Take control of your own river cruise with Tweed Eco Cruises’ BBQ Pontoon Boat. Cook, fish, and relax on the calm waters of the Tweed River for up to seven hours in style.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
up to 7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort needed to operate boat and BBQ.
Wildlife
History
Tweed Heads is known for its rich riverine culture and was an important site for the Bundjalung people, traditional custodians of the land.
Conservation
Tweed Eco Cruises actively promotes sustainable boating practices to protect the sensitive estuarine ecosystems of the Tweed River.
Tweed Eco Cruises
Take control of your own river cruise with Tweed Eco Cruises’ BBQ Pontoon Boat. Cook, fish, and relax on the calm waters of the Tweed River for up to seven hours in style.
Tweed Eco Cruises operates from Tweed Heads, New South Wales, offering eco-focused river and lake cruises on the Tweed River, Terranora Lakes and surrounding waterways. The company runs a range of guided experiences designed for wildlife viewing, relaxation and local food tasting. Popular departures include the Sunset Cruise — a two-hour evening trip with grazing boards, live music, local brews and house cocktails — and the Tweed River and Rainforest Lunch Cruise, a three-hour daytime cruise featuring morning tea, a gourmet grazing board lunch, guided commentary and a bird feeding session.
Shorter options include the Fishermen’s Friend, a 90-minute eco-cruise from Tweed Marina through Terranora Lakes with morning tea and optional fresh prawn and oyster tastings. Family-friendly adventures include the Bush Tucker and Crab Catching Adventure Cruise, a two-hour cruise with morning tea, fishing, pelican feeding and bush tucker tasting led by knowledgeable guides. For private celebrations, Picnics Afloat offers a 2.5-hour VIP cruise with an experienced skipper, a Lighthouse Menu picnic lunch, table settings and a bottle of sparkling wine. A BBQ Pontoon Boat is also available as a flexible option for groups.
All cruises emphasize local produce, wildlife encounters and informative commentary. Vessels are described as upgraded and suited for comfortable sightseeing. Guests can expect hands-on experiences, scenic river and hinterland views, and curated food and drink options sourced from the region. Onboard storytelling and natural history insights highlight birdlife, mangroves and river ecology while crew prioritise responsible, low-impact cruising and guest safety throughout each trip, ensuring comfort.
Location
Tweed Heads, NSW
Departures on Tweed River and Marina
Typical Duration
90–180 min
Short cruises to half-day trips
Tours Offered
6
Variety for all ages
Local Food
Locally sourced
Grazing boards and Lighthouse Menu
Reserve a seat for sunset, lunch, family fun or a VIP picnic—departures operate from Tweed Heads and Tweed Marina.
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Reserve your BBQ Pontoon well in advance during weekends and holidays to secure your preferred time slot.
Bring Sunscreen and Hats
While the pontoon has a canopy, you’ll still need sun protection for extended exposure on the water.
Pack Food and Drinks
Though you’ll have a BBQ onboard, bring all ingredients, snacks, and beverages you want to enjoy throughout the day.
Mind the Fishing Rules
No fishing license is required for this trip, but follow local catch-and-release guidelines to protect native species.
Sun Hat
Protects from intense sun during mid-day cruising.
summer
Waterproof Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during long hours outdoors.
Insect Repellent
Keeps mosquitos and flies at bay near the riverbanks.
spring
Cooler Bag or Esky
Additional storage for drinks and perishables during your trip.