Our Story
The Tweed River has long been a place of movement, connection and life - shaping the people, wildlife and landscapes that surround it. Tweed Eco Cruises exists to share this extraordinary waterway in a way that is relaxed, respectful and deeply connected to place.
Today, Tweed Eco Cruises is proudly operated by the fifth-generation Spedding family, with roots spanning the Tweed river, coast and hinterland. Our connection to this region runs deep, and with that comes a strong sense of responsibility - to care for the river, protect its wildlife, and ensure these experiences remain meaningful for generations to come.
A Legacy of River Cruising
For more than 30 years, Tweed Eco Cruises has been welcoming guests onto the river to experience its quiet beauty, abundant wildlife and ever-changing landscapes. Over time, the business has grown into one of the region’s most respected eco-tourism operators, recognised for its commitment to sustainability, education and authentic local experiences.
This work has been acknowledged through multiple eco-tourism and tourism awards, including Gold at the NSW Tourism Awards, as well as national recognition through eco-tourism accreditation programs - reflecting a long-standing commitment to excellence and responsible tourism.
That legacy continues today, guided by the same principles: slow travel, thoughtful storytelling, and a genuine respect for the natural environment.
Local Knowledge, Shared Stories
Our cruises are shaped by local knowledge - not scripts. Each journey reflects the rhythms of the river on the day, from tidal movements and birdlife to weather patterns and seasonal changes.
Guests may encounter dolphins, sea eagles, ospreys, mangroves, rainforest creeks and working waterways, all brought to life through relaxed commentary and hands-on experiences. Whether it’s a gentle river cruise, a fishing and crabbing experience, or a private charter, every journey is designed to feel personal, unhurried and grounded in place.
Education, Community and Stewardship
Education and community involvement are an important part of what we do. Tweed Eco Cruises proudly provides a training ground for two Griffith University marine science students, offering hands-on, real-world exposure to river systems, wildlife observation and sustainable tourism practices.
We also actively participate in community initiatives such as Clean Up Australia Day, contributing to the care and health of the Tweed River and surrounding waterways alongside local volunteers.
Through these partnerships and programs, we aim to support learning, care for country, and foster a deeper understanding of the Tweed River’s ecological significance.
Caring for the River and Its Wildlife
Sustainability is not an add-on at Tweed Eco Cruises - it underpins everything we do. From operating practices that minimise our impact on the river to supporting conservation initiatives, we are committed to protecting the ecosystems that make these journeys possible.
We are proud to support Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, contributing to the care and rehabilitation of native wildlife across the region. Their work reflects the same values that guide us: respect for nature, compassion for wildlife, and long-term stewardship of the environment.
Looking Ahead
As custodians of Tweed Eco Cruises, our focus is on continuity - honouring what has come before while ensuring the business remains strong, responsible and deeply connected to the community it serves.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard and sharing the Tweed River with you - from river to rainforest.
The Tweed River has long been a place of movement, connection and life - shaping the people, wildlife and landscapes that surround it. Tweed Eco Cruises exists to share this extraordinary waterway in a way that is relaxed, respectful and deeply connected to place.
Today, Tweed Eco Cruises is proudly operated by the fifth-generation Spedding family, with roots spanning the Tweed river, coast and hinterland. Our connection to this region runs deep, and with that comes a strong sense of responsibility - to care for the river, protect its wildlife, and ensure these experiences remain meaningful for generations to come.
A Legacy of River Cruising
For more than 30 years, Tweed Eco Cruises has been welcoming guests onto the river to experience its quiet beauty, abundant wildlife and ever-changing landscapes. Over time, the business has grown into one of the region’s most respected eco-tourism operators, recognised for its commitment to sustainability, education and authentic local experiences.
This work has been acknowledged through multiple eco-tourism and tourism awards, including Gold at the NSW Tourism Awards, as well as national recognition through eco-tourism accreditation programs - reflecting a long-standing commitment to excellence and responsible tourism.
That legacy continues today, guided by the same principles: slow travel, thoughtful storytelling, and a genuine respect for the natural environment.
Local Knowledge, Shared Stories
Our cruises are shaped by local knowledge - not scripts. Each journey reflects the rhythms of the river on the day, from tidal movements and birdlife to weather patterns and seasonal changes.
Guests may encounter dolphins, sea eagles, ospreys, mangroves, rainforest creeks and working waterways, all brought to life through relaxed commentary and hands-on experiences. Whether it’s a gentle river cruise, a fishing and crabbing experience, or a private charter, every journey is designed to feel personal, unhurried and grounded in place.
Education, Community and Stewardship
Education and community involvement are an important part of what we do. Tweed Eco Cruises proudly provides a training ground for two Griffith University marine science students, offering hands-on, real-world exposure to river systems, wildlife observation and sustainable tourism practices.
We also actively participate in community initiatives such as Clean Up Australia Day, contributing to the care and health of the Tweed River and surrounding waterways alongside local volunteers.
Through these partnerships and programs, we aim to support learning, care for country, and foster a deeper understanding of the Tweed River’s ecological significance.
Caring for the River and Its Wildlife
Sustainability is not an add-on at Tweed Eco Cruises - it underpins everything we do. From operating practices that minimise our impact on the river to supporting conservation initiatives, we are committed to protecting the ecosystems that make these journeys possible.
We are proud to support Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, contributing to the care and rehabilitation of native wildlife across the region. Their work reflects the same values that guide us: respect for nature, compassion for wildlife, and long-term stewardship of the environment.
Looking Ahead
As custodians of Tweed Eco Cruises, our focus is on continuity - honouring what has come before while ensuring the business remains strong, responsible and deeply connected to the community it serves.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard and sharing the Tweed River with you - from river to rainforest.