Yarra River Boat Hire Melbourne | GoBoat Self-Drive Boats

Why hire a self-drive boat on the Yarra?

Group with a dog on a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River, Melbourne.

Hiring a self-drive GoBoat lets you set the mood: a slow meander with family, a birthday celebration with friends, or a romantic afternoon for two. Each vessel comes with a picnic-style table, so you can bring along your own food and drinks.

Eco-friendly: 100% electric, quiet, and emission-free smooth sailing that’s kind to the environment.
Pet-friendly: Dogs are welcome onboard, making this one of the few Melbourne activities the whole family can enjoy together.
No license needed: Anyone over 18 can captain the boat after a short safety briefing.
Choose your duration: Hire for 1, 2, or 3 hours; from a quick riverside loop to a leisurely city escape.
Self-drive vs skippered: Unlike dinner cruises or sightseeing ferries, boat hire gives you total control. Go where you like, when you like.

Things to know before hiring a boat on the Yarra River

1-hour: Best for first-timers, families with kids, or those short on time. Many travelers say an hour is “just right” for a quick river loop past Federation Square and Southbank.
2-hour: The sweet spot for most groups. Two hours gives enough time for a picnic on board and a leisurely cruise toward the Botanic Gardens or Docklands. Reviewers often recommend this option, especially at sunset, for the best mix of food, fun, and views.
3-hour: Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or group outings where you want the river to be your living room. Guests note that three hours feels “unhurried and immersive,” with plenty of time to eat, relax, and take in the scenery without rushing back.
Group size: Boats seat up to 8 people comfortably, making them great for families, friends, or even team events.
Pets welcome: Dogs are allowed onboard, and many travelers highlight how special it feels to share the experience with pets.
BYO friendly: Bring your own food and drinks (wine, beer, soft drinks allowed, but no spirits). Many reviewers say this flexibility is a big part of the appeal.
Weather assurance: Boats operate rain or shine, with a sunshade canopy for protection. If conditions are unsafe (high winds/storms), bookings are rescheduled or refunded.
No experience needed: The electric boats are easy to handle, and the staff provide a safety briefing before departure. Even nervous first-timers say they felt confident within minutes.

What makes Yarra River boat hire special

Aerial view of Melbourne Cricket Ground with city skyline in the background.

Choose your own route

Be your own captain. Cruise past landmarks like Federation Square, Southbank, or head toward Docklands at your own pace.

Group enjoying a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River at sunset, Melbourne.

Guests on an electric boat enjoying a small group canal cruise in a city setting.

Child holding a dog on a Koblenz river cruise boat.

Women taking a selfie on a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River, Melbourne.

Plan your Yarra River boat hire adventure

Close-up of a watch face showing time with silver hands and markers.

Weekdays: 11am to 8pm
Weekends: 10am to 8pm

Best time to go:

Late afternoons for sparkling evening light and calm water.
Weekday hires offer a quieter vibe, ideal for families or introspective outings.
Mornings on weekends are perfect for pet-friendly and family groups.

Departure point: Banana Alley (GoBoat Melbourne), near Flinders Street Station.
By train: Within a 2–3 minute walk from Flinders Street Station.
By tram: Within Melbourne’s Free Tram Zone (Stops at Federation Square / Flinders Street).
Parking: Federation Square Car Park or nearby commercial lots (~5–7 min walk).
Boarding tip: Arrive 15 minutes early to complete the safety briefing—one guest mentioned staff were relaxed even if they showed up 15 minutes late, but it’s best not to push your luck.

Mobile ticket scanning at a tour entrance with QR code on screen.

Driver must stay sober: The person steering the boat cannot consume alcohol. Other passengers may enjoy drinks in moderation, but spirits are not allowed.
BYO & pet-friendly: Bring your own picnic, drinks, and even your dog. Small dogs often sit on the picnic benches, and lifejackets are provided for children under 10.
Capacity: Up to 8 passengers per boat, including children and pets.
Respect the river: Always give way to ferries and stay within the designated hire zone of the Yarra.
Just like renting a car, you’re responsible for the boat during the hire. Guests cover damages or cleaning costs.
No unauthorized activities: Activities like swimming, fishing, littering, or disembarking at unofficial spots are not allowed.

