BUNDY BELLE

Welcome to Bundy Belle

Step aboard on a Bundy Belle cruise and embark on a journey through time and the heart of Bundaberg with a relaxing excursion along the scenic Burnett River. Sit back and relax as our experienced and knowledgeable skipper brings the river’s rich history and culture to life.

As you cruise downstream, the skipper will recount the history of some of Bundaberg’s most iconic landmarks, including the Millaquin Mill, the Bundaberg Rum Distillery, the Bulk Sugar Terminal and the Port of Bundaberg itself. As you approach the marina, you’ll see an assortment of ocean-going yachts and smaller pleasure craft docked in neat rows while rugged fishing trawlers unload their catch at seafood processing plants.

Whether you choose to unwind in the spacious, comfortable cabin, soak in the views from the open-air upper deck or capture stunning photos from the lower front deck, Bundy Belle cruises offer the perfect opportunity to see Bundaberg from the unique perspective of the Burnett River.

Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits or sit back and relax with your favourite tipple from our licensed bar. Before or after your cruise, why not treat yourself to a delicious meal at Grunskes by the River seafood restaurant and explore their amazing range of fresh local seafood and produce at the seafood market, open seven days a week?

We can’t wait to see you and welcome you aboard for an unforgettable journey along the lovely Burnett River!

Bundy Belle Day River Cruises

Bundy Belle offers three day river cruises, each slightly different but all providing passengers with insights into Bundaberg’s rich history while they relax on board and enjoy unparalleled views of the city from the distinctive perspective of the Burnett River.

On the Bundy Belle Commentary Cruise, prepare to be entertained and educated by our very knowledgeable skipper on a relaxing two-and-a-half-hour cruise downriver to the Port of Bundaberg. The three-hour Bundy Belle Fish & Chips Cruise begins with an upstream journey, tides permitting, before returning downstream to collect your freshly cooked fish and chips from Grunskes by the River and continuing on to the mouth of the river. This cruise features commentary on the outbound journey and live music on the return trip. The 90-minute Bundy Belle Sunset Cruise is an opportunity to sit back and enjoy the company of your friends and loved ones while sipping on a complimentary alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink, tucking into a delicious appetiser plate freshly prepared by Grunskes by the River and listening to live music.

Bundy Belle also offers private cruises suitable for all sorts of occasions, from birthday parties to work functions, with karaoke, party lighting, Bluetooth connection to the surround-sound system, and optional live entertainment and catering.

What to Expect

The departure point for the Commentary Cruise is Grunskes by the River, and it’s advised to get there no less than 20 minutes before departure time. As you arrive at the seafood restaurant, the inviting aroma of freshly cooked seafood mingles with the salty breeze drifting from the Burnett River. Before you leave the car park, notice the kitchen garden, full of edible plants used in the restaurant’s dishes, and look out for water dragons which are often lazing in the sun.

As you make your way downstairs to the boarding area, you may see trawlermen unloading their fresh catch onto the docks. The clatter of crates, the fishermen’s banter and the unmistakable aroma of the day’s haul add authentic notes to the riverside setting. Ten to 15 minutes before departure, the friendly crew will open the gate and guide you onto the vessel. You’ll descend a ramp with sturdy railings, feeling the gentle sway of the water beneath your feet. The low hum of the engines and the faint vibrations beneath the deck signal that your journey is about to begin. Whether you strike up a conversation with fellow passengers or simply soak up the atmosphere, the anticipation of your cruise adventure builds.

Once aboard, you can settle into a comfortable forward-facing seat in the main cabin, ready to appreciate the skipper’s engaging commentary. If you prefer to soak up the sunshine, climb the ladder to the upper deck, where a cool breeze will sweep your face and you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the river. The front deck is another inviting spot, ideal for capturing stunning photos or simply watching the rippling water dance beneath the bow.

Bundy Belle cruises are a sensory-rich experience. As the cruise gets underway, with the gentle rocking of the boat you’ll hear the lapping of the water against the hull, the occasional honk of a passing cane train and the friendly calls of fishermen in their tinnies competing for the best prawning spots. The rhythmic chants of dragon boat coxswains as they guide their teams may be interrupted by children along the riverbank as they shout and wave excitedly as you glide by.

No matter where you sit, you’ll hear the skipper’s stories and lighthearted jokes through the surround-sound system, ensuring an entertaining ride. Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits or something stronger from the licensed bar as you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Burnett River and learn something of the history of this thriving city.

Accessibility

At Bundy Belle, we strive to provide an inclusive and welcoming experience for all guests. Bundy Belle II is wheelchair-accessible, with wheelchair spaces available in the main cabin, along with an accessible toilet. There’s also an accessible bathroom inside Grunskes by the River.

While the nearest bus stop is 10 to 15 minutes away, accessible parking is available in the main car park near the Grunskes by the River entrance on Petersen Street. However, access to the boarding point is down a flight of steps. Wheelchair users and those for whom steps might be challenging should board at Riverside Parklands pontoon, where accessible parking is available near the River Cruz Cafe. The car park has designated accessible parking spaces and a ramp provides access to the vessel. However, note that the ramp is long with a slight incline, so exercise caution on arrival and be aware that it’s an uphill push on the return journey. Guests who wish to board at Riverside Parklands should advise us at the time of booking. The upper deck is not accessible for wheelchairs. 

While pets are not allowed, we welcome guide dogs and service animals on board. Grassy areas for toileting service dogs are available near Grunskes by the River and at the Riverside Parklands pontoon gate. 

Guests with sensory sensitivities may wish to bring headphones, as engine noise is constant and commentary is played over loudspeakers.

Our staff have undergone accessibility training and are ready to assist guests as needed.If you have any specific accessibility requirements or concerns, please contact us in advance and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.