Gold Coast isn’t just famous for its beaches and surf breaks—it’s also a fantastic destination for food lovers who want to experience the region in a unique way. Whether you’re cruising along the sparkling Broadwater with a drink in hand or sampling wines at a scenic vineyard, these food tours offer a mix of relaxation, adventure, and flavor. Personally, I love the private sailing experiences because they combine stunning views with personalized service, making for a truly memorable outing. The Sunset Sailing Cruise with drinks and snacks, for example, offers an intimate setting to watch the sun set over the Hinterland while sipping on a glass of wine. For a more laid-back daytime option, the Midday Sailing Cruise puts you on a yacht with dolphins as your companions, perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with good food. And if wine is your thing, the Sirromet Winery pairing offers a fantastic chance to enjoy local wines paired with a picnic in beautiful surroundings. Each of these options showcases the Gold Coast’s scenic waterways and delicious flavors in its own special way.
1. Gold Coast 2 Hr Sunset Private Sailing Charter with Drinks & Food
At number 1 on our list, the Gold Coast 2 Hr Sunset Private Sailing Charter with Drinks & Food offers a luxurious and fully personalized experience. This private sailing adventure is perfect for couples or small groups up to 10 people who want to enjoy the breathtaking view of the sunset over the Broadwater. The captain and crew handle all the logistics, allowing you to relax and soak up the scenery. The tour includes complimentary snacks, sodas, and alcoholic beverages, meaning you don’t need to worry about bringing your own drinks, although you’re welcome to do so. The itinerary features a stop at Wavebreak Island, a man-made island from the 1970s, and South Stradbroke Island, a sand island with calm waters ideal for relaxing. The private nature of this tour makes it a standout for those seeking exclusivity and tailored service. Reviewers praise its intimacy and the captain’s expertise, calling it “a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.” Bottom line: if you’re looking for a luxurious, flexible, and scenic escape, this private sailing is hard to beat.
2. Gold Coast: Sunset Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks
For around $79 per person, the Gold Coast: Sunset Sailing Cruise offers a more communal yet equally scenic experience. This luxury 38-foot yacht takes you out on the Broadwater for two hours as you watch the sun melt into the ocean, creating a spectacular backdrop for your evening. What makes this tour special is the intimate setting, capped at just 10 guests, which encourages a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. You’ll nibble on a delicious snack plate and sip drinks—both included—while dolphins often join the cruise, adding a dash of wildlife magic. The captain provides commentary on the area’s landmarks, and the views of the Gold Coast Hinterland from the water are stunning. This cruise is perfect if you want a romantic outing, a fun group activity, or just a peaceful way to wind down. The reviews highlight its “magnificent sunset views,” making it clear that this cruise strikes a great balance between comfort, scenery, and good food. Bottom line: for a cost-effective way to experience Gold Coast’s sunset, this cruise delivers quite a bit of magic for the price.
3. Gold Coast: Midday Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks
At number 3, the Gold Coast: Midday Sailing Cruise offers a refreshing way to take a break during your day. For just $79 per person, you get two hours on a 38-foot yacht with a very relaxed vibe. The mid-morning or early afternoon timing allows you to enjoy the sights of the Broadwater while keeping your schedule flexible. The tour includes watching for playful dolphins and soaring sea eagles, making it a nature lover’s delight. The focus here is on relaxation and sightseeing, with the yacht providing excellent photo opportunities of spots like the SPIT, Wavebreak Island, and South Stradbroke Island. The intimate group size—up to 10 people—ensures a cozy atmosphere. Reviewers mention how the picturesque waters and friendly crew make it a memorable break from busy sightseeing. If you’re after a peaceful cruise that combines wildlife spotting and scenic views, this midday sail is a top pick. Bottom line: it’s a simple, tranquil way to add some water time to your trip, with plenty of photo opportunities.
4. Gold Coast: Afternoon Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks
For those wanting a luxury experience with a leisurely pace, the Gold Coast: Afternoon Sailing Cruise fits perfectly. Priced at $79 per person and limited to 10, this tour offers two hours of pure relaxation. You’ll spend your afternoon aboard a beautiful 38-foot yacht, enjoying sparkling wine or beer and a delicious snack plate while cruising the Broadwater. The crew handles all the sailing, so you can simply sit back and enjoy the scenery or chat with your companions. The tour provides a peaceful setting to enjoy the water and admire landmarks like South Stradbroke Island. Reviewers love its peaceful atmosphere and the chance to unwind in style. It’s especially suited for travelers who seek a calm, elegant way to spend an afternoon with minimal fuss. The only potential downside is that it’s a short cruise—two hours—but that’s enough for a luxurious taste of the Gold Coast’s waterways. Bottom line: this cruise is perfect if you want to indulge and relax in style.
$79 per person
5. A Petit Pairing Sirromet Winery Food and Wine Matching
A different kind of food experience, the A Petit Pairing Sirromet Winery Food and Wine Matching combines scenic winery visits with gourmet tasting. For just about $33 per person, this 30-minute experience starts with a premium wine tasting led by a knowledgeable host. After choosing a bottle of wine, you’re guided to a cozy picnic setup among the 560-acre Mt Cotton estate, with blankets, pillows, and umbrellas. This setting allows for a relaxed tasting paired with carefully selected foods. Sirromet’s grounds are stunning, and the pairing emphasizes quality over quantity, making it suitable for wine enthusiasts looking for an authentic experience without a full-blown tour. The positive review highlights the quality of wines and the enjoyable pairing. It’s ideal if you want a quick, intimate taste of Queensland wine culture with a scenic backdrop. Bottom line: this small, personalized experience offers excellent value and a chance to enjoy quality wines paired with local flavors.
$33.26 per person
6. Gold Coast: Breakfast Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks
Starting your day on the water, the Gold Coast: Breakfast Sailing Cruise is a lovely way to combine scenic sailing with a delicious breakfast. Priced at $79 per person, it includes croissants, fresh fruit, and a warm morning on a 38-foot yacht. The cruise lasts two hours, giving you time to enjoy the peaceful waterways while feeling the breeze and soaking up the morning sun. This tour is perfect for early risers and those looking to start the day with a relaxing yet active experience. The small group size makes it intimate and comfortable. Reviewers appreciate the delicious breakfast and the calm, scenic setting. It’s an ideal choice if you prefer a quiet, scenic start to your day with plenty of photo opportunities. Bottom line: a peaceful, tasty way to kick off your morning in Gold Coast.
$79 per person
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Gold Coast
When selecting the best food tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a private, customizable experience, the Sunset Private Sailing is unbeatable. For an affordable yet scenic sunset, the Sunset Sailing Cruise is ideal. If daytime wildlife spotting appeals to you, the Midday Sailing Cruise offers relaxation and great views. For a more luxurious afternoon, the Afternoon Sailing Cruise delivers style and serenity. Wine lovers should consider the Sirromet Winery experience, which combines scenic vineyards with a quick but quality tasting. Lastly, if a morning cruise is your preference, the Breakfast Sailing Cruise offers a peaceful start to the day. Think about what matches your interests and schedule, and book early—these tours are popular.
Gold Coast offers a fantastic range of food and water-based tours that highlight its scenic waterways and local flavors. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset sail, a lively daytime cruise, or a quick winery tasting, there’s something here for every type of traveler. For those seeking intimate, personalized experiences, the private sailing options shine. Budget-conscious travelers will find the sunset and midday cruises provide excellent value, while wine enthusiasts can’t miss the Sirromet pairing.
No matter what you choose, these tours promise a flavorful, scenic way to explore Gold Coast’s waterways. Booking early can secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. Dive into the water, enjoy some great food, and make your trip to Gold Coast truly memorable.