BBQ Pontoon Boats 101: Book Your Adventure Now with GC Jet Ski!
Why BBQ Pontoon Boats Are Taking Over the Gold Coast
BBQ pontoon boats combine cruising, cooking and uninterrupted views into one floating playground. Instead of queuing for a park BBQ or crowding a tiny runabout, you and up to 11 mates get a stable, roomy deck with a built-in grill and 360-degree Broadwater scenery.
Quick BBQ Pontoon Boat Guide
• What they are: Spacious pontoons with mounted BBQs
• Capacity: 8–11 people
• Perfect for: Birthdays, family outings, sunset dates
• Cost: $400–$590 to hire on the Gold Coast
• Licence needed: None for our pontoons
• Best spots: Gold Coast Broadwater, Wave Break Island, Tipplers Passage
Why ditch the park? Because nothing beats flipping prawns while dolphins cruise by and Surfers Paradise shimmers in the background. Wide decks, big shade biminis and rails you can actually lean on make these pontoons the ultimate Aussie outdoor kitchen.
After years on local waterways, I’m Giovanni Randello from GC Jet Ski, and I’ve watched regular boat days turn legendary the moment the BBQ fires up. From Surfers to The Spit, thousands of guests have proven that cooking on the Broadwater blows any restaurant view out of the water.
What Makes BBQ Pontoon Boats the Ultimate Gold Coast Party Platform
Think of a BBQ pontoon boat as a floating deck purposely built for food, laughs and lazy swims. Compared with a runabout, you get:
• Serious space – plenty of room to mingle, not shuffle.
• Rock-solid stability – no tipping your snags into the drink.
• Shade, seats & swim ladder – grandparents to groms can hop on with ease.
• No licence headaches – quick briefing, then you’re off.
BBQ Pontoons vs Standard Pontoons
Standard pontoons move people; BBQ pontoons entertain them. Extra-wide layouts leave room for a permanent grill, prep bench and conversation-style seating so no one’s stuck away from the action.
Key Features & Amenities
• Reinforced railings for secure grill mounts.
• Marine-grade vinyl that shrugs off salt and sauce.
• Bluetooth sound to keep the playlist pumping.
• Lockable storage so boards, fishing rods and eskies stay tidy.
Hire one through GC Jet Ski and you’ll leave from Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Main Beach or The Spit—straight into postcard territory.
Choosing & Installing Your On-Water Grill
Backyard barbies hate salt spray and boat wakes. Marine-grade grills are built from corrosion-resistant stainless, fire up fast and clamp solidly to pontoon rails or pedestals.
Propane beats charcoal on water: instant heat, no hot coals rolling when a wake hits. Add a wind guard or heat shield and you’ll keep control even when a south-easter whistles across the Broadwater.
Approved Grill Styles
• Compact stainless gas units with electronic ignition• Infrared burners that laugh at wind•
Flat-top griddles for bulk snags and vegAll should feature fold-away legs and removable drip trays.
Safe Setup & Cleaning
- Mount a marine fire extinguisher within easy reach of the helm.
- Fit a quick-shutoff valve on the gas line.
- Keep at least a metre clearance from seats, fuel and the bimini.
- Use biodegradable cleaners and empty grease trays before cruising home.
For extra peace of mind, check out this handy guide on grilling safety.
Accessories That Save the Day
UV-resistant covers, long-handle tongs, floating thermometers and clip-on prep tables all earn their keep—ask us to show you how we kit out every GC Jet Ski pontoon.
Best BBQ Pontoon Boats & Hire Packages on the Gold Coast
At GC Jet Ski, every hire includes a BBQ-ready pontoon, full safety gear and our local tips—plus BYO drinks with zero corkage.
Full Day Pontoon Hire – 8 Hours ($590)
Eight hours, 11 friends and the entire Broadwater at your feet. Fire up breakfast near The Spit, swim at Wave Break Island, then chase the sunset past Main Beach. Add a jet ski for $200/hr (min 2 hrs) to split the group between grilling and thrilling.
Half Day Pontoon Hire – Mid-Week 4 Hours ($400)
Perfect mid-week escape. Four hours is enough to cruise, cook and cool off before school pick-up or the arvo shift. Jet ski add-on available.
Boat & Jet Ski Package – 8 Hours ($1,900)
Full-day pontoon + two Sea-Doo skis for four hours. Grill, chill, race, repeat—the ultimate group day out.
Jet Ski Only Options
• Guided Tour – 1 Hour ($200): licence-free thrills with a local guide.
• Hire – 1 Hour ($200): licensed riders take full control.
All trips launch from our hubs at Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach Waters, Main Beach and Burleigh Heads.
Planning the Perfect BBQ Pontoon Day Out
A little prep turns a good cruise into an unforgettable one.
• Timing: early glass-off for calm cooking, midday for swim stops, late arvo for golden-hour selfies.
• Weather: check the forecast and have a back-up cove—Mermaid Beach canals stay calm when the Broadwater chops up.
• Esky strategy: pre-marinate meats, keep raw and cooked separate, freeze water bottles as extra ice.
• Playlist: download before departure; phone service drops near Tipplers.
Fishing gear is included with our pontoons, so drop a line while the barbie heats. Kids love the chance to reel in lunch.
Food & Fun Ideas
Prawn skewers, sausage sizzles and colourful veggie kebabs cook fast and photograph even better. Between courses, break out waterproof cards or a stand-up paddle board.
Safety & Regulations
Life jackets for everyone, sober skipper mandatory, and never leave the grill unattended. For up-to-date rules, see the Australian Maritime Safety Authority’s advice on marine fire safety.
Help us keep the Gold Coast pristine—bag your rubbish and leave the pontoon as spotless as you found it.
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Pontoon Boats
Let's tackle the questions we hear most often about our BBQ pontoon boats. After years of hosting floating feasts on the Gold Coast, these are the topics that come up every single time - so we figured we'd answer them properly!
Do I need a boat licence to hire a BBQ pontoon?
Here's the beauty of our BBQ pontoon boat hire - no licence required whatsoever! This is honestly one of the best parts about pontoon trips. You can literally wake up, decide you want to spend the day grilling on the Broadwater, and be out there within hours.
We provide a comprehensive briefing before you head out that covers everything you need to know. We're talking basic operation (it's surprisingly simple), safety procedures that actually make sense, and our insider knowledge about the best local spots. The boats are designed to be incredibly user-friendly - simple controls, stable handling, and forgiving enough that first-timers feel confident within minutes.
During the briefing, we'll show you how to start and stop the engine, basic navigation around the Broadwater, proper anchor procedures, and what to do in emergencies. More importantly, we'll share our favourite spots for BBQing, the best swimming areas, and where to go for those epic sunset photos.
We do require that your designated skipper is over 18 and feels comfortable taking responsibility for the boat and passengers. But honestly, most people are surprised by how easy these pontoons are to handle. The Broadwater is perfect for beginners - protected waters, clear navigation, and plenty of space to get comfortable.
Can I bring my own alcohol on board?
Absolutely yes! Our BYOB policy is genuinely one of our most popular features, and for good reason. Stock your esky with whatever makes your crew happy - beer, wine, spirits, fancy cocktail ingredients - it's completely up to you. No corkage fees, no overpriced marina drinks, just pure freedom to enjoy your favourites while cruising the stunning Gold Coast waterways.
This policy means you can plan your perfect day without budget blowouts. Grab your favourite craft beers, that bottle of wine you've been saving, or the ingredients for your signature cocktails. The choice is yours, and your wallet will thank you.
We just ask that everyone drinks responsibly and remembers that boating under the influence carries the same penalties as drink driving. Designate a sober skipper or take turns being the responsible one throughout the day. It's not worth the risk, and honestly, the day is way more fun when everyone gets home safely.
Glass containers are allowed, but consider plastic alternatives if kids are on board or if you're planning active water sports. Whatever you bring, make sure everything is properly secured so nothing goes overboard during your cruise. And please, take all empty bottles and cans with you when you leave - keeping our beautiful waterways clean is everyone's responsibility.
How do I leave the pontoon clean for the next crew?
We operate on a simple principle that keeps everyone happy: leave the boat as clean as you found it. This isn't about professional detailing or spending hours scrubbing - just basic courtesy that ensures the next crew gets the same great experience you did.
BBQ cleaning is your main focus after a day of grilling. Let the grill cool down completely (safety first!), then clean the grates and wipe down all surfaces. We provide basic cleaning supplies with every hire, though you're welcome to bring your own eco-friendly products. The most important bit is emptying and rinsing the grease tray - this prevents nasty odours and keeps the boat pleasant for everyone.
General tidiness means removing all your rubbish, giving surfaces a quick wipe down, and returning equipment to where you found it. If you've been swimming or exploring sandy beaches, rinse off any sand or salt with fresh water if it's available. Don't forget to check under seats and in storage areas for forgotten sunnies, phones, or that stubby that rolled away.
Report any damage or issues immediately when you return. We're not looking to charge you for normal wear and tear - boats are meant to be used and enjoyed! But we do need to know about any problems for safety reasons and to keep our fleet in top condition for the next triprs.
The cleaner you leave the boat, the quicker we can turn it around for the next crew, and the better the experience for everyone. It's just good karma on the water, and it keeps our costs down, which means better prices for everyone!
Book Your Next Thrill on the Water Today!
The Gold Coast waterways are calling, and there's never been a better time to answer. Whether you're dreaming of a massive celebration with the whole crew, planning an intimate family escape, or simply ready to try something that'll blow your mind, we've got the perfect BBQ pontoon boats experience waiting for you across our locations from Surfers Paradise to Coolangatta.
Picture this: you and your mates cruising past the glittering Surfers Paradise skyline, prawns sizzling on the BBQ, cold drinks in hand, and not a care in the world. That's what we're talking about - pure Gold Coast magic that beats any fancy restaurant or crowded beach from Broadbeach to The Spit.
Our Full Day Pontoon Hire gives you eight glorious hours of freedom for just $590. Bring up to 11 people and make it a proper celebration on the stunning Gold Coast waterways. Want to dial up the excitement? Add a jet ski for $200 per hour (minimum 2 hours) and watch half your crew tear across the waves while the others perfect their BBQ skills.
Short on time but big on trip? Our Half Day Pontoon Hire packs four hours of pure fun into $400 of midweek brilliance. It's the perfect excuse to escape the office and remember why living on the Gold Coast is pretty bloody amazing, whether you're based in Burleigh Heads or visiting from interstate.
For those who want everything, our Boat & Jet Ski Package combines eight hours of relaxed pontoon cruising with high-speed Sea-Doo action for $1,900. Our Full Day BBQ Pontoon Hire plus 2 Sea-Doo jet skis offers the best of both worlds - relaxed cruising and thrilling action! Split between mates, it's the ultimate way to experience both sides of Gold Coast water life, from the calm waters near Mermaid Beach to the excitement around Wave Break Island.
Looking for guided excitement? Our Jet Ski Tours for just $200 per hour are perfect for all levels - first-time riders and experienced pros alike! Cruise the stunning Gold Coast coastline, spot wildlife, and snap some epic photos along the way. Best of all, no licence is required and we'll ensure you have everything you need to make the most of your time on the water.
For experienced riders with valid licences, our Jet Ski Hire at $200 per hour gives you complete freedom to explore the Gold Coast's beautiful waterways at your own pace. Use our pontoons as your base and venture out on solo missions, or challenge your mates to races around the Broadwater.
Here's what makes every trip special: the Gold Coast waterways are never the same twice. Different tides, changing weather, playful dolphins, and stunning sunsets ensure your floating feast becomes a unique memory. That snag that tastes good at home? It becomes legendary when you're anchored off Wave Break Island with the city skyline providing your dining room view.
We've been sharing these waters with locals and visitors for years, operating from prime locations including Main Beach, Broadbeach Waters, and throughout the Gold Coast. Honestly, the magic never gets old. Every time someone steps aboard one of our BBQ pontoon boats for the first time, we see that exact moment when they realise this isn't just boat hire - it's a completely different way to experience our beautiful Gold Coast.
Don't wait for the perfect occasion. The best trips often happen when you just decide to make them happen. Grab your crew, stock the esky with your favourite drinks (remember, we're BYOB with no corkage!), and find why cooking on the Broadwater beats any restaurant in Surfers Paradise.
Ready to make some waves? Your floating feast trip is just a booking away. Check out our full range of options at More info about BBQ Pontoon Boats and let's get you out on the water where the real Gold Coast magic happens!
