Set sail on Brisbane's scenic river for a wildlife-packed voyage, culminating in a visit to the renowned Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Discover native animals, enjoy captivating shows, and experience this unique water adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including families with children
Wildlife
History
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary was established in 1927 and is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary dedicated to conservation and education.
Conservation
The sanctuary actively participates in koala rescue and rehabilitation efforts, promoting sustainability and habitat preservation in Queensland.
Koala & River Cruises
Set sail on Brisbane's scenic river for a wildlife-packed voyage, culminating in a visit to the renowned Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Discover native animals, enjoy captivating shows, and experience this unique water adventure.
Koala & River Cruises operates from South Brisbane, Queensland, offering scenic river cruises between Brisbane’s South Bank and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. The operator’s trip options include return cruises to Lone Pine without an entry ticket, return cruises that include Lone Pine entry, VIP combo return cruises with entry, and one-way transfers from South Bank to Lone Pine with entry included.
Onboard commentary accompanies passages past Brisbane landmarks while passengers travel aboard vessels such as the MV Mirimar on certain departures. At Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, guests can see koalas, feed kangaroos, and attend animal presentations cited in trip descriptions, including a sheepdog show, a Flight Raptor show, and three hours of sanctuary access on selected tickets. The VIP COMBO includes morning tea plus a gourmet cheese board served with wine on the outward or return cruise, depending on the itinerary.
Trip descriptions specify whether the sanctuary entry ticket is included or excluded, allowing guests to choose admission options that suit their plans. Departure points are from Southbank in South Brisbane and trips return there unless booked as a one-way transfer. Tours are presented as a combination of river sightseeing and time at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for wildlife viewing and experiences. Booking details, ticket inclusions, and scheduled departure information are provided for each listed trip so visitors can select return, entry-inclusive, VIP, or one-way options. All trips depart from South Bank and travel on the Brisbane River, combining sightseeing narration with transfers to Lone Pine for wildlife activities daily.
Departure
South Bank
South Brisbane departure point
Trips Available
4 options
Return, entry, VIP, one-way
Sanctuary
Lone Pine (World’s largest)
Koalas, kangaroos, raptor shows
Vessel
MV Mirimar on some trips
MV Mirimar on selected departures
Choose a return, entry-inclusive, VIP or one-way trip and secure tickets for the next available departure.
Bring sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to stay comfortable during outdoor activities and at the sanctuary.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
You'll spend time exploring the sanctuary’s grounds, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Book in advance
Reserve your spot early as this popular cruise sells out quickly, especially in peak seasons.
Prepare for weather changes
Check the forecast and bring layers if necessary for enjoying both the boat trip and the outdoor sanctuary.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from UV rays during outdoor activities.
summer
Comfortable footwear
Supportive shoes for walking around the sanctuary.
Hat and sunglasses
Shield yourself from the sun and enhance visibility.
summer
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the outdoor adventure.