14 of the Best Dog-Friendly Boat Cruises in Australia

There’s nothing more relaxing than getting out on the water on a boat cruise, especially when the sun is shining and the commentary is entertaining. But just because you have a dog, doesn’t mean that you should miss out. I’ve uncovered a long list of dog-friendly boat cruises around Australia, many that I’ve personally taken with my dog.

If you’re also interested in other types of boat trips that you can take with your dog in Australia, I’ve included details of pet-friendly ferries that you can catch to Queensland islands, plus dog-friendly boats available for rent in Australia. 

1. Board a Paddlesteamer in Echuca

One of the most iconic boat cruises in Australia is riding on an historic paddlesteamer on the Murray River. Echuca in particular is famous for its paddlesteamer cruises, and luckily some of the paddlesteamers are dog-friendly, with your pup welcome to join you for the trip.

I recommend booking a one-hour cruise with Echuca Paddlesteamers. They operate multiple cruises operate daily, on board various paddlesteamers, including some built right on site. We cruised on board the PS Alexander Arbuthnot.

Dogs are welcome to join you for free (they just need to be with a responsible adult) and receive their own cute ‘K9 Cargo Ticket’. On board our boat there were no restrictions on where dogs could go, with a resident dog occupying the warm spot next to the engine. 

Note that dogs are not allowed onboard any of the lunch or dinner paddlesteamer cruises, although they are allowed onboard the Wharf to Winery Cruise, which visits Morrisons Winery for lunch.

2. Cruise on a Catamaran at Monkey Mia

While travelling around Australia with our dog we found Monkey Mia to be an extra dog-friendly destination. As well as being allowed on many beaches and to view the daily dolphin-feeding, well-behaved dogs are also welcome on board the catamaran cruises run by Perfect Nature Cruises on the Aristocat 2.

We went on the morning wildlife cruise on the Aristocat 2, a 2.5 hour cruise out on the bay to see the local wildlife. We were lucky to spot a range of wildlife despite visiting in winter, including a mother and child dugong pair, plus a large loggerhead turtle. 

During our cruise it did get bumpy for awhile, due to the morning wind and the crew’s efforts to find some wildlife for us to see. A more laidback, leisurely option is the 1.5 hour sunset cruise, when the water is generally calmer.

Dogs cruise for free on board the Perfect Nature Cruises. I recommend taking your dog to toilet before boarding, plus bringing a water bowl and bottle of water for your pup on the longer cruises. 

3. Spot Crocs on the Daintree River

For a different kind of wildlife experience, take your dog onboard a crocodile-spotting cruise on the Daintree River. I was surprised to discover that its traditional for many of the local boat owners to bring along their dogs, and at least one company, the Daintree River Cruise Centre, offers dog-friendly cruises.

The cruises depart from the southern bank of the Daintree River, a 90-minute drive north of Cairns, with no need to board the Daintree Ferry across to Cape Tribulation. The cruises operated by the Daintree River Cruise Centre last about 60-90 minutes, depending on the weather conditions, with the chance to spot a variety of local birdlife, as well as crocodiles.

If you’re interested in bringing your dog along, it’s important that you call up the cruise centre and advise them in advance, so that you dog can be accommodated. 

4. Go Dolphin or Whale Watching at Jervis Bay

One of my fondest memories as a teenager was going on a dolphin watching cruise on the magical waters of Jervis Bay, south of Sydney, dolphins riding next to the bow beneath me. Until recently, I thought that the cruises were off limits to dogs, but I’ve now discovered that Jervis Bay Wild allows small dogs on board, in addition to support dogs.

The 90-minute long dolphin watch cruises depart year round, from the cruise terminal to the west of the Huskisson public wharf. Alternatively, between May and November you can instead choose to enjoy a longer 2-hour whale watching cruise, also on the pet-friendly Port Venture.

The same company operates Shellharbour Wild, departing from the Shellharbour Marina further up the coast. Small pets are also permitted on their Whale Watching and Eco-Scenic Cruises.

5. Ride the Brisbane River Ferries

While the above cruises have a set itinerary, with everyone boarding and disembarking at the same time, it’s also possible to put together your own dog-friendly cruise on the Brisbane River thanks to the Brisbane River ferries and CityCats permitting dogs on board. 

Best of all, this also extends to the CityHopper service, a free ferry that runs in between the North Quay and Sydney Street ferry terminals, taking in the main sights of inner city Brisbane. The service runs roughly every half hour, stopping at five extra terminals in between. 

A full one-way trip takes 40 minutes, or stay on-board for a 90-minute return trip. It’s fun to combine a ferry trip with a walk along the New Farm Riverwalk or a stroll through the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens. 

Note that there are some restrictions that apply for dogs. Firstly, dogs are only permitted outside of peak hours, between 6:00am and 8:30am then 3:30pm and 7:00pm on weekdays. It’s best to go for a ferry ride with your dog between 8:30am and 3:30pm, or anytime on the weekend.

Your dog will also need to be leashed and muzzled, unless they’re in an enclosed carrier, and sit on the outside deck. 

In Sydney, it was also possible up until recently to board the city’s ferries with your dog. However, during 2021, the ferries started to crack down on pets on board, enforcing the rule that only pets in carrier bags are permitted, with no larger dogs outside of carriers allowed, even if wearing a muzzle.

6. Head Out on Port Stephens

While dogs outside of carrier bags may no longer be allowed on Sydney ferries, there’s no such restrictions on the Tea Gardens Ferry up the coast. Well-behaved dogs are allowed on these ferries that cross Port Stephens in between Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens, with no charge for dogs. 

The ferry journey takes about an hour each way, with 30 minutes spent crossing the bay, then 30 minutes up the Myall River. Dolphins are frequently spotted, with a 95% success rate. 

With the timetable varying depending on the time of year, most ferry trips from Nelson Bay will involve a stop at Tea Gardens. Perhaps head to the dog-friendly Tea Gardens Hotel for lunch. The final trip back from Tea Gardens is usually timed to coincide with sunset. The ferry runs daily, except during bad weather. 

Recently, the original ferry has been joined by a second operation, the YNOT Catamaran. This ferry also allows well-behaved dogs onboard.

7. Cross the Clarence River

If staying on the North Coast of NSW, a popular dog-friendly outing is taking one of the Clarence River Ferries in between the sleepy town of Yamba and the even sleepier hamlet of Iluka.

Situated on either bank of the Clarence River, there are multiple crossing daily, that take around 30 minute in either direction. Check the latest timetable online, with only a few crossing daily.

In Yamba, the ferry departs from the new wharf facility at the end of River Street (not the marina!) In Iluka, the ferry arrives and departs from the Iluka Boatshed.

If you’d like to spend some time in Iluka, next to the boatshed is the Chez Basho Boatshed Cafe. This cafe serves up Japanese fusion food (including sushi) and some highly praised coffee. Dogs are likely allowed at the outdoor tables, otherwise grab some takeaway. Double check the opening hours online, as it’s not open everyday.

8. Cruise Along the Noosa River

The best way to experience the pretty Noosa River on the Sunshine Coast is to get out on a boat, and the easiest option is boarding the Noosa Ferry. Luckily, recently the rules changed to allow dogs of all sizes, except if it’s busy in which case dogs need to fit on your lap. Although note the sunset cruises are excluded.

The ferry runs approximately every half an hour between Tewantin and Noosa Heads. It’s $28 for an all day pass along the entire length (or $22 if bought after 1pm) , or $16.50 for a return trip between Noosaville and Noosa Heads. There’s also a number of other ticket options. There is no charge for dogs.

On a sunny day, it’s glorious sitting up on the open-air top deck. When the ferry arrives at Noosa Heads or Tewantin, it’s possible to remain on board for the return journey, or alternatively disembark and stretch your legs for awhile. 

At Noosa Heads I recommend getting off and walking over to Noosa Spit and the popular off-leash dog exercise area and beach. 

9. Explore the Tamar River

Tamar River cruises operates multiple cruises on the river of the same name in Launceston, Tasmania, including a Cataract Gorge Adventure Cruise. This short 50-minute cruise features historical commentary giving insight into Launceston’s historic Seaport precinct, plus a scenic cruise up into the beautiful Cataract Gorge.

Best of all, this specific cruise is dog-friendly, with well-behaved pups welcome to join you onboard. Considering dogs are otherwise not permitted in the Cataract Gorge Reserve, it’s a great way to see this part of Launceston with your dog by your side. There’s multiple departures daily, year round; just double check before booking that they are still dog-friendly.

10. Go Cruising at Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie lies on the southern side of the wide and winding Hastings River. Enjoy a fun time out on the river on a cruise, including with your dog, on one of the cruises offered by Cruise Port Macquarie.

Dogs are allowed on their regular cruises, as long as they are not too large, due to space constraints. It’s best to advise the company when you make a booking that you’ll be bringing along a dog, as there is a limit on the number allowed on each cruise. And once on board, they need to stay leashed and next to you.

River cruises operate multiple times per week, depending on the time of year, both in the morning and around sunset. Minimum numbers are required, so it’s best to book in advance.

11. Take the Ferry to Bundeena

On the southern edge of Sydney, a regular ferry crosses Port Hacking between Cronulla and Bundeena, a small village on the northern edge of the Royal National Park. While the ferry is intended to get people to and from the isolated village, without the long detour by road, you can also enjoy the ferry crossing as a short cruise.

Run by Cronulla Ferries, dogs are allowed on the ferry, as long as they are leashed, for no extra charge. When I’ve caught the ferry, I’ve seen dogs onboard it multiple times.

The ferries operate roughly hourly, although note that there is a break over lunch on weekdays. The journey takes about 25 minutes each direction, so along about an hour for a return cruise, without disembarking in Bundeena.

