Aboard · RIVER CRUISES IN AUSTRALIA
Every trip has one free day too few. These 8 river cruises in Australia justify the slot, priced and timed so you can decide in minutes and get back to the fun part.
Join Lady Douglas from 44 Wharf Street for a calm 90-minute cruise through Dickson Inlet and along Port Douglas’ waterfront. Skippers including Richard, Jay, and Jake share local stories while you look for crocodiles, birds, crabs, and mudskippers. A drink and snack plate are included.
“Great value professional staff great scenery we saw three cross smooth sailing absolutely spectacular”
Cruise upstream and downstream from Southgate, passing Docklands, Southbank, sporting venues, Herring Island, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. GPS-triggered English commentary explains the sights. You can sit inside, take photos from the open back deck, and enjoy tea or coffee during the two-hour trip.
“We had a great time on the cruise, sun was shining and crew were very friendly.”
Spend about 10 hours exploring the Blue Mountains from Sydney by small coach. Visit Sydney Zoo, Kings Tableland, Wentworth Falls or Leura Cascades, Leura, Katoomba, Scenic World, and the Three Sisters, then take a ferry to Circular Quay. Zoo and Scenic World admission cost extra.
“Very interesting & enjoyable, Bruce was the perfect tour guide, under the circumstances with weather conditions.”
Cruise from Southbank to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary aboard Mirimar II, with live commentary, café service, and three hours to see koalas, feed kangaroos, spot platypuses, and watch the Flight Raptor show. Captain Robbie and crew are often praised for their warm, entertaining service.
“Very good tour and the captain was very friendly. There was excellent commentary throughout the journey. Top marks.”
Cruise the Adelaide River for about an hour as guides such as Jack, Jake, Dillon, John, and Sean explain the crocodiles and river system. Food draws huge saltwater crocodiles, including Brutus and Dominator, close to the shaded boat. The experience is family-friendly, stroller accessible, and limited to 28 people.
“Crocs found straight away including some of the biggest on the river, Dominator and Brutus. Terrifying prehistoric animals! Great commentary, humour and facts along the way. Thanks for a great and entertaining experience!”
Spend an hour on the Yarra River with an English-speaking captain and crew. From Federation Wharf, you’ll see Eureka Tower, Southbank, the Royal Botanic Gardens, bridges, and riverside districts while hearing live commentary. Tea and coffee are included, with snacks and alcoholic drinks sold onboard.
“Beautiful views both sides of the river. Good interactive discussions with the guide.”
Spend about 10.5 hours with Oz Trails exploring the Blue Mountains from Sydney. Guides such as Les and Bruce combine lookout stops, a waterfall bushwalk, Three Sisters, Leura, optional Sydney Zoo and Scenic World visits, then finish with a ferry to Circular Quay.
“Les took us around all day, he was really knowledgeable, helpful and also very very funny! Thank you for everything! P.s. if you do the tour I really suggest you to do at least the Scenic world too, it's really a big part of it. You can skip the zoo if you're not interested but definitely try the cable cars and the train!”
Spend 90 peaceful minutes aboard Lady Douglas, cruising Port Douglas mangroves and Dickson Inlet with skipper-led stories, crocodile spotting, a bar drink, and a snack box. Guides such as Drew and Chris add local color, while the calm route suits families, couples, and anyone wanting an easy afternoon on the water.
“Lovely trip Great commentary Enjoyed the snacks Yes and saw crocs”
Pick a river, a coast or a harbour.
