Pontoon Party Time – Burleigh Heads' Top Pontoon Hire Picks
Find Burleigh Heads' Best Pontoon Trips
Burleigh Heads pontoon hire offers the perfect way to experience Gold Coast waterways with family and friends. Here's what you need to know:
- No boat license required for self-drive pontoons accommodating 10-12 people
- Prices range from $400 (half-day, 4 hours) to $590 (full-day, 8 hours)
- All pontoons include BBQ facilities, toilet, esky, and weather protection
- Bring Your Own Beverages with no corkage fee (just clean up after yourselves)
- Optional jet ski add-ons available from $200/hour (minimum 2 hours)
The Gold Coast's stunning waterways become your playground when you hire a pontoon from Burleigh Heads. These stable, spacious vessels provide the ultimate floating platform for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing with friends. No boating experience? No problem! These user-friendly craft require zero license or prior experience.
With pontoon hire, you control your own trip. Cruise at your own pace, stop wherever catches your eye, and enjoy a fresh BBQ lunch right on the water. It's like having your own private island that moves with you throughout the day.
The best part? You can customise your experience exactly how you want it. Bring your favourite food and drinks, play your own music, and create memories that will last long after your suntan fades.
I'm Giovanni Randello, and my passion for the water led me to create GC Jet Ski, where we offer premium Burleigh Heads pontoon hire experiences alongside our jet ski trips. Having grown up racing jet skis and spending countless hours on boats, I understand what makes for an unforgettable day on the Gold Coast waterways.
Full Day Pontoon Hire – 8 Hours of Gold Coast Bliss
When it comes to making the most of the Gold Coast's spectacular waterways, nothing beats a full day on a pontoon boat. Our full-day Burleigh Heads pontoon hire package gives you a generous eight hours to explore, relax, and create memories with your crew.
For just $590, you and up to 11 mates can cruise the pristine waters surrounding Burleigh Heads at your own pace. The beauty of our pontoons is their accessibility – you don't need any special qualifications or experience to captain one. After a comprehensive safety briefing, you'll be confidently navigating the waterways like a local.
Our pontoons come fully equipped with everything you need for a perfect day on the water:
- Stainless steel BBQ with gas included
- Spacious seating for up to 12 people
- Large esky to keep your drinks and food cold
- Freshwater sink for washing up
- Enclosed toilet facilities (a real lifesaver for families with young children!)
- Bluetooth stereo system to set the mood with your favorite tunes
- Full sun canopy with drop-down clear blinds for weather protection
And if you're looking to add an extra splash of excitement to your day, why not include a jet ski? For an additional $200 per hour (minimum 2 hours), you can alternate between relaxing on the pontoon and zooming around on a Sea-Doo jet ski.
Why choose this Burleigh Heads pontoon hire option?
Our full-day pontoon hire is perfect for those who want to truly immerse themselves in the Gold Coast experience. With eight full hours, you'll have time to explore further afield to stunning locations like the Jumpinpin sandbanks or even reach the western shores of South Stradbroke Island.
The spacious design of our pontoons means everyone can spread out comfortably. Some can fish off the back, others can sunbathe on the front deck, while the social butterflies can gather around the central seating area. With the full canopy providing ample shade and the drop-down clear blinds offering protection from wind or spray, you're prepared for whatever the weather brings.
What truly sets our Burleigh Heads pontoon hire apart is the freedom it provides. Unlike structured tours with fixed itineraries, you're the captain of your trip. Want to spend three hours fishing in one spot? Go for it. Prefer to cruise slowly along the coastline, taking in the views of the Gold Coast skyline? The choice is yours.
Half Day Pontoon Hire – Mid-Week Quick Escape
Not everyone can commit to a full day on the water, and that's why we offer our popular half-day Burleigh Heads pontoon hire option. Available on weekdays only, this four-hour package is perfect for those looking to make the most of a morning or afternoon without dedicating an entire day.
At just $400, our half-day hire represents exceptional value while still delivering the full pontoon experience. You'll enjoy all the same features as our full-day option – BBQ facilities, toilet, spacious seating, and weather protection – just in a more time-efficient package.
Choose from a morning session (typically 8:00 am to 12:00 pm) or an afternoon escape (1:00 pm to 5:00 pm), depending on your schedule and preferences. Morning bookings often offer calmer waters and are ideal for fishing enthusiasts, while afternoon sessions provide the perfect backdrop for a sunset BBQ.
