Our Story

More Than a River Cruise

Every day, our crew welcomes visitors from around the world aboard Mirimar II, introducing them to one of Brisbane’s most iconic experiences, a scenic cruise along the Brisbane River to the world-famous Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

For many guests, it is a relaxing day on the river.

For us, it is the continuation of a story that has been unfolding on Brisbane’s waterways for decades.

The Brisbane River has always been more than a route between two destinations. It is the heart of our city, a place where history, nature and modern Brisbane meet. Every cruise is an opportunity to share that story with visitors from around Australia and across the world.

Brisbane’s River – The City’s Original Highway

Long before Brisbane became the modern city we know today, the Brisbane River was its lifeline.

For thousands of years, the river known as Maiwar to the Traditional Custodians provided food, transport and a gathering place for First Nations peoples.

As Brisbane grew, the river became the city’s main transport corridor. Ferries, cargo vessels and passenger boats connected communities long before many of Brisbane’s bridges existed.

Today, although the skyline has changed dramatically, the river remains at the centre of Brisbane life.

Every day we are privileged to continue that tradition by welcoming visitors onto the river and sharing Brisbane from the perspective it was built around.

Watching Brisbane Grow

One of the unique privileges of operating on the river is witnessing Brisbane continually evolve.

Over the years we have watched:

• New bridges connect the city.
• South Bank transform into one of Australia’s favourite public spaces.
• Howard Smith Wharves come to life beneath the Story Bridge.
• New skyscrapers reshape the skyline.
• The city welcome millions of visitors from around the world.

While Brisbane continues to grow, the river remains its constant.

Every cruise tells a little of that story.

Through Calm Waters and Major Floods

Like every Brisbane business connected to the river, we have experienced the incredible power of nature.

The Brisbane River has delivered unforgettable beauty, but it has also tested our resilience.

Major floods—including those of 1974, 2011 and 2022—changed the city forever.

River levels rose dramatically, pontoons disappeared beneath the water and familiar landmarks became almost unrecognisable.

Each flood reminded Brisbane how important the river is—not only during good times, but during its greatest challenges.

As the city recovered, so did the river, and so did we.

Sharing Brisbane With The World

Each year, Koala and River Cruises welcomes more than 24,000 passengers from over 80 countries, introducing visitors to Brisbane aboard Mirimar II during our 75-minute Brisbane River cruise between South Bank and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary.

Some are visiting Australia for the first time.

Others are returning after many years.

Many are travelling from international cruise ships, while others are exploring Queensland with family and friends.

Although every visitor arrives with a different story, they all leave with something in common:

A unique view of Brisbane that can only be experienced from the river.

For many guests, seeing a white-bellied sea eagle soaring overhead, spotting a pelican resting along the riverbank or watching the city skyline reflect on the water becomes one of the highlights of their visit.

More Than Transport

While our cruise conveniently connects South Bank with Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, we have always believed the journey should be just as memorable as the destination.

Throughout every cruise our crew shares stories about:

• Brisbane’s history
• The city’s bridges
• River wildlife
• Local landmarks
• Historic homes
• Floods
• Architecture
• The ever-changing Brisbane skyline

Many guests tell us they arrive at Lone Pine already feeling like they’ve discovered Brisbane.

Looking After Brisbane’s River

The Brisbane River gives us our livelihood, our workplace and countless unforgettable experiences.

Protecting it is part of our responsibility.

We continually look for ways to reduce our environmental impact while providing an enjoyable visitor experience.

Our commitment includes:

• Supporting responsible tourism.
• Reducing waste wherever possible.
• Recycling onboard.
• Working with local suppliers.
• Encouraging respect for Brisbane’s wildlife.
• Maintaining our vessel to maximise efficiency.
• Helping visitors understand the importance of protecting our waterways.

Every small improvement helps preserve the river for future generations.

The People Behind Every Cruise

A great cruise is never just about the vessel.

It is created by the people onboard.

From our captains and deck crew to our café team and customer service staff, everyone shares one goal:

Helping every guest feel welcome.

Whether we’re assisting families with Prams, serving fresh coffee, sharing local stories or helping visitors plan the rest of their Brisbane holiday, we take pride in creating an experience that people remember long after they leave the boat.

Looking Ahead

Brisbane continues to evolve.

New attractions open.

The skyline changes.

Visitors discover the city in new ways.

As Brisbane grows, so do we.

We continue investing in better visitor experiences, improved accessibility, stronger sustainability practices and new ways to help travellers discover Brisbane.

Our growing Knowledge Centre is part of that commitment sharing practical advice, local knowledge and first-hand insights to help every visitor make the most of their time in Brisbane.

Whether you are joining us for your first cruise or returning to experience Brisbane again, we look forward to welcoming you aboard and sharing the river that has shaped our story.

Join Us on the River

Every journey begins with a story.

We’d love to share ours with you.

Step aboard Mirimar II and experience Brisbane from the river.