South Bank Combo Pass

Imagine spending a relaxing half-day exploring Brisbane from the water, then soaring high on a Ferris wheel to take in the city’s skyline, topped off with a hearty lunch at a local tavern. The South Bank Combo Pass offers just that, combining a 1.5-hour Brisbane river cruise, a 10-minute ride on the Wheel of Brisbane, and a delicious lunch at The Plough Inn for around $72.55 per person. Led by friendly and informative guides, this tour is designed to give you a taste of the city’s highlights in a laid-back, enjoyable way. It’s perfect for travelers looking to experience Brisbane’s charm without feeling rushed.

What we love most about this experience are the stunning views from the river cruise, especially as you listen to the engaging commentary that adds context to the sights, and the opportunity to relax over a tasty lunch where you can unwind and soak in the atmosphere. Another highlight? The gondola ride on the Wheel of Brisbane offers a 360-degree panorama of the city and river, giving you a different perspective from above.

One potential consideration is that the walk from the cruise wharf to The Plough Inn can be a bit of a hike, depending on your pace. For some, this might mean a little extra walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Also, the tour ends back where it started, so it’s well-suited for those staying nearby or with flexible plans.

This experience suits families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic, informative, and leisurely activities. It’s especially appealing if you want a well-rounded introduction to Brisbane’s key sights in half a day, with the flexibility to explore afterward on your own.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines a river cruise, Ferris wheel ride, and lunch for great value.
• Authentic Views: Offers scenic perspectives from the water and sky, revealing Brisbane’s natural beauty and cityscape.
• Informative Guides: Guides provide illuminating commentary, making the experience both pleasant and educational.
• Flexible Timing: After the cruise and ride, you’re free to explore the area at your own pace.
• Good Value: For around $72.55, you get a well-rounded half-day of sightseeing, lunch, and scenic views.
• Ideal for Relaxed Travelers: The pace suits those wanting a laid-back yet engaging Brisbane experience.

In-Depth Review: What to Expect from the South Bank Combo Pass

Starting Point and First Stop: River City Cruises

The tour begins at the Cultural Centre Public Pontoon in South Brisbane, a spot easy to reach by public transport. At 10:30 am, you’ll board a boat for a 1.5-hour river cruise. The cruise, led by knowledgeable guides, offers beautiful views of Brisbane’s skyline, the riverbanks, and notable landmarks. The commentary makes the journey engaging, filling you in on the city’s history and sights in a friendly, accessible manner.

Many reviewers praise the guides’ storytelling—Andrew_T calls it a “relaxing experience” with “interesting commentary,” while Robyn_P appreciates the “nice morning tea” and the “scenery.” The cruise includes snacks, coffee/tea, and a souvenir map, all adding to the sense that this is a well-thought-out tour designed for comfort and interest.

The Gondola Ride: The Wheel of Brisbane

After the cruise, you’ll take a short walk (about 10-15 minutes) to the Wheel of Brisbane. The gondola ride lasts about 10 minutes and offers a 360-degree view of the city and the river. Several reviews highlight how brilliant this perspective is—Laura_I considers it a “pleasant 1/2 day exploring Brisbane,” and others note the stunning vistas from the top, especially at sunset or at night when the city lights sparkle.

This ride is a highlight because it offers a vantage point that’s hard to beat, especially for photos. The gondola itself is comfortable, and the experience feels exclusive, even if it’s a shared ride with other visitors.

The Lunch at The Plough Inn

The tour concludes with lunch at The Plough Inn, a historic pub known for hearty Australian fare. The portions are described as “huge” and “very good” in reviews, with a good selection of entrees, plus the bonus of included drinks—an excellent value for the price. Meryl_J mentions the “delicious scones and coffee,” adding a cozy, local flavor to the experience. If you enjoy a relaxed pub atmosphere with quality food, this stop really hits the spot.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers:

• The river cruise with commentary and afternoon tea
• The ride on the Wheel of Brisbane
• Lunch and a beverage at The Plough Inn
• Snacks, coffee, and tea

Extras like alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, which is typical. The tour is flexible, allowing you to explore on your own after the scheduled activities.

Group Size and Booking Details

With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing guides to give more personalized attention. Booking is straightforward, with mobile tickets, and confirmation is immediate. The start time of 10:30 am makes it an appealing option for those who want to avoid early mornings but still enjoy a full half-day.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

From the reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and good value make this tour stand out. Many mention how relaxing and enjoyable the cruise is, especially with the friendly commentary. The combination of water, sky, and land views keeps the experience dynamic and engaging.

The lunch at The Plough Inn receives high praise for its quality and generous portions, offering a lovely break in the day. Several reviewers also appreciated the flexibility—after the main activities, you can explore South Bank or walk along the river at your own pace.

Possible Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention the walk from the cruise wharf to The Plough Inn as a bit of a hike—something to consider if mobility is an issue. Also, the walk from the cruise to the Ferris wheel might be a bit longer than expected for some, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive, relaxed overview of Brisbane’s key sights. It’s also suitable for families or couples looking for a mix of scenic beauty and good-value dining. If you enjoy informative guides and stunning views, this experience will hit the mark.

It’s especially appealing if you prefer active relaxation—a calm river cruise, a scenic gondola ride, and a hearty lunch—without the rush of a full-day tour. The flexibility to explore afterward makes it ideal for those who want a taste of Brisbane but still have time to wander further.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 18 years, so this tour isn’t designed for children. It’s geared more toward adult travelers who appreciate relaxed sightseeing.

Can I purchase alcoholic drinks during the tour?
Alcoholic drinks are available to buy at The Plough Inn, but they aren’t included in the price.

How long does each activity last?
The river cruise is approximately 1.5 hours, the gondola ride about 10 minutes, and lunch around 1.5 hours, allowing for a leisurely pace.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Cultural Centre Public Pontoon in South Brisbane and ends back at the same point, making it convenient for nearby accommodations or public transport.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, good weather is required. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 30 travelers ensures a comfortable experience, not too crowded but enough to create a lively atmosphere.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes suitable for walking and sitting outdoors. Remember sunscreen and sunglasses for the gondola ride.

Can I bring my own drinks or snacks?
Snacks and drinks are included during the cruise, but additional beverages at The Plough Inn are available for purchase.

Final Thoughts

The South Bank Combo Pass delivers a well-rounded, enjoyable taste of Brisbane. It balances scenic beauty, engaging commentary, and a hearty meal—all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re looking to relax, learn, or capture stunning photos, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a leisurely introduction to the city’s highlights without the fuss of multiple bookings or complicated itineraries.

If you value knowledgeable guides, spectacular city views from both water and sky, and a comfortable pace, this experience will serve you well. It’s a smart choice for those who want to savor Brisbane’s charm in just a few hours, leaving plenty of time to explore on your own afterward.