Brisbane River Cruise with entry to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
4.5
Brisbane River Cruise with entry to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
By Mirimar Cruises
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 9 per group
Duration: 5h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- Round-trip cruise
- General Admission into Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
What's not included- Food and drinks (available to purchase)
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Koala Moments (Touch a Koala)bookings online
- Start:
- Cultural Centre Public Pontoon, Cultural Centre Boardwalk, South Brisbane QLD 4101, AustraliaCheck in 8:30 am The pontoon is located on the riverside boardwalk, just outside the Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art Cultural precinct, Southbank.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Pushchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 6196KOALA- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair: Cruise is accessible however Lone Pine has a set of 28 steps to climb from the jetty to the entrance
- Most travellers can participate
- No health restrictions apply to this tour
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 9 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 6196KOALA
From
AU$110.00
per adult
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Itinerary
- Cultural Centre Boardwalk, South Brisbane QLD 4101, AustraliaCheck in 8:30 am The pontoon is located on the riverside boardwalk, just outside the Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art Cultural precinct, Southbank.
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- lytytl0 contributionsGreat commentaryTook the Mirimar II to lone pine sanctuary. I really enjoyed listening to the commentary, which was unlike most cruise commentaries filled with latest facts, anecdotes and jokes.Written 10 November 2023
- cromar550 contributionsFabulous cruiseFabulous cruise today. Welcoming staff made you feel really special. Keep up the great work you do. Recommend this cruise to everyone.Written 30 May 2023
- dabud690 contributionsNice dayGot to see the city from the river, interesting facts all the way to the sanctuary. Once in the park we were on our own to explore, the picture thing we never did ,expensive and long lines, we got the same for free in Perth. More than Koalas to so was nice to see up close the wildlife of Australia.Written 23 April 2023
- jennifermN248SK0 contributionsExcellent!Excellent customer service! Enjoyable experience. This is a must if you are going to visit Lone Pine Sanctuary.Written 1 April 2023
- Jennifer S0 contributionsMust do in Brisbane!Great day out today! Boat ran to time, with informative, friendly staff & provided great stories and history of the Brisbane river. The Lone Pine Sanctuary is a great visitor attraction doing great work for the animals and education of people in the plight of koalas and other indigenous species. It’s been the highlight of our 3 day trip to Brisbane!Written 9 March 2023
- silverfox20124920 contributionsGreat way to spend a dayThis is a great way to see both the hidden treasures of the Brisbane River and see our native animals. The cruise staff were great and very professional. The taped commentary was entertaining pointing out some facts and funny history of the river. The lone pine koala sanctuary was a 3 hr stop we don't know where the time went before our return trip back to the CBD. The koalas and the raptor and sheep dog displays are a must not miss events. This is a great way to spend a day without the hassle of dealing with traffic to get there. I would recommend this trip to friendsWritten 3 December 2022
- geoffreyr2170 contributionsPrivate Birthday Night CruiseHired Miramar 2 for a 3.5 hr night birthday cruise for my ladies 60th. The food, crew, and boat was a excellent in all facets. Thank you Mark, Julie and Michael. The river lights at night are just beautiful.Written 22 May 2021
- AnneF22860 contributionsAmazing funFabulous day. Welcomed on board by an amazing crew, gained an abundance of information and knowledge on the way, great time at the koala sanctuary and lovely relaxed trip back with some cool music. Exhausting day in the best possible way. ThankyouWritten 17 December 2020
- michaelgM3874RN0 contributionsCharming river viewsThis is a brilliant way to see the river precincts of Brisbane from Southbank to New Farm. Many thanks to the operators for going ahead despite a small number of passengers. We enjoyed the sights, the service and the cool breeze. River travel gives a different and unique perspective on significant landmarks such as bridges, wharves and buildings. The Powerhouse is an amazing place, full of history and industrial charm. The guide was engaging and informative.Written 6 November 2020
- Shirlana40530 contributionsTwighlight cruise - a lovely way to appreciate BrisbaneWe had a beautiful and relaxing experience of cruising the Brisbane River at twighlight. We were welcomed on board by two friendly crew and started the night with a mimosa! The city sights by day are stunning but the return trip at night was the prize. A 30 minute cruise to the historic Brisbane Powerhouse at New Farm where we docked for a brief stopover. We were met by Duty Manager Jaki who took us on a 30 minute tour behind the scenes, learning of the history of the Powerhouse. This was a really interesting tour and Jaki was very engaging. Loved the history, including the graffiti. After the tour we had 30 minutes to enjoy a drink and some warm bites to eat and to take in the river view from one of the decks. Then back on the boat to enjoy the city lights. This is a lovely cruise for a group of local friends to enjoy. Not just for the tourists! We were spoilt and had the boat to ourselves as the impact of COVID can still be felt. Would highly recommend supporting this local business.Written 22 October 2020
- choctop490 contributionsExcellentThe whole experience was amazing from the start of booking to the return trip. The staff was so helpful and the boat was spotless.Written 11 October 2020
- 931stacyg0 contributionsLone Pines Express Koala CruiseArrive plenty early, finding parking and the pier can be confusing. Once aboard, the boat ride to the sanctuary was lovely and pretty quick, the staff on board was friendly, and very informative. Arrival at the sanctuary was smooth and upon the advice from our Captain we went straight to the area to hold a Koala and have a picture. This experience was incredible, the staff at the sanctuary were all very knowledgeable, and the animals all seemed to be treated very well.Written 26 March 2020
- canadakerri0 contributionsWe used this company to go to Lone pineThe boat arrived on time at the library. Our captain was Michael and he was such a kind man. The ride up the river was beautiful. We took the 2:15 boat ride back. It was a larger boat with a full bar, snacks and lots of room. Staff was fabulous. Super friendly.Written 25 March 2020
- Explorer286313856560 contributionsHighly RecommendWe thoroughly enjoyed the day, although it was raining. We had booked for the express cruise and woke up that morning to find it raining, we then received a phone call to see if we’d like to take the earlier cruise on a covered boat or change for another day....we thought this was fantastic service. Staff were very friendly and we loved the koala sanctuary. Great day out!Written 9 March 2020
- E6308OGlaurab0 contributionsHighly recommended!The boat trip was really nice, the driver stopped whenever someone wanted to take a picture and we arrived at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary 40 minutes after departure. I would highly recommend booking the early tour starting at 9 am, if you want to get a picture with a koala. With the second tour you won’t make it. The 2,5 hours you get to spend at the sanctuary are perfect and you can have a look at everything. Thanks for the great trip!Written 8 March 2020
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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4.5
603 reviews
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r0nnie24
Auckland Central, New Zealand15 contributions
Sept 2024 • Family
We had great weather, stayed in a hotel right across from the park, easy walking distance to the river, restaurants and shopping center, We took advantage of purchasing a GO card tap on tap off at .50 cents a ride using the ferries, busses. Visited southbank. Also did a all day sight seeing tour to Noosa. Stopping at Glass mountain and Eumundi markets highly recommend doing a out of city tour.
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Written 15 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jason K
Los Angeles, CA52 contributions
June 2023 • Couples
The river cruise to Lone Pine is a great way to get to the Sanctuary. Just be aware that if you are topside on the journey there, it can be quite cold when in the shade and when moving at speed in the morning. They supply blankets to help keep warm, but those can only do so much. Thankfully there is also an enclosed space on the level where there are plenty of snacks, drinks, and other things to help you keep warm.
The view along the river is beautiful, and the provided commentary helps identify the many interesting things to see. Inside the sanctuary there are lots of interesting things to see and experience for a good few hours or so. It is strongly advised that you pre-book your experiences well in advance, including the coveted koala holding. The tickets do sell out, and slots are restricted for the welfare of the marsupials.
Finally, the journey back up river is a great time to sit back and enjoy the same views again, with some background music and minor commentary. It's also warmer, which provides a very pleasant return during the winter. All in all, definitely a worthwhile experience.
The view along the river is beautiful, and the provided commentary helps identify the many interesting things to see. Inside the sanctuary there are lots of interesting things to see and experience for a good few hours or so. It is strongly advised that you pre-book your experiences well in advance, including the coveted koala holding. The tickets do sell out, and slots are restricted for the welfare of the marsupials.
Finally, the journey back up river is a great time to sit back and enjoy the same views again, with some background music and minor commentary. It's also warmer, which provides a very pleasant return during the winter. All in all, definitely a worthwhile experience.
Written 8 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Winnetou_1978
7 contributions
Mar 2024 • Solo
The trip was great. The river trip was super nice thanks to the nice weather and the visit to the zoo was more than worth it.
However, there is one criticism of the organizer: it would have been helpful if it had been noted in the description of the excursion that you only have a chance of taking a photo with a koala if you book the appointment directly with the zoo in advance. According to information from the zoo, there are only a handful of tickets that can be booked on site, and these are always gone when the ship arrives.
But as I said, the trip is worth it - it would simply be helpful because then you can take care of it in advance and not be disappointed if you find out on site that there is no photo.
However, there is one criticism of the organizer: it would have been helpful if it had been noted in the description of the excursion that you only have a chance of taking a photo with a koala if you book the appointment directly with the zoo in advance. According to information from the zoo, there are only a handful of tickets that can be booked on site, and these are always gone when the ship arrives.
But as I said, the trip is worth it - it would simply be helpful because then you can take care of it in advance and not be disappointed if you find out on site that there is no photo.

Written 30 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
alexriette
Diamond Bar, CA58 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
Highly recommended tour. A pleasant slow 30 minute cruise up the river with commentary on the history of Brisbane. Snacks and drinks on board. Staff were excellent.
The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary was awesome! We recommend you buy one bag of kangaroo feed at the entrance for AUS 2 before heading up to the kangaroo feeding zone. Also, ahead of time, purchase 15 minutes personal time with a koala. It's really not 15 minutes, and there are limited spots between 1130 - 1230. They try to get as many as possible in so you can actually hold a Koala and have tour photo taken. Really cool!
There are lots of other animal types there and some shows. Thoroughly enjoyed our trip!
The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary was awesome! We recommend you buy one bag of kangaroo feed at the entrance for AUS 2 before heading up to the kangaroo feeding zone. Also, ahead of time, purchase 15 minutes personal time with a koala. It's really not 15 minutes, and there are limited spots between 1130 - 1230. They try to get as many as possible in so you can actually hold a Koala and have tour photo taken. Really cool!
There are lots of other animal types there and some shows. Thoroughly enjoyed our trip!
Written 8 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris B
Yeovil, UK768 contributions
Enjoyable river trip with commentary on the sights and history of Brisbane. Be aware it goes in the opposite direction to sites like Kangaroo Point Cliffs and Story Bridge as the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is in this direction. The sanctuary itself was lovely with a fantastic raptor show being the highlight. Recommend buying lunch at the cafe just outside the sanctuary (rather than inside the sanctuary itself) for some great views of the river
Written 18 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michellr
Bromsgrove, UK31 contributions
A fabulous day out! The river trip in itself is a lovely trip with an interesting commentary on the way there and time to sit back and enjoy the views on the return. The Lone Pine koala sanctuary is a must- feed the kangaroos, check out the koalas and learn lots about Australian wildlife! Our captain was fantastic and offered photo opportunities to captain the boat- would definitely recommend!
Written 22 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alan R
Wokingham, UK10 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
We took the grandchildren and they were enthralled all day. The boat trip was entertaining, with an interesting commentary, but somewhat longer than we expected, taking over an hour.
The sanctuary is very natural and has far more animals than we expected. It's an understatement to call it a koala sanctuary because there are so many exhibits it's a zoo, albeit with lots of koalas.
The boat trip allows three hours at the sanctuary, which is about right, although it can be a bit of a rush to get to the various talks and demonstrations
The sanctuary is very natural and has far more animals than we expected. It's an understatement to call it a koala sanctuary because there are so many exhibits it's a zoo, albeit with lots of koalas.
The boat trip allows three hours at the sanctuary, which is about right, although it can be a bit of a rush to get to the various talks and demonstrations
Written 11 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vitol W
Panama City Beach, FL33 contributions
We truly enjoyed our day. The commentary during the first leg of the river cruise was entertaining as well as informative, offering insights into the history of Brisbane, including its historic homes and many bridges. The boat was as comfortable as one would expect from plastic wicker chairs. The boat crew was professional, friendly and efficient, providing an enjoyable experience.
While we only had a few hours, the Koala Sanctuary also did not disappoint. We were dropped off at the dock and then climbed a rather steep set of stairs. Upon reaching the Sanctuary entrance, we were ushered through the gift shop and then let loose. The facility is best described as user friendly zoo, offering us the opportunity to see a variety of Australian wild and domestic animals up-close, including a free-range area that permitted the petting and feeding of a variety of animals, such as kangaroos and wallabies. Of course, the stars of the show were the Koalas, and they did not disappoint, with multiple opportunities to observe these marsupials. The only area that was slightly underwhelming was the Nocturnal Precinct; the area was fully exposed with no shade, and we only observed two animals in this entire area. Gift shops, food offerings and restrooms were adequate and food offerings were not obscenely priced. Overall, the combined experience of a river cruise and the sanctuary visit made for a very enjoyable day. Would we visit it again? Probably not; once was enough.
