Embark on a memorable day trip from Brisbane to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and encounter Australia's unique wildlife.
Your journey begins with a scenic river cruise from Brisbane's Southbank to the verdant grounds of Lone Pine. Along the way, admire iconic landmarks as you gently sail down the river.
At the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, get up close with koalas and kangaroos, and witness captivating shows featuring platypus, sheepdogs, and birds of prey. This experience is a must for all animal enthusiasts!
✓ General Admission into Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary✓ Round-trip cruise✕ Food and drinks (available to purchase)✕ Hotel pick-up and drop-off✕ Koala Moments (Touch a Koala) bookings online1 The Brisbane River
Board your vessel in Brisbane's Southbank district for a tranquil cruise towards Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
Enjoy engaging commentary from your captain as you navigate the Brisbane River, transitioning from the urban skyline to serene, leafy suburbs adorned with waterfront residences.
· 1 h 15 min · Admission included
2 Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Arrive at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary at 10:15 AM, where you will have three hours to explore at your leisure.
Established in 1927, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary initially served as a sanctuary for koalas facing culling during the fur trade era.
Today, Lone Pine continues its mission to provide a space for visitors to connect with, learn about, and be inspired by Australia's native animals and their habitats, encouraging conservation efforts.
Beyond koalas and kangaroos, the sanctuary features a sheepdog demonstration where skilled dogs herd sheep responding to their handler's cues. You can also observe birds of prey like owls and sea eagles, and witness the twice-daily feeding of vibrant lorikeets. The parkland is also home to other bird species and Eastern Water Dragons, a lizard species that can reach up to 90cm in length.
· 3 h · Admission included
3 Return Cruise
After an enriching exploration of the sanctuary, boarding for the return journey begins at 12:45 PM, with departure at 1:30 PM.
Relax on the cruise back to the city, with the option to purchase refreshments from the onboard Cafe/Bar, enjoy the music, or engage in a game of chess.
· Non-stop passage
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. One ticket is required per booking.
Check-in is required by 8:30 AM.
The departure point is located on the riverside boardwalk, adjacent to the Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art precinct in Southbank.
Check-in is required by 8:30 AM.
The departure point is located on the riverside boardwalk, adjacent to the Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art precinct in Southbank.
Please note that the cruise must depart promptly at 9:00 AM. Ensure you arrive 10 minutes prior to departure.
The cruise arrives at Lone Pine Sanctuary at 10:15 AM and must depart promptly at 1:30 PM for the return journey to Brisbane.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Infants and small children can be accommodated in a pram or stroller. Service animals are permitted on this tour. Public transportation options are conveniently located nearby. This tour is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. Wheelchair accessibility: While the cruise is accessible, Lone Pine Sanctuary has a set of 28 steps leading from the jetty to the entrance. There are no specific health restrictions applicable to this tour. Arrive at the departure point at least 10 minutes before the 9:00 AM departure time. Bookings for 'Koala Moments' (holding a koala) should be made online in advance. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard the cruise. Consider the steps at Lone Pine Sanctuary if mobility is a concern. Public transport is available near the departure point. For a full refund, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 6196KOALA
Activity offered by Koala and River Cruises via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Families Animal lovers Tourists visiting Brisbane Scenic river cruise along the Brisbane River Direct access to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Opportunity to see koalas, kangaroos, and native Australian wildlife Engaging animal shows including sheepdogs and birds of prey Relaxing return journey with onboard amenities
Population 2,706,966 (2023)
Elevation 0 m
Currency Australian dollar
Official language English
Driving on the left
Power plugs I · 230 V
Emergency number 000
Capital city Canberra Average temperatures 25° Jan 25° Feb 24° Mar 22° Apr 19° May 17° Jun 16° Jul 17° Aug 19° Sept 21° Oct 23° Nov 25° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What time does the cruise depart? + The cruise departs promptly at 9:00 AM. Check-in is required by 8:30 AM.
How long is the visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary? + You will have 3 hours to explore the sanctuary upon arrival at 10:15 AM.
Can I purchase food and drinks on the cruise? + Yes, food and drinks are available for purchase on board the cruise.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible? + The cruise is wheelchair accessible. However, Lone Pine Sanctuary has 28 steps from the jetty to the entrance.
What is the cancellation policy? + For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
★★★★★ Viator review
Great day out
Christopher_H, October 2026
Lovely scenic boat ride with entertaining commentary along the way. Light snacks & drinks (homemade & delicious) on board. Plenty of room to sit/move around. Crew were friendly & relaxed & very respectful of each other & the guests. The koala sanctuary was a delight with many animals & birds as well as koalas & kangaroos. Enjoyed the fact that there were many koala viewing areas not just the one. We saw everything in the time we had before getting back on board without rushing.
★★★★★ Viator review
Fabulous Trip
Paul_W, October 2026
Lovely boat ride with interesting commentary, the sanctuary is so well laid out and made a great trip, the koala’s are just wonderful and the platypus
★★★★★ Viator review
Perfect combo of city river tour and connection with local fauna!
Stacey_D, October 2026
We had wonderful weather and a great crew! The tour was both informative and entertaining while being well priced.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Fantastic day trip
davidcI6218WV, October 2026
The boat cruise to the sanctuary had great informative commentary, the driver and staff were all very friendly and welcoming. The sanctuary itself was incredible and plenty of time was allotted for seeing the whole place, petting kangaroos and a koala and seeing all the various animals in their habitats was an awesome experience. Back to the dock by 3-4pm so still plenty of day left to explore the city.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
A must when visiting Brisbane
m42tyn, October 2026
An awesome day out. Get to the boat early to get shade if it’s sunny!
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