Shared a cruise with 40 other passengers on the Ross Dam. "Pop" and Heather were very friendly and made everyone feel at home. Very smooth ride in this large houseboat-style craft. Great for taking photos and also has on-board rest-room. Wheelchair-friendly. Alcohol and softdrink can be purchased along with packets of potato chips(not the hot type) "Pop" very knowledgeable on the history of the Ross Dam. A bus takes you on an 8-minute journey from the carpark to the boat and then back afterwards. No insect repellent is required as there are breezes most times which keep insects at bay.

Approximate cost: $30

We had a really enjoyable afternoon cruise with relatives during our visit to Townsville. Informative and interesting information conveyed to us by Pop also.

Approximate cost: $60.00

A most enjoyable, informative relaxing cruise, the stops were informative and Pop and Heather were extremely attentive.

Approximate cost: $30 each adult

Been on both the afternoon ans sunset cruises and had a great time. Pop & Heather are great hosts and greatly enhance the experiance. Highly recommended.

For a local person, it was wonderful to realise that we have such a variety of wildlife so close to our door. It left you feeling very relaxed and refreshed.

Approximate cost: $30

We've been meaning to do this river cruise for the last three or four years but always seemed to run out of time. We are so glad that we have finally got around to doing it as it was an excellent holiday experience and can be summed up in three words: Value; Fun; Informative. It was like a local history outing with lots of laughs added. My wife was so excited she got up and line danced with out hostess. Check it out if you like - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFoZh9EBT-c

Well done to Pop and Heather.

Approximate cost: $30

Pop and Heather are 2 of Townsville's hidden gems. They made 40+ adults and kids have an amazing afternoon on Ross River Dam. We laughed, we drank, we ate, we talked, we sang and we danced all on a little boat. We even spotted some wild life.

Approximate cost: $30 each

Though this cruise may have been voted the "Best business in 2010" on WOMO, this award may be a tad outdated by now.
We took the Sunday afternoon cruise, which began aboard an old bus which picks passengers up from the carpark meeting point. From there it is about a 10-minute bus trip to the MV Kathleen Mary, located on the banks of Lake Ross itself.
The dam cruise itself was fine, with 'Pop' pointing out points of interest or birds such as the Jabiru. He also offered a history of the area, but much of it has to be left to a strong imagination. Not much solid evidence remains since the dam was installed and the area was flooded with water years and years ago.
This tour seems popular with certain age groups. Perhaps if you are a kid aged between 5-10 or an adult who enjoys a more sedate pace of life this may be the tour for you. It is certainly a harmless way of passing 2.5 hours on a quite Sunday afternoon. For my partner and I, it seemed as if time stood still at certain points. Especially on the return trip when 'Pop' started up his singing accompanied by a type of karaoke soundtrack, which was made worse by the crackly sound system cranked up way too loud. Fortunately the boat is licensed and the only refuge was in the alcohol we could purchase.
This is definitely a cruise to avoid unless you're in the mood for "Obscure Songs of Yesteryear" (sorry!). As far as tour operators go, Heather and Pop are friendly and helpful. But the interest factor of the cruise is far too low for a repeat visit.

Approximate cost: $30.00

very entertaining and relaxing, loved it ,drinks available , whether it b alcohol or cooldrink and u can take ur own food,sit back and chill

Approximate cost: $30.00

Relaxing, no fuss, interesting commentary on history of region. Plentiful birdlife. Great way to spend a few hours. A hidden gem of Townsville's tourism.

Approximate cost: $30