People boarding a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River with city skyline in background.

GoBoat Hub (Banana Alley Vaults): The check-in kiosk is located under Flinders Street Station, right by the river.
Essentials provided: Safety briefing, route map, and life jackets for all passengers (mandatory for kids under 12).
Shade & seating: Boats include a central picnic table with cup holders and an overhead canopy for sun protection.
Dog-friendly setup: Pet water bowls are available on request, and staff often provide tips for bringing dogs onboard.
Extra purchases: Basic add-ons like bottled water or sunscreen may be available for purchase at the hub.
Storage: Small personal items can be brought onboard; larger luggage can’t be stored at the hub.

Wicker picnic basket with wine and grapes on a red checkered blanket in a grassy park.

Picnic & drinks: Bring your own snacks, cheese boards, or even takeaway pizza. Wine and beer are allowed, but no spirits.
Cooler bag or picnic basket: Boats don’t have refrigeration, so bring a small cooler bag if carrying perishable food or chilled drinks.
Music & games: A small Bluetooth speaker, cards, or games make the trip even more fun.
Sun protection: The river reflects glare, even on cloudy days.
Leash & pet essentials: If bringing pets, pack a water bowl, leash, and treats to keep dogs relaxed on board.
Phone or camera: Use the slower pace to capture skyline shots you won’t get from land.

Child observing fish and shark at SEA LIFE Melbourne aquarium.

Alexandra Gardens: Right across the river, with lawns and facilities for a pre- or post-cruise picnic.
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium: A kid favorite, only a short stroll along the Yarra.
Southbank Promenade: Street performers, riverside bars, and plenty of dining options for after-cruise catch-ups.
Arbory Afloat (seasonal): A floating bar and restaurant moored just upriver, perfect to extend the river vibe.
Eureka Skydeck: City skyline views from above, pairing well with a slower cruise below.
Federation Square: Galleries, cafés, and public events just a few minutes’ walk away.

Frequently asked questions about Yarra River boat hires

Do I need a boat licence or prior experience?

No licence or boating experience is required. GoBoat’s electric boats are easy to steer, and staff provide a safety briefing before departure, often sharing that even nervous first-timers feel confident after just a few minutes. The driver must remain sober during the experience.

Do the boats feel stable, or will it be rocky?

The flat-bottomed electric boats are very stable and designed for beginners. Customers often comment that the ride feels smooth and calm, even for those nervous about boats.

How flexible are the routes?

You can choose your own path within the permitted Yarra zones. Many people go toward Docklands or the Royal Botanic Gardens. Travelers mention that part of the fun is deciding as you go, rather than being stuck to a fixed route.

Can we decorate the boat for a celebration?

Yes, small decorations like balloons or picnic setups are allowed. Many groups celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or proposals onboard. Just avoid items that could blow into the river.

Is there storage for strollers or bags?

Space onboard is limited, but foldable prams and small daypacks can be brought along. Larger luggage should be left at home as the dock does not have storage facilities.

How safe is it with kids onboard?

Families frequently book GoBoats with young children. Life jackets are supplied (and mandatory for kids under 12). Parents often mention how safe and relaxed the boats feel compared to faster vessels.

What if someone in the group needs to use the bathroom?

There are no toilets onboard. Travelers suggest using nearby facilities at Banana Alley or Southbank before boarding. For longer hires, some groups plan a stopover at Docklands, where public restrooms are available near the marina.

Can we play music onboard?

Yes, guests often bring a small Bluetooth speaker. Keep the volume moderate to respect other river users. Many say it adds to the relaxed picnic vibe.

What if we’re running late to return the boat?

Boats must be returned on time to avoid late fees. Travelers note that staff are friendly but strict about timing, as delays affect the next group’s hire.