Taking a tour that combines land and water adventures often promises a day full of surprises, and this Full-Day 1770 Tour by 1770 LARC! Tours is a shining example. While I haven’t had the chance to experience it firsthand, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an activity packed with wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and engaging guides.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the amphibious LARC vehicle lets you glide smoothly across both land and sea, offering a genuinely unique way to explore. Second, the stops at iconic spots like Bustard Head Lighthouse and Middle Island promise memorable views and insights into local history. Third, options like sandboarding add a splash of adventure for those craving adrenaline.
On the flip side, one thing worth considering is the tour’s group size, which maxes out at 29 travelers. While that’s fairly intimate, it might feel crowded during peak times. This tour seems best suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a full day of scenic exploration with a mix of fun activities and educational moments.
Key Points
- Unique amphibious vehicle experience blending land and water travel
- Includes a delicious lunch and refreshments, offering great value
- Wildlife sightings and natural scenery provide authentic experiences
- Professional, friendly guides enrich the journey with knowledge and humor
- Ideal for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers
- Optional sandboarding for an added thrill or a fun spectator activity
An In-Depth Look at the Full-Day 1770 Tour Experience
Looking for more options in Agnes Water? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point and First Impressions
The adventure kicks off at the check-in office on Captain Cook Drive in Seventeen Seventy around 9:00am. Here, you’ll find a souvenir shop that doubles as the check-in point—perfect for grabbing a memento before setting out. The group is capped at 29, which keeps the atmosphere friendly without feeling crowded.
The LARC amphibious vehicle is immediately captivating—it’s a beast of machinery that looks like it belongs in a James Bond film. Its ability to traverse both land and water is truly the star of the tour, and reviews consistently praise how seamlessly it switches from dirt trails to tidal waters, giving you the impression that you’re traveling in something extraordinary.
Exploring Agnes Water and the Town of 1770
As the tour begins, your guide (likely Kev or Anthony, based on reviews) keeps the mood lively with a mix of commentary about local wildlife, ecosystems, and history. The guides seem genuinely passionate, with reviews mentioning their humor and extensive knowledge. Expect to see native birds, marine creatures, and perhaps even dolphins, as some guests noted that the water portion allows for better wildlife viewing.
The vehicle’s capacity to go over steep slopes and navigate deep tidal sand holes means you’ll see parts of the coast and hinterland inaccessible by regular vehicles. This versatility is a game-changer for exploring the rugged terrain of Agnes Water and the surrounding Bustard Bay area.
Wildlife Encounters and Scenic Views
One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the abundance of wildlife along the route. Guests have commented on observing many birds, marine life, and even endangered shorebirds of Eurimbula National Park. With live commentary, the guides point out specific flora and fauna, making it both educational and exciting.
Travelers repeatedly mentioned how the guides, such as Kev, made the trip informative and entertaining, ensuring that even wildlife novices felt engaged. The storytelling about the area’s history and the lighthouse’s past tragedies adds depth to the scenery, transforming a sightseeing trip into a meaningful journey.
Lunch on Middle Island
Around mid-morning, you’ll stop for lunch on Middle Island. The included meal is a real treat, with guests describing it as generous and high quality, accompanied by coffee, tea, and fresh local produce. It’s a welcome break after the morning’s exploration, providing a chance to relax and soak in the island’s peaceful surroundings.
Bustard Head Lighthouse and Museum
As the afternoon unfolds, the tour visits the Bustard Head Lightstation. The lighthouse offers breathtaking views, and guests are often struck by how much history and tragedy are woven into its story. The lighthouse’s setting is postcard-perfect, and many reviewers mention the fascinating museum and the panoramic vantage point as absolute highlights.
Access to the lighthouse is generally restricted for children under 8 due to safety standards, so families with young kids should plan accordingly. Still, even those who can’t enter the lighthouse itself can enjoy the sweeping vistas from the lookout.
Sandboarding on Middle Island Dunes
For the adventure-seekers, the sandboarding activity is a major draw. Guests report that the dunes are massive and fun, and the experience of sliding down the sand is both exhilarating and humorous. Some guests, like the 76-year-old reviewer, chose to spectate, and still found the scene lively and entertaining.
The optional activity is flexible—if you’re not into sandboarding, you can simply enjoy the scenery or relax by the water. Many guests highlight how well the activity was organized and the safety-oriented approach of the guides.
Final Moments and Return
The trip wraps up with a relaxed journey back to the starting point, with guides sharing last snippets of local lore and wildlife observations. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day for most travelers.
Guests have expressed high satisfaction with the value for money, considering the included meals, activities, and the uniqueness of the amphibious vehicle. The tour’s blend of natural beauty, history, and fun makes it a well-rounded choice for diverse interests.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
Compared to typical day trips, the $113.91 per person fee covers all activities, lunch, and expert guiding, enabling you to experience land and sea wildlife, scenic lighthouse vistas, and thrilling sandboarding—all in one package. The high praise from over 500 reviewers, most rating it a perfect 5, underscores how well-organized and enjoyable the experience is.
What You Really Get
- A truly unique mode of transportation that makes every moment feel special
- Insightful guides who blend knowledge with humor, making the trip educational and fun
- Quality meals and refreshments that suit all dietary preferences, including vegetarian options
- Multiple photo opportunities at stunning spots like the lighthouse and dunes
- Wildlife and nature viewing that feels authentic, not staged
Who Should Book?
This experience is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore a remote part of Queensland with a sense of adventure. If you enjoy wildlife, scenic vistas, and a mix of history and fun activities, this tour ticks all the boxes. The optional sandboarding also appeals to those wanting a dash of adrenaline.
FAQs About the 1770 LARC Tour
Is this tour suitable for children? Children under 8 are not permitted inside the lighthouse due to safety standards, but the rest of the trip is family-friendly for older kids.
What should I wear? Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes are best, especially if you plan to sandboard.
Is vegetarian lunch available? Yes, a vegetarian option can be requested at the time of booking.
How long does the tour last? It runs approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Are there any extra fees? All fees and taxes are included, but keep in mind that personal expenses like souvenirs are extra.
How many people are on the tour? The maximum group size is 29 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate.
What wildlife might I see? Expect native birds, marine animals, dolphins, and shorebirds, depending on the day’s conditions.
Can I do sandboarding if I’m not experienced? Absolutely—it’s designed to be fun whether you’re a pro or a beginner.
Is the vehicle safe? Yes, the amphibious LARC is a well-maintained, safe piece of machinery, with experienced guides ensuring safety at all times.
What is the best time to go? While the tour runs year-round, clear weather enhances scenery and wildlife sightings—check local weather before booking.
Final Thoughts
The Full-Day 1770 Tour by LARC offers a rare chance to see Agnes Water and the coast of Queensland in a way that combines adventure, education, and relaxation. The amphibious vehicle provides a fun, comfortable way to cover diverse terrain, and the guides make sure you learn plenty while having a good time.
This tour is especially well-suited for those who love nature, history, and a touch of thrill—whether you’re a family looking for a memorable day out, a solo traveler craving adventure, or a couple seeking scenic beauty. The included lunch, wildlife encounters, and stunning lighthouse views make it a well-rounded experience that feels like good value for money.
If you’re after an authentic, engaging way to explore this beautiful part of Australia, this tour ticks all the right boxes. Just be prepared to get a little sandy and maybe a bit sun-kissed, but most importantly, to take home some fantastic memories.
Enjoy a day exploring the best of Agnes Water—on land, in water, and on towering dunes with the full-day 1770 LARC tour.