Classic Australian pastimes such as surfing and swimming from sensational beaches - that is what you will find on the coastline surrounding Queensland's capital and cruise port Brisbane. Cruises here bring to your holiday a balance of both nature and elegant grounds. To the south are the high-rise hotels which make up the exciting Surfers' Paradise and Gold Coast resorts, while to the north there is the beautiful and more sedate Sunshine Coast. Cultural attractions in downtown Brisbane are located in and around the South Bank Parklands by the Brisbane River - site of the 1988 World Expo. In close proximity you will discover the Queensland Museum and the State Art Gallery, which features many Aboriginal works. Shore excursions from our cruises to Brisbane also include the Butterfly House and Maritime Museum. The best shopping can be found at the Myer Centre complex on the city's central commercial artery, Queen Street. While enjoying your Brisbane cruise walk south to admire the fine architecture around the former Treasury building and then discover the imaginatively landscaped Botanic Gardens.