A – Z Guide to Gold Coast BBQ Boat Rentals

Giovanni Randello • October 23, 2025

Why Gold Coast BBQ Boat Experiences Are Perfect for Your Next Adventure

Two side-by-side BBQ pontoon boats docked at a boat ramp, both advertising boat hire and jet ski hire - Gold Coast BBQ boat

A Gold Coast BBQ boat hire offers the ultimate combination of relaxation and adventure on Australia's stunning waterways. Whether you're planning a family day out, celebrating with friends, or looking for a unique way to explore the Gold Coast, these floating BBQ experiences deliver unforgettable memories.

Quick Guide to Gold Coast BBQ Boat Options:

  • Full Day Hire (8 hours) : $590 for up to 11 passengers
  • Half Day Hire (4 hours) : $400 midweek only
  • Boat & Jet Ski Package : $1900 for pontoon and jet ski thrills
  • No boat license required for self-drive pontoons
  • BYO food and drinks welcome with no corkage fees
  • Popular destinations : Wave Break Island, Gold Coast Broadwater, Tipplers Resort

The beauty of our BBQ boat hire lies in its flexibility. You can cruise the calm waters of the Broadwater, anchor at Wave Break Island for a swim, or simply drift while cooking a feast on the onboard BBQ. Our pontoons are licensed for up to 11 people, making them ideal for everything from family gatherings to larger celebrations.

As Giovanni Randello, founder of GC Jet Ski, I've spent my life on the water. I created our Gold Coast BBQ boat packages to deliver that seamless blend of relaxation and excitement that every group deserves.

Your Guide to the Perfect Gold Coast BBQ Boat Hire

Imagine being the captain of your own floating paradise, cruising the Gold Coast's pristine waterways with your favourite people as the smell of a sizzling BBQ fills the air. That is what awaits you with our Gold Coast BBQ boat hire packages at GC Jet Ski. We have designed a range of options for any occasion, whether you are planning a full day out with the crew or a quick escape for a few hours.

Our BBQ Pontoon and Jet Ski Packages

We have designed our packages for different groups and occasions, so every adventure feels easy and memorable.

Our Full Day Pontoon Hire offers eight hours of fun for $590. Bring up to 11 people and spend the day exploring the waterways, with no boat licence required. Your pontoon comes equipped with BBQ facilities , Esky space , and a sound system . For extra thrills, you can optionally add a jet ski for $200 per hour (minimum two hours).

For shorter trips, our Half Day Pontoon Hire provides four hours of adventure for $400. Available midweek only, it is perfect for a lunch outing or family escape and includes all the same features as the full-day hire, including the optional jet ski add-on.

If you prefer speed, our Jet Ski Tours are $200 for a one hour guided experience. Perfect for all skill levels with no licence required , our guides will show you the best spots while keeping you safe and confident.

Licensed riders can opt for our Jet Ski Hire at $200 per hour. This gives you the freedom to explore the Gold Coast's sparkling waters and secluded spots at your own pace.

For the ultimate day, our Boat & Jet Ski Package combines a full day BBQ pontoon hire with two Sea-Doo jet skis for four hours of high speed action, all for $1900. It is the ideal mix of relaxation and adrenaline.

Learn more about our Gold Coast BBQ Boat Hire or find your perfect Pontoon Boat with Grill.

What to Know Before You Go: Licensing, Capacity, and BYO

Planning your Gold Coast BBQ boat adventure is simple. Here is what you need to know.

The great news is that no boat licence is required for our pontoon hires. Anyone in your group can take the helm after our comprehensive safety briefing. We provide local maps to guide you to the best spots, so you will feel confident and ready to explore.

Our pontoons are licensed for up to 11 people but comfortably seat 10, giving everyone plenty of room. This makes them perfect for family outings, friend gatherings, or intimate celebrations.

We encourage you to bring your own food and drinks , including alcoholic beverages. With no corkage policy , you can pack your favourite snacks and BBQ ingredients to cook on the onboard grill. All we ask is that you leave our pontoons as clean as you found them and have a dedicated sober skipper to captain the pontoon. For tips, see our guides on planning a pontoon boat picnic and how to BBQ on a pontoon.

Our pontoons are also suitable for keen anglers and come equipped with rod holders . The Broadwater offers excellent fishing, but please remember to bring your own fishing gear , as we do not provide rods, bait, or tackle.

