boat cruise lake burley griffin

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Click the dates below book and pay for your cruises.

Please note that there are no EFTPOS facilities or ATMs at our wharf .

If you have any difficulties please phone us on 0419 418 846.

LAKE BURLEY GRIFFIN CRUISES

Take a cruise with us on Lake Burley Griffin, your introduction to Canberra. One of the frequent comments we get from visitors who leave the cruise to last is “we should have done this first”.

In one hour you are able to identify most of the major attractions. A cruise provides you with a clear perspective of the city. Then plan the rest of your visit.  There are also 2 hour Morning Tea Cruises Thursdays and Sundays at 10.30am.

Our skippers present a well researched history of the city. Only occasionally are they stumped by questions. We try to resolve them on the spot but that is not always possible. The instant access to tour guide Google, sometimes means the answer is at hand on one or other of the phones on board.

Over twenty years of service cruising Lake Burley Griffin, we still enjoy sharing our city with our guests. The number of repeat visits from locals and tourist alike is an indication that we are doing something right.

In 2017 we were awarded a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor, a pleasant surprise, an incentive to do even better. We have received Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for 2020 2021 2022.

Our boats are environmentally responsible, electrically powered and are remarkably quiet. Our larger vessel Gull, was converted from diesel in 2012, licensed for 30 passengers, it does the regular scheduled cruises.

Our other vessel Cygnet has been providing cruises since 2003. It is popular for the more intimate cruises. The licensed capacity is just 10 people, so it gets to do special occasions like weddings, and occasionally cruises for just two. It has also proven to be popular for marriage proposals.

Contact us on email  [email protected]  or on 0419418846. If you are transferred to voicemail, please leave a message so we can get back to you.

*Cruises operate from mid September to Mother’s Day Second Sunday in May.

Complete this contact form for any enquiries

0419 418 846.

MV Southern Cross Cruises

Cruise the capital and see the landmarks from Canberra's Lake Burley Griffin aboard the MV Southern Cross. Enjoy the ever-changing views of Canberra's famous landmarks and the beautiful shores of Lake Burley Griffin from the MV Southern Cross.

MV Southern Cross Cruises offer weekend sightseeing tours and weekly lunch and dinner cruises, and their boat can be chartered for special events. Call them on the phone number provided to arrange.

The MV Southern Cross features disabled access, air conditioning and an open-air viewing platform on the top deck for everyone to enjoy.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating

“amazing”.

It has an amazing breeze that you can take a walk to ease your mind on things. And has an amazing service with food. One could take their family with for a vacation they wont regret it.

“Amszing”

Amazing place really enjoyed it and will definitely come back and share the experience with friends and family. Keep it up

“A wonderful, wonderful evening.”

Had the most wonderful Australia Day sunset dinner cruise. The staff were very friendly. A little understaffed when we set off - one poor barman and a boat load of diners all wanting to get drinks...

Government House Garden Cruise

Sightseeing cruise, sunday lunch cruise, thursday dinner cruise, accessibility.

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Sightseeing Cruise

• Government Gardens Cruise
• Lunch and Dinner Cruise
• Special Event Cruise
• Private Charter Cruise
• Yacht Club Restaurant
• Yacht Club Balcony
• Yacht Club Wardroom
• Southern Cross Yacht Club
• Woden Southern Cross Club

Our weekend sightseeing tour is the best way to introduce you to Canberra and her monuments, museums and political battlegrounds. With an informative commentary and experienced crew, it’s a great way to see the sights.

• Duration: 2 Hours

Government House Gardens Cruise

Join us for this unique experience of one of Australia's most iconic locations. Take in the beautiful Lake Burley Griffin as you cruise to the historic Governor General's residence, where you will receive an exclusive tour.

Thursday Dinner Cruise

With fine food, elegance and ambiance, plus the wonderful views of Lake Burley Griffin, our Thursday dinner cruise is the ultimate lake experience.

• Duration: 150 Minutes

Sunday Lunch Cruise

With fine food, elegance and ambiance, and the wonderful views of Lake Burley Griffin, our Sunday lunch cruise is the ultimate lake experience.

• Duration: 3 Hours

Family Sightseeing Cruise - Gift Card

This gift card entitles the bearer to a family Sightseeing cruise for 2 adults and 2 children on the MV Southern Cross.

Lunch or Dinner Cruise for Two - Gift Card

Gift Card for Lunch or Dinner Cruise

Sightseeing Cruise for 2 adults and 2 children with Muffin and Drink - Gift Card

This gift card entitles the bearer to family Sightseeling cruise for 2 adults and 2 children on the MV Southern Cross PLUS a muffin and hot drink/soft drink for all four guests. View more: mvsoutherncross.com.au/lunch-and-dinner-cruises

Sightseeing Cruise for 2 adults followed by a two course meal at the Yacht Club Restaurant - Gift Card

This gift card entitles the bearer to a Sightseeing cruise for 2 adults on the MV Southern Cross, followed by a two course meal at the Yacht Club Restaurant Please visit mvsoutherncross.com.au/sightseeing-cruises for more details

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Premium Electric Boat Hire

There’s no better way to relax, by enjoying a fun filled morning, afternoon or sunset cruise on Canberra’s picturesque Lake Burley Griffin. ​ No boat licence required – easy to operate and can accommodate up to 10 people, glide across the water in our whisper quiet, eco-friendly electric hire boats.    Canberra’s newest and best self-drive boat hire – Our boats have a fully enclosed canopy top with window enclosures, enabling you to enjoy the lake in all-weather environments. With a Bluetooth stereo and built-in cooler, you can bring your own tunes, food and beverages, or we can organise catering for you.

Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, sunset picnics, family gatherings, sightseeing or just a casual cruise of the lake..

Love Premium Features

Canberra's best self-drive cruise experience, our boats are easy to operate and powered by zero-emissions electric motor, that are clean, quiet, and emission-free. ​ whether you're hosting a wedding, anniversary, corporate event, or any other special occasion, love boats promises an unforgettable experience. let us infuse your event with elegance and charm, against the mesmerizing backdrop of lake burley griffin's picturesque beauty..

U p to 10 people (maximum total weight of 815kg)

No boat licence needed, byo food and beverages, inbuilt fridge and bluetooth stereo, easy to maneuver wheel helm, roomy cabin, full open or closed windows, cushion seats and backrests, usb charging port, cruise up to 5.2 knots (9 km/h).

Pink Party Boat

LOVE TO PARTY... LOVE OUR PINK PARTY BOAT!

Get ready for the ultimate celebration experience on the water. Grab your BFF's and party up on the pink party boat of Lake Burley Griffin. ​ Whether you want to toast to the bride-to-be or enjoy a fun lake tour with the girls, our Pink Party Boat can comfortably accommodate up to 10 people, making it the perfect choice for a small group celebration. Best of all, you can bring your drinks on board!

WHEN SHOULD WE ARRIVE? We ask that you and your group arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled booking.  This will allow time for us to take you through the safety and instructional overview before you set off. Your hire time may be reduced to ensure sufficient time for us to go through the overview and safety briefing prior to disembarking.

WHERE SHOULD WE PARK? There are many car parks located within walking distance to Love Boats jetty, the best option is the large paid public car park located off Eastlake Parade, adjacent  to Trevillian Quay at Kingston Foreshore. 

WHAT CAN WE BRING ON THE BOAT? You can bring your own food and drinks, each boat has a fridge and we can arrange ice upon request.

 - Disposable containers, p icnicware, p lastic bottles/ cups and canned drinks preferred .

 - No glassware or glass drinking bottles.

 - Premix alcohol, beer and wine is permitted  (red wine is not recommended and may incur an additional cleaning fee if spilt).

CAN WE DECORATE THE BOAT FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION? Love that you're celebrating a special occasion with us, and would love to help you make it as amazing and as memorable as possible. Please reach out to us ahead of time so we can coordinate and plan accordingly.

WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR? Wear whatever you’d like, the boat windows offer protection from the wind on cooler days, and allow for a breeze on warmer days. 

 - Boat shoes and rubber sole sneakers are encouraged for safely walking on the jetty and boarding the boat.

 - Sandals, thongs and bare feet are permitted on board, however heels, dress shoes and soles that will mark the boat are not   permitted. Shoe storage containers are available prior to boarding the boat.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD WE CONSIDER BRINGING ON THE DAY? On arrival,  the designated captain must present a valid driver’s licence and debit/credit card with $250.00 available for a pre-authorisation security hold.

We also suggest bringing food, water and other drinks, sunglasses, sunscreen, your favorite playlist, and an extra layer of clothing as lake conditions may differ to inland.

Popular currencies

More currencies, self-drive electric picnic boat tour in canberra.

Drive your own electric boat on Canberra's Lake Burley Griffin cruising past landmarks like the National Carillion, with 1hr, 2hr, or 3hr cruise options.

Become the captain of your own eco-friendly boat, accommodating up to 8 guests, on Lake Burley Griffin.

Enjoy onboard comforts with a recycled timber table perfect for picnics and an open invitation for your furry friends!

Rest easy with a comprehensive safety briefing, provided equipment, and an area map to guide your voyage.

Cruise past the majestic National Carillion boasting 55 bells, the 152-meter Captain Cook water jet and see the swans, and ducks swimming in the lake.

Choose from 1 to 3-hour options to customize your voyage.

Did you know? The lake you're cruising on is named after Walter Burley Griffin, the American architect who designed Canberra.

1-hr/2-hr/3-hr cruise (based on option selected)

Private boat accommodating up to 8 guests

All safety equipment

Area map including local landmarks

Food and beverage

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Your Experience

Embrace the mariner in you in canberra.

Get ready to navigate the serene waters of Lake Burley Griffin as the captain of your eco-friendly, electric picnic boat, designed to comfortably host up to 8 guests. Upon arrival, the hospitable GoBoat team equips you with safety gear and guides you through the boat's operation with a hands-on demonstration, guaranteeing everyone's ease before departure. No boat license is required, making this adventure perfect for explorers and fun seekers of all kinds! The boat's rustic appeal is highlighted by its communal recycled timber picnic table, perfectly suited for spreading out your picnic. This welcoming experience also extends to your pets, transforming your voyage into a family event.

