An entire industry has grown around Australia’s Yarra River, with a wide number of cruises taking place along its vast length.
(Photo: Melbourne River Cruises / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
As the perennial river winds its way through Melbourne in south-central Victoria, it offers some of the best primers to the shape and character of this fascinating city you’ll find anywhere. Taking in the historic port settlement and elegant gardens, along with the bustling high rises of its CBD, a journey of contrasts and wonderful sights is guaranteed. And what better to combine it with than a mouth-watering on-board meal? Melbourne, after all, is a melting pot of world cuisine and the culinary capital of the continent. Try out some of our suggestions below to test the sentiment that everything really is better if you do it on a boat.
Spirit of Melbourne 4-Course Cruise with Drinks
All aboard at the cultural hub of Southbank Promenade for an unforgettable evening cruising along in a fully enclosed pleasure vessel, complete with some of the best food available anywhere in the city. High-rise building lights reflect off the shimmering Yarra water while you tuck into a sumptuous meal which caters to all dietary requirements. Whether you want to chow down on ratatouille filo parcels or pan-fried beef eye fillet, you can expect the best. And as an added bonus, drinks are included in the price. From AUD$175 per person.
Port of Melbourne & Docklands Cruise with Coffee & Tea
(Photo: Melbourne River Cruises / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
This historical tour invites you to discover what was once upon a time one of the busiest trading ports in the Southern Hemisphere. The boat has both inside and outside spaces, with broad panoramic windows which mean you can make the most of this trip whatever the weather, and there’s an onboard commentary filling you in about Melbourne’s development from the boom years of the 19th century to being a centre of world culture today. It’s a one-hour cruise in total, so there’s no time to enjoy a full meal, but complimentary tea and coffee are a lovely addition to the docklands as they unfold. From AUD$37 per person.
Luxury Sunset Cruise on Yarra River
Take in one of the area’s magical sunsets on this luxurious cruise along the Yarra River. Over 1.5 hours, you and your small group of up to 15 passengers will get to marvel at the myriad of landmarks that line Melbourne’s riverside, before moving on to the city’s finest spots to catch the sun setting behind the horizon. Tours take place on a beautiful covered boat with comfortable seating, with departures and drop-offs from the Southbank. Drinks can be pre-ordered or purchased onboard. From AUD$61 per person.
City Highlights River Cruise
(Photo: Melbourne River Cruises / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
This 2-hour cruise invites you to travel down the Yarra River, admiring places of interest including the Docklands Crown Entertainment Complex, Government House. Melbourne Cricket Ground, Olympic Park and Herring Island As you traverse the river, you can catch some rays on your vessel’s expansive sundeck while listening to on-board commentary, gaining insights into Melbourne’s long and fascinating history and departing with new-found knowledge and memories that will linger. From AUD$61 per person.
Electric Picnic Boat Rental on the Yarra River
If you’d prefer a more intimate and exclusive experience, then this private river cruise in a small electric boat may well fit the bill. With your select group of family or friends, you’ll helm the eco-friendly fibreglass boat yourself and explore the famous river and waterways around Melbourne at your leisure for a choice of either 1, 2 or 3 hours. For the more extended rentals, guests are encouraged to pack a picnic and a cooler with drinks and stop off for a bite to eat while soaking up the scenery. From AUD$98 per person.