City Cat Terminal South Bank (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is City Cat Terminal South Bank?
What makes it 74% Kids-Friendly: Kids like the fast ferry and onboard commentary, and South Bank playgrounds sit 200 m away, but the wharf lacks toilets and has open water edges, so close adult supervision is required.
Positives:
- Frequent Departures: Ferries run every 15–30 minutes at peak times, reducing wait time.
- Easy Boarding: Level access for strollers and wheelchairs makes boarding simple.
Challenges:
- No Terminal Toilets: The wharf has no restrooms; use South Bank Parklands facilities nearby.
- Weather Exposure: Open decks can be very sunny or windy; bring sun protection or a windbreaker.
What is City Cat Terminal South Bank?
- A ferry terminal on the South Bank of the Brisbane River, serving the CityCat high-speed catamaran ferry service within TransLink’s integrated network
- Two sheltered floating pontoons link to the riverbank via a covered walkway and feature accessibility ramps, pram-friendly boarding and integrated go-card ticketing terminals
- A weather-resistant steel and concrete riverfront installation that adapts to changing river levels and facilitates rapid vessel docking and departure
What is so special about City Cat Terminal South Bank for with kids?
- Family-friendly river cruise with easy hop-on/hop-off access.
- Waterplay at Streets Beach lagoon and Aquativity park for kids.
- Pirate-ship playground fun at Riverside Green.
- Frequent ferries and stroller-friendly boarding.
- Affordable transport and clear onboard guidance.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a return ferry ride and play at nearby water parks and playgrounds without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in City Cat Terminal South Bank
Hop-on/Hop-off CityCat Ferry:
Cruise the Brisbane River from South Bank Terminal and hop off at sights like the Wheel of Brisbane.
Tip: Stand on the upper deck for best skyline views and listen to onboard announcements.
Streets Beach Lagoon:
Swims and sand play at Australia’s only inner-city man-made beach.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a shaded spot and pack swimwear and towels.
Aquativity Water Park & Boat Pool:
Shallow sprays, slides and a mini boat pool perfect for ages 3–12.
Tip: Bring water shoes; little slides can get slippery when wet.
Riverside Green Playground:
Pirate-ship climbers, skywalks and spinning wheels in South Bank Parklands.
Tip: Visit just after the ferry ride to let kids burn energy before any snack break.
When is the best time to visit City Cat Terminal South Bank (Brisbane, Australia)?
In summer, pack sunblock, hats and extra clothes for water play. In cooler months, carry a light jacket for breezy decks.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of City Cat Terminal South Bank (Brisbane)
Queen K
We were in Brisbane for medical reasons and had had a rough few days. Catching the City Cat was just what we needed. Joseph in particular was incredibly kind and funny and brightened our day. The crew made a big effort to help people and have genuine conversations. I was so grateful and impressed. If you’re like me and think “I’ll wing it and do the whole loop” be aware it’s really long and goes f...
Nigel Evans
A big THANK YOU to all the crew on board the TUNAMUN last night. South Bank to New Farm. My son asked one of the crew, if he would announce his dad’s birthday over the speaker. He did, and it was a Pleasant surprise the whole boat joining in and sang Happy Birthday to me. Such a nice memory and a great ending to my 50th birthday. Exceptional crew, to do something like this in their busy day. ⭐...
WENDY BODEY
What an amazing customer focused crew. I left my bag behind on one of the ferries and the crew organised retrieval within 1/2 hour. Must be a great job, as every crew member was happy, talkative and so polite. Gavin from Southbank stop was delightful to all customers, making them laugh and enjoy their experience. Well done City Cat.
EdenApparelBoutique
Bossy staff, only letting 8 people on the ferry at a time (although the ferry offered much more seats). We waited for half an hour and then still didn't get on the ferry, so we decided to take the bus instead. Bit disappointing. Place was clean though and offered enough seats in the waiting area.
Nathan Cooke
Great trip on the river around the city. Nice new and clean stations, friendly staff, clean and tidy ferry's. BUT NO WAY TO BUY A TICKET. You've got services, crew on board, lighting and power just put in a kiosk where you can purchase a go card. Extremely frustrating when you are travelling from interstate. Failing that how about an app on ya fone
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult return ferry fare (go card) | AUD 18 |
| Child return ferry fare (go card) | AUD 9 |
| Picnic snacks | AUD 15 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 42 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to City Cat Terminal South Bank
- Use a go card: Tap on board for faster boarding and cheaper adult and child fares.
- Start Northbound: Take the morning breeze by heading upriver first to avoid crowds.
- Pack a Picnic: Enjoy lunch under the Grand Arbour to save on food costs and rest shade.
Map of City Cat Terminal South Bank
Address: 100A Edmondstone St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides City Cat Terminal South Bank (Brisbane)?
About City Cat Terminal South Bank
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities