If you’re eyeing a relaxing yet fun way to enjoy Canberra’s stunning scenery, this self-drive electric boat experience on Lake Burley Griffin might just be perfect. We’ve looked into this offering from Love Boats Canberra, and it’s clear this is a solid choice for anyone wanting a laid-back day on the water — no boat license required.
What we really like about this experience is the combination of ease and comfort it provides. You get to be the captain — steering your own boat — which is surprisingly simple thanks to the well-designed, user-friendly setup. Plus, the boat’s fully enclosed canopy and canopy window enclosures make it suitable for all weather conditions, so rain or shine, you’re good to go.
One potential consideration is the duration — with options from just one hour up to three, some might find the shorter trips a tad quick if they’re eager to explore extensively. But if you’re after a relaxed, scenic cruise, this isn’t a big deal.
This experience is ideal for those who appreciate a blend of leisure, comfort, and a touch of adventure — perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a peaceful yet engaging way to see Lake Burley Griffin.
Key Points
- Self-Drive Freedom: You’re in the driver’s seat — no license needed.
- Comfortable & Weatherproof: Fully enclosed canopy and window enclosures keep you dry and protected.
- Added Comforts: A Bluetooth stereo and a built-in cooler make the cruise relaxing and fun.
- Flexible Duration: Choose between 1 to 3 hours based on your schedule.
- Family-Friendly: Easy to navigate and suitable for groups, making it a good family outing.
- Helpful Staff: Locally knowledgeable and attentive team ensure smooth sailing.
What’s It Like to Cruise on Lake Burley Griffin?
Imagine cruising along the water, feeling the gentle motion of the electric boat beneath you, with panoramic views of Canberra’s skyline and surrounding nature. That’s what this tour promises — a chance to take the helm and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
The boats are described as super comfy and easy to drive. Naomi from Australia even mentions, “We very much enjoyed our afternoon out on the lake, even in a heatwave,” emphasizing how well the boat’s features help keep you comfortable regardless of the weather.
The boat itself is designed for relaxation — spacious, with cushion seats and backrests. The fully enclosed canopy is a real bonus, especially if the weather turns or if you want to enjoy the lake without worrying about sun exposure. The window enclosures give you a clear view of the surroundings, making it easy to take in the scenery while staying protected.
Planning more time in Canberra? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Features That Boost the Experience
One standout feature is the Bluetooth stereo, allowing you to connect your own music. This adds a personal touch that makes your cruise feel more like a private party or a serene escape. Plus, with the built-in cooler, you can keep drinks cold, which everyone appreciated — as Rikki noted, “The boat was easy to navigate and had a fridge that kept our beverages cold.”
The ability to bring your own food and drinks offers flexibility. You can pack a picnic, snacks, or drinks, and enjoy a relaxed meal on the water. The host can also organize catering if you prefer, but bringing your own supplies keeps things simple and economical.
The Itinerary & What You Can Expect
The tour doesn’t involve specific stops or guided commentary — it’s all about your personal cruise experience. You’ll meet at Jetty 5/8 Trevillian Quay in Kingston (coordinates provided), where a friendly staff member familiar with English will give you a quick rundown of operation and safety.
Once on board, you’ll have the freedom to explore Lake Burley Griffin at your own pace. The lake’s size and beauty make it perfect for a casual cruise, with plenty of scenic spots to admire. The experience lasts from 1 to 3 hours, giving ample time to relax, take photos, or just enjoy the tranquility.
Since no boat license is required, even those new to boating will find this manageable. The boats are designed for easy handling, and the staff is known for being helpful and attentive.
The Reviews Say It All
We love that all four reviews give this experience a perfect 5/5 score. Naomi highlights how “super comfy, easy to drive, fully covered boat with a mini fridge,” and appreciated the helpful staff. Rikki calls it a “great family activity,” noting how “the boat was easy to navigate and the customer service was fantastic.”
Faye sums up the sentiment with her comment that it’s “one of the best activities in Canberra,” emphasizing the friendly staff and the care taken with the boats. Man also mentions the “nice staff” and the convenience of having a fridge on board, which kept their beverages cold.
These reviews underline how straightforward, comfortable, and enjoyable the experience is — especially when you appreciate good service and well-maintained equipment.
More Great Tours NearbyValue for Money
Considering the price, this experience offers a lot of bang for your buck. You’re not just renting a boat; you’re getting a tailored, comfortable cruise with added amenities like a Bluetooth stereo and cooler. Plus, the flexibility in duration means you can tailor your outing — whether a quick hour or a leisurely three-hour cruise.
Since there’s no need for a license and the boats are easy to handle, even beginners can enjoy the ride without stress. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more personalized experience, which adds to the overall value.
Who Should Consider This?
This tour is well-suited for couples looking for a romantic escape, friends planning a fun day out, or small families wanting a relaxed adventure on the water. It’s also excellent for those new to boating or who prefer a guided experience without a guide, since it’s entirely self-led.
If you love scenic views, enjoying music while drifting along, or simply want to add a unique activity to your Canberra itinerary, this experience ticks those boxes. It’s especially appealing if you want a flexible, low-pressure activity that combines comfort with a bit of independence.
Final Thoughts
For anyone craving a scenic, leisurely time on Lake Burley Griffin, this self-drive electric boat ride offers a relaxed yet engaging way to enjoy Canberra’s lakefront. The combination of easy handling, comfort features, and the ability to bring your own food and music makes it stand out from typical boat rentals.
It’s a straightforward, hassle-free experience that’s perfect if you’re after a gentle exploration of the water with plenty of options for customization. The positive reviews affirm that this is a well-managed and enjoyable outing, suitable for all who want to unwind while taking in some truly lovely views.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a peaceful break in nature, this tour offers a simple, friendly, and memorable way to spend part of your time in Canberra. Just remember to pack your snacks, tunes, and a good attitude — and you’re set for a lovely day on the water.
Canberra: Lake Burley Griffin Self-Drive Electric Boat
FAQ
Do I need a boat license to rent this electric boat?
No, a boat license is not required. The boats are designed to be easy to handle for beginners.
How long can I rent the boat for?
You can choose a rental duration between 1 and 3 hours, depending on your preference and schedule.
What should I bring on the boat?
Bring your own food and drinks. The boat has a built-in cooler and ice available on request. Canned drinks and premix alcohol are allowed, but glass objects are not.
Is the boat suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes. The boat has a fully enclosed canopy and window enclosures, making it comfortable even if it rains.
Can I connect my own music?
Absolutely. There’s a Bluetooth stereo on board, so you can play your favorite tunes during your cruise.
Is this experience good for families or groups?
Yes, it’s suitable for small groups and families. The boat is roomy, and the relaxed environment makes it a good outing for various ages.
Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Jetty 5/8 Trevillian Quay, Kingston ACT 2604, with coordinates -35.311275482177734,149.14727783203125.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your plans.
If you’re after a mix of comfort, independence, and scenic beauty on Lake Burley Griffin, this self-drive electric boat experience hits the sweet spot. We think it’s a relaxing way to see Canberra from a different perspective — and one you’ll remember long after the day ends.
You can check availability for your dates here: