Exploring the Sandy Straits & Western Coast of Kgari

As previous guests of the houseboats for years, we are passionate about these amazing waterways.

Exploring the pristine western coast of K’Gari (Fraser Island) with dolphins, dugongs, large turtles, seasonal whales, the cheeky dingos on Kgari & some of the best fishing & crabbing, or simply relaxing and enjoying a remarkable sunset, it truly is a unique holiday experience.

We have undergone renovations on all the Houseboats too.  With so many repeat guests, continuing to enjoy themselves.

Using the houseboat as your “basecamp”, with our tender to drop off the crab pots or to access your own beach. Other guests prefer to bring their own tinnie & explore the many creeks & tucked away, protected spots.

How far can I Explore?

Boarding your houseboat at our dock in Tin Can Bay, there is a vast area to explore.  With both Day & Overnight Anchorage Options throughout the Sandy Straits & western coast of Kgari, Kingfisher Resort as our furthest day anchorage.

We have several protected areas we recommend to spend overnight, no matter what the weather conditions.

Once you’re booked, we will send these through to plan your own itinerary.

Do I need a boat License?

All you need is a valid driver’s license.

Our skipper will give a “Navigation, Safety & Operation” briefing which can take 1.5-2hrs.

He then departs the dock & it’s your turn to drive once outside the harbour.  When everyone is feeling confident with driving the houseboat, our skipper returns back to the dock & you continue with your itinerary.

With our iPad Navigation system onboard, with pre-programmed routes throughout the Sandy Straits, select your route and drive over the line marked.  Once you arrive at your destination, there is a choice of overnight anchorage options, indicated with an anchor icon.

When you have finished your houseboat holiday, our skipper will board your houseboat & bring you back into our dock.

Aaahhhhhh-mazing

Gentlemen Tom

Golden Grove

Annies Adventure

Whimbrel

Getting here

Located on the Cooloola Coast 2.5 hrs drive north of the Queensland state capital Brisbane and just off the southern tip of Fraser Island. The seaside town of Tin Can Bay is a popular holiday destination and launch pad to the aquatic playground of the Great Sandy Straits – a pristine waterway protected by World Heritage listed K’Gari (Fraser Island). Closest airport is Maroochydore ( Sunshine Coast ) which is approx. 1.5 hrs drive.

Latest News

Customer service – the way it should be.

Tin Can Bay Boat Ramp Bait & Tackle shop – newly renovated & open.

Ice / Blocks & Bags available to purchase.
Dinghy Hire, Waterbikes available – book to avoid missing out

Waterbike Recliner

Are you in need of a holiday?  Our House Boats provide the perfect getaway.

sunset

A holiday on a houseboat is a holiday with a difference. It cannot compare to a holiday on land!!  Get away from the “city life” and wake up with a different view every morning.

You are the “captain” of your vessel, no boat licence needed and all our boats are easy to manoeuvre .

Complete and utter freedom to enjoy the picturesque sights and sounds of the magnificent Great Sandy Straits and Fraser Island.  Contact us today to book your houseboat holiday !!

Book Now

TCBHB (Tin Can Bay Houseboats) provides the www.tincanbayhouseboats.com.au website as a service to the public.  TCBHB is not responsible for and expressly disclaims all liability of any kind arising out of use, reference to or reliance on any information provided by tincanbayhouseboats.com.au

FAQ’s

No you don’t, you will receive  full instructions by our skipper.  A comprehensive briefing is given to you before you take over the houseboat. A coxswain will take you out into the Sandy Straits and will ensure that both you and he are happy with your handling of the boat before leaving you. At the end of your holiday he will bring you back into the jetty.

All you need is your food, drink and towels.

All carriers (except Vodaphone) will receive service in majority of areas around the Sandy Straits.  All boats have a 240 volt inverter for charging.

Our boats are available from 7 am on day of departure and due back by 10 am at the end of your holiday.

Yes we can provide secure parking at a cost of $10/night/per vehicle.

You can travel as far north as Kingfisher Resort on Fraser Island, which is approx an 8 hr trip from TCB

Your houseboat comes fully filled with fuel but you will be charged for what you have used upon your return as well as your gas usage.

Yes, we would recommend the Whimbrel, as there are no steps or stairs inside, and more  open space aboard. We have had folk in wheelchairs aboard, but they have had some independent mobility, which is necessary to access the toilet and shower.