River trips · MELBOURNE
The 4 best melbourne river cruises you can book, with what each costs, how long you are aboard and who it suits. Number one leads for a reason; start there.
Cruise upstream and downstream from Southgate with GPS-triggered English commentary, passing Docklands, Southbank, sporting grounds, Herring Island, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. You can sit inside or use the open back deck for photos. The route may pause or change boats, and high water can limit the downriver section.
“It was very relaxed and informative. Staff were helpful. I enjoyed it very much”
Board at Southbank Promenade at 7:30 pm for about three hours on the Spirit of Melbourne. Enjoy a four-course dinner with Australian wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks, port, and cheese as you pass Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, Rod Laver Arena, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Seating and vessel choice can vary.
“Very casual and relaxed atmosphere with good food and bubbly. I would recommend if one is looking for a quiet evening.”
Board at Federation Wharf for a one-hour Yarra River cruise through central Melbourne. An English-speaking captain and crew point out Eureka Tower, Southbank, the Royal Botanic Gardens, bridges, and riverside districts. Tea and coffee are included, while snacks and alcoholic drinks are available to buy onboard.
“Lovely views and good commentary! The boat was comfortable and smooth, lots of seating both inside and out.”
Take charge of a Danish-designed electric picnic boat on Melbourne’s Yarra River. No boating experience or license is required, and each private boat holds up to eight people. Bring your own picnic and drinks, then cruise at an easy pace beneath the city skyline for one to three hours.
“We loved cruising down the Yarra at our own slow but enjoyable pace. We were grateful for the overhead cover on an unseasonably hot day. Great fun!”
Pick a river, a city or a kind of boat.
