Koala Hugs & River Views: Brisbane's Ultimate Day Out
See Australia’s amazing animals on a day trip to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary from Brisbane. Your river cruise takes you from the bustling waterfront of Southbank to the lush parklands of Lone Pine, with the chance to see iconic sights as you glide along the water. At the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, you can get up close to koalas, kangaroos and watch platypus, sheepdogs, and birds of prey in action. Animal lovers will not want to miss this experience! Check-in is required by 8.45 am, departs at 9am sharp, arriving at Lone Pine Sanctuary 10:15- departing Lone Pine at 1:30pm and arriving back in the city at 2:45pm
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
5 stars
4 stars
Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
Barbara_S, 1/9/2026 2:09:48 AM
Fun, relaxing, informative history of Brisbane River The ferry ride was cool and smooth and the crew were helpful and fruendly
dionneborn2winyahooc, 1/7/2026 6:31:18 PM
I loved this tour! The sanctuary and boat ride are great! Koalas are the cutest thing! Loved the complimentary photo.
Sarat D, 1/7/2026 2:00:03 PM
Well organized tour.River cruise is very enjoyable.Able to see beautiful homes.Narration of historical places was good.Koala sanctuary was very good-Sarat.
Carly_Y, 1/7/2026 12:52:31 AM
I loved it! What a great tour. Plenty of free time to explore, pet kangaroos, see tons of wildlife, and watch amazing animal shows. The boat ride was pleasant too--all of the staff were really friendly and kind.
Wendy_N, 1/4/2026 6:08:53 PM
The boat was clean and the crew were friendly and helpful. The onboard cafe bar was well stocked with good service. The commentary for the outward journey was clear and interesting. Plenty of time was allowed to walk around the sanctuary and buy refreshments. The sanctuary staff were also friendly and knowledgeable. The return journey had no commentary (same route in reverse so unnecessary) and the cruise was leisurely and relaxing. We all enjoyed this trip
Michelle_L, 1/4/2026 6:09:20 AM
Relaxing cruise on the river with the highlight being the sanctuary stop. Plenty of time to fully explore and have lunch. Snacks and drinks available on the boat were reasonably priced and crew was personable. Sanctuary visit up close to koalas and kangaroos checked off a bucket list item!
auntyris21, 1/4/2026 1:31:15 AM
crew on board were very friendly and helpful. front or back of boat needs a little more cover due to going in summer very hot. Koala Sanctuary was great to see all the different areas for all Koalas and all their friends. Cafe was great had a big variety to cover all tastes and a great under cover area to enjoy your purchase
Faith_S, 1/3/2026 6:26:04 PM
Perfect day just enough time at the sanctuary. Sign up for koala experience as soon as you get there.
Jennifer_V, 1/1/2026 9:42:55 AM
This was a great experience. The staff is amazing. Remember to bring sunscreen and plenty of water!!
Bec_B, 12/28/2025 11:35:02 PM
Great! Friendly staff on the boat, lovely scenery during the cruise, and just a wonderful and laid back day out at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wheelchair: Cruise is accessible however Lone Pine has a set of 28 steps to climb from the jetty to the entrance
- No health restrictions apply to this tour
Departure point
Check in 8:30 am The pontoon is located on the riverside boardwalk, just outside the Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art Cultural precinct, Southbank.Return details
See Australia’s amazing animals on a day trip to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary from Brisbane. Your river cruise takes you from the bustling waterfront of Southbank to the lush parklands of Lone Pine, with the chance to see iconic sights as you glide along the water. At the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, you can get up close to koalas, kangaroos and watch platypus, sheepdogs, and birds of prey in action. Animal lovers will not want to miss this experience! Check-in is required by 8.45 am, departs at 9am sharp, arriving at Lone Pine Sanctuary 10:15- departing Lone Pine at 1:30pm and arriving back in the city at 2:45pmRedemption
Please note the cruise needs to leave promptly at 9am, please ensure you arrive 10 mins prior to departure. Cruise arrives at Lone Pine Sanctuary at 10:15am and must depart promptly at 1:30pm to return back to Brisbane.24 hours before travel date - 100% refund
Less than 24 hours before travel date - 0% refund