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You’re About to Be a River Lover with Our Brisbane Riverlife Adventure Travel Guide

| Last Updated: January 2025

Turns out Brisbane River provides more than life – it also provides fun! Well, it certainly did for our group back last summer, thanks to the Brisbane Riverlife Adventure Centre.

You’ll find no shortage of dedicated watersports and riverbank activities to choose from, and by the end of the day, our muscles were pleasantly sore. We didn’t even notice until we got home.

If you’re still on the fence, then I’ve prepared a guide to convince you just how fun and energizing these Riverlife Adventure activities are. Also, I’ll be giving some tips to help you out, especially when picking your activities. 

Let’s get started!

Riverlife Adventure Centre Overview and History

Riverlife is tucked away at the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, a stone’s throw from the city center. The spot has been around since the early 2000s, and its whole vibe is about getting people off their couches and into the great outdoors of Brisbane. 

If you ask me, that’s something all urban centers need, and Brisbane citizens are fortunate enough to have a river like this.

The most attractive thing about Riverlife is the sheer variety of activities they offer. They have everything from paddleboarding to kayaking. 

And if climbing is more your speed, the Kangaroo Point Cliffs are practically calling your name. Riverlife’s got the gear and guides to make it happen. 

They also offer abseiling or descending down heights using a rope (for those who like their adventures with a side of adrenaline). Think of it more like a drop tower but just for you.

As for its history, the center operates in a spot that’s steeped in local heritage. The cliffs themselves are part of Brisbane’s story– they were quarried back in the 1800s when the city was just being founded. 

Today they’ve developed the area into an iconic backdrop for fun and fitness. 

So far, I feel like Riverlife has done a great job of respecting the area’s history while giving it new life as a recreation hotspot. It’s a good balance of nature and urbanity, sums up Brisbane.

So, whether you’re up for a sunset kayak, a climbing session, or just chilling with a riverside view, Riverlife is where you can soak in Brisbane’s beauty while getting a little thrill on the side.

How to Get to Brisbane Riverlife Adventure Centre

You can find Riverlife Adventure Centre in Naval Stores Kangaroo Point Cliffs Drive, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169.

There are several ways to get there, but we recommend the ferry ride since it’s the most scenic. Plus, you’re not at the mercy of traffic. The said ferry ride is available from Brisbane CBD.

Via Ferry

Assuming you’re in Brisbane CBD, all you have to do is head to the riverside and look for the following Ferry Terminals: 

  • North Quay (northern bank of the river)
  • QUT Gardens Point (northern bank of the river)
  • Riverside Ferry Terminal (northern bank of the river)
  • South Bank Ferry Terminal (southern bank of the river)
  • Maritime Museum Ferry Terminal (southern bank of the river)

For the Ferry Services, the following ones stop over the aforementioned terminals frequently, every 15-30 minutes though timings might vary depending on several factors:

  • CityCat
  • CityHopper

CityHopper is free and you’ll need to get off at Holman Street Ferry Terminal, after that, just walk 800 meters south and you’ll arrive at Riverlife Adventure Centre.

Via Bus

If you prefer to take the bus, take the following buses:

  • 234 (hourly schedule)
  • N154 (early morning hourly schedule)

Then, you’ll need to get off at either of these stops: 

  • Main St at St Vincent’s, stop 7
  • Main St at Quinton Street, stop 7

Once you’re at either of these two stops, all you have to do is walk to the west for a bit and you’ll find Kangaroo Point Cliffs and Riverlife Adventure Centre.

What to Know About Riverlife Adventure Centre

If you’re planning a visit to the Riverlife Adventure Centre, here are some things you’ll want to know and sync up with your itinerary before you go:

Operating Hours: 

  • Tuesday to Thursday, 10 AM–5 PM
  • Friday to Saturday, 9 AM–7 PM
  • Sunday, 9 AM–5 PM

Contact Details: +61 7 3517 4954

Entrance Fees: Admission per se depends on what tours or activities you’re availing. They can range from $75 to $100 per person. If you’re bringing a group, they have group discounts.

They also offer group packages such as equipment rental and instructed sessions ranging from $45 to $75 per person, which is great for corporate team-building.

Other packages include school programs, birthday parties, or private group fees. You’ll need to inquire about those as they can have special rates.

Parking Slots: Sadly, there’s no on-site parking at Riverlife Adventure Centre (which is why we recommended the bus and the ferry). If you do have a vehicle, you can choose to park next to Joey’s Cafe, which is around 250 meters away from Riverlife.

Getting Around: Once inside, you’ll find the Adventure Centre is easy to navigate with clear signage and helpful staff to assist you.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available onsite for your convenience.

Accessibility: Thankfully, disabled access is available though you will need to contact Riverlife’s operators and hotline for details. There’s a certain level of fitness that’s recommended for this kind of endeavor, after all.

Do remember to bring a change of clothes since all the activities in Riverlife can make you sweat or soak your clothes in water.

Mobile Applications: If you’re planning a visit to the Riverlife Adventure Centre, consider downloading the following apps to enhance your experience:

  • Uber: For more versatility with your commute options.
  • GPSmyCity – Download this mobile application to access self-guided walking tours around Brisbane.
  • MyTranslink – This mobile application will help you find the best transportation options such as bus, train, ferry, or tram. You can also check maps and corresponding fare fees.

Now that you’re aware of the establishment’s rules and limitations, it’s time for some exhilarating watersports!

What to Do at Riverlife Adventure Centre

Paddling and Waddling Under the Sun with the Day Kayak Adventure

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $75 Per Person

This one, and likely their cheapest option for watersports, involves classic paddling on the calm waters of the Brisbane River. Since it’s strictly a daytime activity, this one might be preferable for newbies as the river can get cold at night.

And to drive that point further, it’s more accessible for beginners since they don’t require kayaking experience with this one. It was pleasantly thoughtful of them to include that, especially since our group at the time was full of newbies.

Visible Drops at Day Abseil Adventure

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $75 Per Person

You can argue that the daytime Abseil is a lot scarier than the nighttime Abseil since you can actually see the ground and get a good estimate of the height. However, they still recommend this one for beginners.

Sadly, we didn’t get to try the Abseil since most of us were stricken with altophobia during the visit. But they make sure you feel confident with a safety and equipment briefing. 

By the way, it’s a 20-meter high cliff you’ll be descending from… safely, of course.

Conquering the Cliff at the Day Rock Climb Adventure

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $89 Per Person

If you prefer climbing to dropping, then they also have a rock climbing adventure, which, for some people, is more manageable. I found it more strenuous, of course, and you’ll want to be physically fit for this activity.

As expected, this daytime activity is more suited for beginners since it has better visibility. For the life of me, I couldn’t imagine a nighttime or twilight rock climbing stretch.

Date Night on a Boat with the Twilight Kayak Adventure

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $99 Per Person

On the one hand, it’s darker and harder to take photos, but on the other hand, Brisbane’s city lights are a wonder to behold. And the sunset? That just seals the deal for couples looking for a romantic watersport.

Thankfully, no experience is necessary with this one as well. So you don’t have to take a third wheel with you as a guide or a safety instructor. It does have a much higher age requirement though, strictly 18+.

Blind Drop at the Twilight Abseil Adventure

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $99 Per Person

Apparently, people also like to drop from cliffs at night because this option exists. It’s perfectly safe, of course. They even let 8-year-old children partake in this thrilling cliff descent.

The upside is you get to see all the city lights staring at you in the dark of the night. And there’s also ample lighting for your safety. Naturally, it’s more adrenaline-inducing because of the added challenge.

Reaching for the Stars in the Twilight Rock Climb Adventure

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $99 Per Person

For those who prefer the stars instead of the hot sun to shine on them while their arms quake in struggle, then there’s also a twilight rock climbing activity in Riverlife. These run for two hours, so not for the faint of heart.

But it’s more lenient with its age requirement as children 12 years old or older can join in on the climb. Seeing as this takes quite a long duration, we recommend you book beforehand to ensure a spot.

Riverbank Cycling and Ride

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $29 for 4 Hours / $39 for 8 Hours

Since the Riverlife Adventure Centre is quite big, you can rent a bike for easier access to all the activities and the facilities. Or you can simply just bike around if you prefer to be a land creature with a preference for horizontal, and simpler adventures.

They’ll also provide the necessary safety equipment, and this includes free sunscreen since the riverbank is a sunny spot. You will need to remain within a five-kilometer radius, however.

Safe Shooting in Laser Tag

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $40 for 30 Minutes / $50 for 45 Minutes (Per Person)

A lovely competition under the sun is also available in Riverlife in the form of Laser Tag. there’s no indoor Laser Tag area here, by the way, so you’ll still need sunscreen. The facility recommends at least six people in a group to maximize your time.

Additionally, the larger the group, the better since they offer discounts per person depending on the size of the group. Also, despite the outdoor setting, this Laser Tag is no child’s play as there is plenty of foliage and cover all over the bank.

Special Activities in Riverlife Adventure Centre

Greeting the Day in Sunrise Kayak

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Price: $89 Per Person

Some activities are so special, they require specific explanations. Moreover, the Sunrise Kayak offering falls outside the typical operating hours of Riverlife (9/10 AM) so it’s not a walk-in kind of activity.

The whole kayak tour takes place over 90-120 minutes, and you have to arrive 15 minutes before the call time. Definitely not something for people who aren’t early birds or those with odd sleeping patterns. The sunrise is stunning, however.

Date on Wheels Using the Tandem Bike Hire

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Price: Starts at $99 Per Bike

Some of the bikes in Riverlife are actually trikes (three wheels) because they allow two people to ride one bike more comfortably. So it’s ideal not just for romantic couples but also for people who aren’t confident with their bicycle skills.

Uphill inclines are a struggle, of course, since you’ll likely be hauling extra passenger weight. They also have disability-friendly options since a whole wheelchair can fit at the back of the trike.

Watersports & a Feast with Paddle & Prawns

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $139 Per Person

You’ll likely get hungry after an hour or two of kayaking and those sore shoulders and arms will need food. Thankfully, they also offer a prawn buffet bundled with the twilight kayak tour.

So after taking in the sights, you can just sit down at one of the tables on the bank and feast over some juicy prawns. This is only available on Friday and Saturday nights, by the way.

Lightshow on the River with NYE Kayak Experience

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $139 Per Person

As you might have guessed, this is a yearly special activity and it’s only possible on December 31. If you want a unique New Year’s Eve, complete with spectacular fireworks visibility, we can’t recommend this enough.

The best part is that you can see all the lights reflected on the obsidian surface of the Brisbane River. This kind of magical experience ought to spice up your New Year and a lovely way to cap off your previous adventures.

Fun Training at Adventure Ranger Camp

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Price: $99 (Four-Day Pass)

If you want your children to enter a summer camp-like experience, the Adventure Ranger Camp is open. It’s a bit pricey for children’s activities, but you will be able to keep the kids busy for four days.

More importantly, they’ll be participating in active and fit activities– ones that are included in the tours. It also lets them socialize with other kids. Overall, it’s a nice way to yank the kids off the screen and the internet.

Great Savings With the Brisbane’s Great Adventure Yearly Pass

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Price: $249 Per Person / $399 for a Family of 5

Adults have it even better at the Riverlife Adventure Centre. You can avail of the yearly pass which allows you to borrow equipment with a friend. You also get unlimited access to a 1.5-hour kayak hire.

This extends to a paddleboard hire at the Enoggera Reservoir (like a membership). Additionally, you get a 20% off on all tours. It’s nice to have if you plan on revisiting frequently.

Mirrabooka Aboriginal Experience

Media Credit: riverlifebrisbane

Price: $600

Private groups can avail of the cultural exchange tour called the Mirrabooka Aboriginal Experience where you get to partake in the activities of the Yuggera Aboriginal Dancers.

I consider it a fitting way to add more flavor to your physical activities in Riverlife Adventure. The indigenous people of the region not only treat you to their dance but also some ancient stories, songs, and customs.

Oh, and they can also teach you primitive fire-starting techniques, which can come in handy in Australia.

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