river cruise with dinner brisbane

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Brisbane Cruises

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There's nothing quite like a dining cruise in Brisbane! A dining cruise along Brisbane River is a unique way to take in the beauty of the city. Enjoy stunning views of the cityscape while savoring delicious cuisines onboard. So why not take your next dining experience to the water and explore Brisbane in style? These are also perfect for Valentine's Day gifts for couples , birthday gifts or Father's Day gifts .

• $150 - $300
• Children Friendly
• Instant Book

Best Brisbane River Cruise Experiences

Looking for a unique way to discover Brisbane? Searching for fun things to do in Brisbane that you can share with family or friends? A Brisbane cruise is just the ticket. Set sail and explore some of the city’s top sights, all while you meander along the Brisbane River. With various cruises to choose from, from simple scenic cruises to river cruises, you’ll find plenty of ways to discover Brisbane with RedBalloon.

What can I expect on a Brisbane River cruise?

With plenty of great packages to choose from, each Brisbane River cruise offers its own unique experiences. Enjoy an afternoon out on the water with a scenic Brisbane River cruise, discovering some of the city’s top sights, or set the mood for a romantic date with a night out on the water. Brisbane is a beautiful city at any time of the day, so embrace the opportunity to discover what makes it such a memorable destination. You might choose to go on a cruise that includes morning tea, dinner or a drink or two, or you may opt for a cruise that takes you between several of Brisbane’s must-see spots. Whichever cruise you decide to go on, you will have a fantastic time.

How much does a Brisbane River cruise cost?

As with any activity or experience, the cost of a Brisbane River cruise will vary depending on what’s included and its duration. Brisbane dinner cruises and those offering unique experiences such as riverfront bar hopping will typically cost more than standard sightseeing outings. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly river cruise, you can secure tickets for a 90-minute cruise for around $49 per adult, while cruises with meal inclusions are generally more expensive.

Using the Price Range filter allows you to discover an assortment of experiences to suit your budget.

Where do Brisbane River cruises leave from?

The location from which your Brisbane River cruise will depart will vary depending on the operator. Some cruises may leave from the Cultural Centre Public Pontoon in South Bank, while others will depart from other locations along the river. When you book your river cruise, you’ll be provided with all the information you’ll need to plan your day or evening on the water, including your departure time and location.

What should I wear on a Brisbane dining cruise?

While it’s generally acceptable to wear casual clothing, such as activewear or beachwear, when enjoying a daytime sightseeing cruise around the city and its surrounds, if you plan to set out on a Brisbane dinner cruise, you might choose to don a smart casual outfit. While definitions of smart casual vary, an outfit would generally consist of dress jeans or long pants and a collared shirt for men. For women, look to wear an outfit that would be suited to dinner at a nice restaurant. Contact your cruise operator for more information if you’re unsure what is appropriate for your Brisbane dinner cruise.

If you’ve ever spent time on the water after dark, you’d know that the temperature can drop quite quickly once the sun has set. Although this may not be an issue on a Brisbane cruise at the height of summer, consider taking a jacket or coat if you plan to enjoy a cruise during the cooler months.

Cruises offer a fantastic opportunity to discover the beauty of Australia’s waterways from a brand-new perspective. If you’re ready to see more of our beautiful country from the comfort of a scenic or dining cruise , explore the fantastic range of experiences available at RedBalloon. Enjoy an outing with friends and family, or treat a special someone to a date with a difference.

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Experience a romantic dinner whilst relaxing in Beautiful Brisbane River Cruise.

Our Gondolas provide an ambience rarely available in today’s busy world. The atmosphere of old world charm guarantees to kindle romance and stroke the heart strings of all that are fortunate enough to experience this world class adventure first hand from the privacy of your very own chauffeured gondola.

“A very special romantic evening or day cruise is always assured”.

So step aboard, be chauffeured in sumptuous surrounds upon the Brisbane River and enjoy fabulous city views and superb hospitality. A romantic gondola cruise on the Brisbane River is more than a boat cruise it’s a treasured memory that you won’t forget.

Book now: 0419400944

Enjoy our delicious foods, information.

40 Ross Street, Newstead, Brisbane QLD 4006.

© 2021 by Golden Gondola Brisbane. All Rights Reserved.

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ZCITY LIGHTS DINNER CRUISE

• Duration: 90 Minutes (approx.)
• Location : South Brisbane, QLD
• Product code: CITYLIGHTS2023

Cancellations within 72 hours of cruise day will incur a 100% cancellation fee due to crew and catering requirements.

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• About this activity

Brisbane River Dinner Cruise

• Printed Voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Brisbane's no 1 Dinner Cruise
• The most spectauclar 360 degree views of Brisbane
• Contemporary seasonal buffet with beverages included
• Private table and access to all outdoor decks
• Unique experience aboard an authentic paddlewheeler

Activity location

• 1 Eagle Street
• 4000, Brisbane City, Queensland, Australia

Meeting/Redemption Point

Check availability.

• Tue, Jun 25 -
• Wed, Jun 26 -
• Thu, Jun 27 -
• Fri, Jun 28 -
• Sat, Jun 29 -
• Sun, Jun 30 -
• Mon, Jul 1 -
• Tue, Jul 2 -
• Wed, Jul 3 -
• Thu, Jul 4 -
• Fri, Jul 5 -
• Sat, Jul 6 -
• Sun, Jul 7 -
• Mon, Jul 8 -
• Tue, Jul 9 -

Sorry this activity isn't available on Tue, Jun 25

What's included, what's not.

• What's included What's included Dinner cruise
• What's included What's included Live Entertainment
• What's included What's included Local & Imported beers, sparkling, soft drink, juice tea & coffee
• What's included What's included 2.5 to 3 hour Brisbane River cruise
• What's excluded What's excluded Hotel pickup and drop-off
• What's excluded What's excluded Alcoholic beverages prior to April 1st

Know before you book

• Children 3 and younger are complimentary when accompanied by a paying adult.
• Check-in is 30 minutes prior to the booked tour start time.
• Seating and tables are allocated per booking. All passengers wishing to be seated together should be included in only one booking
• Return time will vary between 2.5-3 hours depending on tides.
• We can cater for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free and Dairy Free only

What you can expect

Experience Australia’s most beautiful river city from the iconic Kookaburra River Queens or Grand Voyager. Built specifically for Queensland, these custom-made paddle wheelers are famous on the Brisbane River and have welcomed millions of happy guests for over 30 years.

Departing from the city, once onboard, you will be taken to your allocated table where you will be surrounded by the most stunning sights of Brisbane by night. Stroll the outdoor decks, enjoy a cold drink on the rooftop and experience Brisbane's dinner cruise.

Sailing every week of the year, all our cruises showcase the best of Brisbane, sailing both upstream and downstream from our city departure point. Sights include the beautiful Botanic Gardens, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the Maritime Museum, Brisbane’s Southbank precinct including the Brisbane Wheel, the iconic Story Bridge, the city’s finest modern and heritage architecture, homes of the rich and famous and many more of Brisbane’s spectacular attractions.

Our cruises are all-inclusive, with a sensational contemporary buffet, selected local and imported beers, bubbles, soft drink, juice, and coffee & tea.

So, join us for Brisbane's most memorable river cruise. With onboard entertainment, this will be a night in Brisbane you will cherish forever.

0428 278 473

UPCOMING Riverfire 2025!

Be part of brisbane’s most anticipated event.

Adults 18+ Event

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More About the MV Neptune

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Riverfire 2025

• boarding 5:45 pm

Get the best seat in the house to watch the 2025 Riverfire!

Be part of Brisbane’s most anticipated event – Riverfire!

Join us on this evening cruise on the stunning Brisbane river taking in the spectacular night views and lights that Brisbane offers up. View the fireworks from a great advantage point on MV Neptune.

Boarding the MV Neptune at 5:45pm for a 6.00pm departure and receive a complimentary welcome drink of your selection. Additional drinks are available for purchase at the bar on board.

During the evening you will be served a hot/cold buffet with dessert.

The river is spectacular at night. View the 8:30pm fireworks at Southbank from the Brisbane River. We will return for disembarking at 9.30pm.

Numbers are limited so get in quick! Lets get the party started!

Please note, this is an over 18yrs event and passengers may be subject to ID checks. Times are subject to Council confirming the time of the fireworks.

Your Entertainment

perfectly located to see the Riverfire display

what's included

3.5hrs Cruise

Drink on arrival

Selection of delicious hot and cold food

Fully Licenced bar

Reasonably priced drinks

Great Music

(Note, no commentary on board this trip)

Brisbane’s Best Tour

Hop on board the MV Neptune for a magnificent tour of Brisbane by water. This remains Brisbane’s best value tour. During the cruise you will be entertained by an informative commentary that provides insight into the history of Brisbane and the River today. Enjoy an ice cold beer or wine from bar as you marvel at the historical landmarks and the homes of the rich and famous. Perfect for both locals and visitors!

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Departure/Return Point:

Cultural centre public pontoon at southbank on the river in front of the cultural centre., [email protected].

If you’ve cruised with us in the past we’d love to hear your feedback!

River city cruises is a family-owned queensland business proudly operating since 2002., copyright © 2023 – river city cruises, policy's and terms & conditions of bookings, our cancellation policy, privacy policy, responsible service of alcohol.

As the licensee, the Operator is bound by the QLD Liquor Act and must abide by the guidelines for the responsible service of alcohol. Please note that it is an offence for individuals to either carry liquor onto the vessel on arrival or from the vessel on disembarkation

Functions Terms and Conditions

DEPOSITS & PAYMENT – Confirmation of a booking is not until a deposit has been paid. A deposit of $500 is payable upon booking, with the balance to be paid 3 weeks prior to travel. If a booking is made less than 21 days from cruise date, full payment is required on confirmation.

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The mv neptune, crafted in 1966, the m v neptune is a classic timber cruiser that embodies a timeless charm..

With a capacity to accommodate up to 65 guests, this boutique-style vessel is a local gem, proudly owned and operated within the community. The Neptune boasts not only inviting indoor spaces but also expansive outdoor deck areas that provide ample room for relaxation and enjoyment.

Today the Neptune continues to gracefully navigate the waters of the Brisbane River

Its spacious fully sheltered upper deck, you'll discover an expansive space offering uninterrupted vistas of the breath-taking surroundings, presenting excellent vantage points for absorbing the scenery. on the upper level, inside, the galley provides comfortable seating for up to 30 guests. on the enclosed lower deck, you'll find excellent viewing spots and convenient accessibility. complete with necessary amenities such as restrooms and a licensed bar offering reasonably priced drinks, the boat ensures your comfort throughout the voyage..

• the MV Neptune, can host up to 80 guests .
• unobstructed views of the passing scenery
• The indoor area provides seating for 42 guests
• a comfortable and spacious experience.
• coffee shop serving light lunches and refreshments
• fully licensed bar  
• well-maintained bathroom facilities.

Experience the allure of the M V Neptune – where classic elegance meets modern comfort, and each journey becomes a cherished memory.

Home » News » Brisbane Festival 2024 returns from 30 August

Brisbane Festival 2024 returns from 30 August

Experience a rich tapestry of culture, celebration, and community throughout the city as the Brisbane Festival 2024 returns from 30 August to 21 September.

The fifth program from artistic director Louise Bezzina invites guests to experience the pinnacle of artistry with world premieres, Australian exclusives, Queensland commissions, and Brisbane spotlights across 23 days. Tt brings 1000+ performances staged in the city’s arts venues, unique landmarks, and close-knit communities.

Visitors can see Jean Paul Gaultier’s Fashion Freak Show,  a collision of fashion, music, pop culture, cabaret and art that will have its exclusive Australian premiere in South Bank Piazza (30 August – 15 September).

Jean Paul Gaultier’s Fashion Freak Show

Queensland Indigenous artist, Grace Lillian Lee , adds local flair to the revue-style party. She is the creative force behind 2021’s debut First Nations Fashion: Walking in Two Worlds, will spearhead another world premiere, her debut solo exhibition in 2024, The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace (30 August – 21 September).

Audiences can watch the Australian-first production, Volcano (30 August – 15 September), as it brings a never-before-seen hybrid production that plays out over four, 45-minute episodes and combines theatre and dance with a television sci-fi thriller.

The festival also features the world premiere of Straight from the Strait (28-31 August), an opera co-produced with Opera Queensland and QPAC’s Playhouse with the true story of Torres Strait Islander workers laying and 7km of railway tracks in a single day in 1968.

Straight from the Strait

Dancenorth Australia stages the global debut of its new work, Lighting the Dark (12 – 14 September), developed in collaboration with Chris Dyke, a dancer and emerging choreographer with Down Syndrome.

Also making its global premiere are Trent Dalton’s Love Stories (10 – 29 September) at QPAC’s Playhouse and Fancy Long Legs (12 – 22 September) at La Boite Theatre.

Queensland premieres include:

• Eucalyptus (4-5 September), a new opera based on Murray Bail’s Miles Franklin Award-winning novel, Eucalyptus.
• Gurr Era Op (11-14 September), a celebration of Torres Strait Islander culture and a climate call-to-action.
• Private View (18-21 September), Restless Dance Theatre’s raw and revolutionary exploration of sexuality and disability.
• Kitchen Studio (30 August-26 October)
• Dear Brother (7-28 September)

A first of 14 First Nations-led productions, Big Name, No Blankets (20-21 September), continues Brisbane’s proud history of inviting Indigenous storytellers and artists.

Big Name, No Blankets

On opening weekend, Meeanjin Songlinez (1 September) invites everyone to celebrate and honour local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities and the extraordinary talent of Queensland’s First Nations artists.

Following the success of 2023’s Nieergoo: Spirit of the Whale, Brisbane Festival partners with Nova Sky Stories and Tribal Experiences to develop a dazzling drone show over the city’s iconic skyline, with Skylore – The Rainbow Serpent.

Skylore – The Rainbow Serpent

All eyes are on the sky on Saturday 31 August when Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust returns to light up Brisbane in the city’s biggest and most-loved fireworks spectacular.

Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust

Also returning to light up the city is Lightscape (31 August-12 October) with a completely reimagined illuminated trail of neon lights, technicolour installations, and choreographed soundscapes through Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens.

The travelling arts venue sets sail once again from South Bank on a luxe new vessel with a stellar program of guest artists and performers with The Art Boat (30 August -21 September).

Brisbane Serenades returns with a program of free mini-festivals and exquisitely curated musical experiences across Brisbane suburbs including Moorooka Block Party (7 September), Portside Serenades at Northshore, Brisbane (15 September), St Lucia Serenades (14 September) Pasifika Made at Kuraby (21 September), and Voices of Victoria Park (8 September).

Portside Serenades

“I am delighted this year to bring leading international artists as well as creatively significant, profoundly inspiring and wholly entertaining works from across the world to our city,” artistic director Bezzina, said.

“Brisbane Festival remains a celebration by and for Brisbane so when we bring these global works to our city, we create opportunities to spotlight the extraordinary talents of our local artists on the world stage.”

Email the Travel Weekly team at [email protected]

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6 top luxury alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Book a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land on one of these top luxury ships.

Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Courtesy of Crystal

Cruising to Alaska on a small luxury ship affords a very different experience than sailing through The Great Land on a larger vessel. On a smaller luxury ship, you'll enjoy the expected perks like fewer passengers and more personalized service – but you'll also physically get closer to the boundless wilderness, abundant wildlife, icy blue glaciers and majestic snow-capped mountains that you've waited a lifetime to see.

While the fares to sail on such vessels are quite a bit higher than those of larger cruise providers, the all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) prices typically include all-suite accommodations with balconies, all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, welcome bottles of sparkling wine, pillow selection, some shore excursions and butler service. Best of all, you won't feel like you're being nickel-and-dimed while on board. As a special touch, the attentive crew members may even learn your name and memorize your preferred pre-dinner cocktail.

Unlike many mainstream lines, most luxury Alaska cruises do not offer pre- and post-cruise tours to extend your adventure. However, you can plan these experiences on your own through third-party providers.

Alaska Tour & Travel has pre-cruise packages that include visits to Denali National Park & Preserve and the small, quirky Alaska towns of Homer and Talkeetna. You can also see a different side of Alaska via a train ride on the Alaska Railroad, take a national parks tour that includes Kenai Fjords National Park or head northbound to Fairbanks , one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights (if you visit during aurora season, from late August to late April). In addition, the company can plan a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Seward, which includes a stay at a wilderness lodge, helicopter flightseeing over Knik Glacier and guided tours in the parks.

The following luxury cruise lines will ensure you make the most of your voyage in Alaska – one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

Find your perfect cruise

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' small luxury ships are designed for adventurers interested in visiting a mix of Alaska's top ports and more rugged, off-the-beaten-track locales. Extended itineraries offer stops in less-visited destinations like the towns of Haines and Wrangell. On board, guests can expect a personalized experience that includes luxurious ocean-view suites with butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and attentive service with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.

Base fares for Silversea's 2024 and 2025 Alaska itineraries start at $3,250 per person. If you upgrade to Silversea 's door-to-door fare (which starts at $5,200 per person), you'll receive private chauffeur service from your home to the airport (and back home upon your return) and round-trip flights, with business class upgrades in some destinations.

Silversea also offers immersive pre- and post-cruise land experiences, departing from Seward, Alaska. Highlights include sightseeing flights over Denali National Park & Preserve or into bear country to see Alaska's magnificent grizzly bears. In Vancouver, travelers can take a flightseeing transfer to Victoria to tour the 55-acre Butchart Gardens or board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day train ride through the Canadian Rockies.

Silversea's Alaska itineraries extend from May to September, with voyages ranging between seven and 16 days. The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova , sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests). There are 35 Alaska voyages available in 2024. In 2025, luxury cruisers can hop aboard one of 45 scheduled voyages on either Silver Nova or the 596-guest Silver Moon .

For a seven-day itinerary, consider a sailing from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This voyage cruises the Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage and stops in the Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan. Complimentary excursions in Ketchikan include a tour of Saxman Native Village; a visit to Bonfire Bay Oyster Farm, featuring a sea-to-table oyster tasting; the Alaskan Cultural, Culinary & Lumberjack show; the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast and a day as a fisherman aboard the Aleutian Ballard, as seen on Discovery Channel's "The Deadliest Catch." You can also opt for a Selected Shore Excursion (for an additional cost), such as mountain biking or a private fishing trip.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it debuted in 2016; among its impressive features are the 3,875-square-foot Regent Suite and a high-end collection of art displayed throughout the ship, including works by Pablo Picasso.

Alaska voyages with Regent in 2024 and 2025 start at $4,799 per person. Upgraded 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (starting at $5,499 per person) cover elegant all-balcony suite accommodations; round-trip airfare (business class on international flights); a one-night pre-cruise hotel package; free two- or three-night land programs; free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic); complimentary specialty dining; and prepaid gratuities. You'll also receive complimentary airport transfers, unlimited Wi-Fi access and valet laundry service.

Every suite style includes a private balcony, roomy closets and upscale finishes. Concierge Suites (and above) add cozy in-room amenities like cashmere blankets, perfect to bundle up in while you take in the scenery. Meanwhile, Penthouse Suites (and higher) include a private butler who can book excursions, make dinner and spa reservations, unpack your luggage, arrange for a private cocktail soiree in your suite and indulge any other special requests.

Between May and September 2024, Regent sails 22 Alaska voyages. There are 16 Alaska sailings scheduled for the same period in 2025. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights. For plenty of scenic cruising days, consider a round-trip itinerary from Vancouver departing May 28, 2025. The cruise includes five relaxing days at sea, where you'll enjoy scenic cruising through the Inside Passage (twice), Hubbard Glacier (twice) and Endicott Arm Fjord. Ports of call in Alaska include Wrangell, Juneau , Skagway, Sitka, Seward, Icy Strait (Hoonah) and Ketchikan. You'll also have a full day in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Vancouver.

While in Wrangell, consider the Tongass Botanical Forest Walk excursion. Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with towering old-growth trees and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems. While in the temperate rainforest with your naturalist guide, look for local wildlife like Sitka black-tailed deer, porcupines and birds of prey. Other complimentary excursions at this stop include a round of golf at Muskeg Meadows Golf Course; a canoe trip through Wrangell harbor and nearby islands, and a heritage tour about Tlingit culture and the history of the town.

