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Yarra River Cruises Timetable: Find departure times, schedules & more

Choosing the right cruise depends on more than just price. Some sailings run daily, while others are seasonal or only on weekends. This guide gives you a clear overview of departure times, durations, and how schedules shift across the year so you can plan without guesswork.

When Do Yarra River Cruises Run? Complete Timetable

River cruise boat passing under a pedestrian bridge in a city docklands area.
  • Departures: Multiple daily, between 10:30am and 4pm.
  • Durations: 45-min Express, 1-hr Docklands or Gardens, or 2-hr full highlights loop.
  • Best for: Flexible travelers who want to fit in a quick city overview.
Dining guests toasting with drinks on the Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant.
  • Lunch Cruises: Typically 12pm departure, ~2 hrs.
  • Brunch / Bottomless Brunch Cruises: Weekends late morning at 1pm, ~2 hrs.
  • Best for: Food lovers, couples, and groups who want a midday social dining experience.
Dining on the Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise with gourmet dishes and wine.
  • Days: Wednesday–Sunday year-round.
  • Departure: 7:15pm, departure at 7:30pm.
  • Return: 3-hour cruise, ~10:30 PM.
  • Best for: Romantic evenings, special occasions, birthdays, and anniversaries.
Historic ship docked at Gem Pier, Williamstown, with seagulls along the pier at sunset.
  • Summer (Dec–Jan, school holidays): Daily services.
  • Winter (Apr–Sep): Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays only.
  • Departures from Southbank: 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:45pm, 4:00 PM.
  • Returns from Williamstown: ~1 hour after each departure.
  • Best for: Day-trippers wanting a blend of ferry ride + Williamstown waterfront cafés and shops.
People boarding a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River with city skyline in background.
  • Weekdays (Mon–Fri): 11am to 8pm
  • Weekends (Sat–Sun): 10am to 8pm
  • Hire slots: 1, 2, or 3 hours.
  • Best for: Families, groups of friends, and couples looking for a BYO picnic on the river.

Seasonal notes

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Longer daylight = later cruises, more dinner/brunch sailings. High demand, book early.
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Golden riverbank scenery, mild weather. Shoulder season discounts often available.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Fewer departures for ferries, but dinner cruises still run Wed–Sun. Crisp nights, fewer crowds.
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Blossoms along the banks, lively festivals, ideal for sightseeing.

Frequently asked questions about Yarra River cruises timetable

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes for dinner and lunch cruises. They often sell out. Sightseeing and ferries may allow walk-ups, but advance booking is recommended.

What's the best time of the day to take a Yarra River cruise?

For families, mornings and afternoons are easiest. Couples love sunset and evening dinner cruises.

Do Yarra River cruises run every day?

Sightseeing runs daily. Dinner cruises run Wed–Sun. Ferries are daily in summer, weekends in winter.

How long should I plan for a Yarra cruise?

Sightseeing: 1–2 hrs. Dinner: 3 hrs. Ferry: half a day if exploring Williamstown.

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