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Book Yarra River Cruises in Melbourne

Panoramic Views
Panoramic Views
Frequent Departures
Frequent Departures
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
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From happy customers

Loved by 42 million+
Abdelaal Ahmed abdelaal Ahmed
GB

Abdelaal

United Kingdom
Aug 2025
5/5
Excellent customer service Commentary was good and gave account of the history of Melbourne and Yara river Historical monuments and nice nature
Dewi Davies
GB

Dewi

United Kingdom
Aug 2025
4/5
Informative journey upstream, but disappointing that we couldn't go downstream because of tidal issues . However, half the costs were refunded with very little hassle.
James Pettinella
AU

James

Australia
Sep 2025
5/5
The captain was very entertaining , the staff were great/friendly , boat trip was smooth in know it was a windy day, beautiful sights and informative trip.
Helen chance
AU

Helen

Australia
Jun 2025
5/5
Being able to sit outside, and see the sights on the banks properly. The commentary was good. The good weather helped also!
Jennifer J Slater
AU

Jennifer

Australia
Jan 2025
5/5
Booking tickets was easy & the pier for departure was easy to find. The cruise was well organised & left on time. We enjoyed the experience immensely, although we had to move seats to avoid two neighbouring couples who were oblivious to us & speaking to each other at the tops of their voices. It was during the Aust Open season & being a warm day, the boat had quite a few tourists on board . The downside to this was that the commentary was almost inaudible. However this cruise along the Yarra to Williamstown is an awesome way to see the many beautiful office & apartment buildings & linear parklands lining the river at Southbank, Docklands, Fishermens' Bend & Williamstown. Just a fantastic way to view our beautiful city, river & environs. We intend to do it again oneday.
Lijun Qin

Lijun

Jul 2024
5/5
It was our first time taking this ferry. I was thrilled by the very nice and helpful onsite team, as well as the ferry team. It was very memorable time for me and my boy. I will definitely recommend to friends!
Monique Traficante
AU

Monique

Australia
Sep 2024
5/5
We had a lovely afternoon. The crew were all fantastic at their jobs. The food was lovely and the drinks were great. I would like to mention that one of your male crew did a fabulous job of dealing with a very arrogant, rude and pretentious women who felt she should have a window seat. Her behaviour and the way she spoke to him when she did not get what she wanted was disgracfull.
Carrie McEntee
NZ

Carrie

New Zealand
Jan 2025
5/5
Great experience with friendly staff and great views of Melbourne. Great food and always topping up our drinks. Will be back next time I'm in Melbourne . 🙂
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Why take a Yarra River cruise?

Melbourne skyline with Yarra River and Flinders Street Station in view.
Melbourne city skyline at night with Yarra River reflections.
Couple dining on a Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise with city skyline in the background.
People boarding the Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise with city skyline in background.
Passengers celebrating on a Yarra River sunset cruise in Melbourne.
Guests enjoying the Melbourne River Cruise with city skyline views.
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Unbeatable city views

Drift under glowing bridges and past art-filled promenades as Melbourne’s cityscape unfolds.

Flexible day and night options

From quick sightseeing jaunts to multi-course dinner voyages, fit every schedule.

Melbourne's finest culinary adventure

Indulge in premium dining experiences as the city unfolds around you.

Easy transfers to Williamstown

Sail from Melbourne’s CBD to the seaside suburb of Williamstown, rich with history and waterfront dining.

Perfect for every occasion

Couples, families, or groups; celebrate milestones or enjoy a relaxing day out.

Stress-free exploration

No traffic, no crowds. Just smooth sailing with commentary that brings Melbourne’s stories to life.

Things to know before booking your Yarra River cruise

How much time do you have?
  • 40–60 minutes: You want quick, scenic, and easy to fit between other plans. Then go for a cruise-only experience. You’ll still tick off Melbourne’s big landmarks without committing your whole afternoon.

​Book ~1-hour cruise on the Yarra

  • 90 minutes–2 hours: You have time to relax, snap photos, and hear the stories behind the skyline. Then consider an extended sightseeing cruise or a sunset cruise for that golden-hour magic.

