With a super scenic coastline and sparkling waterways winding through the Gold Coast, a day cruise is an ideal and very relaxing way to explore the city. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxe experience with catering, a family friendly adventure on the water or day of sightseeing with a difference, when it comes to day cruises, Gold Coast caters to everyone.
Different Types of Day Cruises to Explore
No matter what kind of Gold Coast cruise experience you’re looking for, you’ll find it on our waterways. There’s a huge variety of operators and experiences to choose from. Whether you’re on a family holiday or romantic escape, travelling with friends or a solo traveller, there’s a vessel that can accommodate you.
Take your pick from a range of adventures - sightseeing cruises offering a relaxing way to explore the city, dining cruises where you can enjoy a gourmet meal on the water, sailing cruises, adventure focused cruises that include island visits, snorkelling or scuba diving and whale watching cruises where’ll you’ll see humpback whales on their annual migration along the East Coast.
Top Picks for Gold Coast Day Cruises
Culture Cruise with Jellurgal Aboriginal Culture Centre
A collaboration between Kokokmo Cruises and Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, this unique cruise takes you on a cultural journey of stunning scenery, powerful storytelling and Indigenous history on the Gold Coast waterways.
This 2.5 hour cruise takes you to Wavebreak Island with an Aboriginal guide sharing Dreamtime stories, ancient traditions and the deep connection First Nations people have to the land and water. You’ll gain fascinating insights into how the Yugambeh people lived off natural resources and a newfound appreciation for the Gold Coast’s Aboriginal heritage and history.
The vibe: Enlightening, fascinating, insightful and joyful. Perfect for kids, visitors and locals who want to learn more about the Gold Coast'sIndigenous history.
Cost: Adult - $69, Child - $ 59. Family packages available.
Departure Point: Marina Miragae, Sea World Dr, Main Beach
Gold Coast Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise
Take to the waterways of Northern Gold Coast with Sea World Cruises on their popular Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise. The route includes highlights of the canals and then heads out to the Broadwater for views of local landmarks and the lights of Surfers Paradise. During the two and half hour cruise, you’ll enjoy a decadent dinner spread made with local, seasonal produce, perfectly paired with locally brewed beer, wine, or a signature cocktail. Add some live entertainment and you've got all the ingredients for a perfect evening.
The vibe: Relaxing and memorable. A unique dining experience ideal for families, groups and special occasions.
Cost: Adults - $129, Child - $69
Departure point: Sea World Cruises Terminal, Sea World, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Surfers Paradise Sunset Cruise
Enjoy a spectacular sunset cruise (and epic photo opportunities) with Surfers Paradise River Cruises - some say it’s the best time to be on the water. Relax on the sundeck and take in the stunning skies as dusk descends and the light turns golden, reflected in the Nerang River. The 1.5 hour journey takes you past beautiful waterfront homes, gleaming yachts and out to the Broadwater for a new perspective on the city. Some savoury nibbles are included and drinks are available from the bar on board.
The vibe: Scenic, serene and tranquil. Ideal for couples or small groups.
Cost: Adult - $55, Child - $45
Departure point: 63 Cavill Ave Surfers Paradise
Gold Coast Island Cruise
The vibe: Exclusive, laid back and luxurious day of sea and sun. Perfect for birthdays, special celebrations and quality time with your favourite people.
Cost: Make a booking enquiry and Sailing in Paradise will get back to you with pricing and info. Private charters range from 3 - 6 hours.
Departure point: Marina Mirage, Sea World Dr, Main Beach
Gold Coast Whale Watching Cruise
Situated on the ‘ Humpback Highway’ the Gold Coast is one of the best places in Australia for whale watching. The season stretches from May to October as 40, 000 whales make their way up north to warmer water to mate and birth their babies. To see these incredible creatures up close in their natural environment is an unforgettable experience, and humpback numbers are so plentiful that Gold Coast whale watching tours have a 100% whale guarantee. There’s a broad range of Gold Coast whale watching tours available from different operators but whichever one you choose, the experience will stay with you long after you’re back on land.
The vibe: A thrilling adventure perfect for nature lovers and families, creating once-in-a-lifetime memories.
Cost: Varies for different whale watching tours but prices start from $80.
Departure point: Most Gold Coast whale watching cruises depart from Main Beach and Surfers Paradise.
Romantic Cruise with Gold Coast Gondolas
The Gold Coast has more canals than Venice.. and we’ve got gondolas too! Step aboard one of these beautiful vessels for a special experience on the spectacular waterways that weave through the central suburbs and parklands.Recline in comfort and luxury in the elegant cabin as you glide over the water with Gold Coast Gondolas, admiring the glittering lights and pastel skies at sunset. While this kind of cruise is geared towards romance, there’s a range of packages suited to small groups and families too. You can BYO or upgrade to a catered cruise with dinner and drinks,
The vibe: Romantic, luxurious, intimate and completely unique. Ideal for dates, anniversaries, proposals.. or just because!
Cost: From $240 for an hour cruise (up to 4 people)..
Departure Point: Mariner’s Cove, 60 Sea World Dr, Main Beach
Entertainment & Social Cruise
Set sail for a day cruise with a difference aboard YOT Club - Gold Coast’s glamorous floating entertainment venue. With a luxe fit out, two full service cocktail bars, DJ booth and a dance floor spread across two levels it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. There are ticketed events on Friday nights and day cruises on selected Saturdays and Sundays, so gather your crew and soak up the city skyline on a three-hour adventure on the beautiful Broadwater, with cocktail in hand and party tunes pumping.
The vibe: Sophisticated, super fun party vibes - perfect for celebrations and socialising.
Cost: From $49.95 (18+)
Departure point: Pier E, 60 Sea World Dr, Main Beach
Sun Sailing Morning Cruise
Start the day off in the best way with a magical morning cruise, amd watch the city waking up as you take in the beautiful morning light and waterfront sights with Sun Sailing. Enjoy croissants and danish pastries with a coffee or glass of sparkling on the deck of their stunning yacht, Ellison. Relax into a two-hour cruise of the Gold Coast’s gorgeous waterways, keeping an eye out for dolphins, seabirds and other marine life. You’ll be back at the dock before lunch.
The vibe: A tranquil yet energising sailing experience, perfect for early birds.
Cost: Adults - $119, Children - $89. Family packages available.
Departure Point: Seaway Pontoon, Muriel Henchman Drive, Main Beach
A Gold Coast day cruise is such an amazing way to explore the waterways, canals and ocean. It’s an activity that combines adventure, relaxation and sightseeing in one very appealing package and should absolutely be on your to-do list when you’re in the city. Check out the available experiences and book your cruise today.
Keen to check out more? See Gold Coast Whale Watching Guide.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.