Recently relaunched Crystal offers just seven voyages in Alaska aboard Crystal Serenity in July and August 2024. The 740-guest luxury vessel was refurbished in 2023 and features the line's signature top-notch service, elegant interiors and suites, and personal butler service in every room category.

Other perks and amenities include plush bathrobes and Sicily's Ortigia bath products; an impressive passenger-to-crew ratio; prepaid gratuities; complimentary beverages; and outstanding cuisine, including Umi Uma (an exclusive Nobu restaurant at sea, available only on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ). Guests can also feast on Italian cuisine at Osteria d'Ovidio; book an exclusive dining experience at The Vintage Room; indulge in Parisian cafe-style fare at The Bistro; opt for American cuisine at Waterside Restaurant or take their pick of several other casual indoor and alfresco options.

Cruisers also have their selection of unique shore experiences curated by Crystal's parent company A&K Travel Group, such as a ride on the world's largest zip line in Hoonah (Icy Strait Point); dog sledding and glacier flightseeing in Skagway; fishing and wilderness dining in Ketchikan and the Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge experience in Sitka, boasting a feast of Alaska king crab and wild salmon.

Crystal offers seven- and eight-night round-trip voyages from Vancouver , as well as one-way cruises from Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. Select itineraries – like the July 30, 2024, voyage from Vancouver to Seward – offer a scenic cruising day in the Seymour Narrows in British Columbia. On this sailing, you'll also enjoy a day at sea cruising Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Hoonah (Icy Strait), Skagway and Sitka in Alaska. Or, opt for the July 2, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver for three scenic cruising days in the Inside Passage, Endicott Arm and the Seymour Narrows.

The line's Aug. 13, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver features a special guest: Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the executive chairman of A&K Travel Group. As such, the cruise will include an exclusive gala dinner and other unique experiences. Other special voyages welcome marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, who will share personal stories from his extensive career and expert insights about humpback whale habitats and behaviors.

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Viking Ocean Cruises

Courtesy of Viking

Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion . In 2025, the line offers the same itinerary on 22 dates between May and September, split between Viking Orion and its sister ship, the 930-passenger Viking Sea .

Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

The line's mostly all-inclusive fares cover accommodations in spacious all-veranda staterooms and suites; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; meals at all the dining venues; one shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center; and other upscale amenities.

Voyages traveling northbound from Vancouver include one day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before stopping in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point in Alaska. The eighth day of the cruise sails through picturesque Yakutat Bay, which includes the Hubbard Glacier. The ship then calls on Valdez, Alaska, before the trip ends with two days in Seward.

While in Valdez, take an optional tour to explore the incredible scenery surrounding the small fishing town. Viking offers a kayaking trip to see the Valdez Glacier; a scenic cruise through picturesque Prince William Sound to view the Columbia Glacier; a wildlife cruise where you can look for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles; a helicopter ride over the area's rugged, icy wilderness; or a UTV adventure through the Chugach Mountains to Mineral Creek Canyon.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Between May and August 2024, Seabourn Cruise Line will host 20 Alaska voyages aboard the Seabourn Odyssey , before the ship leaves the cruise line in the fall. In 2025, the line offers 27 Alaska sailings on Seabourn Quest. Both yacht-inspired ships accommodate up to 458 guests and feature Seabourn's signature all-inclusive amenities, including luxurious oceanfront suites with verandas; personalized service; complimentary fine wines and premium spirits; complimentary dining; and caviar served throughout the sailing. You'll also have a complimentary W-Fi package and an in-suite minibar stocked with your favorite beverages. Ashore, sign up for exclusive programs like shopping for fresh salmon, halibut and Alaska king crab alongside a Seabourn chef.

Guests booking Seabourn Quest for 2025 will be able to sample the line's new dining concept, Solis. Inspired by destinations in the Mediterranean, the menu features a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes and whimsical cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration with master chef and culinary partner Anton Egger and senior corporate chef Franck Salein. In addition to dishes like salt-encrusted whole branzino and Tuscan-style steak, guests will also find a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

The seven-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary on May 31, 2024, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, sails from Juneau to Vancouver and includes a day in either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, depending on the ice conditions. From there, you can take one of the optional guided excursions: Ventures by Seabourn. These tours are an additional cost but offer opportunities for up-close Zodiac, kayaking or catamaran experiences in the wilderness to see glaciers calving and view local wildlife, such as black bears, mountain goats, seals, wolves and seabirds.

