Brisbane River Cruise with entry to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Fig Tree Pocket, AU
95% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1286 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    General admission into lone pine koala sanctuary
  • inclusion
    Round-trip cruise

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Food and drinks (available to purchase)
  • exclusion
    Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • exclusion
    Koala moments (touch a koala)bookings online

Meeting 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.

Meeting point

Cultural Centre Boardwalk, South Brisbane QLD 4101 , Australia

End point

End 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.

Meeting point

Cultural Centre Boardwalk, South Brisbane QLD 4101 , Australia

End point

What to expect

1

The Brisbane River

You’ll board your boat in Brisbane’s Southbank district and leave the city behind on a relaxing cruise to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Enjoy informative commentary from your captain as you glide along Brisbane’s waterfront, passing from the bustle of the city’s skyscrapers to leafy suburbs with waterside mansions. After about an hour you’ll arrive at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary where you’ll be free to explore for 3 hours.

Duration 40 minutes
2

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary opened in 1927 as a safe refuge for sick, injured, and orphaned koalas, at a time when the species was being culled for the fur trade. Today, Lone Pine remains as a destination not only see native Australian animals, but to also connect and learn, and to leave feeling inspired to make small, positive changes in your daily lives to help protect native wildlife and habitats. Along with koalas and kangaroos, Lone Pine hosts a sheepdog show where you see the dogs round up a herd of sheep, responding to their master’s whistles, calls and signals. You can see owls, kites and sea eagles soar above you at the Birds of Prey show, or marvel at the colorful feathers of the wild lorikeets that fly in twice daily for feedings. Other bird species and a population of Eastern Water Dragons, a lizard that grows up to 3 feet (90cm) long also like to visit Lone Pine’s natural parkland.

Duration 180 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair: Cruise is accessible however Lone Pine has a set of 28 steps to climb from the jetty to the entrance
  • Additional information
    No health restrictions apply to this tour
Provided by Mirimar Cruises

What our experts say

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    Arrive early; check-in by 8:30 am.
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    Don’t miss the sheepdog show at Lone Pine.
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    Consider lunch at the café in the sanctuary.
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    Bring a camera for great animal photos.
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    Explore Southbank before or after your tour.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the wonders of Australia's wildlife with a day trip to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary from Brisbane. This unique experience combines a scenic river cruise along the beautiful Brisbane River with an up-close encounter with some of Australia’s most iconic animals. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, established in 1927, was founded as a safe haven for koalas during a time when the species was being hunted for their fur. Today, it serves as a place to connect with nature, learn about conservation efforts, and leave feeling inspired to protect native wildlife and habitats.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to have a total duration of 330 minutes to immerse yourself in the wonders of Australia's wildlife. Start your day with a check-in at 8:30 am and embark on a picturesque river cruise from Southbank to Lone Pine Sanctuary. Upon arrival, you have approximately three hours to explore the sanctuary and get up close to koalas, kangaroos, and various other animals. Witness the incredible sheepdog show, where hardworking dogs round up sheep with their master's commands. Be amazed by the Birds of Prey show as owls, kites, and sea eagles soar above you. Don't miss the lorikeet feedings, where these colorful birds flock to interact with visitors. It's an experience that promises to leave you awe-inspired by Australia's unique wildlife.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family and friends, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary offers a delightful experience for everyone. Animal enthusiasts will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with adorable koalas, kangaroos, and other native Australian wildlife. The sanctuary is also an ideal destination for those interested in learning about conservation and making positive changes to protect wildlife and their habitats.

Why book this?

Embarking on the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary tour is an exceptional opportunity to witness the beauty and diversity of Australia's wildlife in a unique and interactive way. With the combination of a relaxing river cruise and the chance to get up close to some of Australia's most beloved creatures, this experience offers a mix of adventure and tranquility. Spend the day surrounded by lush parklands, listening to the sounds of nature, and learning about the importance of wildlife conservation. It's a memorable experience that will leave you with a deep sense of appreciation for Australia's natural wonders.

Good to know

When booking this tour, it's important to note that photo experiences are only available for purchase at the Lone Pine Sanctuary experience hut on the day of the visit. Availability may vary, depending on the needs of the koalas. Check-in is required by 8:45 am, with the tour departing promptly at 9 am. The duration of the tour is approximately 330 minutes, including the river cruise and the time spent at Lone Pine Sanctuary. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and exploring the sanctuary.

Reviews

Visitors who have experienced the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary tour have shared their delight and satisfaction with the intimate wildlife encounters and informative experiences. The sanctuary allows guests to connect with and learn about native Australian animals, creating long-lasting memories. Many reviewers have praised the opportunity to hold and cuddle koalas, as well as interact with friendly kangaroos and witness the incredible sheepdog show. The passionate staff and their dedication to wildlife conservation have also been commended. Overall, visitors leave the sanctuary feeling inspired to make a positive impact on the protection of native wildlife and their habitats.

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