Gold Coast: Sunset Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks

Imagine gliding smoothly over the shimmering waters of the Gold Coast Broadwater as the sun dips toward the horizon. For just $79 per person, this two-hour sunset cruise offers an up-close view of one of Australia’s most beautiful coastlines, aboard a sleek 38-foot yacht with a maximum of 10 guests. Led by friendly skippers and crew, you’ll witness a painted sky of pinks, oranges, and purples while enjoying snacks, drinks, and a truly intimate experience.

We loved how this cruise balances luxury and authenticity—it’s not just about watching the sunset but about savoring the moment with a small, relaxed group. The personalized atmosphere makes it feel like sailing with friends rather than a large tour. It’s perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply winding down after a busy day.

One of the best parts? The dolphin sightings—yes, many guests have reported catching glimpses of playful dolphins as they cruise along. Also, the quality of the food and drinks stands out; the snack plate is generous, and the drinks are well-chosen, making this feel more like a private party than a typical tour.

A possible consideration is the meeting point—you’ll need to navigate to the pontoon at Muriel Henchman Drive, which is on the water between two boat ramps. Parking is straightforward if you avoid trailer spaces, but if you prefer door-to-door convenience, you’ll have to arrange your own transportation.

This cruise is ideal for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a memorable, scenic experience with a touch of elegance and personal service. It’s perfect if you love picturesque sunsets, good company, and a little adventure on the water.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Limited to 10 guests for a relaxed, personalized vibe.
• Stunning Views: Watch the sunset over the Gold Coast Hinterland with beautiful sky colors and city lights.
• Wildlife Spotting: Opportunity to see dolphins while sailing.
• Quality Food & Drinks: Snack plate with cheese, crackers, salami, fruit, and cakes; two drinks included.
• Flexible Timing: Usually available in the afternoon or evening, perfect for sunset viewing.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Located at Muriel Henchman Drive, with parking tips included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Setting

This cruise is designed to be a straightforward yet memorable escape from the hustle of everyday life. After meeting at the easily accessible pontoon, you’ll step aboard a luxury 38-foot yacht—a vessel that feels both elegant and comfortable. The small group size means everyone can enjoy an unobstructed view and personalized attention from the crew.

As the yacht begins cruising, you’ll quickly appreciate the calm waters of the Gold Coast Broadwater. The skipper and crew, often praised for their friendliness, will share snippets about the surrounding scenery, including the Gold Coast Hinterland, the city skyline, and local wildlife.

The Sunset Spectacle

The main event is, of course, the sunset. As the sky transforms into shades of pink, orange, and purple, you’ll want to have your camera ready. Many reviewers mention how stunning the views are—one described it as “glorious” and “a beautiful backdrop for your photos.” The gentle rocking of the boat combined with the vast, open water makes the experience all the more magical.

Food and Drinks

Included in your ticket is a generous snack plate—cheese, crackers, pretzels, salami, fruit, and cake—perfect for nibbling as you relax. The drinks selection is equally thoughtful, with two glasses of sparkling wine or water, beer, non-alcoholic beer, or soft drinks available. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and abundance of the food and beverages, making this feel like a little celebration on the water.

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Wildlife and Unique Moments

Multiple reviews mention dolphin sightings, which add an element of surprise and delight. Guests have also described witnessing an electric light storm and a propose during the cruise, highlighting the intimate and memorable nature of this experience.

Reflection and City Lights

As the sun continues to set, the twinkling city lights begin to mirror off the water, creating an enchanting scene. Many guests remark that the transition from day to night is truly captivating, and it’s a great moment to capture both scenic and candid photos.

Why Travelers Love It

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable staff, who are attentive without being intrusive. The small-group setting fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where you can chat easily with the crew or fellow guests. The high-quality food, combined with the breathtaking views, makes this cruise a true value, especially considering the price includes drinks and snacks.

Who Is It Best For?

This cruise suits couples celebrating a special moment, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a peaceful, scenic, and private experience. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic, relaxed atmospheres over large, busy tours. If you’re after a romantic sunset or a quiet reflection on the water, this cruise delivers.

Why This Sunset Sailing Is Worth Considering

The two hours fly by because the experience hits such a sweet spot—beautiful scenery, good company, and a relaxed pace. It’s an excellent way to end a day of sightseeing or celebrate a milestone. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the personalized service from the crew adds a special touch—not to mention making the experience more flexible and accommodating.

The cost of $79 represents a fair value for what you get: scenic views, quality food and drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. Compared to larger, more commercial cruises, this one feels more genuine and memorable.

That said, it’s important to plan your transportation to the meeting point, as there’s no included hotel pickup. But once you arrive, you’ll find a well-organized, smooth check-in process.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a relaxing, intimate cruise that combines stunning sunset views with good food, drinks, and a touch of wildlife, this Gold Coast sunset sailing tour offers real value. The small group size and friendly crew make it a perfect choice for couples, friends, or small families celebrating something special.

You’ll love the beautiful scenery, the knowledgeable hosts, and the delicious snacks and drinks. It’s an experience that feels both luxurious and authentic, ideal for those who want to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the Gold Coast.

While the meeting point requires some minimal planning, the overall experience is charming and memorable. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or simply seeking a peaceful end to your day, this cruise is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring anything with me?
Yes, we recommend bringing a sun hat, sunscreen, and a jacket, especially if you tend to get chilly in the evening. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable clothing suitable for being on a boat.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup is not part of this tour. You will need to make your way to the meeting point at Muriel Henchman Drive on your own, with parking available in designated “car” spaces.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 10 guests, which keeps the experience intimate and allows for personalized attention from the crew.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short escape that doesn’t take up your entire evening.

What food and drinks are included?
A snack plate featuring cheese, crackers, salami, fruit, and cake is provided, along with two drinks from a selection that includes sparkling wine, beer, non-alcoholic beer, soft drinks, and water.

Can I expect to see wildlife?
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, many guests have reported dolphin encounters, which add a magical touch to the experience.

This sunset sailing cruise offers a wonderful blend of scenery, comfort, and intimacy—an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the Gold Coast from a different perspective. It provides a relaxed yet special way to end the day, making it well worth considering for your next visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: