Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Tickets with Brisbane River Cruise (General)

Your experience

Get up close with koalas

Board a 70-minute cruise right at the heart of the city; the Brisbane River Cruise has been transferring guests to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for over 70 years! Along the way, your experienced captain will offer narration of all that you see around you. This includes breathtaking modern mansions and iconic Queenslander homes on Brisbane's exclusive waterfront. The boat will drop you right along the shores of the park, and you will have 2.5 to 3 hours to explore the sanctuary on your own.

Spend your time getting up close and seeing for yourself Australia's diverse range of native creatures. Hand feed kangaroos and emus, catch sight of the rare and shy platypus swimming, marvel at the many amazing birds of prey.

Itinerary

• 8.30-9am: Boarding from Cultural Centre Pontoon
• 9am: Depart Cultural Centre Pontoon
• 10.15am: Arriving at Lone Pine Sanctuary
• 3hrs &15min: Explore Lone Pine Sanctuary
• 13.30pm: Depart Lone Pine Sanctuary
• 14.45pm: Arrive back in city at Cultural Centre Pontoon

Know before you go

What to bring

• Bring sunscreen and a camera for photos with kangaroos and scenic river sights.

Accessibility

• This experience is wheelchair accessible with pram-friendly facilities onboard and at the sanctuary.

The Brisbane River Cruise provides an exceptional way to explore Brisbane's waterways and cityscape. Operating for decades, the cruise offers a variety of journeys including hop-on-hop-off services, sightseeing tours, and dinner cruises. The vessels are modern, equipped with open-air decks and comfortable indoor seating, ensuring a pleasant experience regardless of weather. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Brisbane’s skyline, Story Bridge, and nearby parks while learning about the city’s history through engaging commentary. The cruise routes are designed to highlight key attractions such as Kangaroo Point Cliffs, South Bank Parklands, and the University of Queensland. With flexible options for daytime and evening cruises, visitors can tailor their experience to suit their interests and schedules. Unique and eco-friendly, this cruise combines sightseeing with sustainable travel.

Booking your Brisbane River Cruise online guarantees skip-the-line access and secure your preferred time slot. It allows better planning and comparison of available tours to find the best deals. Instant confirmation ensures a seamless experience from start to finish.

Brisbane River Cruises have been a staple of the city’s tourism scene for over 30 years. Originally established to provide transportation across the river, the service evolved into a popular sightseeing and leisure option. Over time, the fleet expanded to include modern vessels with eco-friendly features, and the routes were curated to highlight the city’s most iconic sights. Throughout its history, the cruise has played a role in showcasing Brisbane’s development from a regional hub to a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. The cruises have become a favorite among tourists and locals alike, offering a unique way to discover Brisbane’s history, culture, and natural beauty from the water.

The Brisbane River Cruise typically runs from morning to late evening, with specific hours depending on the tour type. Check departure times in advance to plan your visit effectively.

Visit during spring and summer for pleasant weather and lively cityscapes. Sunset and evening cruises are particularly recommended for romantic and scenic experiences.

Inside the cruise vessel, you'll find comfortable seating, panoramic windows, and open-air decks offering spectacular views. Some cruises include informative commentary, onboard cafes, and bars for a relaxed journey. During sunset or evening tours, the lighting creates a magical cityscape image, ideal for photography and unforgettable memories.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding. Make sure to check weather conditions and dress appropriately for outdoor decks. Dietary options are available on some cruises, so inform the crew in advance if needed.

No smoking onboard, no alcohol consumption outside designated areas, and please keep noise to a minimum to respect other guests and the environment.

A Brisbane River Cruise offers unmatched scenic views and a relaxing way to explore the city’s highlights. It’s an ideal activity for families, couples, and solo travelers wanting to soak in Brisbane's vibrant waterscape while learning about its history and culture.

The cruise docks are accessible via public transport, including bus and ferry services. Walking from city center hotels and stations is also convenient.