Gold Coast Boat Hire Self-Drive with No License Required
5
Gold Coast Boat Hire Self-Drive with No License Required
By Duffy Down Under Boat Hire, Cruises & Tours
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99
Duration: 1–4 hours
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- Safety Equipment
What's not included- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Food
- Start:
- Duffy Down Under Boat Hire, Cruises & Tours, Arm A, 60/70 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach QLD 4217, AustraliaDeparture Point: Mariners Cove Marina 60-70 Seaworld Drive, ARM A Main Beach, QLD Australia Directions: Please check in at our office which is located on the Dock at Main Waterfront area, (at the base of the bridge heading away from Fishermans Wharf Tavern). We will then direct you to your vessel.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Wheelchair accessible
- Pushchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 52794P2- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Most travellers can participate
- Children must be accompanied by an adult and are most welcome
- Wheelchairs can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
- For Self-Drive you must be able to read and understand English & a Map. A signed contract is required. As a matter of safety, if we deem it necessary a Skipper will be required at an additional cost (minimal)
- We reserve the right to provide a Skipper at an additional cost (minimal) if conditions do not suit Self Drive as a matter of safety
- All Self Drive boats must be back before Sunset. Skipper is required for Sunset Cruises, please book accordingly
- All weather boating - We do not cancel due to rain, unless we deem it unsafe. Please dress appropriately. At our discretion in the event of inclement weather as safety needs to be in the forefront of our minds if conditions are less than ideal we will be happy to re-schedule the tour to a date and time suitable to you the customer (subject to availability) or a skipper can be provided at an additional charge. All vessels are equipped for all weather boating, we are not obligated to refund if conditions are not to your liking.
- No fishing or beaching of our vessels, no swimming on Snug Classic -Swim Ladder only onboard our Limo on the Water vessel, swimming is at your own risk
- You are more than welcome to bring your beloved pet if you wish
- If in doubt of your capacity to Captain a Boat, please consider booking a vessel with a Skipper. The Skipper will still let you drive, but will be on hand to teach you how to safely navigate the waterways
- You are more than welcome to bring your own food and beverages onboard.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 52794P2
From
AU$165.00
per group (up to 10)
Select date and travellers
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Similar experiences
Itinerary
- Arm A, 60/70 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach QLD 4217, AustraliaDeparture Point: Mariners Cove Marina 60-70 Seaworld Drive, ARM A Main Beach, QLD Australia Directions: Please check in at our office which is located on the Dock at Main Waterfront area, (at the base of the bridge heading away from Fishermans Wharf Tavern). We will then direct you to your vessel.
- Pass byGold CoastMain BeachSurfers ParadiseLabradorRunaway BayBroadwater
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Wander8267460 contributionsExcellent experienceExcellent and relaxing experience surrounded by beautiful scenery coupled with informative information about the area. Would highly recommend.Written 26 December 2024
- BoggyWoggy0 contributionsA Highlight Day!It was SO MUCH FUN! We loved having the owners as the skippers on the day we got to spend on a boat! They told us stories of local history, showed us GORGEOUS homes along the water front, stopped at the market to nab some lunch, and gave time to relax and enjoy a piece of our vacation in Australia. Highly recommend Nitsa and Gordon's boats!Written 27 November 2024
- sarahtT7489UX0 contributionsChristmas Cheer(s)This is our second year cruising and celebrating our Christmas lunch with our organisation’s volunteers. Another fabulous experience that everyone loved. So relaxing and peaceful. The skippers are fantastic and very accommodating. Thanks again Duffy’s, see you next year!Written 21 December 2023
- Hayley C0 contributionsA fun experience with the family!This was such a fun thing to do with the family! We were given good instructions and a map of where we could drive the boat in the canals. We self drove which was easy to do, the boat was easy to drive. It was great being able to take our drinks and snacks on board. We booked the boat for 3 hours. As a bonus we saw dolphins!Written 27 October 2023
