This hidden gem of an eco tour gets the kids out in nature pump some yabbies and catch some crabs!
Discover family fun on the Tweed River with a 2-hour cruise featuring hands-on fishing, pelican feeding, and bush tucker tasting. Perfect for all ages looking to connect with nature and local culture.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires minimal physical exertion with mostly seated activity and short off-boat moments.
Wildlife
History
The Tweed River area is rich in indigenous history with traditional bush tucker practices forming an important cultural link for the local Aboriginal people.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes sustainable interaction, supporting local conservation efforts to protect the river ecosystem and native species.
Tweed Eco Cruises
This hidden gem of an eco tour gets the kids out in nature pump some yabbies and catch some crabs!
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.
Bring Sun Protection
Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to stay safe under the Australian sun while on the open river.
Wear Layers
Temperature can change quickly on the river, so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Use Easy-On Footwear
Slip-on shoes or sandals make it easier to participate in riverbank activities and rolling up pants for water interaction.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive 20 minutes before departure to ensure boarding on time—late arrivals may miss the boat with no refund.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during extended sun exposure on the river cruise.
summer
Hat
A wide-brimmed hat provides shade and helps prevent sunburn.
summer
Lightweight Layers
Layered clothing keeps you comfortable as temperatures vary throughout the day.
spring
Slip-On Shoes
Easily removable footwear is ideal for dips and riverbank activities.
summer