Just like our full-day hire, you can add a jet ski to your half-day package for $200 per hour (minimum 2 hours) to inject some adrenaline into your experience.
Best value Burleigh Heads pontoon hire for busy schedules
The half-day option is our most efficient Burleigh Heads pontoon hire package, perfect for time-poor trippers who still want to experience the magic of the Gold Coast waterways. With four hours, you can still pack in plenty of activities – here's a sample itinerary that many of our customers enjoy:
- First hour: Cruise and explore, finding your perfect spot to anchor
- Second hour: Swimming, fishing, or relaxing on board
- Third hour: Fire up the BBQ for a delicious lunch on the water
- Final hour: More swimming or a leisurely cruise back to base
The Broadwater offers plenty of highlights that are easily accessible within a half-day timeframe. Popular spots include Wave Break Island, Couran Cove, and the calm waters near Sovereign Island.
Our half-day pontoons come equipped with weather protection in the form of drop-blinds, making them suitable for most conditions. This means your mid-week escape won't be at the mercy of a brief shower or unexpected breeze.
Pontoon + Jet Ski Combos – Double the Fun Near Burleigh Heads
For thrill-seekers and groups who want the best of both worlds, our Boat & Jet Ski Package delivers the ultimate Gold Coast water experience. This premium package combines the relaxed vibe of pontoon cruising with the heart-pumping excitement of jet skiing.
For $1,900, you'll get:
- 8 hours with a fully-equipped BBQ pontoon
- 4 hours with TWO Sea-Doo jet skis
- All safety equipment and fuel included
- Comprehensive briefing and instructions
This combination allows your group to split time between relaxing on the pontoon and taking turns on the jet skis. It's the perfect solution for mixed groups where some people want to chill while others crave trip.
The logistics couldn't be simpler – the jet skis stay with the pontoon, so riders can easily switch between relaxing and riding. This setup creates a floating base camp for your trips, where people can recharge with food and drinks before heading out for another jet ski session.
Ultimate Burleigh Heads pontoon hire for thrill-seekers
What makes this combo package the ultimate Burleigh Heads pontoon hire experience is the versatility it offers. The pontoon provides comfort, amenities, and a stable platform for swimming and fishing, while the jet skis deliver pure adrenaline and the freedom to explore further afield.
It's worth noting the difference between our jet ski hire and jet ski tours:
- Jet Ski Hire ($200/hour): Requires a valid jet ski license as you'll be operating independently. Perfect for experienced riders who want freedom to explore.
- Jet Ski Tours ($200/hour): No license required as you'll be following a guide. Ideal for first-timers or those who want a structured experience with local knowledge included.
With either option, you'll receive a thorough safety briefing and instructions on operating the craft. All fuel is included, so there are no hidden costs to worry about.
Research has consistently shown that spending time around water – often called "blue space" – has significant benefits for mental wellbeing. A day combining the peaceful cruising of a pontoon with the exhilaration of jet skiing provides a perfect balance of relaxation and excitement, leaving you feeling refreshed and recharged.
Frequently Asked Questions about Burleigh Heads pontoon hire
When planning your Burleigh Heads pontoon hire trip, you likely have questions about how it all works. Here are the most common queries we receive, along with detailed answers to help you prepare for your perfect day on the water.
Do I need a boat licence?
No, you don't need a boat licence to hire our pontoons. These vessels are designed to be user-friendly and operate at speeds under 10 knots, which means they fall under the recreational unlicensed category in Queensland.
However, there are a few requirements:
- The designated skipper must be at least 18 years old
- The skipper must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- All passengers must attend a comprehensive safety briefing before departure
Our team provides a thorough orientation that covers operation, navigation, safety procedures, and local waterway rules. We'll ensure you're comfortable before sending you off on your trip.
How many people can we take?
Our pontoons are licensed to carry up to 12 people, but for optimal comfort, we recommend a maximum of 11 passengers. This ensures everyone has enough space to move around freely and enjoy the experience.
There are weight distribution guidelines rather than just a simple headcount. Our staff will discuss this with you during booking if you have a particularly large group.
All required safety equipment is provided, including life jackets in various sizes to accommodate adults and children. For families with young children, we have specially designed life jackets to ensure their safety on the water.
Where can we cruise from Burleigh Heads?
