Illustration of a light display scene (Runaway Bay Sunset and Christmas Lights Cruise)
Christmas Lights

Runaway Bay Sunset and Christmas Lights Cruise

Guests embark on a scenic evening boat cruise aboard the Beachcomber across the Gold Coast Broadwater. The cruise glides through the canals of the Runaway Bay Islands to showcase festive Christmas light displays set up by waterfront residents. Passengers can relax on the water, listen to festive music, and enjoy complimentary drinks.

What to Expect

Private charter cruise viewing waterfront Christmas light displays on Runaway Bay Islands.

Event Details

Duration

Approximately two hours.

Ages

18+ for Prosecco, All ages welcome

Neighborhood

Runaway Bay

Timed Entry

Yes

Organizer

Beachcomber Charters

Food & Drink

Guests may bring food and beverages; complimentary Prosecco is provided for adults, with soft drinks and bottled water also available.

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Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and small groups celebrating together

Vibe

Festive and relaxed

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Location

Beach adjacent Howard Street Boat Ramp
Howard Street, Runaway Bay, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Gold Coast, QLD

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: AUD$695.00 for a private cruise for up to 12 guests. Includes a complimentary glass of Prosecco for guests aged 18+, soft drinks and bottled water. BYO food and beverages welcome. – Get tickets
  • Hours: Evening; no clock time is stated in the page text.
  • Accessibility: Boarding is via a beach ladder directly from the sand.

Tips & Advice

  • Book your preferred date ahead, as the cruise books out each year and the operator advises not leaving it until December.
  • Bring Christmas treats or other food and beverages if you want more than the included soft drinks, water and Prosecco.
  • Wear festive gear if you want to join in the suggested Christmas dress-up.
  • Allow approximately two hours for the private cruise.
  • Be prepared to board via the beach ladder at the Howard Street beach pickup.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Private cruise available for groups of up to 12.
  • Shared Christmas Lights Tours are also offered.
  • Guests aged 18+ receive complimentary Prosecco.
  • Book ahead to secure a preferred date; the cruise books out every year.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can join the cruise, and how many guests can come?

The private charter suits family, friends or colleagues, with a maximum of 12 guests.

Should I book ahead?

Yes. The Christmas lights cruise books out each year, so book ahead to secure your preferred date rather than leaving it until December.

What will we see on the cruise?

The two-hour evening cruise includes sunset views over the Broadwater and a trip through the Runaway Bay Islands waterways to see residents’ Christmas light displays. Viewing is subject to weather conditions.

What food and drinks are provided, and can we bring our own?

Soft drinks and bottled water are included, along with Prosecco for guests aged 18 and over. Guests may bring their own food and beverages, including Christmas treats.

How do guests board, and what should we wear?

Pickup is at the beach at Howard Street, Runaway Bay, with boarding via a beach ladder. Festive dress is welcome.

Tags

holiday light displaysfamily friendlyprivate charterfestive foodseasonal activitiesholiday cheerboat toursNew Years Eve

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 4, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team