Planning a trip to the Gold Coast? You’ll find plenty of options for outdoor adventures and scenic views, but a cruise with a delicious buffet lunch offers a relaxing way to see the city from a new perspective. This 2-hour sightseeing cruise aboard the Spirit of Elston combines stunning waterway vistas, a tasty tropical buffet, and a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to both travelers and locals alike.
What really makes this experience shine? Its convenient departure location in Surfers Paradise, the impressive views of iconic landmarks, and the delicious fresh seafood and hearty fare served onboard. However, if you’re looking for a lengthy or action-packed tour, this might feel a bit short and more suited to those seeking a relaxed, scenic escape. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy a good meal while taking in the sights—families, couples, or solo explorers alike.
Key Points
- Stunning Waterway Views: Pass by landmarks like Sea World, Palazzo Versace, and waterfront mansions.
- Delicious Buffet Lunch: Fresh prawns, roast chicken, ham, and salads prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
- Relaxing Atmosphere: Spacious sundeck and air-conditioned lower deck with full amenities.
- Expert Commentary: Informative and entertaining narration from the crew.
- Convenient Departure: Located near major hotels and public transport in Surfers Paradise.
- Great Value: At $59 per person, it combines scenery, food, and fun in just two hours.
Overall Experience: A Perfect Balance of Sightseeing and Dining
The Gold Coast sightseeing cruise offers an experience designed for relaxation and enjoyment. It’s a fantastic way to kick back and see some of the most picturesque parts of the region without the hustle of a longer tour or the fatigue of a strenuous activity. The 2-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to soak up the scenery and savor the meal, but short enough to fit into a busy schedule.
The departure point at Ferry Wharf, Appel Park, makes it straightforward to access, whether you’re staying in Surfers Paradise or nearby. Plus, the vessel, the Spirit of Elston, boasts high standards of cleanliness and comfort, with a climate-controlled lower deck for those who prefer shade or inclement weather.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For $59, you receive a comprehensive 2-hour cruise, including a buffet lunch and full access to the spacious sundeck for panoramic photos. The buffet features fresh, locally sourced ingredients—think Ocean King prawns, roast chicken, baked ham, and vibrant salads. Desserts like seasonal fruits and the classic Pavlova round out the meal.
A fully licensed onboard bar offers a selection of cocktails, wine, and craft beers—perfect for unwinding while taking in the sights. Reviewers note the friendly staff and efficient service, which helps make the experience feel seamless. However, if you’re craving a specific beverage, keep in mind that the bar is not fully stocked for unlimited drinks; you’ll need to pay for extras.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
Once aboard the Spirit of Elston, you’ll set sail into the Gold Coast Broadwater, a shimmering waterway dotted with celebrity homes and luxury resorts. The crew, led by knowledgeable guides, provides commentary about the sights—though some reviews mention that the narration isn’t continuous, allowing guests to enjoy their meals without interruption.
Highlights include cruising past Marina Mirage, the Home of the Arts, and Sea World, with clear views of the city skyline. The upper deck is open-air, perfect for catching the sunshine and snapping photos of the glittering waterways and sprawling mansions. The lower deck offers a comfortable, climate-controlled space with full amenities, ideal if you prefer to avoid the sun or wind.
The crew also shares interesting tidbits about landmarks, waterfront homes, and the history of the area. Reviewers have particularly appreciated the entertaining commentary and friendly service, which make the cruise feel warm and personable.
Food and Beverage: A Highlight for Many
The buffet lunch is a major selling point, with fresh seafood, succulent meats, and colorful salads. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and variety of the food, noting the Ocean King prawns and baked ham as standout dishes. The lightly seasoned roast chicken is also frequently mentioned as tender and flavorful.
Guests can enjoy their meal inside or upstairs on the sundeck. Plenty of reviews mention how the food exceeds expectations for a cruise of this length and price, with many saying it’s great value. The dessert options, especially the Pavlova with mango and passionfruit, receive particular praise, offering a sweet finish to the meal.
The onboard bar, though not fully stocked, provides a tasty selection of cocktails, wines, and craft beers, enabling guests to toast their experience while enjoying the views.
More Great Tours NearbyViews, Landmarks, and Photo Opportunities
You’ll love the panoramic vistas from the spacious sundeck, where you can marvel at the Gold Coast skyline and capture memorable photos. Reviewers mention that the boats glide smoothly, making for a comfortable ride and great photo moments.
Special sights include Palazzo Versace, the luxurious waterfront homes, and the marina. Some reviews highlight that the cruise offers a unique perspective on the city’s most glamorous areas, which are often hidden from land-based sightseeing.
The Crew and Service
Guests consistently describe the crew as attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, adding to the overall enjoyment. The entertaining commentary provides context about the sights, making the cruise both relaxing and educational. Reviewers like Jillian and Carolyn emphasize the professionalism and warmth of the staff, noting that they make guests feel welcome and well cared for.
While some mention that the narration isn’t continuous, this actually allows for a more relaxed atmosphere—perfect when you’re trying to enjoy a meal or a quiet moment.
Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying
- Arrive at the Ferry Wharf in Surfers Paradise with enough time for check-in; the location is close to major hotels and public transport.
- Parking is easiest at Bruce Bishop Car Park on Beach Road.
- The cruise departs in the morning and afternoon, so plan accordingly.
- The boat is suitable for all ages, but keep in mind the 2-hour duration may not be enough for those wanting a longer tour.
- The buffet is generous, so come hungry—reviewers mention that there’s plenty of food, and some even go back for seconds.
- If you want to enjoy a drink, the fully licensed bar offers options, but consider bringing cash or card for extras.
- Dress comfortably; layers are advised if you’re on the upper deck in cooler weather.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This cruise is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, scenic experience combined with great food and stunning views. Families, couples celebrating special occasions, or solo travelers looking for a laid-back water adventure will find it suits their needs well. It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in photography or simply want to enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the water.
Active travelers seeking an adrenaline rush might prefer more energetic excursions, but if your goal is to unwind and indulge in great scenery and food, this cruise hits the mark. The affordable price point and comprehensive experience make it a fantastic value for money.
FAQ
What is included in the price?
For $59, you get a 2-hour cruise, a buffet lunch, access to the spacious sundeck, and entertaining commentary from the crew.
Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from the Ferry Wharf at Appel Park, Surfers Paradise, a short walk from major hotels and public transport.
Can I purchase drinks onboard?
Yes, there is a fully licensed onboard bar offering cocktails, wine, and craft beers, but it’s not fully stocked for unlimited drinks.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick yet satisfying experience.
Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, as long as guests can sit comfortably for the duration.
What landmarks will I see?
Expect to see Sea World, Palazzo Versace, Marina Mirage, and luxury waterfront homes along the waterways.
Is there a dress code?
Comfortable casual attire is perfect. Layers are a good idea if you’re on the upper deck in cooler weather.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for travel plans.
Final Thoughts
This Gold Coast cruise offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, delicious food, and friendly service at a reasonable price. The combination of stunning waterway views, informative guides, and tasty buffet lunch makes it a popular choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, enjoyable afternoon. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to unwind, this experience delivers a memorable snapshot of the Gold Coast’s glamour and charm.
Best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers craving a stress-free outing, it’s perfect for those who value comfort and quality. If you’re after a gentle cruise with plenty of photo opportunities and a fantastic meal, this tour is a great way to spend a couple of hours on your Gold Coast adventure.
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