What to expect on the Gold Coast Aquaduck
Wondering what to expect on the Gold Coast Aquaduck? Is it worth booking this tour? To be honest, I didn’t think I would enjoy this tour as it’s so …. well, touristy. However, I actually ended up enjoying it just as much as the kids. It’s totally worth it!
The kids have wanted to go on the Aquaduck for at least a year so when Gold Coast Tourism offered us a chance to try it out, I jumped on it for their sake. I needn’t have worried about being bored though because it was fun for both kids and adults.
The kids loved the bus and boat experience but as an adult, I enjoyed the live on-board commentary and the fun of cruising past the multi-million dollar houses once we hit the water. Of course, being on a bus that drives straight into the water is an experience not to be missed as well!
Yes, but what exactly is the Aquaduck on the Gold Coast?
The Aquaduck on the Gold Coast is an amphibious bus that’s also a boat once it hits the water. Families book in for a one-hour tour that starts on the land and after a short stint around iconic streets of the Gold Coast, you then drive straight into the water for a cruise around the famed Gold Coast waterways.
What do I do onboard the Gold Coast Aquaduck?
You basically just sit back and enjoy the one-hour ride. Don’t worry, it’s far from boring. For the on-road part of the Aquaduck tour, you’ll drive past the Gold Coast’s iconic beaches and local landmarks. The commentary is quite funny and you’ll learn some facts about the region that I bet you didn’t know…like how much particular apartments sold for.
We all love to know about the rich and famous right?
Speaking of the rich and famous, once you hit the water, you’ll cruise past Millionaire’s Row and get a great view of all the multi-million dollar mansions on the canals as well as an insight into who owns some of them and how much they cost.
Is it true that kids get to drive the Gold Coast Aquaduck?
Yes, it’s totally true and it doesn’t cost any extra for kids to drive the Gold Coast Aquaduck. The guides will come around and grab your child’s name and once the Aquaduck hits the water, they’ll be called up one by one to have a go at driving the boat. If you have more than one child, they’ll get their own go and won’t have to ‘share’. Sadly, the adults weren’t offered the opportunity to drive the Aquaduck.
After their drive, they’ll be given a ‘Captain’s Certificate’ with their name and the date. It’s pretty cool!
Is it safe?
Yes, it feels very safe on the Gold Coast Aquaduck. The vehicle has seatbelts and like any boat, lifejackets are onboard for all guests should there be an issue.
Watch our short YouTube video to see what it looks like in action!
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Gold Coast family holiday resources
Best time to visit the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is really an all-year-round holiday destination. However, it gets pretty busy during the summer school holidays.
December to February sees tropical weather with more chance of rain. Many tout April and May as a great time to visit due to lower rainfall, but I personally find the ocean a bit too chilly at this time.
Where to stay
If staying in Burleigh Heads, Swell Resort is a fantastic option for families with roomy apartment-style offerings. The resort is set close to restaurants, only 100 metres from the beach. This is my top pick for the Gold Coast.
If staying in the Gold Coast Hinterlands, you can’t go past Binna Burra Lodge or O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. Both offer a range of accommodations.
If you’re looking for a family resort with everything to occupy the kids, NRMA Treasure Island and Paradise Resort are top choices.
Those seeking luxury will love the Gold Coast Marriott or The Star.
Getting to the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is located one hour south of Brisbane on the East Coast of Australia.
Both domestic and international flights service the Gold Coast Airport at Coolangatta. Find a great deal on Trip.com
The Gold Coast is connected by rail to Brisbane’s Roma Street and Central stations. There is also an AirTrain that runs a regular rail service taking around 90 minutes.
Getting around the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast has an extensive bus service with over 60 routes within the city. If venturing to the Gold Coast Hinterlands, hiring a car is an excellent option if you don’t have your own.
