Moreton Bay Islands · Self-Drive Boat Hire
Moreton Island by Boat
Sand dunes, clear water and one of Brisbane's biggest day-trip destinations
Open bay crossing · Around 60-90 minutes from Scarborough or Manly, weather dependent
Check Availability →Getting to Moreton Island
Moreton Island is the biggest drawcard in Moreton Bay - towering sand dunes, the Champagne Pools, and clear water along its eastern side. It's also the furthest of our island destinations, with a genuine open-water crossing rather than the sheltered runs to islands like Peel or Green.
We're upfront about this one: the crossing to Moreton Island covers open bay water for roughly 20km, and a boat the size of our Quintrex 430 handles that comfortably only in calm-to-moderate conditions. It's a trip for settled weather, not a rough day.
Weather-dependent trip: Moreton Island involves a genuine open-bay crossing of around 20km each way. We only recommend this trip in calm conditions, and ask that you check the marine forecast and speak with us before booking a Moreton Island day. It's better suited to boaters with some open-water experience than a first-time self-drive trip.
What to Do at Moreton Island
Champagne Pools
Natural rock pools on the ocean side of the island, a short walk from the beach - best combined with a calm-day anchor stop.
Sand Dunes
Some of the largest sand dunes in the world, visible from well out on the water.
Tangalooma Wrecks
The wreck site sits on the western side of the island - see our dedicated Tangalooma page for details.
Fishing
Deeper water off the island's western side can produce snapper and other pelagic species.
Boating Conditions
Moreton Island involves a genuine open-bay crossing of around 20km each way. We only recommend this trip in calm conditions, and ask that you check the marine forecast and speak with us before booking a Moreton Island day. It's better suited to boaters with some open-water experience than a first-time self-drive trip. A current Queensland Recreational Boat Licence (RBL) is required to operate the Quintrex 430, and every hire includes a full safety briefing, life jackets, EPIRB, GPS and Fishfinder.
Planning a trip to Moreton Island? Email us and we'll help you plan the route and check conditions before you book.
Quintrex 430 Fishabout - $200/day
Flexible multi-day rates available · Optional fishing & watersports gear add-ons
Safety on the Water
Full safety briefing, weather rescheduling, and comprehensive insurance on every hire - so you can focus on enjoying Moreton Island.
Full Insurance
Comprehensive coverage so you can focus on having fun.
Weather Rescheduling
Bad weather? We'll reschedule at no extra cost.
Safety Briefing
Route and conditions advice tailored to where you're headed.
Moreton Island FAQs
What you need to know before you head out
Is Moreton Island suitable for a Quintrex 430?
Yes, but only in calm-to-moderate conditions. It's a genuine open-bay crossing, so we recommend checking the forecast and talking to us before you commit to the trip.
How long does the crossing take?
Around 60-90 minutes each way from Scarborough or Manly, depending on conditions and your exact route.
Is this a good trip for first-time self-drive boaters?
Not usually. We'd suggest starting with a sheltered destination like Peel Island or Green Island if this is your first hire, and building up to Moreton Island once you're comfortable on the water.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
We offer free rescheduling for bad weather - if conditions aren't suitable for the crossing, we'll help you plan an alternative closer to shore or move your booking.
Ready to Explore Moreton Island?
Questions about routes, tides or conditions? Get in touch - we're happy to help.
📍 Marsden, 4132 QLD · Get Directions
See more Moreton Bay boat hire destinations.