Discover Brisbane’s wildlife and stunning river views on the VIP COMBO Return Cruise, combining scenic boat travel with a visit to Australia’s largest koala habitat. Read more about this must-try adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, no strenuous activity required
Wildlife
History
The Brisbane River has been a vital waterway for Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, shaping the region's cultural heritage.
Conservation
Efforts by the sanctuary and cruise operators focus on minimizing environmental impact and preserving local ecosystems.
Koala & River Cruises
Discover Brisbane’s wildlife and stunning river views on the VIP COMBO Return Cruise, combining scenic boat travel with a visit to Australia’s largest koala habitat. Read more about this must-try 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.
Book in advance
Secure your spot early as this popular cruise tends to sell out quickly.
Bring sun protection
Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable day on the water.
Wear comfortable clothing
Dress in layers and bring weather-appropriate gear for an outdoor experience.
Capture wildlife moments
Use a zoom lens to photograph koalas and native birds from a distance.
Hat and sunglasses
Protect yourself from sun while on the boat.
summer
Camera or smartphone
Capture the wildlife and scenic views.
Light rain jacket
Stay comfortable if weather turns.
spring|fall
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the cruise.