Plan your visit
Plan Your River Cruise
Cruises depart from South Bank. Arrive 15 minutes early and pack sun protection for the open viewing decks.
Brisbane River cruises (lunch and sightseeing)
Cultural Centre Boardwalk, South Brisbane, QLD 4101
GPS -27.4718, 153.0193
Open directionsGetting there
The main departure point is the Cultural Centre Pontoon.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk: Walk from the Brisbane CBD across the Victoria Bridge to the Cultural Centre Pontoon. | 10-15 mins | Free | A highly scenic walk directly into the South Bank parklands. |
| Bus: Take a local bus to the Cultural Centre Busway Station, which is steps away from the departure pontoon. | 5-15 mins | $3-$5 AUD | Very frequent services run from the city center and surrounding suburbs. |
| Train: Take the train to South Brisbane Station and walk 5 minutes toward the river. | 15 mins | $3-$5 AUD | A convenient option if coming from the airport or further out. |
| Boat: Catch the free CityHopper ferry to the South Bank 3 terminal and walk down the promenade. | 20 mins | Free | A great way to spend even more time enjoying the river before your cruise. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
Cruises operate most days of the year. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer the best weather. The signature lunch package departs daily at 10:30 AM.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
The onboard bar and cafe is a card-only facility.
Cash is not accepted on the MV Neptune.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to structure your cruise day.
The classic 3.5-hour sightseeing and dining experience.
- Arrive at South Bank
Wait at the Cultural Centre Pontoon for boarding.
- Depart and Sightsee
Enjoy morning tea and live commentary on the water.
- Disembark at Newstead
Walk 400 meters to the Breakfast Creek Hotel.
- Pub Lunch
Spend two hours dining and tasting keg beer.
- Return Journey
Board the MV Neptune for the trip back to South Bank.
- Tour Concludes
Disembark at the Cultural Centre Pontoon.
A quick 1.5-hour overview of the city from the water.
- Check in
Arrive at the pontoon 15 minutes early.
- Morning Cruise
Listen to commentary and pass the Story Bridge.
- Turnaround
The boat reaches Newstead before heading back.
- Finish
Return to South Bank with the afternoon free.
Practical advice for your cruise
Boats will not wait for late passengers. You must arrive at the Cultural Centre Pontoon 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. During the lunch stopover, monitor the time closely to ensure you return to the Newstead Pontoon before the boat departs.
Dress appropriately for a river environment. Pack SPF 50+ sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and a light windbreaker for river breezes. You must wear comfortable walking shoes, as reaching the Breakfast Creek Hotel requires a 400-meter scenic walk from the drop-off point.
Easiest way to do it
Cruise to Lunch Package: 10:30am – 2pm (3.5hr)
3 h 30 min 4.7 (964)
- Restrooms onboard
- Souvenir map of Brisbane River
- Morning Tea - Tea/Coffee and Scones with jam & cream
- Access to the onboard Coffee Shop and Licensed Bar
From$69per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Where do Brisbane River cruises depart from?
Most tours, including those by River City Cruises, depart from the Cultural Centre Public Pontoon in South Bank.
Can I buy drinks on the Brisbane River cruise boat?
Yes. The boat features a licensed bar and cafe. You need a debit or credit card, as the boat does not accept cash.
Are Brisbane River cruises wheelchair accessible?
No. Boutique timber vessels like the MV Neptune are not equipped for wheelchair access.