JOHNSONVILLE BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE
Pontoon Quietude on the Tambo: Private river hires from Johnsonville
Private pontoon boat hire on the Tambo River from Johnsonville with 2-, 4- or 8-hour options for groups of up to 12—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
Pontoon Quietude on the Tambo: Private river hires from Johnsonville.
Private pontoon boat hire on the Tambo River places you on one of East Gippsland’s longest waterways, with direct access to the Gippsland Lakes and shoreline villages; Seas the Day operates private rentals that let small groups set their own pace on the water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A 186-kilometre ribbon to explore
The Tambo River runs for more than 186 kilometres, forming a long, sheltered corridor that opens onto the Gippsland Lakes—ideal country for relaxed pontoon cruising and lakeside scenery.
Licence-free, private pontoon for groups
Rentals are private pontoon hires suitable for up to 12 passengers, available to all ages and arranged in blocks of 2, 4 or 8 hours—no boat licence is required to hire.
Safety briefings, maps and picnic options
Each hire includes an induction and safety briefing, electronic and laminated maps and all required safety equipment; you can pack a picnic or stop to dine at the seaside villages of the Gippsland Lakes (a list of accessible eateries is carried on the vessel).
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
A hire is a low-key, self-directed outing: board for a timed hire (two, four or eight hours), run the pontoon at leisure along the river and lakes, follow the supplied maps and stop where you like to picnic or visit small seaside villages.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hire suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a photo ID and wear appropriate boat attire; pack a picnic lunch or plan to dine at lakeside villages; don’t forget sunscreen.
You can bring your own food or stop at accessible eateries around the Gippsland Lakes—the vessel carries a list of local dining options.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What rental durations and rates are offered?
Rentals are available for two hours ($250), a half day (4 hours, $400) or a full day (8 hours, $600).
Where do we meet for the hire?
Meet at the Johnsonville Boat Ramp on Punt Road in Johnsonville for boarding and the safety briefing.
Do I need a boat licence to hire the pontoon?
No boat licence is required to hire the pontoon.
How many people can be aboard?
Each pontoon hire accepts 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; scenic access to the Gippsland Lakes is part of the experience.
What should I bring on the day?
Bring a photo ID, wear suitable boat attire, pack sunscreen and any picnic food you want to eat on board (or use the vessel’s list of nearby eateries).