HOPO Ferry - Surfers Paradise

HOPO Ferry - Surfers Paradise

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Posted 2022-02-11 by Karen Rossfollow
There's lots to see and do near Surfers Paradise and various ways to get around and do it all. E-bike hire is popular and the G:link tram is convenient for longer distances. A fun travel option is the Hop On, Hop Off Ferry (HOPO).



HOPO runs daily, from 9am, starting at the Appel Park wharf on Ferny Avenue. It stops at Home Of The Arts (HOTA), Broadwater Parklands, Marina Mirage and Sea World on its continuous circuit.



There's lots of room on board, both under cover and open-air, allowing clear views in all directions. Ferry captains give a colourful commentary which tends to change according to who is at the helm. There's generally a bit of history and geography spiced up with a tad of local 'gossip' regarding neighbouring homes/boats/schools and such.



I've hopped on the HOPO a number of times over the past year and learned a new tidbit of local info each time.



The first stretch of the journey, from the wharf at Appel Park to the Chevron Island bridge, passes palatial homes before revealing a splendid vista of the famous Surfers Paradise skyline.



The recently completed, 300-berth, Superyacht Marina at Southport is a focus along the journey. If you're anything like me, you'll gaze longingly and daydream about alternative life choices.



Of course, there are more minor than mega yachts and the odd, quirky sight such as a floating chapel.



There's a ferry stop near Broadwater Parklands that provides access to a main shopping precinct as well as Chinatown. Marina Mirage is next along the way and seems to be a popular disembarkation point.



Boutiques and designer shops are the attraction here as well as restaurants, cafés and other dining options.



The last stop is at Sea World before the HOPO begins the return journey.



For just $25 (less for children, families, seniors and concession card holders), you can ride the HOPO for the entire day, hopping off for sightseeing, shopping, lunch or a bit of a walk. The galleries at HOTA are excellent and the view from The Exhibitionist Bar is stunning. Deciding between lunch at Chinatown or Marina Mirage is burdensome but a progressive lunch might be the way to go. If you need a post-lunch (or pre-lunch) walk, hop off at Sea World and try the Federation Walk nearby.



It's such a versatile trip; do as much or as little for as long as you like. If you choose to remain on the HOPO, allow around two hours to complete the loop.

#unusual_things_to_do
#surfers_paradise
#outdoor
#northern_gold_coast
#day_trips
#boating
%wngoldcoast
141123 - 2023-06-13 17:33:08

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