A Tailored Cruise with Historic Highlights

From a succinct 1-hour to leisurely 2-hour and extended 3-hour cruises, this boat ride interlaces stunning views with historic landmarks. You'll start at Kingston Foreshore, which used to be a busy industrial place but is now full of great places to eat. The cruise is set along Lake Burley Griffin, named after an American architect who won a competition to design Canberra in 1912. Witness the National Carillion, a gift from Britain and one of the world's largest carillons, boasting 55 bells. And don't forget to look out for the Captain Cook Memorial Jet, launching water up to half the height of the Eiffel Tower!

Know Before You Go

Important information.

• Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility, Pet/Guide Dog Friendly.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instanty.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the attraction.

Please arrive at the attraction 30 minutes before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

Ticket Redemption Point

Show your ticket at SuperPark MalaysiGoBoat Canberra.

Address: 8 Trevillian Quay, Kingston ACT 2604, Australia

Landmark:Walk over the bridge on Trevillian Quay and towards the water. Head down the dock and look for GoBoat signage.

Get Directions to the Redemption Point

Getting There

The closest bus stop is Wentworth Av Old Bus Depot Markets. It is a quick 7-min walk to the attraction.

Board bus 830 to get you there.

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Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © EventsACT

6 ways to enjoy Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin

The fun never ends at Canberra’s most popular aquatic attraction.

By Leah Dobihal

With its dazzling water and long stretches of tranquil shoreline, it’s no wonder that Lake Burley Griffin is often called the centrepiece of Canberra. In fact, for locals, it needs no other description than “The Lake.”

From aerial adventures to waterfront restaurants, here’s how to make the most of Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin.

Explore by paddleboard

Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © VisitCanberra

Lake Burley Griffin is an aquatic playground, and the opportunities to get out on the water are endless. One of the best ways to enjoy the lake’s calm surface is by stand-up paddleboard. Beginners can join a group lesson with SupCbr . If you’re a little more confident, hire a SUP board and explore on your own.

Cycle the shoreline

Cyclists are spoiled in Canberra, and some of the best trails to ride are the ones looping around Lake Burley Griffin’s sparkling shore. Choose between several paths ranging from 5km (3mi) to 14km (8.7mi), or tackle the entire lake at about 30km (18.6mi). You’re sure to discover secluded gems along the way, like the traditional Chinese welcome gate in Lennox Gardens. Hire your bike from Canberra Cycle .

Marvel from a hot air balloon

Balloon Aloft, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Tourism Australia

Visit in March to witness the Canberra Balloon Spectacular , where dozens of hot air balloons float above the lake at sunrise.

Lake Burley Griffin is beautiful from every angle, so catch a view from the sky in a hot air balloon. With Balloon Aloft , you’ll take flight and float gently over the lake and city. Marvel at unrivalled views before descending to a champagne celebration at your landing site.

Set sail on a GoBoat

Go Boat, Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Tourism Australia

Lake Burley Griffin is perfect for picnics, but why not take it up a notch with a meal on the water?  GoBoat offers electric picnic boats that allow you to skipper your own vessel around the lake. GoBoats accommodate up to eight people, so gather your crew and picnic basket for a lunch you won’t soon forget.

Canberra's adventurous side

Walk from bridge to bridge

Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Lightbulb Studios for VisitCanberra

Make like a local and stroll one of the city’s most popular walks. The Bridge to Bridge walk connects Commonwealth Bridge to Kings Avenue Bridge, a distance of about five kilometres (three miles). You’ll pass several of Canberra’s historical and cultural attractions along the way, including Commonwealth Park and the Australian of the Year Walk, where chronological plaques showcase the name of every person to have won the prestigious 'Australian of the Year' award.

Drink and dine at waterfront venues

Armada Outdoor Bar at The Boat House, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © The Boat House

Lake Burley Griffin is more than a natural oasis – it’s also home to a trendy food and drink scene. From coffee in the morning to drinks in the evening, you’ll find several venues located right on the shores of the lake. Start the day at Local Press Café , stop for lunch at Walt & Burley and don’t miss dinner at The Boat House .

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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Packages & Pricing

Your party package includes:

• Friendly captain and crew
• Indoor and outdoor entertainment areas to suit all seasons
• Party lights
• Sound system
• BBQ facilities
• Tables and chairs
• Television for presentations and media
• Bathroom facilities
• BYO food and drinks (catering packages also available) 
• Up to 30 passengers

April to September

• 4 Hours $2,410
• 3.5 Hours $2,110
• 3 Hours $1,800
• 2.5 Hours $1,500
• 2 Hours $1,295

October to March

• 4 Hours $2,680
• 3.5 Hours $2,345
• 3 Hours $2,010
• 2.5 Hours $1,675
• 2 Hours $1,440

$65 for one flavour or $120 for two - Raspberry, Pina Colada or Margarita.

Bring your food and our crew will cook it for you.

$25 for one game or $40 for both.

Includes the hire of the camera, 20 photos, and a book with metallic pens and glue to put the photos in and write special messages.

Make your occasion one to remember!