How to Hire a Pontoon without Stress
Your Guide to a Perfect Day on the Gold Coast Waterways

Hiring a pontoon is one of the best ways to experience the Gold Coast's stunning waterways with family and friends. It's the perfect way to create your own adventure without the hassles of boat ownership. Best of all, you don't need a boat license to get started. Our pontoons can hold up to 11 people and come equipped with all the necessary safety gear, life jackets, and BBQ facilities. All you need to bring is your own food, drinks, and sense of adventure for a day of cruising, swimming, and fishing.
Whether you're planning a relaxed day of BBQing with your mates, a fun-filled family outing, or an action-packed day combining pontoon cruising with jet ski thrills, hiring a pontoon gives you complete freedom. With years of experience providing watercraft to groups and families on the Gold Coast, we know exactly what makes for an unforgettable day on the Broadwater, and we're here to help you plan it.
Planning Your Pontoon Adventure: A Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring a Pontoon
There's something magical about setting off on a pontoon adventure across the Gold Coast's stunning waterways. Hiring a pontoon means you get all the joy without any of the headaches of boat ownership. We handle all the maintenance and upkeep, so our pontoons are always in pristine condition. You just turn up, step aboard, and let the good times roll.
Choosing Your Perfect Pontoon Package
The first step is choosing the right package. Our pontoons accommodate up to 11 passengers, making them perfect for family gatherings, a day out with mates, or a unique team-building adventure.
For those who want to make the most of their day, our Full Day Pontoon Hire for 8 Hours is the ultimate choice. For $590, you get eight glorious hours to explore the waterways, anchor for a swim, and fire up the onboard BBQ. No boat license is needed, just a sense of adventure! It's the best way to experience everything the Gold Coast Broadwater has to offer.
If you're on a tighter schedule, our Half Day Pontoon Hire for 4 Hours is a great midweek option. At $400, this package packs all the fun into a convenient four-hour window. You'll have plenty of time to cruise, cook up a BBQ feast, and create lasting memories, all without needing a license. For more ideas on planning a celebration, check out our Party Pontoon Hire Gold Coast page.

The Hiring Process and Onboard Fun
Booking your pontoon is simple. Just head to our website to select your package and secure your date with a credit card. On the day, we'll provide a comprehensive safety briefing to ensure you feel confident on the water. We cover everything from operating the pontoon to the rules of the waterway. All safety equipment, including life jackets, is included, and we provide a temporary boat license for your trip.
Your pontoon comes with a BBQ ready for a feast. You can bring your own food and drinks, including alcohol, with no corkage fees. Just pack an esky and you're set! If you're keen on fishing, bring your own gear; our pontoons are equipped with rod holders for your convenience. For more tips, see our guide on Gold Coast BBQ Pontoon Boat Rentals. Please note that fuel is an additional cost calculated upon your return.
Amp Up the Fun: Combining Pontoons and Jet Skis
Want to add an extra shot of adrenaline? Combine your pontoon hire with the thrill of jet skis for the ultimate water adventure.
Our Boat & Jet Ski Package for 8 Hours ($1900) is for groups who want it all. It includes our Full Day BBQ Pontoon Hire plus two Sea-Doo Jet Skis for four hours of high-speed action. It's the perfect blend of chilled cruising and adrenaline-pumping fun.
If you're new to jet skiing, our Jet Ski Tours for 1 Hour ($200) are perfect. An experienced guide leads the way, and no license is required. For confident riders with a valid jet ski license, our Jet Ski Hire for 1 Hour ($200) offers the freedom to explore on your own terms. Find more about these combos on our Pontoon Meets Jet Ski: Ultimate Water Adventure Combos page.

What to Bring and Common Mistakes to Avoid
A little preparation goes a long way. Remember to pack high-SPF sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and towels. Bring an esky with plenty of water, drinks, and all your food for the BBQ. A portable speaker and a camera are also great additions. For more packing ideas, check our Anchor Down and Dine: How to Plan the Ultimate Pontoon Boat Picnic guide.
To ensure a perfect day, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Forgetting Sun Protection: The Queensland sun is strong. Apply sunscreen regularly.
- Not Checking the Weather: Weather can change quickly. Check the forecast on a reliable source like the Bureau of Meteorology before you head out.
- Ignoring the Safety Briefing: This briefing is crucial for a safe and confident day on the water.
- Leaving a Mess: We ask that you leave the pontoon as clean as you found it. Please bag your rubbish for disposal on shore.
- Underestimating Travel Time: Plan your route to ensure you return on time without rushing.
By avoiding these mistakes, you're set for a seamless experience. For more guidance, read our article on whether hiring a pontoon boat is right for you.
Finally, consider the seasons when booking. Summer, from December to February, is perfect for swimming, while autumn and spring offer milder weather. Winter, from June to August, still has beautiful sunny days perfect for cruising. School holidays are a peak time, so book in advance to secure your spot.
Your Ultimate Gold Coast Adventure Starts Here
When you're hiring a pontoon with us, you're not just renting a boat. You're creating unforgettable memories on the stunning Gold Coast waterways. We make it easy with a simple booking process, comprehensive safety briefings, and premium, well-maintained watercraft.
Whether you're after a peaceful day cruising the Broadwater, an action-packed jet ski adventure, or the perfect family outing, we have a package for you. Gather your crew, pack your esky, and get ready for a day that ticks all the boxes. The Gold Coast is calling, and we can’t wait to see you out on the water.
Ready to start your adventure?












