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Book Yarra River Dinner Cruises

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Why go for a Yarra River dinner cruise

Dinner cruise boat on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in the background.

Melbourne’s only floating restaurant
Sail into the evening on the Spirit of Melbourne, where every table faces the river. Watch the skyline transform from sunset to a glittering nightscape as you enjoy restaurant-quality dining.

  • Romantic setting: Candlelit tables, skyline reflections, and quiet river ambiance.
  • Premium dining: Four-course menus showcasing local produce, with free-flowing wines and spirits.
  • Iconic landmarks at night: Federation Square, Crown, and the MCG precinct lit against the water.
  • Unforgettable occasion: A favorite for anniversaries, birthdays, and proposals.
Learn more about the Spirit of Melbourne cruises

Things to know before booking your Yarra River dinner cruise

  • Accessibility: Southbank berths offer step-free boarding, and larger vessels like Spirit of Melbourne are wheelchair-friendly.
  • Age limits: Dinner cruises are more adult-oriented. Families with children are welcome, but younger kids may enjoy daytime sightseeing cruises more.
  • Inclusions: Dinner cruises include multi-course meals and premium wines/spirits. Some offer upgrades (e.g., window tables or special celebrations).
  • Why dinner over lunch: Evening cruises highlight Melbourne’s skyline at its most dramatic: sparkling bridges and city lights you won’t see by day.
  • Booking tips: Dinner cruises often sell out on weekends and holidays. Book early, especially for sunset departures.

What your Yarra River dinner cruise menu features

Dinner on Spirit of Melbourne Cruise with seafood platter and champagne on Yarra River.

Seasonal starters

Begin with an entrée tasting plate: A mix of seafood, poultry, or vegetarian bites that change with the season. Think fresh prawns in summer or warming spiced kofta in winter.

Chef garnishing steak with rosemary, served with grilled vegetables near Umeda Sky Building.
Vegetarian tortilla with radish, cherry tomatoes, olives, pomegranate, and grilled halloumi cheese.
Cheese platter with crackers, dates, and condiments on Yarra Valley Full Day Grazing Tour.
Group toasting with wine glasses at a vineyard gathering.

Plan Your Yarra River dinner cruise

Dinner cruise boat docked on Yarra River, Melbourne, with city skyline in the background.
  • Days: Wednesday to Sunday, year-round.
  • Boarding: 7:15pm at Southbank Promenade, Berth 1.
  • Sailing: 7:30pm – 10:30pm (~3 hrs).
  • Best time to visit: Summer evenings offer long golden sunsets and warm breezes, while winter nights bring crisp skies and sparkling reflections with fewer crowds. Spring and autumn provide mild weather and beautiful riverside colors.
  • Tip: Arrive 15–20 minutes early. Boarding closes once the vessel departs, and late arrivals cannot join.
  • Boarding point: Southbank Promenade, Berth 1 (near Southgate complex). Look for the Spirit of Melbourne signage along the riverside promenade.
  • Nearest station: Flinders Street Station (5 min walk via Princes Bridge or Evan Walker Bridge).
  • Tram: Routes on St Kilda Road and Flinders Street stop within a short walk; all are inside the Free Tram Zone.
  • Parking: Wilson Parking Southgate (~3–5 min walk) and Eureka Car Park (~5 min walk) are the most convenient options. Federation Square Car Park is another alternative across Princes Bridge.
  • Accessibility: The promenade and berth have step-free access, and the Spirit of Melbourne vessel provides wheelchair-friendly boarding and restrooms.
Couple enjoying Melbourne city lights on a dinner cruise.
  • Dress code: Smart casual is required — avoid thongs (flip-flops), sportswear, or singlets. Many guests dress up slightly, making it a great excuse for evening wear.
  • Age suitability: All ages are welcome, though the dinner cruise is tailored more to adults and couples. Families with younger children may find daytime cruises more relaxed.
  • Booking: Reserve well in advance for weekends, public holidays, and Valentine’s Day — these dates sell out quickly. Midweek sailings are easier to secure last-minute.
  • Seating: Every table faces the river, but upgrades for window seating or celebration packages may be available when booking.
  • Weather: Cruises operate rain or shine with climate-controlled cabins, so your evening plans stay intact.
Man holding a DSLR camera, preparing for photography.
  • A light jacket: Evenings on the water can feel cooler, even in summer, especially on the open decks.
  • Valid photo ID if you plan to consume alcohol (18+). Bar staff may request it before serving wine, beer, or spirits.
  • A camera or phone for photos: Skyline shots are particularly stunning during sunset and after dark when city lights reflect off the water.
  • Your confirmation email or mobile e-ticket for boarding. Printed copies are optional but can speed up check-in.
  • Small personal items only: Large bags or luggage are not permitted onboard.
Chef preparing seafood dishes at Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant.
  • Dining: A four-course set menu showcasing seasonal Australian produce, served with unlimited premium wines, beers, and spirits.
  • Seating: Allocated dining tables, all facing the river through wide windows for uninterrupted views.
  • Restrooms: Modern, wheelchair-accessible facilities located onboard.
  • Comfort: Climate-controlled indoor cabins ensure year-round comfort, with open decks available for fresh air and photos.
  • Service: Attentive wait staff provide full bar and table service throughout the evening, enhancing the restaurant-style experience.
Visitors enjoying the view from Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

Extend your evening before or after the cruise in Melbourne’s vibrant Southbank precinct:

  • Eureka Skydeck: Ride to the 88th floor for panoramic city views and the thrill of “The Edge” glass cube.
  • Crown Casino & Entertainment Complex: A hub for dining, gaming, nightlife, and luxury shopping.
  • SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium: A family-friendly underwater experience across the river from Southbank.
  • Federation Square: A cultural landmark home to galleries, restaurants, and regular live events.
  • Southbank Promenade: Perfect for a pre-cruise stroll past public art, buskers, and riverside cafés.

Frequently asked questions about Yarra River dinner cruises

What is included in a Yarra River dinner cruise?

A 3-hour sailing with a multi-course dinner, unlimited premium wines, beers, and spirits, plus views of Melbourne’s illuminated skyline.

Is the dinner cruise suitable for kids?

Children are welcome, but the atmosphere is designed for adults. Families may prefer sightseeing or lunch cruises.

Is there a dress code?

Yes. Smart casual is recommended. Avoid thongs (flip-flops) and singlets.

Do I get to choose my seating?

Tables are allocated in advance, and all face the river for views. Some operators allow upgrades to window seating or private tables at the time of booking.

Will I get seasick on a dinner cruise?

Unlikely. The Yarra River is calm and sheltered, unlike the open ocean. The large, stable vessels used for dinner cruises minimize motion.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes. Most operators offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary options if requested in advance. It’s best to specify needs at the time of booking.

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