NICHOLSON BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE
Glide beneath the old trestle and into Gippsland’s riparian theatre on a Nicholson River pontoon
Self-drive pontoon rentals from Seas the Day in Nicholson let groups up to 12 run 2-, 4- or 8-hour outings without a boat licence—this guide lays out what to expect and what to bring.
Glide beneath the old trestle and into Gippsland’s riparian theatre on a Nicholson River pontoon.
The Nicholson River Pontoon Boat Hire is a straightforward, license-free way to spend a day on the water: easy-to-drive pontoons, scenic views of the Gippsland Lakes and a river corridor of cliffs, birds and reptiles that appear close enough to touch.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Under the trestle and along wildlife-rich cliffs
The route runs upriver beneath the old railway trestle bridge and along cliff faces where Eastern Water Dragons, blue-tongue lizards and numerous bird species — including kingfishers — are commonly seen.
Fun, easy-to-drive pontoons—no licence required
The operator’s boats are described as fun and easy to drive; no boat licence is required and vessels carry induction and safety briefings, electronic and laminated maps and all safety equipment.
Flexible rentals from two hours to a full day
Rentals come in 2-, 4- or 8-hour blocks with published rates for each option and the flexibility to picnic onboard or stop to dine at seaside villages around the Gippsland Lakes.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
The outing is a low‑stress, self‑drive experience: customers receive an induction and safety briefing, pick up maps and safety gear, then head upriver beneath the trestle and along cliffs where wildlife congregates. Time on the water can be tailored—short two‑hour runs or a full eight‑hour day—making it as gentle or as long as your group prefers.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hire suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a photo ID and wear appropriate boat attire. Pack a picnic lunch or plan to stop and dine at nearby seaside villages; sunscreen is recommended. A list of local eateries is available onboard.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need a boat licence to hire a pontoon?
No — a boat licence is not required for these pontoon hires.
How long can I hire a boat for?
Rentals are offered in three durations: 2 hours, 4 hours (half day) and 8 hours (full day).
How many people can fit on a boat?
Vessels accommodate up to 12 passengers.
What is included with the hire?
The hire includes an induction and safety briefing, electronic and laminated maps and all required safety equipment.
Where do I meet the operator?
The operator meets customers at the Nicholson River Boat Ramp, opposite 929 Princes Highway, Nicholson.
What are the rates?
Published rates are: Two‑hour rentals $200; Half day (4 hours) $350; Full day (8 hours) $550.