Review · BRISBANE TOURS

Brisbane: Sunset City Lights Cruise 5.30pm or 6pm *seasonal

4.7 · 387 reviews 1h 30m From $41 Operated by River City Cruises · Bookable on GetYourGuide
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Brisbane looks best from the river just as the day gives way to night. This 90-minute sunset cruise glides past Story Bridge and Kangaroo Cliffs while the skyline changes from warm daylight to a field of city lights. It is an easy, low-effort way to see familiar Brisbane from a fresh angle.

I like the complimentary charcuterie board, which gives the cruise more substance than a simple sightseeing ride. I also like the timing: in summer, you get dusk on the way out and illuminated buildings on the return. The main drawback is clear: there is no guided commentary, so you will need to enjoy the views without much historical or architectural explanation.

Key points to know before booking

Brisbane: Sunset City Lights Cruise 5.30pm or 6pm <em>seasonal – Key points to know before booking’ /></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>The cruise changes with the seasons:</strong> Departures are at 5:30pm from April 1 to September 30, and 6pm from October 1 to March 31.</li>
<li><strong>The city lights are the main event:</strong> Story Bridge, Kangaroo Cliffs, bridges, and the Brisbane skyline take center stage after dark.</li>
<li><strong>A charcuterie share board is included:</strong> You receive complimentary nibbles, while drinks and extra snacks cost more.</li>
<li><strong>The mood is relaxed rather than tour-guide focused:</strong> Background music replaces live commentary.</li>
<li><strong>South Bank is the easy starting point:</strong> Meet at the Cultural Centre Public Pontoon, in front of the cultural centre.</li>
<li><strong>It costs $41 per person:</strong> That is fair for a 1.5-hour cruise with a food board, though a free CityCat ride offers a cheaper river view.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Setting off from South Bank at the right time</h2>
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