Party Boats in Port Stephens

What to Ask Before Booking a Boat

A charter on Port Stephens gives a party something hard to match on land: dolphins in the bay, whale-watching from roughly May to November and sheltered water for an evening cruise. Boats leave either from d'Albora Marina at Nelson Bay or from the wharves on the Tilligerry side of the harbour.

Choosing a boat comes down to group size and style:

Up to about 36 guests: a catamaran with coffee made on board and shaded seating, which welcomes dogs and suits relaxed birthdays and reunions
Up to 60 guests: a 54-foot sailing catamaran with its own bar, chartered by day or after dark
Large functions: a fleet of catamarans and function boats for catered weddings, Christmas parties and work events of up to 200
Heritage cruising: a timber showboat dating from 1922 that cruises the quieter western harbour for birthdays, weddings and reunions

Charter prices depend on the boat, the hours and the catering, so request a quote with your date and numbers. For celebrations before a wedding, see hens party boats and bucks party boats.

Whether catering is on board, and whether you can bring your own food or drinks
Where you board, and whether pick-ups from other wharves cost extra
What happens if wind or swell cancels the cruise, and how far ahead they decide
Whether the boat has a covered area, toilets and a sound system
How long the charter runs and whether it can be extended on the day

Timing a cruise on Port Stephens

Summer evenings on the bay are warm, though holiday weekends book out early
Winter and spring charters can coincide with humpbacks passing the heads
Morning cruises often catch calmer water before the afternoon breeze arrives
Sunset charters suit engagements and anniversaries

Everything You Need to Know About Boat Hire

Where do party boats leave from in Port Stephens?

Most catamaran charters leave from d'Albora Marina at Nelson Bay. The heritage showboat boards at Lemon Tree Passage or Taylors Beach on the Tilligerry side.

How many guests can a Port Stephens charter boat take?

Boats range from a catamaran for about 36 guests to function vessels that cater for up to 200.

Can we hold a wedding on a boat in Port Stephens?

Yes. Several operators take wedding charters with exclusive use of the boat, and some include a coordinator and sound system.

Will we see dolphins or whales on a Port Stephens party cruise?

Dolphins are often seen in the bay, and humpback whales travel past the heads roughly from May to November.

Can I bring my own drinks on a Port Stephens charter?

Some boats allow BYO food and drinks, while others run a licensed bar. Check the policy before planning the menu.

How much does it cost to charter a boat on Port Stephens?

It depends on the vessel, the length of the cruise and the catering. Send your date, group size and preferred times for a quote.

Party Boats Port Stephens

Port Stephens Boat Suppliers, Compared