Frequently Asked Questions
What are your T&Cs?
Download our pdf or view our terms and conditions webpage.
What is the Portobello River Cruiser?
Our River Cruisers are an exciting way to cruise up and down the Port River without need of a boat license or skipper. Our hire & self-drive donut boats can seat up to 6 passengers and travel at a maximum speed of 5km/2.7 knots making them perfect for floating about the river. The River Cruiser is powered by an electric motor making them pollution free, noise free and completely safe for the dolphins, fish, wild life and their environment.
Can we hire a skipper for the boat cruise?
Absolutely, we can arrange an on-board captain to drive your group at an additional cost of $35 so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the views.
How old do I have to be to skipper a Portobello River Cruiser?
The driver of the boat must be at least 21 years, hold a current Driver’s License and must not exceed 0.05 percent alcohol.
Do I need a boat license to operate it?
No boat license required however you will need a full Driver’s License.
Do I need to have any boating experience?
No. The Portobello River Cruiser is a safe and fun way to gain on water experience. The River Cruiser is easy to navigate and driving instructions are provided in the safety brief.
Is it suitable for Children?
Portobello River Cruiser is very safe for children however all children must be a minimum of 5 years of age, wear a life jacket at all times and be accompanied by an adult.
How many passengers can the Portobello River Cruiser accommodate?
Portobello River Cruiser can comfortably seat up to 6 passengers including children aged 5 plus. For groups of 7-12 people two boats may be hired. Please contact Sarah on 0425 694 455 to secure two boats.
Can i bring my own food and drinks?
You are allowed to bring snacks however no BYO drinks or alcohol.
Food and drinks can be selected from the on-board menu at the time of booking or purchased on the day. Please arrive 30min prior if ordering food on the day.
Please note, the boats do not have cooking facilities.
Can i play music on-board?
Yes, the River Cruiser is eqipped with a wireless Bluetooth Speaker which can easily be connected to a smart phone or device so get those playlists ready!
What exactly is included within the hire?
River Cruiser, plates, cutlery, napkins, cups, wine glass, ice bucket with ice, filtered water, rubbish bin, safety equipment, life jacket, selfie stick and bluetooth speaker
How soon should i arrive for my booking?
Please arrive 20min prior to your cruise departure so we can brief you with safety & driving instructions and allow 30min if ordering from the on-board menu on the day.
Where is the cruising area?
Staff will escort your group directly out front of Portobello restaurant to the Marina. You will be supplied a map which outlines the designated cruise area, which is up to Birkenhead Bridge (boats are not permitted under the Birkenhead Bridge) and up to the Train Bridge before Bower Rd Inlet
Can i fish or go swimming?
No fishing or swimming is permitted. The River Cruiser is strictly used for cruising only and passengers must stay on-board at all times
Can I smoke on-board?
No. Smoking is not permitted on the River Cruiser
What if i need to use the restroom?
If nature calls, phone staff to meet you at the Marina (docking area) to use Portobello restroom facilities
Where is nearby parking?
There is free parking along Wirra Drive and Tarni Court, also plenty of free parking underneith the Jervois Bridge, just a 2 min walk along the promenade
Hours of Operation
WED – SUN
12pm - sunset
MON
Closed
BOOK ONLINE ANYTIME
Select a date & time to enjoy a Portobello River Cruiser
Contact Us
Contact us if you have any questions.