Sunset River Cruise near Byron Bay: Richmond River & Mangroves

Mangrove creeks and dolphins at dusk on the Richmond River

A 2-hour sunset cruise on the Richmond River around Ballina Island departs from Lance Ferris Wharf near Byron Bay, with a marine biologist guide narrating the mangrove forests, creeks and wildlife. The boat includes refreshments, savoury muffins, coconut cocoa sweets and two complimentary beverages per person; a 30-minute scenic drive from Byron Bay gets you to the wharf, and optional bus transfers from Byron Bay are available at checkout.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sunset river cruise at Ballina Wharf

• Drive 30 minutes from Byron Bay
• Meet at Lance Ferris Wharf, Ballina
• Board the boat for river cruise
• Explore Richmond River and mangroves
• Spot birds, dolphins, and wildlife
• Enjoy refreshments and local history
• Relax and watch the sunset

The Experience

The meeting point is Lance Ferris Wharf at 12–24 Fawcett Street in Ballina, a 30-minute drive south of Byron Bay. Someone collects you from the wharf and takes you down to the boat, where the cruise winds down the Richmond River as the sun drops toward the water. The route follows the mangrove forests and the creeks that branch off the main channel, moving slowly enough that you can spot the rare birds and sea creatures—dolphins turn up often—that live in this nature reserve.

A marine biologist guide travels with the boat and talks through the local history, the flora and fauna, and what you're seeing as it passes. Two complimentary beverages come with the ticket, along with savoury muffins and coconut cocoa sweets. The whole thing takes two hours from departure to return, timed to catch the sunset while you're still on the water.

The wharf sits close to Wharf Bar & Restaurant if you want to eat before or after. If you're coming from Byron Bay without a car, optional bus transfers from Byron Bay to the wharf are available—book that choice at checkout. The cruise is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels, though it's not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.

What’s included

• Two complimentary beverages per person.
• savoury muffins and coconut cocoa sweets.
• marine biologist guide providing local history and wildlife commentary.
• optional bus transfers from Byron Bay to the wharf (book at checkout).

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessiblePublic transport nearbyNot for back problems

Operated by Out Of The Blue Adventures

Is this one for you?The marine biologist guide speaks English and narrates throughout, so you follow the commentary comfortably without prior knowledge of the river or its wildlife. Children from age 3 travel well on this cruise, and the relaxed pace suits anyone who wants to sit and watch rather than walk or climb.

Traveler reviews

4.90★★★★★★★★★★

20 verified traveler reviews

5 ★18

4 ★2

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the Richmond River?

Dolphins and rare birds are often spotted along the Richmond River, especially in the mangrove forests and creeks. A marine biologist guide on board can identify what you're seeing and explain the ecosystem.

How long is the drive from Byron Bay to the wharf?

The scenic drive from Byron Bay to Lance Ferris Wharf in Ballina takes 30 minutes. If you don't have a car, optional bus transfers from Byron Bay are available at checkout.

What food and drinks are included?

The cruise includes two complimentary beverages per person, savoury muffins and coconut cocoa sweets. You'll have these while watching the sunset over the water.

Is this cruise suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome from age 3. The boat is wheelchair accessible and the pace is relaxed, making it suitable for all fitness levels.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day?

The cruise operates as a sunset experience, so timing depends on daylight. Check the operator's weather policy when you book, as conditions on the Richmond River can change.