Noosa is a boat-lover’s paradise, whether you bring your own, hire one from a boat shed jetty or join a tour that cruises the blue waterways from the river to the Coral Sea. It’s a must-do experience on your Noosa holiday!
The Noosa River winds for more than 70km through freshwater Everglades and streams, and saltwater lakes to the main river body. With the Great Sandy National Park on one side, it meanders past secluded sandy beaches, islands surrounded by marine and bird life, and sand bars that are perfect to pull up for a rest – all adding up to a great day of boating adventure!
The Noosa River is an ever-changing kaleidoscope of colour, teeming with bird and marine life – and there are so many ways you can ride the river! For a great day out, hire a BBQ boat, electric boat or party pontoon from one of the jetties where the pelicans perch along Gympie Tce, Noosaville, and cruise the waterways – all you need is a driver’s licence. Cruise along the canals or drop the anchor at a sandback to catch yabbies and spend the day fishing, swimming or simply relaxing.
There are plenty of great spots for fishing – bring your own gear and throw in a line from the water’s edge (local tackle shops can let you in on the best spots to try). Hire a boat and head out for a day on the water (many can fit you out with the perfect fishing gear) or join a fishing charter and let the experts find the best spots for you.
Take a fishing or crabbing tour and enjoy the fruits of your labour for lunch. Fishing tours take you along the river and lakes in search of delicious local crabs and fresh fish which you will get to enjoy for yourself. Local skippers find the secret spots and show you how to fish like a pro!
There are also deep sea, offshore fishing charters to take you out where the action is.
One of the best ways to see Noosa is from the river, as a local skipper tells you tall tales and true stories – and there are so many ways you can get on board! There are lunch and sunset cruises, ferry rides, a river history tour, cruises where you can take your own picnic or ones where they’ll organise a sumptuous feast for you. Take an adventure ride out to Laguna Bay to spot dolphins, turtles and even whales from June to October. Be transported to another time on board a 1940s-style power boat, or another place with the Gondola's of Noosa. You will find your sea legs in no time!
OUR TIP: Catch the Noosa Ferry, seven days a week from morning until sunset, with seven stops between the Noosa Marina, Noosaville and Hastings Street – it’s also a great way to arrive at your favourite riverside restaurant.