Brisbane Highlights & Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: A Small-Group Shore Excursion
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most travelers comfortable walking 1–2 miles (1.5–3 km) total with brief stairs and standing at viewpoints.
Overview
See Brisbane’s greatest hits in one relaxed loop—from South Bank’s riverfront paths to Mount Coot-tha’s skyline views—then meet koalas and kangaroos at Lone Pine. This small-group shore excursion balances city icons, local history, and wildlife time, all timed to get you back to the ship with photos to spare.
Brisbane Highlights & Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: A Small-Group Shore Excursion
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Queensland’s morning light has a way of waking everything up at once. Step off the ship and the Brisbane River flashes like a quick grin, tides nudging toward the city as your small-group minibus rolls out from the cruise terminal. Within minutes, steel and stone begin to set the scene: the Art Deco bones of old power stations, the latticed sweep of the Story Bridge, and river bends where ferries dart as if the current is giving them a gentle push forward.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Plan for Queensland sun
Wear a UPF hat, sunscreen, and breathable layers—shade is limited at lookouts and along the riverfront.
Book koala photo early
Koala-hold sessions at Lone Pine are limited and sell out; inquire with your guide on arrival to secure a time slot (extra fee).
Comfortable walking shoes
Expect several short walks and a few steps at lookouts; grippy soles help on hot, smooth paths.
Mind ship time
The tour runs 6–7 hours; confirm your all-aboard and keep an eye on timing at each stop.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Koalas within reach at Lone Pine
- Australian water dragons basking along garden paths
History
Kangaroo Point’s cliffs were quarried by convicts from ancient Brisbane tuff, rock that also underpins early river walls and buildings. The Story Bridge, completed in 1940, remains Australia’s longest cantilever bridge.
Conservation
Lone Pine supports research and welfare programs for koalas affected by habitat loss. Stay on paths, never feed wild animals, and use refillable bottles to cut waste around the river.
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Adventure Hotspots in Brisbane
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
UPF brimmed sun hat
Strong subtropical sun makes broad shade a comfort at riverfront and lookout stops.
summer specific
Refillable water bottle (750 ml)
While one bottle is provided, extra capacity helps on warm days and reduces plastic use.
Lightweight long-sleeve shirt
Breathable coverage keeps you cool while protecting from sun and the occasional mozzie.
spring specific
Telephoto lens or compact binoculars
Great for framing koalas, lorikeets, and skyline details from Mount Coot-tha and Kangaroo Point.