Brisbane - Docking

The city of Brisbane provides a unique opportunity for visiting yachts to anchor or moor in the heart of a major urban centre. The Brisbane River is navigable by deep-draft vessels the 12 miles upriver to the city. Low bridge clearances there restrict further upstream excursions by masted yachts. Note that the river can run at 3kn at times.

Anchorages in the Brisbane River

There are anchorages along the eastern shore of the river opposite Eagle Street Pier, just upstream of the Gateway Bridge on the right-hand side of the river, or along the western shore south of the pile moorings at the Botanic Gardens. All anchorages and marinas are affected by ferry wakes throughout the day; however commercial traffic ceases overnight.

It is also possible to anchor on the south bank near Colmslie Reserve, just past the Gateway Bridge. This anchorage is popular with liveaboards and the area has recently been revamped with fresh water taps, public toilets, and a dinghy wharf. There is also a swimming pool within walking distance where hot showers can be had for $2.00 and supermarkets are about 2km away. Take care leaving your dinghy for extended periods here as security can be a problem.

Moorings in the Brisbane River

Brisbane City Council Council has 42 pile moorings at Breakfast Creek, 16 mid-stream and 26 river-bank.   The 16 mid-stream berths are usually close to 100% occupied at Breakfast Creek, although the tidal berths on the banks usually have vacancies.

Mooring spots cannot be booked at Breakfast Creek. A vacant mooring is indicated by no lines tied between piles. If a vessel is temporarily absent from the moorings, it is necessary to reserve its place by tying a rope with centre float(s) between the piles.  If you want to moor your vessel here, download the appropriate forms from the Brisbane City Council website or contact them by phone on  (+64) 07 3403 8888.

Moreton Bay

Brisbane lies in the Moreton Bay area and anchoring and mooring restrictions were implemented in 2019 as part of the Marina Parks (Moreton Bay) Zoning Plan.

Restrictions states:    A person must not anchor or moor a vessel or aircraft in the marine park for more than 120 days in any 12-month period.

For more information read:

• Marina Parks (Moreton Bay) Zoning Plan 2019
• Moreton Bay User Guide

Marinas around Brisbane

Brisbane is a very popular port and finding a berth can be quite a challenge. It is advisable to plan ahead if possible. Dockside Marina is a reasonable place to stay if you want to be downtown.

An alternative is to use a marina further from the city, such as those at Manly (to the south) or Scarborough or Bribie Island to the north.

While Rivergate Marina is the official clearance station, many cruising boats move on after clearing into a marina/anchorage closer to the city and facilities.

Security Note - In the past, there have been dinghy thefts reported by boats at the Garden Point Moorings adjacent to downtown Brisbane. Be sure to secure your dinghy and engine at all times.

Last updated:  May 2024