Whyte Island is the reclaimed land at the mouth of the Brisbane River that carries the Port of Brisbane, and the public ramp on Port Drive faces the Boat Passage, the channel between the island and Fisherman Islands that leads out into the bay. It is a large four-lane concrete ramp with lighting, water, a picnic area and about 30 bays, managed by the port company, and the state register lists it as usable on all tides. It is the most direct launch from Brisbane's east side onto the open bay: Mud Island, St Helena and the shipping channel are all close.
In April 2026 Maritime Safety Queensland announced a full reconstruction to current marine infrastructure standards with a replacement floating walkway. The contractor was due on site in July 2026 for about 12 weeks, with completion expected in October 2026, and the ramp is fully closed for the duration; the alternatives named were Glenora Street at Wynnum, the Manly Boat Harbour ramps, Colmslie and Aquarium Avenue at Hemmant. Check the MSQ project page before towing out.
The port is a security area: stay on the public road, and keep clear of the wharves and ship movements in the river and the Boat Passage. Marine Rescue Queensland Brisbane monitors VHF 16.