Gold Coast: Private Catamaran Cruise for up to 30 guests.

Planning a special day on the water on the Gold Coast? This private catamaran experience offers a blend of comfort, customization, and scenic adventure that makes it a compelling choice. Whether celebrating a birthday, hens party, or corporate milestone, the chance to have your own boat with friends or colleagues is hard to beat.

What makes this cruise stand out? First, it’s the flexibility to bring your own food and drinks or opt for catering, giving you full control over your celebration. Second, the onboard amenities like paddleboards, karaoke, and trampoline decks promise plenty of fun for everyone. Lastly, the scenic stops at Wave Break Island and South Stradbroke for swimming ensure you’ll enjoy both relaxing and active moments.

That said, it’s worth noting that this experience isn’t suited for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, given the open water setting. The overall vibe suits groups looking for an intimate, tailored day with friends, family, or colleagues, with plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation on the water.

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Key Points

Private luxury experience for up to 30 guests on the Gold Coast.
Flexible catering options: BYO or professionally catered meals.
Onboard amenities include paddleboards, trampoline, karaoke, and BBQ.
Scenic stops for swimming at Wave Break Island and South Stradbroke.
Experienced, friendly crew ensures a smooth, personalized cruise.
Duration options from 3 to 8 hours, tailored to your needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This private catamaran experience from Horizon Cat Cruises is designed for groups wanting a laid-back, customizable day on the water. Departing from Marina Mirage at Main Beach, the Seawind Catamaran can host up to 30 guests comfortably. It’s an ideal setting for celebrating life’s milestones in style, whether that’s a birthday, hens party, family reunion, or even a corporate function.

The cruise lasts typically around 3 hours, though longer options are available up to 8 hours, making it flexible enough to suit different schedules. The boat itself is well-equipped, with private restrooms, BBQ facilities, fridges, and freezers onboard to handle your catering needs. The crew, hailing from the local area, is praised for their warmth and professionalism, ensuring you feel at ease from the moment you step aboard.

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The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The beauty of this cruise lies in its ability to be personalized. Once onboard, you’ll have the choice to relax on the deck, enjoy swimming at scenic stops, or participate in onboard activities. Here’s a typical outline of what the experience offers:

Departure and Setup

Meet at Berth C12 in the Commercial Arm “C” of Marina Mirage. The crew will assist in getting everything ready, whether you’ve brought your own food, drinks, and music or opted for a catering package. The boat’s sound system, equipped with Bluetooth, allows you to set your playlist, adding to the relaxed vibe.

Cruising and Scenic Views

As the vessel departs, you’ll cruise along the stunning Gold Coast waterways, with panoramic views of the skyline and nearby islands. The crew is known for their local knowledge, sharing insights into the area and pointing out noteworthy sights as you go.

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Onboard Fun and Relaxation

Guests love the trampoline deck, paddleboards, and lily pad, which offer a playful way to cool off or get some exercise. The karaoke system adds a lighthearted element, perfect for singing along with friends or colleagues. The boat’s BBQ facilities mean you can cook up a feast or have it catered, with plenty of ice and storage space to keep everything chilled.

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Island Stops for Swimming

The highlight for many is the opportunity to jump off at Wave Break Island or South Stradbroke for swimming and relaxing in the water. These stops are ideal for cooling down and soaking up the sun, with some reviews noting how easy it is to jump straight into the water from the boat.

Return and Reflection

After a few hours of fun, your crew will navigate back to the marina. Guests often comment on how smoothly the day runs thanks to the attentive crew, leaving plenty of time to unwind and share memories.

Why This Cruise Offers Great Value

When weighing the $1,089 price for up to 30 guests, the value becomes clear. You’re essentially paying less than $40 per person for a fully private experience that combines scenic beauty, active fun, and the flexibility to customize your catering and entertainment. Since the experience includes essentials like private restrooms, BBQ facilities, paddleboards, and a friendly crew, it’s a comprehensive package that minimizes extra costs and planning.

The Flexibility of Food and Drinks

One of the biggest perks is the ability to bring your own food and drinks, saving money and allowing you to cater precisely to your group’s tastes. The option for licensed catering on-site means you can enjoy a professionally prepared meal if preferred, making it perfect for those not wanting to fuss with food prep.

Onboard Amenities and Activities

Guests consistently highlight the fun onboard features. The trampoline deck, paddleboards, and lily pad are not just added bonuses—they’re integral to making the most of your day. The karaoke system, with its lively sound, can turn a quiet cruise into a party, especially for groups celebrating something special.

Scenic Stops with Swimming Opportunities

The chance to stop at Wave Break Island and South Stradbroke for swimming adds a refreshing dimension to the cruise. These locations are accessible for jumping straight into the water, making it easy to cool off amid the sunshine and scenery that the Gold Coast is famous for.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Departure Point and Group Size

Arriving at Marina Mirage’s Berth C12, you’ll notice the location’s convenience—close to cafes and shops, with easy parking. The group size limit of 30 is perfect for intimate gatherings, yet large enough to host friends or colleagues comfortably.

Duration and Customization

The standard cruise runs for 3 hours but can extend up to 8 hours if you desire a full-day adventure. This flexibility allows you to plan a leisurely day with multiple stops or a shorter, more focused outing. You might find the longer options better suited for full lunches or multiple swim breaks.

Catering and Food

Guests love the freedom to bring their own food and beverages, which means you can pack your favorite snacks and drinks, or pre-arrange catering through the boat’s providers. A key review mentions bringing chilled drinks and extra ice, which enhances the experience, especially in warm weather.

Onboard Entertainment

The onboard karaoke and Bluetooth sound system have been praised for their quality, allowing groups to sing and dance without issue. The paddleboards and lily pads offer added fun, especially for those who enjoy active water-based activities. The trampoline deck adds an element of bouncing fun, making it great for kids and adults alike.

Swimming and Scenic Stops

The stops at Wave Break Island and South Stradbroke are well-received because they provide natural swimming spots with easy access. Guests often mention how swimming here feels refreshing and relaxing after some time on the boat.

Crew and Safety

The local crew is described as friendly and attentive, ensuring safety and comfort throughout. They’re experienced and knowledgeable, making safety tips clear and helping everyone feel at ease—even when guests are trying paddleboarding or swimming for the first time.

Practical Tips for Booking

Arrive early at Marina Mirage to avoid last-minute rush.
Bring your own food, drinks, swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel.
Consider extra bags of ice for longer cruises or hot days.
Confirm catering arrangements beforehand if you prefer a professionally prepared meal.
Avoid this experience if you have mobility issues or are prone to seasickness, as the boat is open water.

Final Thoughts

This private catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience ideal for groups wanting a tailored day on the water. The blend of scenic beauty, active onboard fun, and customizable catering makes it a smart choice for celebrations on the Gold Coast. The friendly crew and excellent amenities ensure that your time on the boat is both safe and memorable.

While not suited for everyone—particularly those with mobility concerns or seasickness—it’s perfect for those seeking an exclusive, flexible, and fun day with friends, family, or colleagues. This experience delivers on comfort, entertainment, and scenic appeal, all at a reasonable price point for a private group of up to 30 people.

FAQs

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages, which many guests do to customize their experience. Just ensure drinks are pre-chilled for maximum enjoyment.

Is catering available on the boat?
Yes, licensed catering options are available if you prefer professionally prepared meals, or you can choose to bring your own.

What should I bring onboard?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, food, drinks, and beachwear. Extra ice is also recommended, especially for longer cruises.

How many people can the boat accommodate?
Up to 30 guests can be hosted comfortably, making it perfect for small to medium-sized groups.

What activities are included?
Guests can enjoy paddleboarding, lily pads, trampoline decks, and karaoke. Swimming stops are included at Wave Break Island and South Stradbroke.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, but note that the experience may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are private restrooms available onboard?
Absolutely, there are 2 private restrooms with toilet, shower, and changing facilities.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The standard cruise lasts 3 hours, with options available up to 8 hours for a full-day adventure.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, longer cruises or specific stops can be arranged upon request, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences.

Choosing this private catamaran cruise means opting for a flexible, enjoyable day on the water, replete with scenic beauty, onboard fun, and the freedom to make it your own. It’s an experience best suited for groups eager to celebrate, relax, and indulge in a bit of fun under the Australian sun.