Brisbane: Island Pub Crawl with Lunch and High-Speed Boat

Exploring Brisbane’s Island Pub Crawl with Lunch and High-Speed Boat

If you’re looking for a fun-filled day that combines adventure on the water, beachside relaxation, and a taste of local nightlife, this tour is worth considering. For $115 per person, you’ll spend 8 hours hopping between two of the world’s largest sand islands—North Stradbroke Island and Moreton Island—with a high-speed boat ride from Brisbane that gets your adrenaline pumping right from the start. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at Amity Tavern and party at two lively island bars, the World-Famous Gutter Bar and the Amity Tavern itself.

What we love about this experience is how it offers a seamless mix of nature and socializing. The speedy boat trip delivers a thrilling perspective on Brisbane’s skyline and Moreton Bay’s vibrant marine life, with chances to spot dolphins, turtles, dugongs, stingrays, and even whales (season permitting). Plus, the opportunity to relax on sandy beaches and swim in crystal-clear waters makes it more than just a bar crawl; it’s a full day of outdoor enjoyment.

A potential downside is the rushed schedule some travelers mention. With just enough time on each island, you might feel like you’re racing against the clock, especially if you’re keen on exploring more in-depth. Also, the cost of drinks at the bars isn’t included, so be prepared for extra expenses if you want to toast your day. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy social outings combined with sightseeing, and who don’t mind a fast-paced itinerary.

If you’re someone who loves a lively, active day and appreciates authentic coastal scenery, this trip could be a great fit. Keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, and there are some considerations about motion sickness on the speedboat. Still, if you’re after a budget-friendly full-day adventure with plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation, it’s worth the splurge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• High-speed boat ride offers an exciting start with chances to see marine life.
• Two large sand islands provide a mix of beaches, wildlife, and bars.
• Lunch at Amity Tavern is included, offering a good break in the day.
• Wildlife sightings include dolphins, turtles, dugongs, and seasonal whales.
• Rushed itinerary can feel hurried; time on each island may be limited.
• Additional expenses include drinks at the bars, which are not included in the ticket price.

A Detailed Look at the Island Pub Crawl Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Northshore Public Pontoon in Hamilton, conveniently located on the Brisbane River. From here, the excitement kicks off with a speedy, high-octane boat trip across Moreton Bay. The vessel, described as a high-speed vessel, delivers a swift and scenic ride, offering a fantastic perspective of Brisbane’s skyline and the bay’s diverse marine life.

Travelers have noted the thrill of the boat ride—with some mentioning the possibility of motion sickness, so packing a seasick remedy and being prepared is wise. The guide’s commentary, if you get a live guide, adds context about the surroundings and wildlife, enriching the experience.

North Stradbroke Island: Land of Koalas and Kangaroos

Once ashore on North Stradbroke Island, the tour emphasizes its natural beauty and wildlife. The highlight here is the lunch at Amity Tavern, which is included in the tour. It’s a popular spot for travelers to unwind after the boat ride and enjoy local fare. While some reviews praise the quality of the meal, others highlight that the lunch service can feel rushed, making it essential to manage expectations if you’re craving a leisurely meal.

Beyond the tavern, you’ll find opportunities to spot koalas, kangaroos, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The island’s laid-back vibe offers a pleasant break from the boat, and the chance to explore or relax on the beach is available if time permits.

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Party at the Gutter Bar and Amity Tavern

The tour isn’t just about nature; it’s about having fun. You’ll visit two island bars: the World-Famous Gutter Bar and the Amity Tavern. The Gutter Bar, known for its lively atmosphere, is a favorite among backpackers and locals alike. Many reviews mention the good vibes and friendly crowd. The Amity Tavern acts as a hub for both lunch and socializing afterward.

Keep in mind, drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for additional expenses if you plan to enjoy beverages. The focus here is on the camaraderie and the casual island party atmosphere.

Moreton Island and Beach Relaxation

After the bars, the trip continues to Moreton Island, another highlight of this tour. Here, you’ll have ample opportunity to swim in the clear waters, relax on the beaches, or simply soak up the sun. The sand and sea provide a perfect backdrop for photos and unwinding. Some travelers mention the limited time on the island can make it feel hurried, especially if you’re hoping to explore more extensively.

Wildlife and Marine Life

Throughout the day, there’s a strong chance of seeing marine animals, including dolphins, turtles, dugongs, and stingrays. During the season, whale sightings are possible. The boat guides often point out these creatures, adding an element of excitement to the trip.

Ending the Day

The tour wraps up with a sunset return to Hamilton, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures. You’ll be back in Brisbane by evening, with plenty of stories to tell.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Certainly, the value for money is a point many travelers agree on, especially considering the inclusion of boat rides, lunch, and visits to two major islands. The guides’ knowledge and friendly vibe are often praised, making the experience more engaging.

However, the schedule can feel rushed, and if you’re someone who wants more in-depth exploration or a relaxed pace, this might not be the best fit. The extra costs for drinks and the potential for motion sickness are factors to consider. It’s best suited for social travelers, adventure lovers, and those eager to combine sightseeing with some lively island fun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for young travelers, groups of friends, or solo adventurers looking for a day of socializing, sightseeing, and beachside fun. It offers a great introduction to the natural beauty and lively atmosphere of Queensland’s sand islands without the need to plan multiple separate trips.

If you’re after a well-organized, lively day trip that balances nature, wildlife, and social bars, this tour hits the mark. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want more time on each island, you might want to look for other options.

FAQs

• What is the meeting point for the tour? The tour begins at the City Botanic Gardens River Hub, close to Brisbane’s CBD.
• How long is the boat ride? The trip across Moreton Bay on the high-speed vessel is part of the overall 8-hour schedule, with the boat ride being a significant feature.
• Are drinks included? No, additional drinks at the bars are not included in the price.
• Can children join this tour? No, this experience is not suitable for children under 18.
• Is there wildlife viewing? Yes, there are good chances to see dolphins, turtles, dugongs, stingrays, and possibly whales in season.
• What should I bring? Pack a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. Be prepared for the possibility of motion sickness.
• How much time do I get on each island? The schedule is somewhat tight; expect limited time on each island, especially for free exploration.
• Is the tour canceled if the boat has problems? Yes, there is a risk of cancellation if there are boat issues, as some reviews have noted.

Final Thoughts

This Brisbane Island Pub Crawl with Lunch and High-Speed Boat offers a lively, well-rounded day of adventure, wildlife viewing, and socializing. It’s designed for those who want a taste of everything—beaches, wildlife, and beachside bars—without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

The value for money is commendable, especially with lunch included and the chance to see marine wildlife. The guided experience helps keep the day organized, though the tight schedule means you won’t have plenty of downtime.

If you enjoy dynamic, social trips with a mix of nature and nightlife, you’ll find this tour entertaining and rewarding. However, if you prefer more leisurely exploration or are sensitive to boat motion, you might want to explore other options.

In essence, this tour offers a snapshot of Queensland’s stunning islands and vibrant seaside culture—perfect for those eager to pack a lot into one adventurous day.

You can check availability for your dates here: