Boating
With nine times more waterways than Venice, the Gold Coast is a boating paradise with over 260 kilometres of navigable waterways within the city.
The Gold Coast seaway offers convenient access to the Pacific Ocean for those interested in deep-sea fishing.
For further information, please call Waterway Assets on 07 5667 3763.
Boating facilities
City of Gold Coast manages a number of public boat ramps, jetties, pontoons and fishing facilities.
Download and view our Boating Facility Location Guide.
Commercial vessel use of City boating facilities
The following City boating facilities are available for commercial vessel/vehicle use:
| City facility | Address | Permitted hours of operation |
|---|---|---|
| The Spit Pontoon | Muriel Henchman Drive, Main Beach (off Sea World Drive) | No limiting hours |
| Cavill Avenue Pontoon | Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise | 7am - 10pm |
| Broadwater Parklands Pontoon | Broadwater Parklands, Southport | 4.30am to 10pm |
| Proud Park Pontoon | Proud Park, Main Beach | 7am to 10pm |
| Appel Park Pontoon | Appel Park, Surfers Paradise | 7am to 10pm |
| Evandale Park Pontoon | Evandale Park, Surfers Paradise | 7am to 10pm |
| The Spit Boat Ramp (amphibious vehicles only) | Muriel Henchman Drive, Main Beach (north - off Sea World Drive) | No limiting hours |
| Proud Park Boat Ramp (amphibious vehicles only) | Proud Park, Main Beach (near Sundale Bridge, easternmost boat ramp only) | No limiting hours |
An application can be made for an annual permit which needs to be accompanied by the prescribed fee.
There are commercial vessel size limitations and other terms and conditions of commercial use which are included in the permit.
Find the application form for a Commercial vessel permit below.
Responsible boating
Many water activities we enjoy as part of our lifestyle can have an impact on the health of our waterways and catchments. Next time you're out on the water, please consider how to be responsible. It's easy to make a difference.
Fishing
Fishing is a favourite past-time on the Gold Coast and the the City provides a host of platforms and fishing spots for both serious and recreational anglers.
Fishing is currently prohibited from the Nerang River Bridge, Bermuda Street, Broadbeach Waters; the Tallebudgera Creek Bridge, Gold Coast Highway and where signposted.
Jet skiing
Jet skiing is the coolest water sport since surfing. Our Gold Coast water playground - the ocean, Broadwater and waterways - is the best jet ski playground in the world, but let's not forget Gold Coast jet ski etiquette - Fun but Fair.
Jet skiing is prohibited at some locations.
Who's who in the blue?
Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) have created a useful guide, Who's who in the blue?, that lists which authority to contact to report concerns about irresponsible boating, jet-skiing and other waterways-related activities, e.g. speeding and boating safety enforcement.
A link to this guide can be found on" GCWA's home page.
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