Alternatively, hop off in Bundeena for a visit. Dogs are allowed on-leash on Gunyah Beach right next to the ferry wharf between May and August, plus before 8:30am and after 4:30pm between September and April.

Or walk a little further to Hordern Beach, where dogs are allowed off-leash between May and August, although they are prohibited from the beach on weekends over the summer. There’s a few cafes to choose between in Bundeena.

12. Catch a Ferry at Palm Beach

At the other end of Sydney, it’s also possible to take your dog onboard the ferries run by Palm Beach Ferries departing the Palm Beach ferry wharf. There’s no charge for dogs, who are allowed onboard as long as they remain leashed and on the outside deck.

There are two cruise options available. Firstly, you can take a cruise around the upper reaches of Pittwater, on the Basin Ferry Service. This ferry operates roughly hourly and takes 45 minutes to return to Palm Beach.

Alternatively, hop onboard the ferry to Ettalong and Wagstaffe on the Central Coast. This scenic journey crosses Broken Bay, passing Barrenjoey Headland and Lion Island, taking about 30 minutes in each direction. In Ettalong, go for a walk along the beach, with a large section allowing off-leash dogs, before catching a return ferry to Palm Beach.

It’s also possible to start and end this cruise in Ettalong or Wagstaffe, instead heading to Palm Beach. Enjoy lunch at one of the dog-friendly cafes in Palm Beach. There are currently no off-leash dog beaches nearby, although there are plans for a trial at Palm Beach North.

An additional dog-friendly ferry company also operates from Palm Beach ferry wharf, the Boathouse Ferry Co. Part of the same group that operates the up-market but dog-friendly Boathouse Patonga pub, you can catch the ferry across to Patonga and the pub on selected days. Double check the timetable online.

13. Enjoy a River Cruise in St George

For a different kind of river cruise in Queensland, head 500km west of Brisbane to St George. There you can take a dog-friendly cruise with Sandytown River Cruises on the Balonne River. 

Their 2-hour cruises generally depart daily at 11am and 4pm, from April to September. You’re welcome to bring your own drinks and nibbles, the perfect accompaniment for a relaxing sunset cruise.

There’s no additional charge for pets, who are usually quite content on the stable, comfortable boat. Just keep them leashed.

14. Cruise on the Swan River

The city of Perth is situated on the banks of the Swan River. To view the city from a different perspective, hop onboard the petite solar electric ferries operated by the Little Ferry Company.

The company operates multiple ferry trips between Elizabeth Quay, On the Point and Optus Stadium on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday between October and May. A one-way trip takes 45 minutes. Alternatively, make a booking for their Twilight Cruises or you can book the whole boat – available year-round.

Just note that the ferries are quite small, so only small “lap” dogs are permitted. Dogs should also be leashed, clean and dry.

BONUS: Catch a Ferry to a Queensland Island

There’s no shortage of dog-friendly boat cruises available in Queensland, but there’s also another type of boat trip that you can take with your pup in Queensland: the ferries out to dog-friendly islands. While the main focus of these trips is getting to the island, it’s still a scenic ride along the way.

Three of the best dog-friendly island trips by ferry in Queensland are to Magnetic Island, Great Keppel Island and North Stradbroke Island.

For the 20-minute trip to Magnetic Island from Townsville, there’s the option of both a car barge and passenger-only ferry. Muzzles are required on dogs outside of cars.

North Stradbroke Island also offers both passenger-only and car ferries. The passenger ferry, also known as a water taxi, takes only 25 minutes, while the car barge is a 50-minute trip. Muzzles are also required on the Sealink ferries outside of cars.

The ferries across to Great Keppel Island are a more relaxed affair, with no muzzle required on our 30-minute ferry trip. One of the catamarans does charge a small fee for dogs, depending on size, while dogs travel for free on the other ferry trips. 

Read my guide to visiting these dog-friendly islands in Queensland, with further details of the ferries to the islands.

BONUS: Hire Your Own Boat

If you’d prefer to be behind the steering wheel of the boat and set your own itinerary, instead consider hiring a dog-friendly boat. 

Many companies that hire out small boats permit dogs to join you on board; after all, they’ll probably be cleaned out after being used for fishing or swimming. Some companies state on their websites that pets are allowed on their boats or contact them directly to find out.

GoBoat hires out electric picnic boats in Brisbane, Canberra, Gold Coast, Melbourne and Sydney, with no boat license required. Dogs are allowed on all boats except for the Luxe boats in Canberra and Melbourne. Book a boat for between one and three hours, then BYO picnic!

Another option in Sydney is Sydney Boat Hire, who offer various options depending on whether or not you have a boat license. Along the Noosa River on the Sunshine Coast there’s multiple dog-friendly boat hire companies including O Boat Hire, who also hire out kayaks and SUPs. 

If you’d prefer to spend a longer time on your boat, including sleeping on board, look into hiring a pet-friendly houseboat. While not all houseboat companies permit pets on board, and usually only selected vessels are pet-friendly, there are options available across South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales. Check out my guide to dog-friendly houseboats in Australia. 

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