A brand-new, first-of-its-kind boating experience has arrived on Great Keppel Island, with local operator GKI Boat Hire partnering with Portless Boats to introduce an innovative, lifestyle-led way to explore the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
Set to launch in the coming weeks, the experience will feature the Portless Trinity, a five-person inflatable trimaran designed for stability, comfort and social connection on the water. A larger Portless Deluxe model, accommodating up to eight people, is also being explored as a future addition to the fleet.
Unlike traditional hire vessels, Portless Boats are electric-powered, quiet and easy to operate, allowing guests to self-drive without a licence within a designated zone between Fisherman’s Beach and Putney Beach. The experience is designed as a relaxed “floating base” — perfect for swimming, socialising and low-impact exploration.
Wayne Dart, owner of OdysseyOne Marine, official Australian distributor of Portless Boats, said the concept reimagines what a day on the water can look like.
“GKI Boat Hire and Portless Boats introduce a completely new kind of boating experience – designed around comfort, ease, and social connection,” Wayne said.
“The boat’s stable, spacious, electric-powered design makes them especially appealing to women and non-boaters, turning time on the water into a relaxed ‘floating lounge’ experience – perfect for friends, families, and premium tourism moments.”
“With GKI Boat Hire leading the way, this becomes a first-of-its-kind offering in Australia – opening boating to a broader audience and positioning Great Keppel Island as a destination for unique, lifestyle-driven water experiences.”
GKI Boat Hire owner Theo George said the partnership marks an exciting step forward for the business and the region.
“We’re always looking for ways to make the island more accessible and enjoyable for visitors, and this is something completely different to anything currently on offer,” Theo said.
“These boats are incredibly stable, easy to use and genuinely fun — they open up the experience to people who may not usually feel confident getting out on the water.”
“It’s about creating memorable moments, whether that’s families spending time together or friends enjoying the reef in a new way.”
The Portless Trinity has been approved through the Australian Maritime Safety Authority under exemption criteria and is fully insured and ready for commercial operation. Its electric outboard supports a low-emission, eco-conscious approach, aligning with growing demand for sustainable marine experiences.
Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll said the new offering strengthens the region’s appeal as a destination for innovative and experience-led travel.
“This is exactly the kind of product that captures attention and inspires travel — something unique, accessible and aligned with the way visitors want to experience our destination,” Mary said.
“Great Keppel Island continues to evolve as a hub for new and exciting tourism offerings, and this partnership is a fantastic example of local operators leading with innovation.”
“It adds a new layer to our Southern Great Barrier Reef experiences and gives visitors yet another reason to choose the Capricorn Coast.”
The introduction of Portless Boats expands GKI Boat Hire’s offering beyond its existing fleet, catering to families and small groups seeking a safe, social and memorable way to experience the island’s pristine waters.
With its combination of simplicity, sustainability and standout design, the Portless experience is expected to become a major new drawcard for the Capricorn Coast region.
GKI Boat Hire website and bookings: gki-boat-hire.square.site/
