Fast-track a visit to Moreton Island

Published 9:30am 25 March 2022

A new service linking Redcliffe to Moreton Island launches next week. Find out how you can get aboard…

A new fast boat service running direct between Redcliffe Jetty and Moreton Island launches in time for the Easter school holidays.

The Bottlenose, a 12 metre rigid inflatable boat, will deliver passengers from Redcliffe Jetty to Mulgumpin (Moreton Island) in 30 minutes.

It can carry up to 30 passengers and will be operated by River to Bay, in addition to their service from Sandstone Point.

Tourism boost

Moreton Bay Regional Council Acting Mayor Jodie Shipway welcomes the boost to the region’s tourism offering and the $4 million in economic benefits the new service will deliver during the first two years of operation.

“Moreton Bay attracts twice as many annual visitors than Noosa and providing more access for residents and visitors to experience Moreton Bay’s wonderful natural attractions will continue to position our region as one Queensland’s most popular tourist destinations,” she says.

“This investment shows that businesses are confident in the Moreton Bay economy forging ahead as one of the best places to do business in southeast Queensland despite the recent challenges of COVID and floods.

“I urge everyone to stay the weekend in Redcliffe, check out our beautiful foreshore, restaurants, cafes and then jump on the Bottlenose for a trip to Moreton Island in under 30 minutes - you could be back in time for dinner!”

Ideal day out

River to Bay co-founder John Sharpe says the service will be the fastest boat service connecting to the island and is an exciting new addition to the existing run from Sandstone Point.

“Moreton Island is clearly visible from Redcliffe, so it is exciting to be able to connect locals and visitors to enjoy the beach, resort, snorkelling and other activities, all in 30 minutes,” he says.

“Departing from Redcliffe’s accommodation centre, we are confident this service will convince visitors to spend an extra day in the region.”

Adventures await

The boat arrives at Tangalooma Resort on Moreton Island, and a ticket includes lunch at the resort and a day pass to pools, restaurants, bars, tours, shops and other resort facilities.

Visitors can also choose to add optional tours of the desert dunes, snorkelling at the wrecks, and discovering the marine wildlife to their day.

The family-friendly snorkelling tour includes fish-feeding and swimming in crystal-clear water that’s homes to turtles, dugongs and Wobbegong who share the coral with more than 200 species of fish.

The boat’s trial will operate five times a week from March 30, departing Redcliffe Jetty at 9.15am and arriving at Moreton Island by 9.45am.

A return service will depart Moreton Island at 3.45pm.

Book tickets here.