Mooloolaba: Aquaduck Amphibious Tour & Canal Cruise

Summary

Roll from esplanade to waterways on mooloolaba’s aquaduck tour

You’ll step onto the Aquaduck right in Mooloolaba and roll through town before splashing into the canals—kids can even drive for a bit! Expect local stories, waterfront mansions, sea breezes, and plenty of laughs along this easygoing 1-hour tour.

What’s the experience like?

We clambered up the steps outside SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast, squinting at the bright blue paint of the Aquaduck. I wasn’t sure what to expect—honestly, I’d never been on anything that looked part bus, part boat. Our driver (I think his name was Dave?) gave a wave and started us rolling down the Mooloolaba Esplanade. You could smell sunscreen in the air and hear seagulls fighting over chips behind us. We passed cafes with people lingering over flat whites and locals walking their dogs—someone yelled out “quack!” and Dave just grinned.

The best bit was when we suddenly veered off the road and splashed straight into the water. There was this weird moment where everyone went quiet, like we weren’t sure if it would actually float (it did). The canal breeze felt cooler than on land, salty and a bit sweet from all those gardens along the shore. Our guide pointed out some of those mega houses—one had a pool bigger than my apartment—and told stories about who used to live there. I tried to imagine what it’d be like waking up to that view every day.

Kids got to take turns steering the Aquaduck for a minute (with a captain’s certificate at the end—my niece is still showing hers off). I didn’t expect to laugh so much at their serious faces as they tried to keep us straight. There were pelicans gliding past and even a couple of paddleboarders who waved as we cruised by. It’s only an hour, but you get this mash-up of city, beach, river—all in one go. I still think about that strange feeling of rolling off dry land into water without stopping.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Aquaduck Mooloolaba Amphibious Tour

• Depart outside SEALIFE Sunshine Coast
• Drive along Mooloolaba Esplanade
• Enjoy onboard commentary about town
• Experience tour by land and sea

Top questions

Where does the Aquaduck Mooloolaba tour depart from?

The tour departs from outside SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast in Mooloolaba.

How long is the Aquaduck tour in Mooloolaba?

The tour lasts approximately one hour.

Can children drive the Aquaduck during the tour?

Yes, kids are allowed to drive briefly and receive a captain’s certificate.

Is there storage for prams or large bags on board?

No, there is no storage for prams or large bags on board or at departure; leave them in your car or hotel room.

Are infants allowed on the Aquaduck?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap and be pre-booked due to regulations.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the departure point.

Are service animals permitted on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Do I need to book tickets for infants under 1 year old?

Yes, all passengers including infants must be booked due to passenger number restrictions.

What’s included

Your hour-long outing includes pre-allocated seating aboard the amphibious Aquaduck with lively commentary from your local guide as you travel by both road and water through Mooloolaba’s highlights; kids can even take a turn driving and earn their own captain’s certificate before you return back to shore together.