Island Pub Crawl with Lunch and High Speed Boat Tour in Brisbane

This tour promises an energetic blend of sailing, wildlife, island bars, and good food—all wrapped into a 10-hour package that kicks off right in Brisbane’s heart. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews suggest it’s an adventure packed with lively moments and picturesque scenery. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a couple looking for a day of fun and exploration, this experience seems designed to deliver.

What we really like about this tour is its combination of high-speed boat excitement and relaxed island downtime, plus the chance to see local wildlife in their natural habitat. The inclusion of lunch at Amity Tavern adds a nice touch of local flavor, and the opportunity to visit two of Australia’s largest sand islands makes it feel like a true escape. One possible consideration is the tour’s duration—about 10 hours—so it works best for those prepared for a full day out and about.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, socializing, and nature. If you’re keen to see Brisbane from the water, experience island life, and enjoy some lively pub stops, it could be perfect. Just remember, alcoholic beverages aren’t included, so budget for drinks on your own. Overall, it’s a lively, all-in-one experience that offers a memorable day on and around Brisbane’s islands.

Key Points

• Balance of adventure and relaxation with high-speed boat rides and beach time
• Wildlife viewing opportunities including dolphins, turtles, dugongs, and whales (seasonal)
• Two distinct island stops with island bars and natural habitats
• Included lunch at the Amity Tavern on North Stradbroke Island
• Social atmosphere at iconic island bars like Gutter Bar and Jamie Voglers Amity Tavern
• Flexible and family-friendly, with most travelers able to participate

An Honest Look at the Experience

What the Tour Offers

Brisbane’s Island Pub Crawl with Lunch and High-Speed Boat Tour is billed as an exciting day out, combining the thrill of high-speed water travel with laid-back island stops. The tour departs from the City Botanic Gardens at 10:00 am—an ideal central meeting point—and lasts roughly 10 hours, including travel time. This time is split between boat rides, island visits, and leisure at bars and beaches.

The High-Speed Vessel Experience

The trip begins with an adrenaline-pumping ride on a high-speed vessel. For those who love a bit of speed—think the feel of wind in your hair and the roar of the engine—you’ll appreciate the quick trip down the Brisbane River and across Moreton Bay. From the reviews, it’s clear that the boat ride is a highlight, providing both excitement and fantastic views of the Brisbane skyline and the bay’s wildlife.

Wildlife Watching Opportunities

One of the major draws is the chance to see dolphins, turtles, dugongs, stingrays, and even whales if you’re visiting in season. While the reviews don’t specify exactly how close you get, the mention of these animals indicates a decent chance of sightings, which adds a memorable, natural element to the day. Watching these creatures in their environment is a quiet thrill—something we find often makes outdoor tours more meaningful.

First Island Stop: North Stradbroke Island

After about four hours on the water, the tour land at North Stradbroke Island, known locally as “Straddie.” Here, the highlight is the lunch at Amity Tavern—a casual spot with a reputation for good food and a relaxed vibe. Travelers can also take time to swim in the clear waters of Moreton Bay or just unwind on the sandy beaches.

The inclusion of free admission to the island means you’re free to explore or relax as you wish. The reviews mention the beaches as crystal-clear and perfect for swimming, making this stop a favorite for beach lovers.

Second Island Stop: Moreton Island

The adventure continues with a trip to Moreton Island, where the main attraction is the Gutter Bar, a well-known island watering hole. Travelers report that it’s a “world-famous” spot, known for lively, laid-back atmospheres. Here, you’ll have about three hours to relax, mingle, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Wildlife and Nature on the Islands

Both islands are home to native wildlife like koalas and kangaroos, which you might see in their natural habitat. The opportunity to encounter animals in the wild, rather than in a zoo, is a big plus for nature lovers, making this more than just a pub crawl—it’s also an opportunity to connect with local ecosystems.

Swimming and Leisure Time

Between stops, plenty of travelers enjoy swimming in the calm waters of Moreton Bay. Bringing your towel, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure will help you make the most of this opportunity. The water is described as crystal-clear, offering a refreshing break from the boat and bar scenes.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a high-speed vessel for the main transit, promising an exhilarating ride. The group size is limited to 38 travelers, which strikes a good balance—large enough for social energy but small enough for personal attention from guides.

Timing and Pacing

Start at 10:00 am, with the entire trip extending until late afternoon. You’ll spend about 4 hours at North Stradbroke Island and 3 hours at Moreton Island, with the remaining time allocated for transportation and breaks. While the total duration might seem long, the mix of activities keeps the day lively.

Cost and Value

For $106.76 per person, the tour provides quite a lot: boat rides, wildlife sightings, island visits, and a lunch. Since drinks are not included, you might want to budget extra for beverages, especially at the bars. When considering value, think about the combined experience of adventure, relaxation, and nature—this isn’t just a pub crawl; it’s a day of discovery.

Weather Considerations

The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled because of poor weather, you’ll get a full refund or a chance to reschedule. A sunny day will significantly enhance your experience, especially for swimming and wildlife viewing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers and socializers who aren’t shy about spending a full day outdoors. It suits those who want a balance of thrill (speedboat rides) and leisure (beach and bar relaxation). Nature lovers will appreciate the wildlife sightings and natural habitats, while foodies will enjoy the included lunch.

Families and groups of friends will find it offers good value for a full, varied day. Keep in mind, though, that it’s a long day—so if you’re looking for a quick tour or have mobility issues, it might not be ideal.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour offers a lively and diverse way to experience Brisbane’s coastlines and islands. It combines the excitement of high-speed boating with the laid-back charm of island bars and the thrill of spotting local wildlife. It’s a solid choice for those who want a full-day adventure that’s social, scenic, and active.

If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities, scenic views, and meeting fellow travelers, this might be just the ticket. The inclusion of lunch and wildlife encounters adds a meaningful touch, making it more than just a party cruise.

However, it’s important to be prepared for a long day on the water and in the sun. Bring your swim gear, sun protection, and a sense of curiosity, and you’re likely to come away with some fantastic memories of Brisbane’s coastal beauty.

FAQs

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, lunch at the Amity Tavern on North Stradbroke Island is included, giving you a chance to enjoy local flavors without extra cost.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcohol is not included. You can purchase drinks on board and at the island bars, so plan your budget accordingly.

What wildlife might I see?
You might see dolphins, turtles, dugongs, stingrays, and possibly whales if visiting in season, providing a special wildlife viewing experience.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat trip on the high-speed vessel takes you from Brisbane along the river and across Moreton Bay, though exact duration isn’t specified, it’s part of the 10-hour total.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there is ample opportunity to swim in the clear waters of Moreton Bay, so bring your towel and sunscreen.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s family-friendly, especially if everyone enjoys outdoor activities and a lively social scene.

This Island Pub Crawl with Lunch and High-Speed Boat Tour offers a well-rounded day of water adventure, island exploration, and social fun. Perfect for those who want to experience Brisbane’s coastal charm in a lively, engaging way.