Brisbane Cruise Port Guide
My Relaxed River City Surprise
Quick Answer: Brisbane scores 4.8 stars with its warm, sunny, laid-back vibe. Must-dos: South Bank Streets Beach, CityCat ferry ride, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (cuddle koalas!), and sunset at Mount Coot-tha lookout.
My Brisbane Day – A First-Person Account
Brisbane has become a regular on South Pacific and repositioning cruises, and I adore its warm, sunny, laid-back vibe – 4.8 average lately.
My perfect day: off the ship at Portside and straight to South Bank for the man-made Streets Beach lagoon, the Wheel of Brisbane, and the epic Epicurious garden. Then a CityCat ferry up the river (best $5 you'll ever spend), Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to cuddle koalas and hand-feed kangaroos, and Mount Coot-tha lookout at sunset.
XXXX Brewery tour and a steak at Breakfast Creek Hotel are classics. The subtropical warmth wraps around you like a hug, and Queenslanders are genuinely some of the friendliest people I've met anywhere in the world.
Getting Around
The new Brisbane International Cruise Terminal sits at the river mouth – 20–30 minutes by shuttle or taxi to city center. The CityCat ferry system is cheap, scenic, and connects all the major attractions along the river.
A Positively Worded Word of Warning: The subtropical warmth and friendly Queenslander smiles are contagious – slow down, grab a cold one, and let Brisbane's easy pace give you the most relaxed day of your cruise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I actually hold a koala at Lone Pine?
Yes! Queensland is one of the few Australian states where you can cuddle koalas. Book your koala photo early in the day as slots fill up. Hand-feeding kangaroos is included with admission.
Is South Bank Streets Beach actually nice?
It's surprisingly great – a clean, free, man-made lagoon with lifeguards, surrounded by restaurants and parkland. Perfect for families or just cooling off.
How do I get to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?
Take a taxi/Uber (25–30 minutes, $40–50) or the scenic Mirimar cruise boat from South Bank. The boat ride adds to the experience.