- johnpT3878MV0 contributionsHouse alertThe houses we saw were out of this world. Gordon explained who lived in some of them. A great 4 hours spent on his boat. Thank you.Written 14 October 2023
- peterdQ9161AE0 contributionsA must do on the Gold CoastBrilliant tour of the Gold Coast. Had so much fun with friends. We cruised the Gold Coast for 2 hours while enjoying a fruit platter. Highly recommended.Written 28 June 2023
- Spoz0 contributionsPerfect Day on the WaterSuch a wonderful few hours out on the water. We originally were going to self drive but last minute were given a skipper (Peter) which was a wonderful surprise. Peters interaction with us all was wonderful, his knowledge of the area superb. Having grown up in the area gave him some more detail into certain properties we went past. We come upto the GC every year to reunite and catch up old friends and do a different boat trip every year. This one has surpassed them all. Thank you Nitsa for organising a wonderful day for us and an extra big thank you to Peter for being our No. 1 Skipper tfor the day.Written 22 May 2023
- I4765IRstellac0 contributionsAbsolutely amazing best part of the Gold CoastHad Gordan as our skipper, he was absolutely amazing, he gave us excellent commentary and answered any and all questions, even let us drive the boat at some points! Would absolutely recommend to everyone!Written 15 April 2023
- SharonBrown64780 contributionsMust do cruise!We just finished our canal cruise with Skipper Gordon. What a treat! He was knowledgeable and accommodating while giving us some of the history of both Duffy and the Gold Coast. This was, by far, the best way to see the canals and the harbor. Incredible!Written 11 February 2023
- 799leighs0 contributionsWonderful from booking to dockingWhat a blast!! From the moment I booked this, the operator was in touch to ensure we had the best possible experience. I had so many questions and requests and Nitsa was prompt in her responses and beyond accommodating! On the day - coordinating small children, elderly participants with mobility considerations, special custom catering requests - they had it all under control and made everyone feel equally welcome and included. Nitsa was our skipper and she was fabulous - we felt safe in her hands, she was fun and knowledgeable about the area we toured. The experience itself is wonderful. So much fun, so much to see and well, well worth the time and price.Written 9 January 2023
- V7063GCmarkg0 contributionshappy wife happy lifeWe did this on a whim - a lot of fun. The smile it put on my wife's face was worth every cent. Enjoyed the real estate form the water too. Our best day in GC!Written 7 December 2022
- Rashed08130 contributionsA tour, not to missA must do tour if you are after a relaxing family time. Thanks to Nitsa for coming along with us and guide us throughout the tour.Written 2 December 2022
- yama22gc0 contributionsso much funWe hired a boat for my hubby's birthday, it was a really fun hour of cruising along the Gold Coast waterways, looking at celebrities houses and hearing interesting stories from the skipper.Written 30 November 2022
- De Ville A0 contributionsBest experienceOne of the best experiences, we took the boat out ourselves during the day, and we also wanted to experience a twilight cruise, so Gordon skipped the boat for us, we had such a good night cruising the waters, it was romantic and so relaxing just amazing. This is something we will always want to do.Written 30 November 2022
- thomw3090 contributionsQuiet Cruise!Took a nice trip around the waterways. Great way to see a different perspective of the Coast. Would recommend 🙏🏻Written 16 November 2022
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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5.0
28 reviews
Excellent
26
Very good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
1
K M Lam
3 contributions
Apr 2023
The trip was such an amazing experience. We are a group of six from ages 8 to 73. We do ask for a skipper to join. He was fun and exprience. With his aid all of us enjoy the ride in evening breeze and breathtaking view.
Although the booking can simply take the boat hire, I do recommend to also hire a skipper, especially for beginners. He put our mind at ease so we can fully enjoy the relaxing ambient.
Although the booking can simply take the boat hire, I do recommend to also hire a skipper, especially for beginners. He put our mind at ease so we can fully enjoy the relaxing ambient.
Written 18 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Karen for taking the time to provide a review, we are delighted that you enjoyed your time onboard. It’s wonderful that you took up the offer for having the skipper onboard. It certainly gives you the skills for future boating, & the chance to sit back, relax while you soak up the beautiful Gold Coast Skyline! Thanks again!!
