BOOK A BOAT

At Nelson Bay Boat Hire & Watersports, we make it simple to get out on the water — no boat license needed. Choose from a range of boats to suit every adventure.

All hires include lifejackets, safety gear, and fuel, so you can focus on fishing, exploring, or simply relaxing on the bay.

For a faster transaction, you may call us directly at 0419631988.

LEARN MORE

FAQ

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • We’re located at Wharf 7, 40 Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay NSW 2315

  • No boat license is required! Our boats are easy to operate, and we’ll provide a full safety and driving briefing before you head out. However, you do need to be 18 years or over to skipper the vessel.

  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, swimmers, and your phone or camera. We provide all safety gear and lifejackets.

    Don’t forget to bring the $200 damage & security bond.

  • Yes – all our hire rates include fuel, so there are no hidden costs.

  • Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring your own picnic, snacks, and drinks (no glass or excessive alcohol, please).

BOOKINGS & PAYMENTS

  • You can book online through our website by clicking the button Book a Boat.

  • Full upfront payment is required at the time of making your online booking.

    • It is free to cancel any booking with 24 hours or greater notice prior scheduled booking. A full refund will be provided on payments that are cancelled outside of 24 hours before a scheduled booking.

    • A 50% refund will be provided for any booking cancelled or postponed with up to 12 hours notice prior to booking date.

    • If a booking is cancelled or postponed within 12 hours prior to the scheduled booking, no refund is applicable.

    • If a booking is cancelled by our Team at Nelson Bay Hire and Watersports due to unsafe weather conditions a full refund of payment will be provided.

    Please note: Wet Weather is not necessarily unsafe weather therefore standard Cancellation policy is applicable.

SAFETY & REQUIREMENTS

  • Yes, all hires include lifejackets, safety gear, and a briefing on local boating rules and conditions.

  • All Children are welcome onboard, However if your child is less than 1yr old please check with us first as they must be fitted with a suitable lifejacket, of which our smallest is typically for 6months+ size (min 45cm chest circumference).

    Please note: NSW Maritime recommends not to bring any children under 1 year onto an open boat unless necessary, so we recommend following this if at all possible.

  • Yes, drivers must be 18 years or older with valid photo ID.

  • Safety is our priority. If conditions aren’t suitable, we’ll reschedule or refund your booking, if you are already on the water and your hire period has commenced and the weather becomes unsafe then we will ask you to return to the dock and will refund the remainder of your hire period.

BOAT & WATERSPORT OPTIONS

  • We offer a range of self-drive hire boats, from small runabouts to larger pontoon-style cruisers — perfect for fishing, exploring, or relaxing.

  • Yes! We have stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and other fun watercraft available for hire.

  • Absolutely. Half-day and full-day options are available, depending on the vessel.

  • Most of our boats come with sun canopies or biminis for comfort and protection.

LOCAL EXPERIENCE

  • You can explore stunning spots like Nelson Bay Beach, Duchies  and other hidden coves in the Bay Area. We’ll provide a local map and safety boundaries. You can not travel past the Fly Point Marker.

  • Yes! Fishing is allowed on the boats. Just remember to bring your fishing license if required.

  • Yes – we also offer guided watersport sessions and local boating experiences. Ask our team for current options.

ACCESSIBILITY & EXTRAS

  • Yes, public parking is available nearby at the metered 9 hour Carpark at 40 Victoria Parade Nelson Bay, just beside Dolphin Watch Cafe or free parking in the streets adjacent to Victoria Parade.

  • Small and medium well-behaved dogs are welcome on our Tinny and Runabout boats. Please note this on your booking. If there is any mess or damage caused by the dog, there will be additional cleaning or repair costs.

  • Yes, our gift vouchers make a perfect present for anyone who loves being on the water.