Sizzle by the Sea – Discovering Gold Coast BBQ Tours

Cruise, Cook, and Chill: The Ultimate Gold Coast BBQ Experience

Gold Coast BBQ tours are self-drive pontoon boat experiences where you can cruise the stunning waterways while cooking a delicious barbecue onboard. These floating feasts require no boat license and are perfect for groups of up to 11 people looking for a unique way to explore the Gold Coast.

Popular Gold Coast BBQ Tour Options:

• Self-Drive Pontoon Hire (Full Day): 8 hours of cruising with onboard BBQ ($590)
• Half-Day Hire (Midweek Only): 4 hours of waterway exploration ($400)
• Boat & Jet Ski Package: BBQ pontoon plus 2 jet skis for added thrills ($1900)
• Optional Jet Ski Add-on: $200 per hour (minimum 2 hours)
• No Boat License Required: Simple safety briefing gets you on your way

The beauty of Gold Coast BBQ tours lies in their flexibility – bring your own food and drinks (including alcohol), stop for swimming at secluded beaches, try your hand at fishing, or simply relax on calm waters while taking in spectacular views. All pontoons come fully equipped with a BBQ, utensils, 40L fridge, Bluetooth sound system, and safety gear.

The Gold Coast Broadwater provides the perfect setting for these floating feasts, protected from ocean swells by South Stradbroke Island and offering calm waters year-round. Whether you're planning a family day out, celebrating with friends, or organizing a corporate event, a BBQ pontoon tour delivers a quintessential Gold Coast experience.



I'm Giovanni Randello, and after years of racing jet skis and growing up around boats, I combined my passion for the water with BBQ pontoon experiences to create Gold Coast BBQ tours that offer the perfect mix of relaxation and trip on our beautiful waterways.

What Are Gold Coast BBQ Tours?

Gold Coast BBQ tours are essentially floating alfresco dining experiences on purpose-built pontoon boats. Picture this: you and your mates cruising the calm waters of the Gold Coast Broadwater, the smell of sizzling snags wafting through the air, cold drinks in hand, and 360-degree water views surrounding you. It's the quintessential Australian outdoor experience, just on water!

What makes these tours particularly appealing is their accessibility. You don't need any prior boating experience or a boat license to skipper one of these vessels. The boats are designed with user-friendliness in mind, with motors governed to ensure safety while still providing enough power to explore the extensive waterways.

"Our pontoon boats are licensed for up to 11 people, making them perfect for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or just a day out with mates," explains one of our experienced skippers. "The best part is that you're the captain of your own trip."

These floating BBQ platforms are equipped with everything you need for a memorable day on the water. The spacious design ensures there's plenty of room for everyone to move around comfortably, and the stable pontoon structure means minimal rocking – perfect for those who might be concerned about seasickness.

One of the unique aspects of Gold Coast BBQ tours is that they're pet and pram friendly. That's right – your four-legged family members can join in on the fun too! It's a truly inclusive experience that caters to everyone.

Core Inclusions of Every Tour

When you book a Gold Coast BBQ tour with us at GC Jet Ski, you can expect a comprehensive package that includes everything you need for a fantastic day out. Here's what comes standard with every pontoon hire:

• BBQ & Utensils: A quality barbecue setup with all the cooking tools you'll need to grill up a feast
• 40L Fridge: Keep your drinks and food cold throughout your trip
• Bluetooth Sound System: Connect your phone and set the perfect soundtrack for your day
• Safety Gear: Life jackets for all passengers, first aid kit, and emergency equipment
• Navigation Maps: Detailed maps of the Gold Coast waterways to help you explore with confidence
• Sunscreen & Shade: Protection from the Queensland sun with covered areas on the pontoon

"The 40L fridge is a game-changer," shares one regular customer. "We bring our own food and drinks, including some cold ones for the adults, and everything stays perfectly chilled throughout the day."

It's worth noting that all fuel and gas are included in your hire price, so there are no hidden costs to worry about. We operate on a "clean-as-you-go" policy, which means we ask that you leave the pontoon as clean as you found it – a small responsibility for the freedom of having your own floating BBQ restaurant!

