Tour operator
Paradise Jet Boating
Gold Coast jet boat operator since 2004, running 50-minute rides with high-speed spins and drifts and a sightseeing run along South Stradbroke Island.
Aquaduck Gold Coast
One-hour amphibious tour from Cavill Avenue that drives past Surfers Paradise landmarks before splashing into the Broadwater for a cruise past waterfront mansions.
At a glance
- Type
- Amphibious road and river tour
- Area
- Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
- Official site
- aquaduck.com.au
Good to know
- One-hour tour
- Live commentary
- Children can steer on the water
Why we recommend it
Aquaduck has been running on the Gold Coast since 1996 and describes itself as Australia's first amphibious tour. Its vehicles are built from military LARC amphibious craft, which means the tour can drive along the streets of Surfers Paradise and then roll straight into the water to continue as a boat. It is now part of the Tours Group and also runs a newer tour on the Sunshine Coast at Mooloolaba.
The Gold Coast tour lasts about an hour and splits its time between land and water. On the road, it takes in Surfers Paradise landmarks along the esplanade, a surf break and the cafes along Tedder Avenue. Then comes the moment most passengers are waiting for: the vehicle drives into the Broadwater and becomes a boat, cruising past waterfront mansions and looking out for wildlife on the waterways. A guide provides live commentary throughout, so it doubles as a light-hearted introduction to the city's geography and history.
Children are a big part of the audience. Once on the water, kids can take the wheel as junior skippers, a hands-on moment that makes the cruise memorable for younger passengers. The commentary and the novelty of a vehicle that turns into a boat work for adults too. Families, grandparents and first-time visitors who want an easy overview of the coast without a long commitment will all find it a good fit.
Tours leave from the corner of Cavill Avenue and Ferny Avenue in Surfers Paradise and run several times a day, with extra twilight departures in peak periods that return after dark; junior skippers are not offered on those evening runs. Check the current timetable and book ahead on the official website, especially during school holidays. Arrive a little early to check in, and bring a hat and sunscreen for the open-air sections.
Because the departure point is on Cavill Avenue, the tour is easy to combine with a visit to the SkyPoint observation deck, a swim at Surfers Paradise Beach or lunch in the town centre. Bookings and enquiries can be made through the website, by phone or by email to the bookings address published there.
Aquaduck Gold Coast FAQs
Where does Aquaduck depart from?
From the corner of Cavill Avenue and Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise.
How long is the tour?
About one hour.
What does the tour cover?
Surfers Paradise landmarks, a surf break and Tedder Avenue by road, then a cruise on the Broadwater past waterfront mansions.
Can children drive the boat?
Yes. Kids can take the wheel once on the water, except on the twilight departures.
How long has Aquaduck operated?
Since 1996. It describes itself as Australia's first amphibious tour.
Are there evening tours?
Extra twilight departures run in peak periods and return after dark.
How do you book?
Online, by phone on +61 7 5539 0222 or by email to [email protected].