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

This 10-hour adventure in Brisbane combines exhilarating high-speed boat rides, visits to two of the largest sand islands in the world, and lively pub stops on North Stradbroke and Moreton Islands. Starting from the City Botanic Gardens, you’ll hop onto a powerful vessel that whisks you down the Brisbane River and across Moreton Bay, offering stunning views, wildlife encounters, and plenty of time to relax on sandy shores. The tour wraps up with drinks at island bars and a delicious included lunch, making it perfect for travelers craving a mix of adventure and laid-back island atmosphere.

What we love about this tour is its combination of active and relaxing moments — from the thrill of the boat ride to the chilled vibes of beach lounging and bar hopping. Plus, the chance to see native wildlife like dolphins, turtles, and, depending on the season, whales, adds a special wildlife touch that makes this experience genuinely memorable. The inclusive lunch at Amity Tavern on North Stradbroke Island is another highlight, offering a hearty meal in a scenic setting.

A potential consideration? The timing can be tight for some, with about 4 hours on North Stradbroke and 3 hours on Moreton Island, plus travel time. If you prefer a slower pace or more time on one specific island, this might feel a bit hurried. Also, alcohol isn’t included, so if you’re planning to indulge, budget for additional drinks.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a full day’s outing and want a lively way to experience Brisbane’s nearby islands. It suits groups, singles, or couples looking for action, wildlife, and a taste of island nightlife—all in one package.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Potential to see dolphins, turtles, dugongs, stingrays, and whales (seasonal).
• Island Visits: Explore two of the largest sand islands with opportunities for swimming and wildlife viewing.
• Lively Bars: Party at the Gutter Bar and Jamie Voglers Amity Tavern, with included lunch.
• High-Speed Boat: Exciting vessel trip offering scenic views and an adrenaline rush.
• Flexible Itinerary: About 4 hours on North Stradbroke and 3 hours on Moreton Island, with travel time included.
• Cost-Effective: At just over $101 per person, offering a mix of transport, food, and entertainment.

In-Depth Review of the Brisbane Island Pub Crawl

An Exciting Start at City Botanic Gardens

Our day begins early at the City Botanic Gardens, a peaceful green space in the heart of Brisbane. From here, we board a high-speed vessel that promises an exhilarating ride along the Brisbane River. The boat itself is impressive—fast, smooth, and with plenty of room for comfort. As the city skyline recedes, the real adventure begins. The vessel crosses Moreton Bay, where you’re likely to see dolphins, sea turtles, or even whales if it’s the right season—an exciting bonus for wildlife enthusiasts.

The Journey Down the River and Across Moreton Bay

The boat ride is a highlight, offering spectacular views of Brisbane’s skyline, the river, and the expansive bay. It’s a quick but impressive trip, setting an energetic tone for the day. We loved the way the vessel’s speed contrasted with the calm, crystal-clear waters of Moreton Bay, giving us a real sense of being part of something bigger. Plus, the chance to spot sea life in their natural habitat makes this more than just a boat ride—it’s an encounter with the local environment.

North Stradbroke Island: Sand Beaches and Wildlife

Our first stop is North Stradbroke Island, famed for its long sandy beaches and natural beauty. We arrived around midday, just in time for a delicious lunch at the Amity Tavern. The tavern’s setting is perfect—a relaxed spot overlooking the water, with friendly service and hearty pub fare. The lunch itself is included in the tour—think fresh seafood, classic pub dishes, or a local specialties menu that hits the spot after a morning of travel.

After lunch, you’re free to swim in the clear waters of Moreton Bay or lounge on the beach. Many travelers praise the crystal-clear beaches, ideal for a quick dip or simply soaking up the sun. Wildlife sightings are common here; you might see koalas, kangaroos, and other native animals in their natural habitat. One traveler noted, “We loved the way we could see wildlife just walking around the island—so authentic and unspoiled.”

The Vibrant Party at Gutter Bar and Amity Tavern

Next, it’s time to hit the island bars. The Gutter Bar is renowned as a world-famous party spot—a lively, colorful venue perfect for a few drinks and socializing. Expect a casual, fun vibe with good music and plenty of fellow travelers. After a few hours, we moved on to Jamie Voglers’ Amity Tavern for more relaxed drinks and spectacular views. This bar offers a great place to unwind and enjoy the island sunset.

Moreton Island: Sand Dunes and Wildlife

The afternoon on Moreton Island is equally lively. You’ll get about three hours here to explore, swim, or simply relax on the famous sandy beaches. The island is also known for its dune adventures and wildlife. The tour guides mention the possibility to see dolphins, turtles, and dugongs, adding a wildlife component that’s more than just scenery. The opportunity to swim in the bay is a big plus for warmer days, and many find this a perfect way to cool off.

Return and Sunset Views

As the day winds down, the boat heads back towards Brisbane, arriving at the City Botanic Gardens around sunset. This is a lovely time—a quiet, reflective moment after a busy day. Travelers enjoy the chance to continue the party at their own pace, perhaps with a drink or a walk along the river.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Bring swimwear and a towel if you want to enjoy swimming. The water is reported to be crystal clear and inviting.
• Pack sunscreen and a hat—the sun can be strong on the islands.
• Since alcohol isn’t included, plan to purchase drinks at the bars or bring some along if permitted.
• The timing is fairly tight; if you prefer a slower pace, consider whether you want more time on one island.
• The group size is generally limited to 38 travelers, which means a more personal experience but also means booking well in advance (about 32 days ahead on average) is recommended.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Island Pub Crawl is perfect for adventurous souls interested in a mix of wildlife, beaches, and lively island bars. It’s well-suited for groups of friends, singles, or couples who enjoy a full day of activity with a social atmosphere. If you love wildlife sightings, beach relaxation, and party vibes, you’ll find this tour hits most of your notes. However, if you prefer a very relaxed, slow-paced day or want more time on a single island, you might want to look for options with a more leisurely focus.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a robust combination of wildlife, beaches, scenic boat rides, and island nightlife—all at a reasonable price of just over $100. The included lunch and lively bar stops add value, making it a great choice for travelers craving variety in a single day. The boat ride is a highlight, providing adrenaline and stunning views, while the wildlife sightings add an authentic touch to the experience.

For those who enjoy active days with social opportunities and are open to a bit of a busier schedule, this adventure delivers plenty of fun and memorable moments. It’s a fantastic way to combine Brisbane city life with the laid-back charm of nearby islands, all wrapped into one well-organized tour.

FAQ

Is food included in this tour?
Yes, a lunch at Amity Tavern on North Stradbroke Island is included.

Are drinks included?
No, alcohol is not included and can be purchased at the bars or onboard.

How long is the boat ride?
The high-speed vessel trip is part of the overall 10-hour tour, with the boat traveling from Brisbane River to the islands and back.

Can I see whales during this tour?
Yes, whales are visible in season, along with dolphins, turtles, dugongs, and stingrays.

How much time do I get on each island?
Approximately 4 hours on North Stradbroke Island and 3 hours on Moreton Island, including travel time.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you’re bringing children, especially for the boat ride and swimming.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, hats, and possibly extra cash for drinks or souvenirs.

This Island Pub Crawl with Lunch and High Speed Boat Tour offers a lively, authentic taste of Brisbane’s nearby islands, perfect for anyone wanting a full day of nature, fun, and socializing. Whether you’re in it for wildlife encounters, beach time, or celebrating at lively bars, this tour balances adventure with relaxation in a way that’s both memorable and highly enjoyable.