Types of BBQ Boat Experiences on the Coast

The Gold Coast's waterways are your playground, and we've got plenty of ways for you to enjoy them! From leisurely pontoon cruises to heart-pumping jet ski trips, our Gold Coast BBQ tours come in various flavors to match your perfect day on the water.

Self-Drive Gold Coast BBQ tours

There's something special about being captain of your own trip. Our self-drive pontoons are the most popular choice among guests, and for good reason! These easy-to-handle vessels come with 5 hp governed motors that are perfect for beginners – no boat licence required.

"I was nervous at first, but after the briefing, I felt completely confident steering the pontoon," shares Emma, a recent first-timer. "We cruised at our own pace, pulled up at a sandbar when we felt like it, and cooked lunch with the most incredible views."

The beauty of self-drive is the freedom. Want to anchor at that perfect swimming spot for an hour? Go for it. Spotted a secluded beach that's calling your name? Head on over. Our comprehensive safety briefing ensures you'll be navigating the Broadwater like a local in no time.

Guided Gold Coast BBQ tours

If you'd prefer to sit back, relax, and let someone else do the driving, our guided tours are the perfect choice. An experienced skipper will take the helm while sharing fascinating local knowledge and stories that bring the Gold Coast waterways to life.

"Our skipper Dave knew exactly where to find dolphins and took us to this amazing hidden cove we would never have finded on our own," says Michael from Sydney. "Plus, having someone handle the boat meant we could all enjoy a few more drinks without worrying about who was the designated driver!"

Guided tours are especially popular with interstate and international visitors who want to maximize their experience. Your skipper doesn't just drive – they're your local host, storyteller, and guide to all the best spots that only locals know about.

Beyond these core experiences, we offer exciting combo options to spice up your day. Fancy adding some high-speed thrills to your relaxed BBQ cruise? Our Gold Coast BBQ Boat Hire packages can include jet ski add-ons for the perfect balance of chill and thrill. Or perhaps you're keen to drop a line while you're out there? Our fishing add-ons equip you with everything you need to try your luck in some of the Coast's best fishing spots.

For those special occasions, our sunset cruises offer a magical experience as the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges and pinks over the Broadwater. And for larger celebrations, why not organize a party flotilla with multiple pontoons cruising together? It's an unforgettable way to celebrate birthdays, hen's parties, or corporate events.

Whatever your preference, our Gold Coast BBQ tours deliver that perfect blend of relaxation, trip, good food, and great company – all against the backdrop of our stunning waterways. The only hard part is choosing which experience to try first!

Planning Your Perfect Day on the Water

One of the best parts of a Gold Coast BBQ tour is creating your own trip on the water. The Broadwater is your playground, stretching from Southport all the way up to Paradise Point and beyond, with protected waters that are perfect for a leisurely pontoon cruise.

When you pick up your pontoon, we'll provide detailed navigation maps, but many guests also like to use Google Maps to plot their journey. With so many gorgeous spots to find, a bit of planning helps you make the most of your time on the water.

Wave Break Island is a crowd favourite, and for good reason! This man-made island is a little slice of paradise with crystal-clear protected swimming areas and sandy beaches that are perfect for a quick game of beach cricket between BBQ sessions. It's also a brilliant spot for snorkelling – you might be surprised by the colorful marine life you'll find just below the surface.

"We always tell our guests to check out the northern tip of Wave Break," says Matt, one of our skippers. "The water there is unbelievably clear, and if you're lucky, you might spot some dolphins playing, especially early morning or as the sun starts to set."

For those with a full day on their hands, the western shores of South Stradbroke Island offer secluded lagoons and beaches that you can only reach by boat. There's something magical about pulling up to a beach that has no footprints but yours – the perfect backdrop for a private BBQ lunch with your crew.

The sandbanks near Sovereign Island create natural beaches in the middle of the Broadwater at low tide. Imagine anchoring your pontoon and wading through knee-deep water to a sandbank where you can set up for a picnic with the Gold Coast skyline as your backdrop – it's an Instagram moment that's hard to beat!

Popular Itineraries & Activities

If you're after some tried-and-tested routes, our Half-day Broadwater Loop is perfect for those on the 4-hour hire. You'll depart from our Main Beach location, cruise north along the Broadwater, stop at Wave Break Island for a swim and BBQ lunch, explore the fancy canals around Sovereign Islands, and return via the western channel. It's the perfect taste of Gold Coast waterway life without rushing.

For those with a full day to enjoy, our Full-day Island Hop gives you time to really explore. Head north to South Stradbroke Island, anchor at a secluded beach for a morning swim and BBQ, cruise to Tipplers Passage where you might try your luck fishing, visit Wave Break Island in the afternoon, and cap it all off with a sunset cruise along the glittering Surfers Paradise skyline.

Speaking of fishing, our pontoons come equipped with fishing rod holders, making it easy to drop a line while your snags are sizzling. The Broadwater is home to bream, whiting, and flathead – and there's nothing quite like catching your own lunch and cooking it straight away on the BBQ.



"Combining fishing with a BBQ tour is brilliant," says Giovanni, our founder. "Even if the fish aren't biting, there's something deeply relaxing about casting a line with your mates while floating on the calm waters."

If you've opted for our Boat & Jet Ski Package, we recommend alternating between the relaxed vibe of pontoon cruising and the heart-racing thrill of jet skiing. Start your day with a leisurely cruise to a beautiful spot, anchor the pontoon, fire up the BBQ for lunch, and then take turns zooming around on the jet skis. The contrast between chilled BBQ vibes and adrenaline-pumping jet ski action makes for a day on the water that everyone will remember.

Whether you're planning a family outing, a celebration with friends, or a unique corporate team-building day, the beauty of Gold Coast BBQ tours is that you can tailor your journey to suit your group's vibe. Just bring your favourite food, drinks, and good company – we'll provide everything else you need for an unforgettable day on the water.

Packages & Pricing Snapshot

At GC Jet Ski, we offer a range of packages to suit different group sizes, timeframes, and trip levels. Here's a breakdown of our most popular options:

Full Day Pontoon Hire for 8 Hours ($590): Eight hours of pure Gold Coast pontoon boat fun! Gather up to 11 mates, cruise the waterways, fire up the BBQ, and soak in the ultimate all-day trip—no license needed, just good vibes guaranteed!

Half Day Pontoon Hire - Midweek Only for 4 Hours ($400): Short on time but big on trip? No worries! A half-day BBQ pontoon hire on the Gold Coast gives you four hours of cruising, sizzling up a feast, and making unforgettable memories—all with no licence required!

Jet Ski Tours for 1 Hour ($200): First-time rider? Experienced pro? Our guided jet ski tours on the Gold Coast are perfect for all levels! Cruise the stunning 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.

Jet Ski Hire for 1 Hour ($200): With jet ski hire, you'll have the freedom to cruise through sparkling waters, explore secluded islands, and take in breathtaking coastal views—all at your own pace. A valid jet ski licence is required, but once you're all set, it's time to experience the thrill and excitement of navigating the Gold Coast's beautiful waterways.

Boat & Jet Ski Package for 8 Hours ($1900): Our Full Day BBQ Pontoon Hire + 2 Sea-Doo Jet Skis offers the best of both worlds—relaxed cruising and thrilling action! What's included in your Boat & Jet Ski Package? BBQ Pontoon Hire: Cruise the Gold Coast's stunning waterways with your mates on a spacious BBQ pontoon. Cook up a delicious meal on the go, enjoy great food, and soak in the breathtaking views.

2 Sea-Doo Jet Skis: Ready for some excitement? Get your adrenaline pumping with 4 hours of high-speed action on 2 Sea-Doo jet skis! Zoom across the waves and explore the Gold Coast coastline at full throttle.

All of our packages include fuel and gas, so there are no hidden costs to worry about. We also offer the option to add jet skis to any pontoon hire at a rate of $200 per hour (minimum 2 hours), allowing you to customize your experience.

Why These Deals Sizzle

Our packages offer exceptional value, especially for groups. When you divide the cost among up to 11 people, a full day on the water with your own BBQ boat works out to be very affordable per person.

The mix of relaxation and excitement is what sets our offerings apart. Where else can you combine a floating BBQ feast with the thrill of jet skiing in the same day?

One of the most appreciated aspects of our Gold Coast BBQ tours is the BYO (Bring Your Own) policy with no corkage fees. You can bring your own food, drinks, and alcohol without any additional charges, making it a budget-friendly option for groups.

"The ability to bring our own food and drinks was a huge plus for us," shares a recent customer. "We packed a cooler with snags, steaks, and a few cold ones, and had an absolute blast cooking up a feast on the water."

Our midweek rates for half-day hires offer particularly good value for those with flexible schedules. It's the perfect way to enjoy the Gold Coast waterways without the weekend crowds.

Essential Info: Licences, Safety & FAQs

Let's chat about the nitty-gritty that'll keep you safe while having a blast on the water. We take safety seriously at GC Jet Ski, but don't worry – it doesn't mean we take the fun out of your day!

One of the best things about our Gold Coast BBQ tours is their accessibility – no boat licence is required to captain our pontoons. The motors are governed to a safe, manageable speed, and before you set off, we'll walk you through everything you need to know in our friendly briefing session. It's simple enough that even complete boating newbies quickly get the hang of it.

"Most people are surprised by how easy these pontoons are to handle," says our operations manager. "Within minutes, they're cruising around like they've been doing it for years!"

If you're keen to add some jet ski action to your day, just note that while our guided jet ski tours don't require a licence, self-drive jet ski hire does need a valid jet ski licence. Safety first, thrills second!

Queensland weather is typically gorgeous, but occasionally Mother Nature has other plans. We keep a close eye on conditions, and if things look unsafe on your booking day, we'll offer a free reschedule or full refund. A bit of light rain usually won't stop the party – our pontoons have covered areas – but strong winds or storms might mean we need to postpone your trip.

Before you head out, we'll run through a comprehensive safety briefing covering pontoon operation, navigation rules, emergency procedures, and local waterway knowledge. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes – a small investment for a worry-free day on the water.

All our pontoons come fully equipped with life jackets for each passenger, first aid kits, and other essential safety gear. While adults can choose when to wear life jackets (though we recommend having them on when moving around), children under 12 must wear them at all times. It's non-negotiable, but the kids usually don't mind – they're too excited about being on a boat!

Quick-fire Safety Tips

The Queensland sun can be fierce, especially on the water where you're getting hit with rays from above and reflections from below. Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and perhaps UV-protective clothing to avoid that classic tourist badge of honor – the painful holiday sunburn.

When the pontoon is moving, we ask that passengers stay seated – it's easier to maintain balance and prevents any unexpected tumbles. Our pontoons are licensed for up to 11 people or a maximum weight of 990 kg, so be mindful of these limits when planning your group.

If you're bringing little ones or four-legged friends, please supervise them at all times. The water is enticing, but safety comes first! And speaking of safety, we enforce a sober skipper rule – whoever's driving the pontoon needs to stay under the legal blood alcohol limit for driving (0.05%). Everyone else can relax and enjoy a few cold ones if they wish.

"I always tell our guests that safety doesn't mean you can't have fun," our operations manager emphasizes. "In fact, knowing you're in safe hands allows you to relax and enjoy your day even more."

We're also passionate about preserving the beautiful Gold Coast waterways for future generations. Our pontoons have waste storage facilities, and we ask that you take all rubbish with you or dispose of it properly at designated points. It's all part of our eco-friendly practices – leaving only ripples, not rubbish.

For more detailed information about our safety procedures and pontoon specifications, check out More info about BBQ Pontoon Boats. And if you're interested in the science behind safe boating practices, Tourism and Events Queensland has published some excellent Scientific research on safe boating.

Our team is always happy to answer any questions you might have about safety or operating the pontoons. We want you to feel completely confident before you set off on your Gold Coast BBQ tour trip!

How to Book Your Gold Coast BBQ Tour

Booking your Gold Coast BBQ tour with GC Jet Ski is straightforward and convenient. Here's how to secure your floating feast trip:

Online Booking: The quickest and easiest way to book is through our online portal at GC Jet Ski. Simply select your preferred date, package, and any add-ons, then follow the prompts to complete your booking.

Phone Reservations: If you prefer to speak with someone directly or have specific questions, our friendly team is available to take your booking over the phone.

Peak Season Advice: During holiday periods and weekends in summer, pontoons can book out weeks in advance. We recommend securing your booking early to avoid disappointment.

Group Discounts: For large groups booking multiple pontoons, we offer special fleet discounts. Contact us directly to discuss your requirements.

Gift Vouchers: A Gold Coast BBQ tour makes an excellent gift! Vouchers are available for purchase online and are valid for 12 months.

"The online booking process was super easy," reports a recent customer. "We booked a full-day hire with a jet ski add-on, and the confirmation came through instantly with all the details we needed."

Upon booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with all the essential information, including what to bring, where to meet, and what time to arrive for your safety briefing.

Wet-Weather & Cancellation Policy

We understand that weather can be unpredictable, especially in Queensland. Here's how we handle wet weather and cancellations:

Our team closely monitors weather forecasts and will contact you if conditions look unsuitable for your booked tour. Light rain generally doesn't affect the experience – in fact, it can add a refreshing element to a hot day! Our pontoons have covered areas to provide shelter.

If conditions are deemed unsafe (strong winds, storms, or heavy rain), we'll work with you to reschedule your booking to another suitable date at no extra cost. If rescheduling isn't possible, a full refund will be provided.

For customer-initiated cancellations, we offer:

• Full refund for cancellations made more than 7 days before the booking date
• 50% refund for cancellations made 3-7 days before the booking date
• No refund for cancellations made less than 3 days before the booking date, unless due to extreme weather conditions as determined by our operations team

"We had to reschedule due to a thunderstorm forecast, and the team was incredibly accommodating," shares one customer. "They helped us find a new date that worked for everyone in our group."

Frequently Asked Questions about Gold Coast BBQ Tours

Do I need boating experience?

Absolutely not! That's the beauty of our Gold Coast BBQ tours – they're designed for everyone, regardless of your boating background. Our pontoons are incredibly user-friendly with simple controls and motors that are governed to safe speeds (think of them as the "L-platers" of the boating world).

Before you set off, our friendly team walks you through a comprehensive briefing that covers everything from starting the engine to navigating the waterways. We'll have you feeling like a confident captain in no time!

"I was a complete boating novice and was worried I'd crash into something expensive," laughs Sarah, who recently celebrated her 30th birthday on one of our pontoons. "But after the 15-minute briefing, I was cruising around like I'd been doing it for years. The controls are so straightforward, and the boat responds gently to everything you do."

If you're still feeling unsure about taking the helm, no worries – we can arrange a guided tour with one of our experienced skippers who'll handle all the navigation while you focus on relaxing and enjoying the views.

Can I bring alcohol and my dog?

Yes and yes – we're all about creating your perfect day! Our Gold Coast BBQ tours operate on a BYO basis with no corkage fees, so you're welcome to bring your favorite drinks to enjoy responsibly while soaking up the sunshine. Just remember that whoever's driving the pontoon needs to stay under the 0.05% blood alcohol limit, just like when driving a car.

As for your four-legged mates, they're absolutely welcome aboard! Our pontoons are pet-friendly, making for some seriously adorable holiday photos. We've seen everything from tiny chihuahuas to large labradors enjoying a day on the water.

"Bringing our border collie Banjo was the highlight for us," shares the Thompson family. "He had his first swim at a sandbar, and watching him excitedly exploring Wave Break Island made our day even more special. It meant our whole family could enjoy the experience together."

Just remember to bring essentials for your furry friend – a water bowl, towel for drying off, and perhaps a familiar blanket to help them feel comfortable on board.

What happens if the weather turns bad?

Living in Queensland, we're used to the occasional weather surprise, but we've got you covered! If conditions are forecast to be unsafe on your booking day, we'll contact you well in advance to discuss rescheduling options or providing a refund.

For those unexpected weather changes that happen while you're out exploring, our pontoons come equipped with covered areas where you can take shelter from passing showers. During your safety briefing, we'll also explain exactly what to do if conditions change suddenly.

"We had a brief downpour during our tour, but it actually became one of the day's highlights," recalls Michael from Brisbane. "We huddled under the canopy with our beers, kept the snags cooking on the BBQ, and watched the rain create beautiful patterns on the water. Twenty minutes later, we were back to sunshine and swimming!"

All our pontoons are equipped with marine radios, so you can always contact our base if you have any concerns. Your safety is our absolute priority, but we also know that a little rain shower rarely ruins a good Aussie BBQ – sometimes it just adds to the trip!