​Book 1.5-Hour Small-Group Sunset Sightseeing Cruise

  • 3+ hours: You’re looking for more than sightseeing, and you want a floating event. Then choose a cruise with food & drinks, like a dinner or brunch sailing.

​Book a Spirit of Melbourne dining cruise

Who’s coming with you?
  • Families with kids: Keep it short and engaging. Go for a cruise-only experience with open decks for fresh air and more space.

​Book a 2-hour sightseeing cruise

  • Couples: You’ll want atmosphere and a reason to dress up. Choose a cruise with food & drinks, ideally at sunset or dinner.

​Book a romantic dinner cruise in Melbourne

  • Groups of friends: You’d rather make your own fun. Book a special experience, such as a GoBoat hire, and bring your own snacks, drinks, and playlist.

​Book a self-drive picnic cruise on the Yarra

  • Solo travellers: You’re after something easy, friendly, and low-pressure. Pick a cruise-only sightseeing trip, you’ll have space to yourself but still meet fellow travellers.

​Book a Yarra River Parks & Gardens Cruise

What season are you sailing in?
  • Summer: You want open decks and plenty of photo ops. Go for a cruise-only or special experience to make the most of the weather.
  • Winter: Comfort is key. Choose a cruise with food & drinks or a sightseeing boat with an enclosed, heated cabin.
  • Spring/autumn: You can go either way. Consider a sunset cruise for warm light and mild temperatures.
Where are you starting from?
  • CBD day plan: Most tours depart from Southbank or South Wharf, so a cruise-only experience or cruise + food option slots neatly into city sightseeing.
  • Heading to Williamstown: Go for the Melbourne–Williamstown ferry transfer to make the journey part of your day trip.

​Book Melbourne to Williamstown ferry transfers

How much structure do you want?
  • Set itinerary: You like knowing exactly what’s included. Book a cruise-only or cruise + food ticket. Just board and enjoy.
  • Do-it-yourself: You want control over your route and timing. Hire a GoBoat or choose a ferry for full freedom.

Yarra river cruise route option:

Melbourne River Cruise guests enjoying city skyline views from the boat.

Sightseeing cruises

Price from: AU$41

,Best for: First-time visitors, families with kids, and anyone wanting a pure river sightseeing experience.

Why choose this:

  • You get maximum city highlights in the shortest time, with flexible durations, and great for a first-day-in-Melbourne overview.
  • Uninterrupted sightseeing: Glide past Melbourne’s icons, from Federation Square to the MCG, without navigating crowds.
  • Local insight: Live or recorded commentary shares the stories, history, and hidden details you might miss on land.
  • Comfort in all seasons: Indoor cabins and open decks mean great views year-round.

Recommended experiences:

​Book Melbourne City Highlights Express Cruise

​Book 2-Hour Yarra River Sightseeing Cruise

Couple dining on a Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise with city skyline in the background.

Lunch & dinner cruises

Price from: AU$128

Best for: Couples, foodies, special occasions, and those who love combining a meal with the city’s views.

Why choose this:

  • The cruise is an event in itself, a chance to dress up, raise a glass of champagne, and create memories that last long after the plates are cleared. Perfect for proposals, anniversaries, or simply indulging yourself.
  • Onboard dining: From chef-prepared brunches to 4-course dinners, menus spotlight fresh, seasonal produce.
  • Themed experiences: Brunch cruises, wine-pairing dinners, and festive menus for seasonal events.
  • Constant views: Every seat is a window seat, Melbourne’s skyline, parklands, and bridges are your backdrop.

Recommended experiences:

​Book Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise with Drinks

​Book brunch/lunch/dinner Spirit of Melbourne cruise

Rent a GoBoat in Yarra

Ferries & boat rentals

Price from: AU$35

Best for: Adventurers, repeat visitors, groups of friends, and those craving flexibility.

Why choose this:

  • This is your personal, off-itinerary experience, whether that’s controlling your own pace, catching a ferry as part of a bigger day trip, or turning the boat into your private floating picnic spot.
  • Tailored routes: From Melbourne–Williamstown ferry transfers to sunset photography sails, these itineraries break the mold.
  • DIY cruising: Hire a self-driving eco-boat (like GoBoat) for a BYO picnic with friends.
  • Different perspectives: Discover less-trafficked river stretches, hidden jetties, and alternative boarding points.

Recommended experiences:

​Book Melbourne-Williamstown Ferry Transfers

​Book a GoBoat for 1-3 hours up to 8 people

Yarra River cruise route details

City sightseeing

See Melbourne’s skyline as you cruise through its heart, all in under an hour.

  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Boarding point: Southgate Promenade (opposite Flinders Street Station)
  • Highlights: Southbank arts precinct, Federation Square, Crown Casino, Princes Bridge
  • Features: Engaging commentary, historic perspectives, and prime photo spots
  • Pro tip: Sit on the left deck at departure for the best Flinders Street + Princes Bridge shot

Williamstown ferry

Sail to the historic maritime village of Williamstown with flexible options. Enjoy coastal views, heritage piers, and seaside dining.

  • Duration: 1 hour each way
  • Boarding point: Southgate Promenade
  • Highlights: Docklands skyline, West Gate Bridge, Port Phillip Bay, heritage Williamstown pier
  • Features: Maritime tales, access to Williamstown with convenient one-way or round-trip options
  • On arrival: Explore Gem Pier cafés, indie shops, and Timeball Tower views
Book Melbourne-Williamstown ferries

Spirit of Melbourne cruises

Indulge in a premium dining experience on the water with fine local wines and Melbourne’s skyline.

  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Boarding point: Southgate Promenade
  • Highlights: Southbank, Arts Centre spire, Crown Casino, Eureka Tower by night
  • Features: Attentive crew, fine dining atmosphere, panoramic night views
  • Pro tip: Window table on the Southbank side gives the best reflections in dessert photos
Book Spirit of Melbourne dining cruises

Sunset cruise

Watch Melbourne shift from day to night. The golden glow of sunset gives way to sparkling city lights on this 2-hour cruise.

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Boarding Point: Southgate Promenade
  • Highlights: Bridges glowing in golden light, Botanic Gardens shoreline, riverside nightlife
  • Features: Smooth, no-frills southseeing with access to the bar onboard
  • Pro tip: Arrive early to grab a forward seat on the upper deck for skyline photos at golden hour

Yarra River cruise boarding points

Main hub for sightseeing, dining, and ferry cruises

📍 Location: Southbank Promenade, opposite Flinders Street Station (Berth 1 near Langham Hotel, Berth 2 near Evan Walker Bridge).

⏱ From Melbourne CBD: ~5 min taxi, ~$10-12 AUD.

🚗 By car: Paid parking at Eureka Tower & Southgate Car Park.

🚋 By tram: Routes 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, 72 (stop at Federation Square/Southbank).

🚌 By bus: City loop buses connect Flinders St Station to Southbank.

🚶 By foot: 3–5 min walk from Flinders Street Station.

🎟 Cruises:

  • Sightseeing cruises and dining cruises

Used for private charters & group events

📍 Location: Princes Walk, below Federation Square.

⏱ From Melbourne CBD: ~2 min taxi, ~$8 AUD.

🚗 By car: Parking at Federation Square Car Park.

🚋 By tram: All Swanston St/Flinders St trams stop here.

🚌 By bus: City Circle bus stops directly outside Federation Square.

🚶 By foot: 1–2 min walk from Flinders Street Station.

🎟 Cruises:

  • Private charters, parties, and special events

Departure point for GoBoat self-drive cruises

📍 Location: 365 Flinders Street, beneath Banana Alley Vaults.

⏱ From Melbourne CBD: ~5 min taxi, ~$10 AUD.

🚗 By car: Limited street parking; best to use Flinders Lane or Crown Car Park.

