Ancient Mangrove Safari Jetski Tour
A 17,000-year-old labyrinth of mangrove passageways hidden in the northern Gold Coast — only reachable by jetski, and only during a narrow tidal window. Ninety minutes, wild dolphins, and open-throttle sprints on a brand-new 2026 Sea-Doo.
“Absolutely brilliant experience from start to finish… The perfect mix of adrenaline and sightseeing. Easily one of the highlights of my Gold Coast visit.”Jamie L. · Google review
Highlights
- Ride single-file through tunnels of ancient mangrove roots and canopy — locals call it The Maze
- Spot the resident dolphin pods, sea-eagles, brahminy kites and kingfishers
- Open up the throttle on the Broadwater between the mangrove sections
- Perfect for first-timers, couples and anyone short on time
- Brand-new 2026 Sea-Doo GTI 130, fuel and guide all included
Itinerary
- Sanctuary Cove Marina, Pier B StartCheck in, safety briefing and on-water training.
- Hope Island & Sanctuary Cove waterwaysCruise past the superyachts and canals towards the mangrove system.
- The Maze Main stopSingle-file through 17,000-year-old mangrove passages — ask your guide about Kevin's Corridor.
- Open-water sprint HighlightUnleash the speed on the open sections of the Broadwater.
- Return to Sanctuary Cove MarinaBack about 1.5 hours after departure.
Itinerary is a guide only — your guide adjusts the route for tide, wind and wildlife.
About this tour
Deep inside the Gold Coast Broadwater, past the superyachts and tourist canals, there is a world that hasn't changed in 17,000 years. Ancient mangrove trees have grown into passageways so narrow, so twisted and so perfectly formed that locals simply call it The Maze. You can't walk in, you can't get a boat through, and you won't find it on a tourist map.
The only way in is on a jetski — and only when the tide opens the passages long enough to navigate safely. Your professional guide leads you through the Hope Island and Sanctuary Cove mangrove system, one of the most biodiverse marine habitats in South-East Queensland, home to wild dolphins and hundreds of bird species. Most people spend their entire lives on the Gold Coast and never see this.
Meet your machine
2026 Sea-Doo GTI 130
Smooth and nimble for the narrow passages, powerful enough to blow your hat off on the open water.
- Engine: Rotax 900 ACE, 130hp
- Capacity: max 2 riders per jetski
- Model year: 2026 (current gen)
- Experience: none needed — training provided
What's included
- 2026 Sea-Doo GTI 130 (2-seater)
- Professional tour guide
- All fuel and marina fees
- Life vest, safety lanyard and pre-tour briefing
Not suitable for
- Drivers under 16 years
- Under 18s without a parent or guardian
Meeting point
Trident Jetskis, Pier B, Sanctuary Cove Marina
4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island QLD 4212
Walk through Sanctuary Cove village, past the IGA and before Georges Paragon — our sign is at Pier B. Plenty of free parking around the marina. About 40 minutes from Surfers Paradise and an hour from Brisbane.
What to bring
- Phone and photo ID
- Sunscreen and a hat with a strap
- Water
- Clothes you don't mind getting a little wet
Know before you go
- Arrive 20–30 minutes before departure
- Boarding starts 15 minutes before your time
- Late arrivals can't join once the group has left
- Pricing is per jetski, up to 2 riders
Reviews
Based on 134 Google reviews
“Absolutely brilliant experience from start to finish. Our guide Paco was fantastic — professional and made sure everyone felt confident before we set off. The perfect mix of adrenaline and sightseeing. Easily one of the highlights of my Gold Coast visit.”Jamie L. · Google review
“Fantastic experience. Paco is a great guide and made us all feel at ease. All communication was brilliant — emailed a question and it was answered immediately. Top quality equipment. You will not regret this excursion.”Dan W. · Google review
“Had a fantastic time. More than what we expected. Thank you Paco.”Michael H. · Google review
“Fantastic tour with lots to see, lots of laughs, and the amazing guide Paco!”Rhys W. · Google review
“The best ever! Paco is a super amazing guide — made the whole experience unforgettable.”Diego V. · Google review
“Thanks for a great day Josh! Highly recommended!”Callum T. · Google review
“Josh was brilliant. Cheers.”Dan M. · Google review
FAQs
How long is the Mangrove Safari jetski tour?
1.5 hours on the water. Tours depart Sanctuary Cove Marina at 11:00am and 5:00pm.
How much does it cost?
A$266 per jetski, with up to 2 riders — about A$133 per person when shared. The jetski, guide, fuel, marina fees and safety gear are all included.
Do I need a licence or experience?
No. No licence or previous experience is needed — your guide trains you before you ride.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes. The sheltered mangrove waterways make this our best tour for first-timers, couples and anyone who wants a shorter adventure.
What wildlife will I see?
The waterways are home to resident dolphin pods, white-bellied sea-eagles, brahminy kites, kingfishers and wading birds.
What if the weather is bad?
If we cancel for weather or sea conditions, you get a full refund. To cancel yourself, give at least 24 hours' notice.