While we only had a few hours, the Koala Sanctuary also did not disappoint. We were dropped off at the dock and then climbed a rather steep set of stairs. Upon reaching the Sanctuary entrance, we were ushered through the gift shop and then let loose. The facility is best described as user friendly zoo, offering us the opportunity to see a variety of Australian wild and domestic animals up-close, including a free-range area that permitted the petting and feeding of a variety of animals, such as kangaroos and wallabies. Of course, the stars of the show were the Koalas, and they did not disappoint, with multiple opportunities to observe these marsupials. The only area that was slightly underwhelming was the Nocturnal Precinct; the area was fully exposed with no shade, and we only observed two animals in this entire area. Gift shops, food offerings and restrooms were adequate and food offerings were not obscenely priced. Overall, the combined experience of a river cruise and the sanctuary visit made for a very enjoyable day. Would we visit it again? Probably not; once was enough.
Written 23 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jocasta T
11 contributions
Taking the river cruise to the Koala sanctuary was definitely the right choice! The boat was in an easily accessible location. Being able to hop on the boat made this day out stress free as all that was needed was to show up on time! The commentary on the river cruise was very interesting and the journey very relaxing! I'd 100% recommend also pre-booking to hold a koala via the sanctuary website as it sells out fast and is a great experience.
Written 7 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your lovely feedback. Great to hear you had a relaxing day out with us.
Written 22 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Wanda F
Stuart, FL336 contributions
Pleasant narrates river cruise down the Brisbane River to start and we spent about two hours at the Sanctuary. We saw more than a hundred koalas and many were active and available for holding and photos. The Tasmanian devil was very active and showed us his fierce mouthful of sharp teeth. The bird show and sheep dog show were well worth seeing. It’s a great place for kids.
Written 9 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What time does the boat arrive at the Sanctuary? I would like to book an experience but want to confirm the timeframe. Thank you!
Written 6 September 2024
Debby G
Dawson Creek, Canada
Is this a sanctuary for Koalas rescued from the wildfires.?
Written 2 October 2020
We will be coming in by cruise ship on 14 February. How far is it to the departure point? When do you return? We need to get to airport to take a shuttle to Sunshine Coast that afternoon. Shoul we just go to airport from sanctuary? Thanks RIchard Sonstelie
Written 6 November 2019
Are there wombats there? I would rather cuddle a wombat than a koala!
Written 20 July 2019
Yes - I’m pretty sure there are, but you can’t cuddle them and of course they may not be awake👍
Written 20 July 2019
What time does the boat leave the koala sanctuary if it leaves Brisbane at 10am. I'd love the opportunity to book a koala handling experience but it's at 2.30pm & obviously don't want to miss the boat. Thanks!
Written 29 April 2019
I believe there is a koala holding experience starting at noon. The guide on the boat will tell you that if you want to hold a koala, then go directly to that area immediately on arrival. Yes, there will be a line, but you will have plenty of time afterwards to see the other animals without missing the boat back to Brisbane. If my husband didn’t get to hold a koala, he would have refused to leave Australia!
Written 30 April 2019
How to get from the cruise port the location where we catch the boat? How long does it take to get from port to boat?
Written 16 January 2019
The port IS where you catch the boat.
Written 23 February 2019
We will be disembarking off the Oceania Regatta at the cruise port at around 9. What transportation would we take to get over to the So Bank Pontoon to catch the boat?
Written 16 January 2019
Sorry, I cannot help much, I took a bus to the Sanctuary and return back to the city by bus.
Written 16 January 2019
How do I purchase in advance for tickets to see and hold koalas? As I understand, there is a different line to purchase those tickets once I get to the Koala Sanctuary; am I right?
Written 11 September 2018
We would like to book and take the slower boat. How do you determine if you are on the express on the slow one? Thank you
Written 5 September 2018
I did not realize that Miramar had 2 boats. We took the slow one for a leisurely and sight full of the beautiful homes on the Brisbane River.
Written 5 September 2018
We are arriving in Brisbane on the Sea Princess on Oct 26, 2018.
The ships tour for the Lonepine Sanctuary is sold out and we would like to take this trip.
Can we get a taxi from the cruise terminal to the South Bank Pontoon?
The excursion gets back at 3:30, our ship leaves at 5:00. Too tight.
Written 13 August 2018
We took a train from Central Station and were fetched at the arriving station by a bus from Lone Pine. You might look at the train schedual to see if that is an obtion for you.
Written 15 August 2018
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