When you hire a pontoon from our Burleigh Heads location, you'll have access to some of the Gold Coast's most beautiful waterways. Popular cruising areas include:
- The Broadwater: A sheltered stretch of water between the mainland and South Stradbroke Island, perfect for calm cruising
- Tallebudgera Creek: A picturesque estuary with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and fishing
- Wave Break Island: A man-made island that creates a protected swimming area
- South Stradbroke Island: With beautiful beaches accessible only by boat
During your briefing, we'll provide you with a detailed map highlighting recommended routes, anchoring spots, and any areas to avoid. We'll also advise on current conditions and the best locations based on your interests, whether that's fishing, swimming, or simply finding a quiet spot to relax.
What should we bring for our pontoon day?
To make the most of your Burleigh Heads pontoon hire experience, we recommend bringing:
- Food and drinks: While our pontoons come equipped with BBQs, you'll need to bring your own food to cook. Remember to bring plenty of ice for the esky.
- Sunscreen and hats: Even with the canopy, sun protection is essential on the water.
- Towels and swimwear: For when the urge to dive in becomes irresistible.
- Fishing gear (optional): If you plan to fish, bring your rods, tackle, and bait.
- Music: Our pontoons have Bluetooth stereos, so bring your phone loaded with your favorite playlists.
- Camera or waterproof phone case: For capturing those priceless memories.
- Extra clothing layers: Weather can change, so having a light jacket or windbreaker is wise.
We operate on a "leave no trace" policy, so please take all your rubbish with you or dispose of it in the bins provided upon return. This helps us keep the Gold Coast waterways pristine for everyone to enjoy.
Are pontoons suitable for children and pets?
Absolutely! Pontoons are one of the most family-friendly vessels on the water. Their stable, flat design means minimal rocking, reducing the likelihood of seasickness. The enclosed railings provide security for small children, though adult supervision is always required.
We provide life jackets in children's sizes, and the spacious deck gives kids room to move around safely. The onboard toilet is particularly appreciated by families with young children.
Regarding pets, well-behaved dogs are welcome on our pontoons. Many local families bring their four-legged friends for a day on the water. Just remember to bring water, shade, and comfort items for your pet, and ensure they're comfortable around water.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The Gold Coast enjoys fantastic weather year-round, but occasionally Mother Nature has other plans. If conditions are unsafe (winds exceeding 20 knots or severe weather warnings), we'll contact you to reschedule your booking at no additional cost.
For less severe conditions, our pontoons are equipped with full canopies and clear drop-down blinds that provide excellent protection from light rain or wind. Many customers are surprised by how comfortable the pontoons remain even in less-than-perfect weather.
If you're concerned about upcoming weather for your booking, we recommend checking in with us 24-48 hours before your scheduled date. We monitor conditions closely and will always prioritize your safety.
For more information about water safety in Queensland, you can visit the Maritime Safety Queensland website.
Make Waves with GC Jetski!
Ready to create memories that'll last a lifetime? Whether you're a Gold Coast local looking for a weekend trip or a visitor wanting to experience our spectacular waterways from a fresh perspective, Burleigh Heads pontoon hire gives you the freedom to craft your perfect day on the water.
I've seen countless smiles as families return from fishing expeditions with their proud catches, watched friends laugh until they cry during floating birthday celebrations, and witnessed couples create romantic moments as the sun sets over the hinterland. That's the magic of having your own pontoon for the day – you write the script for your trip.
Here at GC Jet Ski, we're passionate about delivering water experiences that become the highlight of your Gold Coast visit. Our carefully maintained pontoons aren't just vessels; they're floating platforms for creating stories you'll tell for years to come. Our team lives and breathes these waterways, so when you book with us, you're tapping into local knowledge that makes all the difference.
Securing your pontoon couldn't be simpler! Pop over to our website to check real-time availability and lock in your preferred date, or give us a friendly call if you'd prefer to chat through your options. Just a friendly tip from someone who's seen many disappointed faces – book early, especially during school holidays, weekends, and public holidays. Our pontoons are hot property, and for good reason!
The moment you push away from the dock, you'll feel the everyday stresses melt away. There's something therapeutic about the gentle hum of the motor and the sparkle of sunlight on water that resets your soul.
Whether you're drawn to our full-day experience with eight hours of exploration, the convenient half-day escape that fits perfectly into busy schedules, or the ultimate thrill-seeker's dream with our pontoon and jet ski combo – your perfect Gold Coast trip awaits. We'll handle the details; you just bring the good vibes and your sense of trip.
The Gold Coast's stunning waterways are calling. Answer with a Burleigh Heads pontoon hire from GC Jet Ski and find why our customers don't just come back – they bring their friends. Your ultimate water trip is just a booking away!
