About this tour
Cruise up the Brisbane River from Southbank's waterfront to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, spending four hours among native Australian wildlife. You'll navigate past iconic city landmarks before arriving at sprawling parkland where koalas, kangaroos, platypuses and raptors roam freely. The full experience takes five-and-a-half hours with return transport by water, letting you see the city from a different angle whilst encountering fauna you won't find elsewhere.
Highlights
- Paddle steamer journey from city centre to sanctuary
- Hand-feed or observe koalas in their habitat
- Watch working sheepdogs and birds of prey displays
- Spot platypuses and kangaroos on sanctuary grounds
- River views of Brisbane's urban and natural landscape
- Four hours to explore at your own pace
What to expect
Check in by 8:45 am for a 9 am departure. The cruise departs Southbank and glides upriver for roughly 75 minutes, arriving at Lone Pine by 10:15 am. You'll have until 1:30 pm to wander the sanctuary grounds—enough time to see most animals without rushing, though it's sprawling so wear comfortable shoes. The return journey takes the same route, docking back in the city around 2:45 pm. Expect crowds during school holidays and weekends.
Good to know
Bring sunscreen and a hat; there's limited shade on the cruise. Food and drinks aren't included but are available at the sanctuary. The jetty-to-entrance involves 28 steps, which may challenge wheelchair users. Prams work fine on the cruise and sanctuary grounds. Arrive early as the boat departs punctually.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.