Noosa Queen Sunset Cruise River

Noosa Queen Sunset Cruise River Review

Imagine cruising along Noosa’s peaceful waters as the sun dips toward the horizon, casting a golden glow over the river and surrounding landscapes. For just $26.48 per person, you can enjoy about an hour and a half of laid-back sightseeing, good company, and spectacular scenery aboard the Noosa Queen. Starting at Noosa Marina and visiting highlights like Makepeace Island, owned by Sir Richard Branson, plus stopping at Lake Cooroibah to watch the sunset over the mountains, this cruise offers a perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty.

What we particularly love about this experience is the informal, friendly atmosphere created by the crew, who share stories about Noosa and keep the vibe relaxed with gentle tunes. Also, the opportunity to see wildlife such as kangaroos and native birds with binoculars from the deck is a real bonus — a rare chance to connect with local life in such a tranquil setting. On the practical side, the fully licensed bar means you can sip wine or beer as you relax, making the journey more enjoyable.

One consideration is that the onboard toilet isn’t suitable for wheelchairs, so if accessibility is a concern, you’ll want to plan accordingly. Still, for almost everyone else looking for a peaceful, scenic way to end the day, this cruise fits the bill beautifully. It’s ideal for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers craving a taste of Noosa’s natural charm with a splash of sunset magic.

Key Points

• Affordable luxury: At just over $26, this cruise offers great value for an hour and a half of scenic fun.
• Scenic stops: Visit exclusive spots like Makepeace Island and Lake Cooroibah for unique views and wildlife spotting.
• Relaxed atmosphere: Friendly guides and casual music make for a laid-back experience perfect for unwinding.
• Wildlife spotting: Bring binoculars to see kangaroos and native birds in their natural environment.
• Sunset views: The highlight is witnessing the sunset over the mountains and river, ideal for photography or just soaking it all in.
• Limited accessibility: The onboard toilet isn’t suitable for wheelchairs, so plan accordingly if this is a concern.

The Experience in Detail

Setting Out from Noosa Marina

Your adventure begins at Noosa Marina, where you board the Noosa Queen, a comfortable vessel designed for relaxed cruising rather than high-speed thrill rides. The morning or late afternoon timing is perfect for catching the sunset, which is the star of this cruise. The duration of around 90 minutes means you get enough time to unwind and enjoy multiple scenic vantage points without feeling rushed.

The Scenic Route: From Marina to Makepeace Island and Beyond

As the boat gently departs, you’ll cruise past Richard Branson’s Makepeace Island, a small, heart-shaped island renowned for its exclusivity. While you can’t dock there, the view of this luxurious private island adds a touch of glamour. The crew often shares fun stories about the island’s owner, adding a personal touch to the journey.

Next, you’ll pass the North Shore ferry crossing—a busy waterway connecting Tewantin to Noosa North Shore—giving you a glimpse of everyday life on the river. The cruise then meanders towards Lake Cooroibah, a peaceful spot where you’ll stop to watch the sunset. Here, you can bring your binoculars and look for native wildlife like kangaroos grazing or native birds perched along the shoreline.

The Stops — Why They Matter

• Makepeace Island: Owned by Sir Richard Branson, this exclusive island adds a layer of intrigue to the cruise. Though you won’t land here, viewing it from the water offers a sense of the area’s wealth of private retreats and lush landscapes.
• Noosa North Shore Houses: From the boat, you get a glimpse of some of the area’s most impressive waterfront properties, giving insight into the lifestyle of locals and holidaymakers alike.
• Ferry Crossing & Lake Cooroibah: These stops deepen the experience, connecting you to the real Noosa environment, both lively and tranquil.

Wildlife and Nature: The Real Charms

What makes this cruise stand out is the chance to observe local wildlife in their natural setting. Bringing binoculars is recommended, and many passengers find delight in spotting kangaroos on the banks or fluttering native birds overhead. The crew often shares stories about the ecosystem, making it both entertaining and educational.

The Sunset Moment

As the boat reaches Lake Cooroibah, the setting sun casts a warm, orange hue over the mountains and water. Many reviews mention this as the highlight: one called it a “peaceful evening,” another described it as “just incredible.” The calm waters and panoramic views make it perfect for photography or simply sitting back with a glass of wine from the fully licensed bar, included in the experience.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

Included in the price:

• A 90-minute cruise with scenic stops
• Restroom onboard (not wheelchair accessible)
• Wildlife viewing opportunities
• View of Makepeace Island and local homes
• Seating and shade on the boat
• A fully licensed bar with wine, beer, snacks, and soft drinks available for purchase

Not included:

• Alcoholic beverages (though available for purchase)
• Snacks (also available for purchase)
• Wheelchair access to the toilet is not available

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Book in advance—this popular tour has over 20 bookings last month and a perfect 5-star rating from all 23 reviews.
• Bring binoculars if wildlife viewing interests you.
• Wear comfortable clothing and perhaps a hat for sun protection.
• Arrive early to get a good spot and soak in the marina atmosphere.
• Consider bringing cash or card for drinks and snacks at the bar.
• Weather considerations: the tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic outing with a touch of luxury. It appeals especially to travelers who enjoy wildlife, beautiful vistas, and sunset views. Couples can find romance in the tranquil setting, while groups of friends will appreciate the relaxed social atmosphere. Solo travelers and families with older kids also find this a worthwhile way to enjoy Noosa’s natural beauty without strenuous activity.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For an accessible, affordable way to see some of Noosa’s most iconic sights, the Noosa Queen Sunset Cruise delivers just that. The combination of stunning views, the chance to see local wildlife, and a relaxed onboard vibe makes it a memorable experience. The crew’s friendliness and stories add warmth, making it more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to connect with Noosa’s natural and private side.

If you love gentle, scenic adventures and want to end your day with a spectacular sunset over the water, this cruise is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who value good value, authentic experiences, and a touch of luxury without over-the-top costs.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is the price?
It costs around $26.48 per person, making it a budget-friendly option for a scenic experience.

Where does the cruise start and end?
It begins at Noosa Queen Sunset Cruise, 2 Parkyn Ct, Tewantin and concludes at the same spot.

Are there any stops during the cruise?
Yes, there are stops at Makepeace Island, Noosa North Shore houses, and Lake Cooroibah.

Can I buy drinks onboard?
Yes, there is a fully licensed bar where you can purchase wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Is the onboard restroom wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, the restroom is not suitable for wheelchairs.

Is this tour suitable for children or disabled travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the bathroom accessibility may be a concern for some.

What should I bring?
Binoculars for wildlife viewing, sun protection, and your preferred drinks or snacks.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Is it a crowded tour?
No, the tour caps at 65 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

To sum it up, the Noosa Queen Sunset Cruise offers a charming, well-priced way to experience Noosa’s natural beauty and sunset spectacle. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a sunset lover, or just looking for a peaceful hour and a half on the water, it’s a trip worth considering.