For any other questions about your Gold Coast BBQ tour, our friendly team is always happy to help. We want your day on the water to be nothing short of perfect, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a day out with family and friends.

Make Waves with GC Jetski!

Looking to add an extra shot of adrenaline to your Gold Coast BBQ tour? Our jet ski packages are the perfect complement to a relaxed day of pontoon cruising. Imagine spending the morning leisurely exploring the waterways, anchoring for a delicious BBQ lunch, and then switching gears for an afternoon of high-speed thrills on our powerful Sea-Doo jet skis.

As locals who've spent our lives on these waters, we've crafted packages that combine the best of both worlds – from pontoon chill to jet ski thrill – all in one unforgettable day. It's the Gold Coast experience that gives you everything in one booking.

"The combination of relaxed BBQ cruising and jet ski action was perfect for our group," shares James, who recently celebrated his bachelor party with us. "Half of us wanted to chill with a beer and some good food, while the others wanted something more exciting. This package meant everyone got exactly what they wanted."

Booking your ultimate Gold Coast water trip couldn't be easier – just visit our website or give our friendly team a call. We can't wait to welcome you aboard and show you why locals and tourists alike rate our BBQ pontoon and jet ski experiences as the highlight of their Gold Coast holiday!

Make Waves with GC Jetski!

There's something magical about combining Australia's beloved BBQ culture with the stunning Gold Coast waterways. When you're gliding across our crystal-clear waters with the sun on your face, a cold drink in hand, and the smell of sizzling snags in the air – that's when you know you're experiencing the true Gold Coast lifestyle.

At GC Jet Ski, we've created packages that capture the perfect balance between relaxation and excitement. Our Gold Coast BBQ tours give you the freedom to be your own captain while providing all the equipment and support you need for an unforgettable day on the water.

"We wanted something different for our family reunion," shares Sarah from Brisbane, who booked our Boat & Jet Ski Package last summer. "Having the pontoon as our floating base camp while taking turns on the jet skis was brilliant – the grandparents could relax in comfort while the youngsters got their thrill fix!"

What makes our experiences truly special is how they cater to everyone. Whether you're a local showing visitors the hidden gems of our waterways, tourists seeking that authentic Aussie outdoor experience, or mates celebrating a birthday or bucks party, our pontoon and jet ski combinations offer something that will have everyone talking for years to come.

Many of our customers tell us the same thing – even lifelong Gold Coast residents see their home in a completely new light from the water. There's something transformative about viewing the iconic skyline from the Broadwater, finding secluded beaches only accessible by boat, or spotting dolphins playing in the waves as you cruise by.

Our local knowledge means we can guide you to the best spots – whether that's the calmest waters for cooking up your feast, the most picturesque sandbars for a swim, or the prime fishing locations where you might catch your lunch. And when you're ready to kick things up a notch, our jet skis are waiting to deliver that heart-pumping rush that only comes from skimming across the water at speed.

The beauty of our Gold Coast BBQ tours is that you set the pace. Want a laid-back day of floating, eating and taking in the scenery? Perfect. Keen to mix in some swimming, fishing and jet skiing? You've got it. It's your day, your way – we just provide the perfect platform for making those memories happen.

From couples seeking a romantic sunset cruise to extended families wanting to spend quality time together, or groups of mates looking for the ultimate day out – our floating feasts have become one of the most popular ways to experience the Gold Coast's stunning waterways for good reason.

"I've lived on the Goldie my whole life but seeing South Straddie and Wave Break Island from a BBQ pontoon gave me a whole new appreciation for just how beautiful our backyard really is," shares local resident Tom after his recent tour. "Plus, being able to BYO drinks without any corkage fees made it great value for our group."

Ready to create your own Gold Coast water trip? Browse our full range of experiences at GC Jet Ski or get more details about our pontoon options at More info about BBQ Pontoon Boats. From the moment you step aboard until you reluctantly return to shore, we're committed to delivering the ultimate Gold Coast experience.



The waterways are calling, the BBQ is ready, and the jet skis are fueled up. All that's missing is you! Book your Gold Coast BBQ tour today and find why our customers keep coming back year after year for another slice of paradise.