Things to do in

Brisbane River

Discover Brisbane from the water with this river cruise complete with lunch at one of the city's most popular eateries. Departing from South Bank, set out on a 1.5-hour cruise to explore some of Brisbane's most important sights. During your cruise, see sights such as the South Bank Parklands, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Story Bridge, New Farm Park, and the Brisbane riverside homes. The sights will be accompanied by an informative commentary about the region as well as a morning tea to satisfy your onboard cravings. The morning cruise will last for 45 minutes until you reach your first port of call. After a short walk from the landing dock, arrive at the Breakfast Creek Hotel where you can enjoy a delicious meal. Choose from a range of dishes such as rump steak, panko calamari, and Caesar salad. From here, you will once again board the boat to cruise back to the dock at South Bank within the luscious Parklands.

Depart from South Bank Parklands at 12:30 PM on board MV Neptune and enjoy a 1.5-hour guided tour of Brisbane by boat. You’ll be entertained by the informative commentary of your guide while taking advantage of the fantastic photo opportunities.  Cruise past Brisbane’s most iconic sights including the city center, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, New Farm Park, and the Story Bridge.

Experience the original sightseeing cruise on the Brisbane River, as you sip your morning tea. During this 1.5 hour guided tour, you will be entertained by informative commentary, while taking advantage of  fantastic photo opportunities. Cruise past Brisbane’s most iconic sights, including the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the city center, and the Story Bridge.    Enjoy this interesting, cost-effective, and informative tour of Brisbane’s distinctive river scene, ideal for both locals and visitors. Available year-round, you don’t want to miss out on this beautiful and relaxing tour.  

Board Mirimar Cruises from a convenient departure point in the heart of Brisbane city and embark on a relaxing cruise to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. On this 5.5-hour program you’ll enjoy informative commentary from your captain as you glide along Brisbane’s waterfront, passing from the bustle of the city to leafy suburbs with waterside mansions. Indulge in homemade morning teas, meals and snacks that you can purchase from the on-board café. After around 70 minutes of cruising you’ll arrive at Lone Pine, where you’ll have 3 hours to explore the world’s largest koala sanctuary that’s home to more than 130 of these adorable marsupials. You can cuddle a koala, have photos taken (at your own expense) and perhaps catch a talk by the koala keepers. Visit the Platypus House, where you may be able to see the shy platypus, a native to Australia. Owls, kites and sea eagles soar above you at the popular Birds of Prey show. You can also feed the kangaroos and wallabies: more than 100 of them live in a 5-acre reserve at Lone Pine. Along with koalas and kangaroos, Lone Pine hosts a sheepdog show where you see the hardworking dogs round up a herd of sheep, responding to their master’s whistles, calls and hand signals. After your time at the park, you’ll head back to the boat to enjoy a relaxing return trip to the city, listening to Australian music and sipping on a local Australian wine or beer.

Discover the city of Brisbane from the water with a river kayaking tour, no matter if you are a first-timer or an experienced kayaker. Get to grips with your kayak with a full instructive introduction by staff before heading out onto the water with your guide. Then explore the city for 1.5 hours with a local guide leading the way down the Brisbane River. Pilot your own kayak and paddle your way past landmarks such as the Story Bridge or South Bank while listening to all sorts of anecdotes about the city. With sunscreen and all equipment included, all you will need to worry about is taking in the sights and enjoying the adventure with your kayaking group.

Board your boat for the evening at 5:45 PM and set off along the scenic Brisbane River at 6:00 PM. Purchase a drink from the onboard bar, then sit back and relax as you gaze at the city skyline. Gently cruise along the river, admiring the many bridges along the way, including the impressive Story Bridge. Marvel at the beautiful Kangaroo Cliffs, and watch the city be transformed with color as it lights up at night. Along the way, listen to relaxing music, take in the sights of the city, and soak up the memories of this unforgettable experience. The cruise ends at 7:30 PM, back at the dock.

Nothing beats a fresh, cold beer and having a laugh with friends at an iconic Australian pub. River to Bay’s Classic Pubs Tour will take you on a cruise down the Brisbane River stopping at some of Brisbane’s favourite pubs. As a guest of River to Bay, you can enjoy priority entry and exclusive offers at each location. From the comfort of one of our custom-built vessels, enjoy views of the city skyline as you hop-on and hop-off at three of Brisbane’s most-loved venues. First stop is the Breakfast Creek Hotel – where if you’re lucky, you may be chosen to spike the keg. Then, hop back on board to cruise down to the Story Bridge Hotel. We’ll stop right on the beach under the Story Bridge (the perfect place for a photo opportunity). Your final stop will be at either the Port Office Hotel (Friday and Saturday tours) or the Stock Exchange Hotel (Sunday tours only).

Take a 2 or 3.5-hour guided bicycle tour from South Bank Parklands, and ride to historic Kangaroo Point. Continue over the iconic Story Bridge to the charming suburb of New Farm. Ride down tree-lined streets and into New Farm Park, a lovely site with riverside picnic spots, cycling paths and playgrounds. Stop here for a picnic tea break, and to enjoy the river view. After the break you’ll head to the inner suburb of Teneriffe to see the many heritage sites that are being revitalized. Gradually you’ll wind your way back along the waterfront, where some of Brisbane's finest riverfront restaurants are located.  Pedal through the City Botanic Gardens, and see the outdoor sculptures and an impressive collection of native and exotic plants. The tour ends back at the starting point in South Bank Parklands. The total biking distance may vary depending on the riding skills and interests of your group.

Test your taste with the authentic brews and culinary creations native to Queensland. Enjoy a guided visit to different foodie venues, and explore Brisbane's food scene. Discover hidden gems, meet artisans and producers, and absorb the local stories of where it all comes from. Start your experience with a coffee tasting and morning tea at a local roastery. Go for a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting session at a local winery. Savor a platter of local delicacies or cheeses, paired with wine or non-alcoholic drinks. Stop for a seafood lunch paired with a non-alcoholic drink, or enjoy a meal of local produce along with a glass of wine. Continue to your next venue to taste some sweet treats before finishing your experience with a Queensland-inspired cocktail. Try 5 to 6 dishes, along with drinks and wine tastings throughout the day, before being dropped off at your accommodation.