Brisbane River Ferry

Gliding along the Brisbane River on a CityCat or ferry is the quintessential Brisbane experience, offering a front-row seat to the city's evolving skyline, lush riverbanks, and iconic bridges. These fast, frequent catamarans and smaller ferries are not just practical transport but a scenic joyride that connects the city's cultural hubs, parklands, and neighbourhoods. Grab a seat on the open deck, feel the subtropical breeze, and watch the city unfold from the water.

Highlights & What to See

• CityCat Ride: Hop on a CityCat from the University of Queensland to Northshore Hamilton for a 90-minute round trip that passes the Story Bridge, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, New Farm Park, and the CBD skyline.
• South Bank Ferry Stop: Alight at South Bank to explore the cultural precinct, Streets Beach, the Wheel of Brisbane, and the Queensland Art Gallery.
• Kangaroo Point Cliffs: See the dramatic river cliffs from the water; time your ride for sunset when they glow orange.
• Story Bridge: Cruise beneath this iconic steel cantilever bridge—a great photo op from the ferry's bow.
• New Farm Park: Disembark at New Farm to wander the heritage-listed park, Sydney Street's eateries, or the Brisbane Powerhouse arts venue.
• River Terrace Café Culture: Many ferry terminals have waterside cafés—grab a coffee and watch the boats come and go.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 1–2 hours for a leisurely round trip on a CityCat from one end of the route to the other. For a shorter taste, take a 30-minute hop between South Bank and New Farm. The ferries run every 15–30 minutes, so you can easily combine a ride with stops at riverside attractions. Evening rides are magical when the city lights reflect on the water.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• South Bank – A cultural and recreational precinct with museums, galleries, and the man-made beach, just a ferry stop away.
• Kangaroo Point – Known for its cliffs, riverwalk, and cliffside dining; accessible by ferry or a short walk across the Goodwill Bridge.
• New Farm – A leafy neighbourhood with the Brisbane Powerhouse, weekend markets, and the New Farm Riverwalk.
• Story Bridge Adventure Climb – For panoramic city views, combine a ferry ride with a bridge climb starting from Kangaroo Point.
• Howard Smith Wharves – A lively riverside dining and bar precinct under the Story Bridge, reachable by ferry from several stops.

Please check official sources for current details.