Written 18 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brittany G
1 contribution
had an absolutely wonderful time. picked it to wrap up just as the sun was setting, the scenery was wonderful. Vlad ended up joining us due to water conditions but he was friendly, helpful and a great addition. we truly relaxed on the two hours we had. would 100% highly recommend this activity
Written 2 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Brittany for the glowing review of your experience with us. We are delighted by having Vlad onboard, you were able to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. We look forward to welcoming you back when you visit the Gold Coast in the future.
Written 3 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hayley M
1 contribution
Nov 2024 • Family
We did a self drive tour and couldn't recommend it enough.
Greeted with a friendly smile, quick instructions and we were off. The boat is electric so quiet and easy to drive, even for someone who doesn't know boat's!
Comfortable seats, plenty of room for the family and plenty of cover from the sun/wind. A bonus that we were able to take our own snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy.
Thank you for a great gold coast activity for the family, we really appreciated it.
Greeted with a friendly smile, quick instructions and we were off. The boat is electric so quiet and easy to drive, even for someone who doesn't know boat's!
Comfortable seats, plenty of room for the family and plenty of cover from the sun/wind. A bonus that we were able to take our own snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy.
Thank you for a great gold coast activity for the family, we really appreciated it.
Written 28 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Hayley, for taking the time to provide a 5 Star Review of your experience onboard. It was our pleasure to host you and your lovely family while visiting our lovely city. It's a wonderful experience to actually view the GC from the Water! Hope to welcome you back onboard on your next visit! All the best for the Holiday Season!
Written 28 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
AmandaThamage
Hillcrest, Australia1 contribution
Feb 2023
Book it!! Book it!! Very quick and easy! We had such a nice boat ride on a beautiful day. I want to highlight that Gordon who is fun, warm and welcoming offered a complimentary skipper service, while we stayed back relaxed, comfortable beneath canopy gazing at the beautiful real estate Gold Coast offers. He shared fascinating information about the luxury restaurants, properties, amenities and current events around the area. Excellent job Nitsa on providing quick response on booking, free parking, directions and other necessary information. I will definitely and highly recommend this service for a relaxing ride with family and friends.
Written 22 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Amanda for taking the time to provide such a comprehensive glowing review. It really is appreciated, as it shows our perspective guest, that they can feel confident in booking our experience. I will pass on you kudos to Gordon! Thanks once again, we do hope to welcoming you back onboard in the future!
Written 27 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Southlanders2
Gore, New Zealand5 contributions
Travelling with adult children looking for new adventures. Easy to operate, great instructions and maps. Friendly people. We have been on canal tours many times but the self drive for 2 hours was great. Unfortunately we struck heavy rain but the boat was covered with clear sides so did not detract from the experience. Would book this again with friends or family.
Written 17 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your kind review!
It's great to have new adventures with you adult children, nothing better than spending quality time with your kids, no matter how old they are!
Having the surrey top and full window enclosures gives you the opportunity to experience the outing knowing that it kept you comfortable even during the rain.
We appreciate your feedback on instructions provided to you along with the maps, as this really helps future customers understand the process.
We’d love to welcome you back with friends or family for another adventure soon!
Thanks again!
Written 18 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tash
2 contributions
Apr 2023
WOW!!! What an experience! such a relaxing way to spend a couple of hours, take your own food and drinks kick back and glide through the water. We had the music going and the sun was shining. the electric motor made it all the more relaxing as its basically silent. We saw tons of dolphins and they come very close to the boat. We saw the most amazing luxury houses too. Highly recommend this activity, perfect for all ages, friendly staff take great care of you, and it was CHEAP! (As in, not expensive) good quality boat with wind protection. Give it a go you will not be disappointed!
Thanks to the Duffy team.
Tash
Thanks to the Duffy team.
Tash
Written 11 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you SO much Tash for taking the time to review your experience with us.
We are delighted that you enjoyed your time on the Water onboard our Electric Boat. It gives you a unique perspective on some of the city’s most opulent mansions, as well as local landmarks. Of Course the added bonus of being able to play with our dolphins too in their natural habitat.
