's a Gold Coast cruise built around it. Here's where to start.
Sea World Cruises Buffet Lunch Cruise
The Buffet Lunch Cruise turns a Gold Coast cruise into a proper sit down meal, a 90 minute cruise past Marina Mirage, HOTA and Sea World, with a buffet of fresh prawns, roast chicken and salads served up on an air conditioned, family friendly vessel.
Gold Coast Hop On Hop Off All Day Ferry Pass
The Hop On Hop Off Ferry Pass gives families unlimited stops across five Gold Coast destinations for the whole day, Surfers Paradise, HOTA, Marina Mirage, Sea World and the Broadwater Parklands, hop off wherever takes your fancy and jump back on whenever you're ready to move on.
Aquaduck Gold Coast City Tour and River Cruise
The Aquaduck is Australia's first amphibious tour, starting on land past the famous Surfers Paradise sign before the big splash down into the Broadwater. Kids get to take the helm themselves and even receive their own souvenir driving certificate, spotting dolphins, super yachts and the Surfers Paradise skyline along the way.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Aquaduck suitable for young kids?
Yes, it's suitable for all ages from babies to seniors, and kids as young as 3 get a turn driving under supervision on the water section.
How long does the Sea World Cruises lunch cruise run for?
Around 90 minutes, departing from the centre of Surfers Paradise with both inside and weather dependent outside seating available.
Do we need to book the Hop On Hop Off Ferry in advance?
No, seats are first come first served, so just turn up at any of the five stops and hop on when the ferry arrives.
Which Gold Coast cruise is best for a family with a pram?
The Hop On Hop Off Ferry is pram friendly, while the Aquaduck doesn't have storage for prams onboard, so plan to leave larger gear at your hotel for that one.
Can the kids see wildlife on these cruises?
Yes, keep an eye out for dolphins in the Broadwater on both the Aquaduck and the Buffet Lunch Cruise routes.
Local tip: book the Aquaduck earlier in the day when the kids have the most energy to enjoy driving, then save the Hop On Hop Off Ferry or lunch cruise for a more relaxed afternoon on the water.
Sort your family's Gold Coast cruise above, the Aquaduck for hands on fun, a buffet lunch cruise for a relaxed sit down meal, or a Hop On Hop Off Ferry Pass for a flexible day exploring the Broadwater. All good days are waiting.