You'll also enjoy many days of scenic cruising on this voyage, and have the opportunity for more optional adventures in Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords). The ship makes additional stops in Wrangell, Alaska, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before disembarking in Vancouver.

If you want to see stunning Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, then consider booking the seven-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay sailing on May 10, 2024, from Vancouver to Juneau. This itinerary also includes the Seymour Narrows and Snow Pass, cruising Queen Island Sound and the Lynn Canal. There's a stop for Ventures by Seabourn activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides in the Inian Islands. The Alaska ports of call on this voyage are Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Haines. You'll disembark in Juneau.

Francois Lefebvre | Courtesy of PONANT

French luxury expedition line PONANT offers 10 Alaska cruises in 2024; itineraries span between seven and 11 nights. Aboard the 264-guest yacht-style Le Soléal, you'll meet up to 10 naturalist experts and guides specializing in geology, history, ornithology or marine or land mammals. Guests can attend onboard lectures and embark on Zodiac landings with the guides.

The ship features elegant staterooms and suites, a library, a spa, a hair salon and a gym. Guests will be treated to movies in the theater, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations throughout the expedition. All fine dining meals, 24-hour room service, an open bar (including an in-room minibar) and complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi access are covered in the pricing.

Two of PONTANT's eight-night voyages from Vancouver to Sitka are in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys and are curated for English-speaking travelers. Fares for these expeditions include transfers to and from the ship and a shore excursion in each port. On board, you can attend talks and discussions hosted by two Smithsonian Journeys experts: geologist Scott Burns and natural history filmmaker John Grabowska.

On these voyages, there is a sea day after departing Vancouver. You'll cruise through the Johnstone Strait, where you'll have an excellent chance of seeing humpback whales and orcas. After a day spent in the Inside Passage, the ship will call on the village of Metlakatla, Alaska, on the western coast of Annette Island, which is home to the Tsimshians from British Columbia. Other unique Alaska ports of call in this itinerary include the commercial fishing town of Petersburg, the Tlingit village of Kake and the small fishing community of Alfin Cove.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to explore the state's vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. Pratesi used her extensive knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

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Seafood Sunday Ultimate River Cruise + Dinner

• Duration: 3 Hours (approx.)
• Location : Brisbane CBD, QLD
• Product code: SUNUCLDC

Brisbane River Dinner Cruise

Experience the city lights, under the stars, from the iconic Kookaburra Queen paddle wheelers.

Departing  from Brisbane City, once onboard, you will be taken to your allocated table and will be surrounded by the most stunning sights of Brisbane. Stroll the outdoor deck on our Kookaburra River Cruises, enjoy a drink on the rooftop and experience Brisbane's best Dinner Cruise.

Sailing  every week of the year all our cruises showcase the best of Brisbane, sailing both up and downstream from our city departure point.

Sights  include the beautiful Botanic Gardens, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the Maritime Museum, Brisbane's Southbank precinct including the Brisbane Wheel, the iconic Story Bridge, the city's finest modern and heritage architecture, homes of the rich and famous and many more f Brisbane's spectacular attractions.

Cruise your way  with or without drinks included. Choose a River Cruise + Dinner with no drinks OR an Ultimate Cruise + Dinner which includes all your beverages. 

So  join us  onboard the Kookaburra River Queens for the most memorable Brisbane Dinner Cruise with onboard entertainment, this will be an evening in Brisbane you will cherish forever.

• Brisbane River cruise
• Seasonal buffet with seafood   https://kookaburrariverqueens.com/menus
• Ultimate Drinks Package includes: classic cocktails, spirits, beers, Australian wines & non-alcoholic beverages for the duration of your cruise
• Live entertainment 
• The most sensational views of Brisbane                                                                         

NEED TO KNOW: Unfortunately, it is not possible for your table to have some guests with the Ultimate drinks package and some guests without. We do understand that there may be circumstances where one person in your group cannot drink (i.e. pregnant, or does not drink etc.). If this is the case, all guests can choose the cruise only option and purchase drinks throughout the cruise from our bar.  

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