Yarra River Cruise Prices & Visitor Guide

Q: How much does a Yarra River Cruise cost?

Sightseeing starts at AU**$30 per adult**. Dinner cruises are AU**$130–$160**. GoBoat hires start at AU**$129 per boat**.

Q: Can I bring my own food or drinks?

Only on **GoBoat hires**. Standard sightseeing and dinner cruises include food and/or drinks or sell them onboard.

If you’ve already decided a Yarra River Cruise is on your Melbourne itinerary, the next step is making it stress-free. This page digs into the details you won’t always find on a booking page: how much cruises cost, the best time to go, what to expect on board, and tips to make the most of your day.

2-Hour Yarra River Sightseeing Cruise

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

2 hr.

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Seal Watching Afternoon Cruise at Phillip Island

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

2 hr.

Meals included

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Sunset Sightseeing Cruise at Phillip Island

Free cancellation

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1 hr. 30 min.

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Cape Woolamai Morning Cruise at Phillip Island

Free cancellation

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1 hr.

Meals included

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Ferry Transfers between Melbourne and Williamstown

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

1 hr. - 2 hr.

Transfers included

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Timing your Yarra River cruise experience

Melbourne River Cruise boat docked with city skyline in the background.

Timings

Sightseeing cruises → Frequent departures between 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM. (~1–2 hrs)
Lunch cruises → Midday departures (~2 hrs).
Dinner cruises → Boarding 7:15 PM, sail 7:30 PM (~3 hrs).
GoBoat hire → Hourly slots from 10 AM – sunset.
Williamstown ferry → Multiple trips daily (~2 hrs return).

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours on the water, or a half-day if combining sightseeing with Williamstown.

Melbourne skyline at sunset with Eureka Tower and Yarra River.

Best time to visit

Morning: Peaceful, photogenic light.
Afternoon: Bustling city backdrop, great for families.
Sunset & evening: Melbourne’s skyline at its most dramatic — top pick for couples.
Seasonal note: Spring (Sep–Nov) and Autumn (Mar–May) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

What to know before you go for your Yarra River cruise

Boarding points differ by cruise: Southbank Berths 1 & 2, Federation Wharf, Banana Alley, and Gem Pier.
Arrive 15–20 minutes early to avoid missing boarding.
Accessibility: Many vessels accommodate foldable wheelchairs and strollers, though not all are fully accessible.
Weather: Cruises run in rain or shine; boats are stable and covered. Refunds/rescheduling depend on the operator's policy.
Family-friendly: Life jackets are provided; kids under 10 must wear them on smaller vessels. Most sightseeing and ferry trips are suitable for children.
Dress code: Smart casual for dinner cruises (no thongs or singlets); casual, weather-appropriate for sightseeing.

Food & drink on Yarra River Cruises

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Coffee and snacks with a view

Bar service with hot drinks and light snacks, perfect for a relaxed cruise past Melbourne’s landmarks.

Seasonal seafood and local produce

2–3 course menus showcasing fresh seafood, meats, and vegetarian dishes, paired with local wines.

Candlelit dining

Fine dining with three to four courses, premium wine pairings, and Melbourne’s skyline lit up at night.

BYO picnic feasts

Pack your own picnic basket: cheese, fruit, and bubbles welcome. Skipper must stay alcohol-free.

Fish & chips in Williamstown

No onboard meals, but plenty of takeaway options near Gem Pier, including classic fish and chips by the water is a local favorite.

Premium wines & mimosas

Spirit of Melbourne dining cruises include free-flowing premium wines, beers, and spirits. On selected cruises, mimosas are served with brunch or lunch pairings.