🚋 By tram: Routes 48, 70, 75 (stop: Flinders Street West).

🚌 By bus: Local buses stop at Southern Cross Station, ~10 min walk.

🚶 By foot: 5–7 min walk from Flinders Street Station.

🎟 Cruises:

  • GoBoat electric picnic boat hire (1–3 hr self-drive).

What you’ll see on your Yarra River cruise

Flinders Street Station in Melbourne with people and traffic in front.

Flinders Street Station

Melbourne’s golden-era icon right on the river’s edge.

Lady M boat on Yarra River near Crown Casino at dusk, Melbourne.
Federation Square with Melbourne skyline in the background, Australia.
Boat cruising under Princes Bridge on Yarra River, Melbourne cityscape in background.
Aerial view of Melbourne cityscape from Skydeck, featuring Yarra River and Arts Centre.

Plan your Yarra River cruise

Melbourne River Cruise guests enjoying Yarra River views with city skyline in the background.
  • Cruises typically run from late morning (11am) through sunset, with dining cruises departing around 7:30pm.
  • Spring (Sep–Nov) and autumn (Mar–May) are the most pleasant seasons, with mild weather and riverside color.
  • Morning cruises = calmer waters + softer light for photography.
  • Sunset cruises = golden reflections and sparkling city views.
  • Dining cruises (lunch, brunch, dinner) operate year-round, popular on weekends and holidays.
Cruise boat on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in the background, Australia.
  • Main departure points: Southbank Promenade, Federation Wharf, Docklands, Banana Wharf.
  • Walk times: 1–5 min from Flinders Street Station (Southbank, Federation Wharf)
  • Docklands: Free City Circle tram or 10-minute walk from Southern Cross Station
  • Banana Wharf: Via Crown Promenade, near Southbank
  • Public transport: Trams (16, 19, 3, 48), trains, buses
  • Parking: Paid street and garage at Southbank & Docklands
No smoking sign on a boat
  • Arrive 15–20 minutes early for boarding and best seat choices
  • Accessibility: Most boats are wheelchair accessible; check in advance.
  • Restrictions: Smoking and pets are not permitted. Outside food is restricted on dining cruises.
  • Photography tips: Left deck = best skyline shots downstream. Window seats are ideal on dinner cruises.
  • Booking: Weekends & peak times sell out; book ahead. All operators accept card payments.
A woman enjoying the rain in a poncho
  • Clothing: Light jacket, hat, sunglasses, umbrella—Melbourne’s weather can shift quickly.
  • Essentials: Camera/smartphone, power bank, sunscreen, reusable water bottle.
  • Dress code: Smart casual for dining and sunset cruises.
  • Families: Small toys/snacks welcome; most cruises have onboard refreshments.
  • Extras: BYO food/drinks allowed on GoBoat hire but not on dining cruises.
Guests enjoying the Melbourne River Cruise with city skyline views.
  • Onboard amenities: Climate-controlled seating, clean restrooms, covered decks on most vessels
  • Food & drinks: Sightseeing = complimentary tea/coffee; dining = brunch, lunch, dinner + drinks; bars available on select cruises
  • Accessibility: Most boats are wheelchair accessible (ramps/restrooms); always confirm specific requirements
  • Family-friendly: Child seating, family meal options, group discounts
  • Flexibility: GoBoat lets you self-drive, set your own course, BYO picnic
Penguins marching on Phillip Island Nature Parks during Penguin Parade tour at dusk
  • Phillip Island tours: Experience the famous Penguin Parade and explore wildlife at Phillip Island, a perfect day trip from Melbourne.
  • IceBar Melbourne: Chill out at IceBar Melbourne, where you can enjoy cocktails in sub-zero temperatures surrounded by ice sculptures.
  • Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG): Visit the iconic MCG, Australia's largest stadium, and take a tour to learn about its rich sporting history. 
  • Ballarat Wildlife Park: Discover Australian wildlife at Ballarat Wildlife Park, home to koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles.
  • SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium: Explore an underwater world at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, featuring interactive exhibits and diverse marine life. Meet penguins, dugongs, sea jellies, sharks, dolphins and more!

