Take the helm of your own pet-friendly BBQ cruiser on the Maroochy River. With no license needed and room for eight, Swan Boat Hire offers a perfect day of fishing, paddling, and grilling on Queensland’s idyllic waterways.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Up to 7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for low to moderate fitness levels; sitting and light boat handling
Wildlife
History
The Maroochy River region has long been significant to the local Gubbi Gubbi people, with waterways central to their culture and livelihoods.
Conservation
Swan Boat Hire encourages responsible boating and catch-and-release fishing to protect the river’s delicate ecosystems.
Swan Boat Hire
Take the helm of your own pet-friendly BBQ cruiser on the Maroochy River. With no license needed and room for eight, Swan Boat Hire offers a perfect day of fishing, paddling, and grilling on Queensland’s idyllic waterways.
Swan Boat Hire is a Maroochydore, Queensland boat hire company offering a wide range of self-drive and guided water experiences on the Maroochy River and nearby waterways.
The fleet includes jetskis, pontoons, cruisers, polycrafts, centre-console boats, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and triple canoes, plus specialised options such as XL 12 Seater BBQ Boat and 9m vessels for larger groups. Many craft are pet-friendly and several options do not require a boat licence, making outings accessible to families and casual anglers.
Guided options include short circuits and river tours like the 30 minute guided circuit, River Rush Tour and River Safari Tour, while ocean excursions include the Mudjimba Island Ocean Tour. Boats equipped for fishing, barbecues and day trips feature amenities such as onboard BBQs, fishing gear, stereos and enclosed toilets on selected boats.
Trips are available for solo visitors, couples, families and groups up to 12 people with choices from single kayaks to 12-seat pontoons. Swan Boat Hire focuses on providing safe, convenient access to the Maroochy River’s calm waters and scenic riverbanks, with options for bird-watching, fishing for species such as bream and flathead, and relaxed paddling.
Booking details, trip durations and equipment inclusions are provided per listing to help customers choose the right experience. Operating from Maroochydore, the business serves Sunshine Coast visitors seeking flexible, pet-friendly boating and guided river adventures.
Safety briefings and flotilla options accompany group bookings, and detailed vehicle access and launch instructions are provided at booking to simplify the day on the water experience.
Launch Location
Maroochydore, QLD
Launches on the Maroochy River
Largest Capacity
12 seats
Largest boat fits up to 12 people
Max Hire Time
Up to 7 hours
Full-day options available on select boats
Tours Offered
25
Range from kayaks to 12-seat pontoons
Reserve guided circuits, BBQ pontoon days or kayaks in Maroochydore — check availability and equipment details for each trip.
Bring Sun Protection
The boat is partially covered but bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself during peak sun hours.
Secure Your Belongings
Ensure fishing gear and personal items are secured to prevent loss or damage in choppy sections of the river.
Check Tide Schedules
Plan your trip around favorable tides to access prime fishing spots and ease of navigation.
Keep Pets Safe
Though pet-friendly, ensure your animals are comfortable with life jackets and shaded rest areas on board.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects skin from strong UV rays while on the open river.
summer
Wide-Brim Hat
Provides shade and reduces glare for better visibility and comfort.
Life Jackets
Mandatory safety gear included but always good to bring extras fitted properly.
Fishing Tackle Box
Enhances your fishing experience with hooks, lures, and lines suited to local species.