Local tip: hit the water early or midweek for the calmest conditions and quieter anchor spots near Wave Break Island and South Stradbroke.

Group of people enjoying a sunny day on a BBQ pontoon boat cruising with the Gold Coast skyline in the background - Gold Coast BBQ boat

Hiring a Gold Coast BBQ boat opens up some of Australia's most beautiful cruising grounds.

The Gold Coast Broadwater is your main playground. This expansive, sheltered waterway offers stunning views and calm waters, which is perfect for all skill levels.

Wave Break Island is a must visit destination. This man made island offers crystal clear waters for swimming and snorkelling, sandy beaches, and diverse marine life. It is an ideal spot to anchor your pontoon.

For a trip north, Tipplers Resort on South Stradbroke Island is a fantastic boat access only destination. It features a licensed bar and restaurant where you can stretch your legs before returning to your pontoon.

Explore more inspiration for your adventure on our Gold Coast BBQ Tours page.

Safety First: Your Guide to a Safe Day on the Water

Safety matters because it keeps your day fun and stress free. Our process is simple and thorough, so first timers feel right at home on the water.

Every pontoon is equipped with essential safety gear, including life jackets for all passengers (including children's sizes), a GPS tracking system , a first aid kit , and a fire extinguisher .

Before you depart, our thorough safety briefing covers pontoon operation , safe BBQ use , communication methods, and navigation using our local maps.

Build your confidence with these essentials:

  • Understand your controls. Take a few minutes at idle speed to practice steering and trimming before you head off.
  • Stay situationally aware. Check weather and tides, keep a lookout for markers, and maintain space from other vessels and swimmers.
  • Follow local rules. Stick to the safe cruising areas on our maps and respect speed limits.
  • Nominate a sober skipper. The designated skipper must remain sober at all times.
  • Sun smart is smart boating. Pack hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

For more detailed safety information, check out our guide: BBQ Pontoon Boats 101: Book Your Adventure Now with GC Jet Ski.

Booking Your Gold Coast BBQ Boat and Planning for Events

We have made booking your Gold Coast BBQ boat simple and straightforward.

Our easy online booking system lets you check availability and secure your spot directly on our website. Choose your package, select a date, and you are all set. For half day hires, which are midweek only from May to September, we recommend calling to confirm availability. Please review our fair and transparent cancellation policy on our website when booking.

Seasonal insight: school holidays and summer weekends book out quickly, so lock in your date early. Winter often brings glassy mornings on the Broadwater, which is perfect for relaxed cruising.

Our BBQ boats are the perfect setting for special occasions like birthday parties , family reunions , and corporate functions . They are also great for intimate hens and bucks parties up to 11 people, with the BYO option making catering easy and budget friendly.

Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Leaving it too late to book during peak periods like school holidays.
  • Forgetting that the pontoon capacity is 11 passengers maximum, including kids.
  • Arriving without enough ice, water, or sunscreen for the day.
  • Assuming fishing gear is supplied. Remember to bring your own rods, bait, and tackle.
  • Not planning a sober skipper for the whole hire period.

For more planning tips, visit our pages on Private BBQ Boat Hire Gold Coast - Boat BBQ Best Day Ever! and The Amazing Gold Coast BBQ Boat You Need to Try Today.

Your Ultimate Gold Coast Adventure Starts Here

Aerial view of the long, sandy stretch of Gold Coast beach with white waves rolling in and dense coastal development - Gold Coast BBQ boat

A Gold Coast BBQ boat experience with GC Jet Ski is more than just a day out; it's a chance to create lasting memories. Whether you're a local or a visitor, our pontoons and jet skis offer a unique way to see Australia's most beautiful waterways.

The best part is that you don't need any boating experience . Our easy-to-operate pontoons and thorough safety briefings mean anyone can be the captain for the day, exploring destinations like Wave Break Island and the peaceful coves of the Broadwater .

Our packages are perfect for any group. Families love the spacious pontoons, friends rave about the Boat & Jet Ski Package, and corporate teams find it's a great way to connect outside the office. At GC Jet Ski, we're focused on providing a convenient, premium, and safe water experience.

Ready to turn your next gathering into an adventure? Booking is easy.

We can't wait to see you out there!

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