Cruise Pumicestone Passage aboard a 7-seater pontoon outfitted with a BBQ and esky—no boat license needed. Experience calm waters, native wildlife, and a unique boating adventure with Bill's Boat Hire And Bike Hire.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
The Pumicestone Passage has been a vital waterway for the Gubbi Gubbi people and later coastal communities relying on fishing and transport.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to protect the mangroves and marine life by limiting motor speeds and educating visitors about minimizing disturbance.
Bill's Boat Hire And Bike Hire
Cruise Pumicestone Passage aboard a 7-seater pontoon outfitted with a BBQ and esky—no boat license needed. Experience calm waters, native wildlife, and a unique boating adventure with Bill's Boat Hire And Bike Hire.
Bill's Boat Hire And Bike Hire is a watercraft and bike rental operator based in Pelican Waters, Queensland, offering a range of self-drive boats and paddlecraft for exploring Pumicestone Passage and nearby Bribie Island. Featured on The Adventure Collective, the company lists single and double kayaks, stand up paddle boards, half-cabin boats, and several BBQ pontoon boats in its fleet.
Single kayak hires are available for experienced paddlers; single and double kayak hires and stand up paddle board hires require swimmers only and are not available to non-swimmers. The double kayak accommodates two adults and one child and provides all required safety gear. Stand up paddle board hires typically run two to three hours and are ideal for serene coastal exploration.
Family-friendly motor options include a half cabin boat rated for six people (three adults and three toddlers) that does not require a boat license, and multiple pontoon boats with BBQs and seating for groups: a Cruiza 10-seater luxury BBQ pontoon, an 11-seater BarbieQ BBQ pontoon, a Sweetwater 10-seater with sunbed available in two- to six-hour bookings with fuel and safety equipment included, and a 7-seater Tracker BBQ pontoon. Several boats are offered without a boat license requirement, making local exploration accessible for families and groups. Safety equipment is provided across rentals to support responsible outings on the water.
Launch points operate from Pelican Waters, providing direct access to Pumicestone Passage and short crossings to Bribie Island. Rentals include clear safety briefings and equipment checks before every departure safely.
Location
Pelican Waters, QLD
Launch point for Pumicestone Passage
Max Capacity
11 seats
Family and group friendly
Tours Offered
8 distinct rentals
Pontoons, kayaks, SUP, cabin
Safety Gear
Included
Life jackets and briefings provided
Reserve a kayak, SUP or BBQ pontoon and enjoy Pumicestone Passage — check availability and safety requirements before booking.
Load food and drinks in advance
Bring easy-to-cook BBQ items and plenty of cold drinks stored in the esky for a smooth trip.
Check the weather forecast
While the Passage is calm, sudden changes can happen—avoid windy or rainy conditions for safety.
Respect wildlife distances
Keep a respectful gap from dolphins and bird rookeries to avoid disturbing native animals.
Wear sun protection
The half roof offers limited shade; pack hats, sunscreen, and light layers to stay comfortable.
Sunhat
Protects from strong Queensland sun while on open water.
summer
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during extended time on the water.
Insect repellent
Keeps biting insects at bay, especially near mangroves.
spring
Comfortable boat shoes
Provides grip and foot protection aboard the pontoon.