Choose the perfect Yarra River cruise for you!

Experience nameType of cruiseDurationInclusionsAdditional upgradesBooking link

1 or 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River

Portland and Docklands Cruise, Parks and Gardens Cruise, Melbourne Highlights Cruise (based on option selected)

1-2 hours

Commentary (Highlights cruise) Complimentary tea/coffee

Beverages on purchase

From AU$61.98

Bottomless Brunch Cruise

Brunch cruise

2 hours

All-you-can-eat brunch Commentary and complimentary tea/coffee

Gluten-free and vegan options upon request

From AU$127.06

Ferry transfer between Melbourne to Williamstown

Ferry trip with optional return transfer

1-2 hours

Complimentary tea/coffee

-

From AU$34.99

Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant

Brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise

3-4 hours

Bottomless brunch with drinks (see menu here)

Dessert platter (as per option selected)

From AU$127.96

Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise

Dinner cruise

3 hours

4-course dinner, wines, spirits, tea, coffee & chocolate Commentary

-

From AU$194.94

Sea Life Melbourne+Yarra River cruise

Portland and Docklands Cruise, Parks and Gardens Cruise, Melbourne Highlights Cruise (based on option selected)

1-2 hours

Commentary (Highlights cruise) Complimentary tea/coffee

Skip the lines Entry to SEA LIFE Melbourne

From AU$87.47

Small group sunset cruise

Sunset sightseeing cruise

1 hour 30 minutes

Small group of up to 25 guest Onboard commentary

Expert skipper Food and beverages on purchase

From AU$59.98

Icebar Melbourne + Yarra River cruise

Icebar Melbourne cruise

45 minutes-2 hours

Entry into IceBar Melbourne, Snow gear, Cocktail/Mocktail

Ice shot and ice souvenir (optional)

From AU$61.98

Frequently asked questions about going on a Yarra River cruise

Do I need to book my Yarra River cruise in advance, or can I buy tickets on the day?

Booking early is recommended, especially for dinner and sunset cruises. Walk-up tickets may be available for shorter sightseeing cruises.

What are my ticket options for Yarra river cruises?
What’s included in the ticket price? Are food, drinks, or commentary part of it?

Sightseeing cruises include onboard commentary and complimentary tea/coffee, while dining cruises like the Spirit of Melbourne cruises include multi-course meals and drinks.

Are there any discounts on my tickets?

Children under 13 years old get discounts on all cruise options, but no discounts are available for senior citizens. In case you have a concession card, you’ll get an additional discount on your Yarra River cruise tickets.

Do cruises run in bad weather, and are the boats covered if it rains?

Cruises operate in most weather with covered decks and climate-controlled cabins. If your cruise is canceled due to weather conditions, you can choose to reschedule or get a refund.

Are children allowed on all cruises, and do they need life jackets?

Children are welcome on all cruises. Life jackets are available for all ages, and required for younger kids on self-drive hires.

Are Yarra River cruises wheelchair accessible, and can the crew assist with boarding?

Many vessels are wheelchair-friendly with ramps and restrooms. Crew members can assist with boarding. Please confirm when booking.

Will I get seasick on the Yarra River? How stable are the boats?

The Yarra is calm and flat. Motion sickness is unlikely. Guests describe the ride as smooth and relaxing.

Can I bring my own food, drinks, or alcohol onboard?

BYO is not allowed on most cruises, except for GoBoat Melbourne. Bring your own picnic and drinks.

Is there a dress code for dining cruises versus sightseeing cruises?

Sightseeing cruises are casual, while dining cruises recommend smart casual attire.

How often do sightseeing cruises depart each day, and how long do they last?

Sightseeing cruises run multiple times daily, lasting 1–2 hours. Dinner cruises are longer, typically 3 hours.

Are private charters or self-drive boat hire options available on the Yarra River?

Yes, GoBoat Melbourne offers self-drive eco-boats for up to 8 people.

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