Discover the Gold Coast like never before on the Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour — a one-of-a-kind adventure that takes you through the iconic streets of Surfers Paradise before dramatically splashing down into the sparkling Broadwater. Ride aboard Australia's first and finest amphibious vehicle for a fun-filled journey by land and water with entertaining live commentary throughout.
Key Highlights
- Experience a thrilling splash-down as the Aquaduck transforms from road vehicle into river cruiser
- Admire iconic Gold Coast landmarks, including Palazzo Versace, Marina Mirage, and the Southport Yacht Club
- Enjoy entertaining live commentary packed with fascinating local facts, stories, and duck jokes
- Let the kids take the wheel — every child who drives receives a personalised Aquaduck Captain's Certificate
- Spot dolphins, superyachts, and stunning waterfront mansions along the Gold Coast Broadwater
About Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour
Get ready for one of the Gold Coast's most unique and talked-about family experiences with the Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour. Since 1996, the iconic yellow Aquaduck has been delighting visitors and locals alike with its one-of-a-kind blend of city sightseeing and waterway cruising aboard Australia's original amphibious adventure vehicle.
Departing from the heart of Surfers Paradise on Cavill Avenue, the tour begins on land with a guided drive past the famous Surfers Paradise sign, the stunning Pacific Ocean beachfront, and the city's most recognisable landmarks. As the tour heads north, guests take in close-up views of the Southport Yacht Club, the glamorous Palazzo Versace Hotel, and Marina Mirage before the moment everyone is waiting for — the famous Aquaduck splash-down into the Gold Coast Broadwater.
Once on the water, the adventure truly comes alive. Cruise past glittering waterfront mansions, luxury superyachts, and the open expanse of the Broadwater while keeping an eye out for dolphins, pelicans, and marine life along the way. Every child on board is invited to take the wheel of the Aquaduck under the captain's supervision — and each young captain takes home a personalised Aquaduck Captain's Certificate as a souvenir. Book your Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour now on Thrillark and save up to 14% on this iconic Gold Coast adventure.
Departing from the heart of Surfers Paradise on Cavill Avenue, the tour begins on land with a guided drive past the famous Surfers Paradise sign, the stunning Pacific Ocean beachfront, and the city's most recognisable landmarks. As the tour heads north, guests take in close-up views of the Southport Yacht Club, the glamorous Palazzo Versace Hotel, and Marina Mirage before the moment everyone is waiting for — the famous Aquaduck splash-down into the Gold Coast Broadwater.
Once on the water, the adventure truly comes alive. Cruise past glittering waterfront mansions, luxury superyachts, and the open expanse of the Broadwater while keeping an eye out for dolphins, pelicans, and marine life along the way. Every child on board is invited to take the wheel of the Aquaduck under the captain's supervision — and each young captain takes home a personalised Aquaduck Captain's Certificate as a souvenir. Book your Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour now on Thrillark and save up to 14% on this iconic Gold Coast adventure.
Inclusions
- 1-hour Aquaduck city and river tour departing from Surfers Paradise
- Live commentary from an entertaining onboard guide throughout
- Famous splash-down experience into the Gold Coast Broadwater
- Children's boat driving experience on the water
- Personalised Aquaduck Captain's Certificate for every child who drives
- Onboard sightseeing of Gold Coast landmarks by land and water
Exclusions
- Food and beverages
- Hotel transfers
- Personal expenses
Insiders' Tips
Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure for check-in as the Aquaduck departs on time. There are no toilets on board so plan accordingly before boarding. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a light layer as it can get breezy on the water — especially on cooler mornings.
Additional Information
Operating Hours
- 9:45 AM
- Not accessible for wheelchair users or guests with prams and strollers
- Guide dogs are welcome on board
- Pets are not permitted on the Aquaduck
- Spectators may watch from the departure area at Cavill Avenue
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation at least 24 hrs before the travel date for a full refund
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour?
The Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour is a 1-hour amphibious adventure departing from Cavill Avenue in Surfers Paradise that combines a guided city drive with a river cruise aboard Australia's original and most iconic amphibious vehicle. The tour includes a famous splash-down moment as the Aquaduck transitions from road to water, followed by a scenic cruise along the Gold Coast Broadwater past landmarks and waterfront mansions. It has been operating since 1996 and is one of the most family-friendly and entertaining sightseeing experiences on the Gold Coast.
