Glide through Mooloolaba’s scenic river and canal networks with Cavalier Cruises. This 3-hour journey offers a unique blend of comfort, nature, and social atmosphere on Queensland’s inviting waterways.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness needed; suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
Wildlife
History
Mooloolaba’s canal system is a product of 20th-century urban planning aimed at combining residential development with natural waterways.
Conservation
Cavalier Cruises supports sustainable tourism practices that protect water quality and local wildlife habitats within the canal and river systems.
Cavalier Cruises
Glide through Mooloolaba’s scenic river and canal networks with Cavalier Cruises. This 3-hour journey offers a unique blend of comfort, nature, and social atmosphere on Queensland’s inviting waterways.
Cavalier Cruises is a family-owned charter operator based in Mooloolaba, Queensland. The company operates Crusader 1, a spacious open-deck vessel used for river and canal cruises, whale watching, holiday lights tours and private charters.
Cavalier Cruises offers a range of scheduled and private trips including 1‑hour, 2‑hour and 3‑hour River & Canal Cruises, a champagne river cruise, a limited-capacity whale watching trip, seasonal Christmas lights and boat parade cruises, a Christmas Eve lights cruise and a Family New Year’s Eve cruise with a pre-cruise four-course meal. The 1‑hour River & Canal Cruise accommodates groups of 15–45 and allows guests to bring their own food and music. The 3‑hour Whale Watching Without the Crowds experience is limited to 22 passengers for closer, less-crowded viewing of humpback whales, dolphins and local marine life. Cavalier Cruises also lists ashes scattering as a respectful service option. Trips depart from Mooloolaba and navigate the local river and canal system as well as nearby coastal waters when applicable. The operator emphasizes comfortable seating, open deck viewing, and small-group experiences aboard Crusader 1. Guests seeking festive outings can choose Christmas Lights and Boat Parade departures, while those after a relaxed celebration may select a Champagne River Cruise with complimentary Chandon on board. With a history of operating seasonal and private charters in Mooloolaba, Cavalier Cruises provides focused, locally based experiences tailored to groups, families and ceremonies. Bookings are available for private events and corporate functions year-round, with flexible departure times and tailored itineraries on request by arrangement.
Location
Mooloolaba, QLD
Explore local river and canals
Group Capacity
15–45 (varies by cruise)
Small to medium groups welcome
Vessel
Crusader 1
Spacious open-deck vessel
Special Events
Christmas & NYE Cruises
Festive seasonal departures
Select a river, canal, whale watching or festive cruise and secure a booking for small-group comfort and scenic views.
Book in advance for group cruises
Cavalier Cruises requires a minimum of 15 passengers, so plan ahead to secure your preferred date.
Bring sun protection
Even on the water, Queensland’s sun can be intense—wear sunscreen and a hat for comfortable cruising.
Dress for comfort and casual style
Light, breathable clothing works best for the warm weather and relaxed setting onboard.
Alcohol consumption monitored
While the cruise is fully licensed, responsible drinking ensures safety and enjoyment for all guests.
Sunscreen
Protects skin during extended exposure on the water’s surface.
summer
Light jacket
Keeps you comfortable as temperatures cool in the late afternoon hours.
fall
Hat with brim
Shields face and eyes from direct sunlight during the cruise.
summer
Binoculars
Enhances viewing of local birds and riverbank wildlife.