3–24 December 2026 · Tuesday to Sunday
Plus 27 & 28 December
Plus 27 & 28 December
Christmas Lights Cruises
An evening cruise through the Gold Coast canals to see the best Christmas light displays on the water. Adults $55, kids $45, under 2s free.
Our Fleet
Choose Your Vessel
Summer Salt
The Party Boat
- Licensed cocktail bar
- Space for up to 35 guests
- Undercover seating & observation deck
- Onboard sound system & PA
The Fun Boat
The Party Pontoon
- Beach delivery capabilities
- Large BBQ on board
- Space for up to 20 guests
- Island transfers & dive platform
Private Charters
Whatever the Occasion
What Our Guests Say
Testimonials
My family and I themed it Hawaii on the Gold Coast and everyone had the best ever day. Skipper Mick was absolutely awesome.
The Fun Boat
Infamous the Show had a great night out with Gold Coast Canal Cruises, great prices on grog, beautiful views and great party boat.
Summer Salt
The Christmas lights canal cruise was spectacular, beyond expectations, the preordered food box was very well priced with loads of food that was beautifully presented.
Summer Salt
Hosted my mum's birthday party on board with both very young and very old folk. OMG I couldn't of asked for a better venue to have it.
Summer Salt
Good to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
How many guests can you cater for?
Private charters take up to 35 guests on Summer Salt and up to 20 on The Fun Boat. Both depart from Runaway Bay Marina on the Gold Coast.
Can we bring our own drinks (BYO)?
Summer Salt has a licensed cocktail bar (EFTPOS available) and also allows BYO with a large esky provided. The Fun Boat is BYO.
Where do you depart from?
All cruises depart from Runaway Bay Marina – C Arm, 247 Bayview St, Runaway Bay QLD 4216. Private charters can also choose a Cavill Ave Pontoon pickup (73 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise) when booking. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure.
What occasions do you cater for?
Birthdays, bucks and hens parties, weddings and recovery cruises, corporate events and group outings — plus special event cruises.
Is catering and entertainment available?
Yes — full catering is available on request (additional cost), and DJ hire can be arranged. Both vessels have an onboard sound system and PA.
How long are the cruises and where do you go?
Summer Salt charters run for 3, 4 or 5 hours with morning, afternoon or sunset start times (shorter 2-hour cruises on enquiry). The Fun Boat runs a 3-hour sunset charter departing 5:30 pm, with other durations on enquiry. Both cruise the Gold Coast Broadwater and canals. Extended-area cruises (such as Tipplers and Jumpinpin) are available; a fuel surcharge applies on The Fun Boat.
How do we book?
Book private charters and Christmas lights cruises online with the Book Now button, or get in touch by phone or the enquiry form. A 50% deposit confirms private charter bookings; Christmas lights tickets are paid in full at booking — see our cancellation policy for full terms.