How to hire a boat in Brisbane
Four simple steps from booking to being on the water.
The process
Choose your boat
Browse our fleet and pick the boat that suits your plans. Consider the following when choosing:
- How many people are coming along?
- What are you planning to do — fishing, cruising, island exploring?
- Do you need a half day or full day?
- Will you self-tow or need delivery?
Each boat page has full specs, photos, and a list of what is included. If you are unsure which boat is right for you, get in touch and we will help you choose.
Lock in your dates
Once you have chosen your boat, send us a quick enquiry. Here is what happens:
- Let us know your preferred date and hire duration (half day or full day)
- Mention any extras such as delivery and launch service
- We'll confirm availability and send through the details
- Pay a booking deposit to secure your date
- The remaining balance is due on the day of hire
You will also need to agree to our booking policy and provide your boat licence details (if required for your chosen boat).
Pick up or we deliver
On the day of your hire, you have two options:
- Self-tow: Collect the boat and trailer from our Manly base. You will need a vehicle with a towbar and appropriate towing capacity. We will walk you through the boat, safety gear, and controls before you head off.
- Delivery and launch: We tow the boat to your chosen ramp, launch it, and have it waiting for you in the water. At the end of the day, we retrieve and collect. Delivery is available to ramps throughout the Brisbane and Moreton Bay region for an additional fee.
Either way, we will do a full handover so you are comfortable with the boat before you set off.
Get on the water and enjoy
You are in charge. Spend the day however you like:
- Fish the flats and channels of Moreton Bay
- Cruise over to Peel Island or Moreton Island
- Explore the mangrove creeks and sandbanks
- Anchor up at a quiet beach for a swim and a picnic
- Take the family for a scenic trip up the Brisbane River
Return the boat by the agreed time, refuel the tank, and give it a quick rinse down. That is it — no maintenance, no storage fees, no worries.
What's included
Every boat hire with Tide includes everything you need for a safe and enjoyable day on the water:
The vessel
- Boat and outboard motor
- Trailer (for self-tow bookings)
- Full tank of fuel
- Kill switch lanyard
- Anchor and rope
Safety equipment
- Life jackets for all passengers
- Fire extinguisher
- Flares (in-date)
- Bailer and bucket
- Navigation lights
- V-sheet
Extras
- Esky
- Rod holders
- Fish measuring sticker
- Local area map and tips
- Phone support during your hire
Pricing
All prices include GST. Fuel is additional — boats go out full and must be returned full.
| Boat | Half Day (4 hrs) | Full Day (8 hrs) | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tinny with Bimini Cover | $150 | $200 | 3 adults |
| Bayliner Bowrider 175 | — | $500 | Up to 7 adults |
| Stacer 525 Runabout | — | $450 | Up to 5 adults |
Additional services
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Delivery and launch (within 20 km) | $80 |
| Delivery and launch (20 - 40 km) | $120 |
| Delivery and launch (40+ km) | POA |
| Refuelling service (if tank not returned full) | Fuel cost + $25 fee |
| Late return (per hour or part thereof) | $50 |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a boat licence?
It depends on the boat. Our Tinny has a 4hp motor, so no boat licence is required — just valid photo ID. The Bayliner and Stacer have engines over 4hp, so you'll need a current Queensland Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) or interstate equivalent. You'll need to present your licence at pick-up.
What is included in the hire price?
The hire price includes the boat, motor, trailer (self-tow), all safety equipment, an esky, rod holders, and a full tank of fuel. You just need to replace the fuel you use and bring your own food, drinks, and fishing gear.
How does the fuel policy work?
Boats go out with a full tank and must be returned with a full tank. If the tank is not full on return, we will refuel and charge you for the fuel used plus a $25 refuelling fee.
Can I tow the boat myself?
Yes. You will need a vehicle with a suitable towbar and towing capacity. We will confirm the towing requirements when you book. If you are not comfortable towing, choose our delivery and launch service instead.
Where can I take the boat?
Our standard operating area covers Moreton Bay, the Brisbane River (downstream of the Gateway Bridge), and surrounding waterways. If you want to go further afield, let us know when booking and we will discuss options.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first. If conditions are unsafe (strong wind warnings, storms, or dangerous seas), we will work with you to reschedule at no extra cost. If you choose to cancel due to weather we consider safe, standard cancellation terms apply.
Is there a bond or security deposit?
Yes. A refundable bond is required on the day of hire. The bond amount depends on the boat and will be confirmed at the time of booking. It is held as a pre-authorisation on your credit card and released once the boat is returned in good condition.
Can I bring my dog?
Sorry, no pets are permitted on our hire boats. This is to protect the vessels and ensure they remain in top condition for all hirers.
What time are pick-ups and returns?
Half day hires run from 6:30 am to 11:00 am (morning) or 12:00 pm to 4:30 pm (afternoon). Full day hires run from 6:30 am to 4:30 pm. Exact times are confirmed at booking.
How do I book?
Browse our boats for hire, choose a boat, and complete your booking online. You can also send us an enquiry or call us on 0485 670 603 if you have questions.
Ready to get started?
Pick a boat, choose your date, and let's get you on the water.