Overview Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, one of the six Australian states. This city, located on the Brisbane River, is actually the third-most populated city in Australia, after Sydney and Melbourne.
Among the popular things to do while in Brisbane are whale watching, supervised interacting with the native wildlife (such as kangaroos and koalas) and water sports.
As far as the weather in Brisbane goes, the summers are hot, humid and dry, while the winters are mild. Thunderstorms are commonplace in Brisbane during from late spring through early autumn.
Destinations The following destinations can be visited on a cruise leaving from Brisbane, Australia:
Australia & New Zealand
Currency The official currency of Australia is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Using a credit card whenever possible is a great way to avoid having to exchange currency. ATM machines are available, but make sure you use one that works with the card you're using.
Language The official language Australia is English.
Tourist Attractions A great way to get around Brisbane is via the catamarans of CityCat. CityCat offers a popular ferry service and has a departure area located about a 10 minute walk from the cruise pier.
Moreton Island is one of the largest sand islands in the world. 98% of the island is a national park (named Moreton Island National Park), and it's a great place for 4x4 driving, snorkeling, parasailing, whale watching and dolphin feeding (at Tangalooma Resort).
South Bank, the cultural heart of Brisbane, is located on the south bank of the Brisbane River. Within this area are the South Bank Parklands, former site of World Expo 88, and the Queensland Cultural Centre.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, operating since 1927, is the home of over 130 koalas and many other animals that are native to Australia. Among the popular things to do there are feeding kangaroos and holding koalas. Alma Park Zoo, located just north of Brisbane (in Dakabin), is a smaller-sized place that's filled with a variety of Australian wildlife.
Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, established in 1855, are located along the Brisbane River, at Gardens Point. These gardens are about 20 hectares and are open 24 hours (with pathways lit during the evenings).
Brisbane City Hall, open since 1930, was once the tallest building in all of Brisbane. Today, you can take an elevator ride up into the large clock tower at its top.
Port Location There are two wharfs that cruise ships can dock in while visiting Brisbane. Which one a particular ship docks in depends on its size. Most cruise ships dock at Portside Wharf, which was completed in 2006 and has many shops, bars and restaurants by it. Taller ships, that cannot clear the Gateway Bridge, must dock up the river at the very industrial Pinkenba Wharf. Cruise lines typically offer shuttle services from either wharf to the city centre. Taxis are also typically available at both wharfs. It's about a 30 minute ride to the city centre, sometimes longer depending on where in Brisbane you're headed to.
