The 7 Best Brisbane River Cruises

1.Brisbane River Cruise with entry to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,522 reviews · from $82Our pick

Cruise from Southbank to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary with river commentary, then spend three hours among koalas, kangaroos, platypus, birds, and reptiles. The boat has a cafe, and crew members such as Dennis are praised for friendly service. Koala-touch bookings cost extra.

“This was a great experience. The staff is amazing. Remember to bring sunscreen and plenty of water!!”

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2.Brisbane River Cruise and Koala Sanctuary Visit

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,397 reviews · 5h 30m · from $81

Cruise from South Bank aboard Mirimar II with live commentary, then spend three hours at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. See more than 130 koalas, feed kangaroos and wallabies, and visit the platypus house, raptor show, and sheepdog display. Food and optional koala encounters cost extra.

“excellent day out value for money & the commentary was good”

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3.Morning Sightseeing Cruise: 10:30am-12pm (90min)

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 973 reviews · from $37

From the Cultural Centre pontoon, this 10:30am cruise follows the Brisbane River past Customs House, Story Bridge, South Bank, the city centre, and Kangaroo Point Cliffs. Expect onboard commentary, tea or coffee with scones, restrooms, and a licensed bar, with the boat returning to its starting point.

“The worse experience. I missed the boathouse due to bad advertising the meeting point. The company has not reimbursed anything!!!”

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4.Morning Sightseeing Cruise: 10:30am-12pm (90min)

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 521 reviews · 1h 30m · from $34Best value

Board the MV Neptune at South Bank for a relaxed 10:30am cruise past Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the city centre and Story Bridge. Your English-speaking guide adds Brisbane history and future plans, while morning tea, a licensed bar and covered viewing decks keep the ride comfortable.

“What a fantastic way to see Brisbane. Very relaxing. Thank you so much, loved it.”

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5.Midday 1.5-Hour Sightseeing Cruise 12.30pm-2.00pm

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 384 reviews · 1h 30m · from $34

Cruise Brisbane’s river from South Bank for 90 minutes, passing the city centre, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, New Farm Park, and Story Bridge. A live English-speaking guide provides history and local context, while tea, coffee, and small cakes are included. Buy wine, beer, or other drinks at the bar.

“I just enjoyed this midday river sightseeing cruise in Brisbane, and it was a delightful experience. The cruise was cozy and relaxing, with a warm and friendly welcome from the crew. We started with a quick safety briefing, ensuring everyone felt secure and informed. Throughout the journey, we were provided with plenty of insightful information about the various sights along the river. This made the cruise not just relaxing but also educational. Complimentary water and tea were available, and for those who preferred something stronger, beer could be purchased on board. The boat tour offered a fantastic overview of Brisbane, showcasing the city's beauty from a unique vantage point. Considerin...”

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6.Cruise to Lunch Package: 10:30am-2pm (3.5hr)

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 326 reviews · 3h 30m · from $63

Spend 3.5 hours cruising Brisbane River from South Bank to Breakfast Creek Hotel and back. Hear live English commentary, enjoy scones with jam and cream, choose from a hearty lunch menu, and watch the traditional keg tapping before returning through the city.

“An excellent lunch cruise with an brilliant lunch. I'm giving it 5 stars but I think it's about time they ditch that trite and annoying welcome to country.”

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7.Guided River Kayak Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 175 reviews · 1h 30m · from $46

You paddle your own kayak along the Brisbane River for 90 minutes with a local English-speaking guide. After a safety briefing, look for Story Bridge and South Bank, hear Brisbane stories, and use the supplied equipment, sunscreen, and showers. No kayaking experience is required.

“A great activity ,good to see Brisbane from a different perspective . Guide spread self around all the group .Hardest probably getting in the kayak but once in the water was ok . Good briefing prior to kayaking would recommend”

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