Brisbane River Cruises

Brisbane River Cruises are boat tours running along the Brisbane River and out into the wider Moreton Bay region – from short sightseeing trips to full-day adventures. Some tours cruise entirely on the river, gliding past the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs, while others pair the trip with a meal and a full-day excursion beyond Brisbane. Together, these cruises showcase the city’s riverside landmarks while connecting visitors to destinations such as Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Moreton Bay, Bribie Island, Bremer River and more.

The Brisbane River has shaped the city's history for centuries and continues to define its character today. Flowing through the heart of Brisbane, it links South Bank, Kangaroo Point, New Farm, Hamilton and several historic riverside precincts. The scenery changes throughout the journey, from the modern skyline and cultural attractions to leafy suburbs.

Australian Cruise Group brings together a wide range of river cruises in Brisbane from trusted local operators, allowing you to compare experiences, durations and inclusions in one place. With secure online booking, live availability and dedicated customer support, finding the right cruise is only a small step away.

Different Types Brisbane River Tours

Short Sightseeing Cruises
These cruises focus on city landmarks, river history and changing views throughout the day. Morning and midday departures include light refreshments and live commentary, while the sunset cruise offers a more relaxed evening atmosphere. It is a perfect introduction to Brisbane… The top options are:

• 1.5Hr Brisbane River Sightseeing Cruise
• 1.5Hr Brisbane River Midday Sightseeing Cruise
• 1.5Hr Brisbane Sunset River Cruise

These are some of the top attractions you can see from a Brisbane River Cruise:

• Kangaroo Point Cliffs
• Story Bridge
• Customs House
• South Bank Parklands

Note: If you're in the city for the Brisbane Festival (usually in September), consider the Brisbane Superyacht Riverfire Cruise. This special event cruise offers front-row views of the ‘Riverfire’ fireworks and aerial displays from the river, available only for one day in a year.

River Cruise + Dining At Local Venues
Instead of dining onboard, these experiences pair a river cruise with a meal at well-known Brisbane venues, giving you time to enjoy both the river and the city’s dining scene before returning to the South Bank. The top options are:

• 1.5Hr Sightseeing Cruise & Plough Inn Lunch Combo
• 1.5Hr Sunset Cruise & Plough Inn Tavern Dinner Combo
• 3.5Hr Brisbane River Cruise & Breakfast Creek Lunch Combo

Cruises Beyond Brisbane
Several cruises take you beyond Brisbane, making them ideal if you want to explore more of Queensland. Depending on the tour, they take you to places like Bribie Island, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (entry ticket included), Moreton Bay, Bremer River etc. The top options are:

• 5Hr Round-Trip Mirimar Cruise to Lone Pine Sanctuary
• 8Hr Moreton Bay Day Cruise from Hamilton
• 7Hr Bremer River Junction Cruise With Lunch
• 2Hr Bribie Island Lunch Cruise From Bongaree
• 8Hr Bribie Island Day Cruise (from Hamilton)

Departure Locations
Departure points for Brisbane River cruises vary depending on the tour you choose. Check the cruise details before you book. But these are the most common ones:

• South Bank (Cultural Centre Public Pontoon)
• Recreation Hub Hamilton
• Bongaree (Bribie Island)

A river cruise in Brisbane can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you want it to be. Browse the range of experiences, understand the cruise inclusions and secure your preferred cruise ASAP! Contact our customer support in case you are confused with the process.

FAQs

Can you walk along the Brisbane River instead of taking a cruise?
Yes. The Brisbane Riverwalk and South Bank promenade offer excellent riverside walks, but a cruise lets you experience parts of the river and city skyline that aren't visible from the shore.

Are Brisbane River cruises suitable if I get seasick?
Generally, yes. The Brisbane River is much calmer than the open ocean, so the ride is usually smooth. However, people who are highly prone to motion sickness may still prefer to carry medication.

Can I see the Story Bridge from a Brisbane River cruise?
Yes. Most city sightseeing cruises pass beneath or alongside the Story Bridge, making it one of the highlights of the journey.

Can I join a Brisbane River cruise without booking in advance?
Some cruises accept walk-in passengers if seats are available, but advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends, school holidays and major events.

Which river cruise in Brisbane is best for families?
Families often enjoy the sightseeing cruises for their shorter duration, while the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary cruise is popular with visitors travelling with children.

Can I book a Brisbane River cruise during Riverfire?
If you want to explore Riverfire, booking a normal Brisbane River Cruise won’t do it. Since it is a once-in-a-year event, special Riverfire cruises operate during Brisbane Festival each year, so book the Brisbane Superyacht Riverfire Cruise.