Thanks again so much, it really warms our heart to receive such a glowing review. Hopefully we will be able to welcome you once again on your next trip to the Gold Coast!
Written 13 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Christine C
Kiama, Australia58 contributions
We loved our boat hire (boat #3)
which we hired & set off fishing near Crab Island. We had a great morning which was extended by the owner so we were very thankful.
Great service & awesome morning on the water
which we hired & set off fishing near Crab Island. We had a great morning which was extended by the owner so we were very thankful.
Great service & awesome morning on the water
Written 10 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for the 5 star review, we all love receiving feedback from our customers. Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to welcome you on our boat (maybe next time :-)), as this review was sent to the wrong company, you may wish to send them the review. Thank you
Written 11 June 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Arthur K
Singapore, Singapore3 contributions
Feb 2023 • Friends
It was an unique experience for me and my friends as it was our first time controlling a boat by ourselves. We were oversee by a boat captain that guided us around the canal. It was relaxing and calm to ride the boat around Gold Coast. If you are lucky, you might be able to see some dolphins or stingray jumping out of the water.
Written 6 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you KitoriY for taking the time to provide a 5 star review, we are so happy you enjoyed your time onboard! Having the Captain onboard I’m sure gave you the confidence to be able to do this experience again, learning all the ins & outs of skippering you on boat! Well done! See you next time!
Written 7 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Susan C
Sydney, Australia22 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
This was a wonderful self drive cruise in a quiet, roomy, comfortable, electric boat. Sailing quietly along the canals was so peaceful and very interesting. The boat canopy is open sided but provides complete shade. Nitsa was really helpful and friendly in telling us how to manage the boat ( it's very easy) and where to travel on the canal. We'll definitely come back and do this cruise again.
Written 19 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ahoy Susan we are thrilled that you found your experience with us a wonderful, peaceful and relaxing time on the water. Our electric powered Duffy’s are one of a kind with all the comforts of home.
It’s important to note, with our extensive safety briefing, maps, and the manoeuvrability of the Duffy Boat they are easy to drive, like driving a car, as long as you have full comprehension of our briefing.
Susan, we can’t thank you enough for providing a glowing review and we look forward to welcoming you back onboard in the not too distant future ⚓️
Written 20 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
David Rundle
1 contribution
May 2020
What a day. Five hours on the most amazing Duffy electric boat. The boat was beautiful, clean and spacious. We'd taken our own food so the ice box and large table just made it so easy to set everything out. Met the owner Gordon who was a brilliant guy. So knowledgeable and gave us directions to check out some famous peoples houses including Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's mansion, Nicole Kidmans new home, Jacky Chan's joint and Clive Palmer's massive joint. We also pulled in at a couple of bars and had a few beers which was nice. The best thing about the whole experience is that anyone can drive the boats. Its so easy and quiet and at one stage, before we knew it, we found ourselves surrounded by a pod of dolphins that stayed with us for a while. I never knew you got dolphins in the Gold Coast Canals. Magic day. Great if you want to see the Gold Coast from a different angle. Thanks also Duffy Boats for the great music mix on the stereo. Brilliant.
Written 19 May 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Dave for the 5 star review. We strive to provide the best experience for our guest, and by the sounds of it Captain Gordo went that extra mile.
We are very fortunate here on the Gold Coast to be able to view our local Dolphins so close to the water in our boats. It makes for a perfect day to remember.
Being able to bring your own food and beverages onboard, makes for a great day out. Bluetooth enables you to play your own music to get you into the groove!
Hope to be able to welcome you all back once again in the not too distant future. In the meantime, please stay safe!
Written 19 July 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Khaled A
Sydney, Australia
Hey
I got a big group of 12, so I was wondering if its suitable for us to book this boat.
Thank you.
Written 13 December 2018
Thank you for your enquiry- our Limo on the Water would be perfect for you group. If I can be of assistance please feel free to contact me personally on 0412399183. Have a happ new year
Written 3 January 2019
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