Adventure brief
Boat 3 - 3.75m Stessco Tinnie
Navigate Townsville’s waterways with the 3.75m Stessco Tinnie from Townsville Boat Hire — a smooth ride for up to four adventurers. Perfect for full or multi-day trips without the need for a boat license.
Townsville, Queensland, is a gateway to some of the most accessible and scenic waterways in northern Australia. Here, Townsville Boat Hire offers a practical, no-fuss way to experience the region’s calm creeks and bays — perfect for anglers, families, or friends craving a day on quiet waters. At the heart of their fleet is the 3.75m Stessco Tinnie: an aluminum hull equipped with a 5hp 4-stroke Tohatsu motor, a canopy to provide shade, and all essential safety gear.
This compact but capable vessel holds up to four passengers, making it ideal for intimate excursions without requiring a boat license. Setting out from Jensen, just north of Townsville, this boat rental lets you navigate smooth waters like Ross Creek, the Bohle River’s Stoney Creek, and other nearby protected areas. These creeks, lined with mangroves and eucalypts, shelter diverse birdlife and the occasional curious marine visitor.
Townsville Boat Hire’s attention to safety and simplicity—offering daylight-only use and an optional launch-and-retrieve service—makes this an accessible entry point for those new to boating or visiting the region. What sets Townsville Boat Hire apart is its local knowledge and flexible booking options. Whether you’re on a full-day adventure or stretched out over multiple days, the lightweight tinnie offers a quiet and responsive ride.
The area’s subtropical climate and protected waterways ensure calm conditions, letting you focus on fishing, photography, or simply the rhythmic paddle of the outboard motor. For any adventurer drawn to northern Queensland’s unique blend of river, estuary, and coastal environments, Townsville Boat Hire provides a direct route to discovery. The company’s friendly approach equips you with everything needed for a safe and satisfying excursion, from safety gear to tips on ideal launch ramps.
It’s a straightforward way to redefine your outdoor experience on water, steeped in authenticity and the natural charm of Townsville’s waterways.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Check Weather Before Launchessential
Conditions can change rapidly; always confirm calm weather forecasts before heading out for a safe trip.
- 02Bring Sunscreen and Waterinfo
Even with the canopy, UV exposure is high; stay hydrated and protected during your journey.
- 03Plan Your Launch and Retrieveinfo
Take advantage of optional launch-and-retrieve services offered at local ramps to save time and effort.
- 04Use Local Navigation Mapswarning
Familiarize yourself with Townsville’s smooth waterways and creeks to avoid restricted or unsafe zones.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Life Jacket
Mandatory safety gear included but bringing your own ensures perfect fit and comfort.
EssentialSun Protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Effective sun protection is critical when on the water for extended periods.
summerEssentialLightweight Waterproof Jacket
Useful for sudden spring showers and cool mornings.
springWaterproof Bag
Keep your electronics and valuables dry during the trip.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Ross Creek Boat Ramp – a peaceful spot with great fishing opportunities, Stoney Creek at Bohle River – quiet mangrove-lined waters teeming with birdlife
Local fauna
Eastern Water Dragon, Mangrove Kingfisher
Historic heritage
Townsville’s waterways were historically important to the local Wulgurukaba people, serving as fishing sites and travel routes.
Mindful exploration
Efforts in the Townsville area focus on protecting sensitive mangrove ecosystems and maintaining water quality amid growing recreational use.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Ross Creek shoreline, Bohle River mangrove edges, South Townsville Boat Park ramp
- Subjects
- Water reflections, Coastal bird species, Sunlight filtering through canopy
- Best times
- Golden hour, Early morning, Late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need a boat license to rent the Stessco Tinnie?
No boat license is required, but the skipper must be over 18 years old.
What safety equipment is provided with the boat?
The boat comes equipped with all mandatory safety gear including life jackets and a canopy for sun protection.
Can I launch the boat myself?
Yes, but Townsville Boat Hire offers optional launch and retrieve services at several local ramps for an additional fee.
What areas can I navigate with this boat?
The boat is registered for smooth waters only, such as creeks and protected bays around Townsville.
How many people can the boat accommodate?
The 3.75m Stessco Tinnie can safely carry up to four passengers.
What are the rental durations available?
Rentals can be booked for a full day or multiple consecutive days to suit your schedule.