FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need a boat license?

A Queensland or interstate boat license is only required if you are hiring the vessel Gold Coast Two, and must be sighted on the day of hire. If you would like to obtain your boat and/or jet ski license, give Michael from Maritime Skills Centre Gold Coast a call on 0410 594 912. All other vessels (Gold Coast One, Gold Coast Three, and Gold Coast Five) do not require a boat license, however official photo ID (eg. car drivers license, 18+ card, or passport) is required.

Do I need a fishing license?

No fishing license is required for recreational fishing or crabbing in Queensland.

Where can I take the vessel?

For vessel Gold Coast Two, anywhere within smooth water limits in Brisbane and Gold Coast waterways. For vessels Gold Coast One, Gold Coast Three, and Gold Coast Five, anywhere within smooth water limits between Tipplers on South Stradbroke Island and Wavebreak Island at Labrador. You cannot take any vessel out through any coastal bar, which includes the Gold Coast Seaway and Jumpinpin Bar. For your safety, we also impose some special restrictions in areas where there are known hazards.

Is all safety equipment provided?

Yes, in fact we provide more safety equipment than is required by maritime legislation, for the safety and peace of mind for our customers. A comprehensive safety briefing is given to all customers prior to departure.

Do you have life jackets for children?

Yes. At time of booking, please specify the ages and weights of each child so we can supply appropriate life jackets.

Do I need to pay for fuel?

One tank of fuel is included as part of the hire fee. One tank of fuel is normally sufficient for most hirers, however if more fuel is required then extra fuel can be provided at current service station prices. A small emergency reserve tank of fuel is also provided, if you need to use this tank you may be charged extra.

Can I drive the vessel at night?

Can the vessel sink?

No, all our vessels comply fully with maritime legislation and are fitted with positive flotation, meaning that even if the vessel becomes fully swamped with water and carrying the maximum number of passengers, it will remain upright and stay afloat.

Can I tow a ski tube for the kids, waterski, or wakeboard behind the vessel?

Unfortunately not, all aquaplaning activities are prohibited

Can you launch the boat for us at a different boat ramp to Paradise Point?

Give us a call to discuss - we certainly will if able to do so.

I'm not familiar with the waterways of the Gold Coast or Brisbane, but would love to get out on the water - can you

suggest where we should go?

Our friendly staff are true locals to the waterways of the Gold Coast and Brisbane. Whether you would like to know where the best spots are for catching a few whiting and flathead, what the best bait is and where to catch it, or where I should take my family for a sightseeing tour - Gold Coast Boat Hire has the answers!