What landmarks will I see on the Aquaduck Gold Coast tour?
The Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour takes guests past an impressive range of iconic Gold Coast landmarks including the famous Surfers Paradise sign and beachfront, the Southport Yacht Club, the glamorous Palazzo Versace Hotel, Marina Mirage, and the luxury waterfront homes of the Gold Coast canal system. Once on the water, guests enjoy panoramic views of the Broadwater and may spot dolphins, pelicans, and luxury superyachts moored along the waterway. The entertaining onboard guide provides live commentary and fascinating local facts about each landmark throughout the entire journey.
Can children drive the Aquaduck during the tour?
Yes — one of the most popular highlights of the Aquaduck Gold Coast tour is the opportunity for children to take the wheel and drive the Aquaduck while it is on the water, under the direct supervision of the captain. Every child who drives receives a personalised Aquaduck Captain's Certificate as a special souvenir to take home and treasure. The captain ensures all participating children have a turn if they wish, making it an unforgettable and interactive experience for young guests.
How long is the Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour?
The Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour lasts approximately one hour in total, including around 20 minutes of guided city sightseeing through Surfers Paradise on land and approximately 40 minutes of scenic river cruising on the Gold Coast Broadwater. The tour departs and returns to the same departure point on Cavill Avenue, making it a convenient and perfectly paced Gold Coast activity. Multiple daily departures are available, making it easy to fit into any Gold Coast itinerary.
Is the Aquaduck Gold Coast tour suitable for all ages?
Yes — the Aquaduck Gold Coast tour is specifically designed for all ages from babies to seniors, making it one of the most genuinely family-inclusive experiences on the Gold Coast. Infants aged 0 to 1 travel free of charge on a parent's lap but must be registered at the time of booking to comply with passenger capacity requirements. The entertaining commentary, interactive children's activities, and scenic water cruise make it an enjoyable and memorable experience for every member of the family.
What is the famous Aquaduck splash-down?
The Aquaduck splash-down is the signature moment of every tour — the dramatic transition where the amphibious Aquaduck vehicle drives directly from the road into the Gold Coast Broadwater, transforming from a land vehicle into a river cruiser in a single spectacular motion. The splash-down is accompanied by the iconic Aquaduck quacking sound and is one of the most exciting and talked-about moments for first-time passengers of all ages. It signals the beginning of the water portion of the tour and consistently draws laughs, cheers, and photos from everyone on board.
Is there toilet access on the Aquaduck Gold Coast tour?
There are no toilet facilities on board the Aquaduck, so guests are strongly advised to use restrooms before checking in and boarding at the Cavill Avenue departure point. The tour runs for approximately one hour without any stops, so planning ahead before departure is important for the comfort of all passengers. Restrooms are available nearby on Cavill Avenue and in the surrounding Surfers Paradise area before the tour begins.
Can I bring food or drinks on the Aquaduck Gold Coast tour?
Water bottles are permitted on board the Aquaduck, but no other food or beverages are allowed during the tour for hygiene and operational reasons. Guests are advised to eat and drink before boarding and to carry a water bottle, particularly on warmer days when the open-air deck can be sunny and breezy. Light snacks and refreshments are available at nearby cafes and restaurants on Cavill Avenue before and after the tour.
Is the Aquaduck Gold Coast tour wheelchair accessible?
The Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour is not accessible for guests using wheelchairs or prams and strollers due to the amphibious vehicle's design, which requires boarding via a narrow steep flight of five steps. Guide dogs are welcome on board, and the operator encourages guests with accessibility questions to call in advance to discuss available options. There is also no storage available on board or at the departure point for prams, strollers, or large bags, so guests are advised to leave these items at their hotel or vehicle.
Do I need to book Aquaduck Gold Coast tickets in advance?
Advance booking is highly recommended for the Aquaduck Gold Coast City and River Tour, particularly during Queensland school holidays, public holidays, weekend sessions, and peak tourist season when tours regularly sell out. Booking through Thrillark saves up to 14% on the standard ticket price with instant confirmation and your preferred departure time secured before you arrive. Walk-up tickets may be available at the Cavill Avenue departure point subject to remaining capacity, but pre-booking guarantees your spot and the best available rate.
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