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Yarra River Cruises

Experience the magic of Melbourne's Yarra River with the luxurious cruise tickets. Relax, unwind and take in the stunning city views!
Yarra River Cruises
Guests enjoying the Melbourne River Cruise with city skyline views.
Cruise captain checking tickets of guests on Yarra River sightseeing cruise.
Melbourne River Cruise boat docked with city skyline in the background.
Cruise boat on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline and bridge in view.
Guests enjoying Melbourne River Cruise with city skyline and greenery.
Melbourne skyline viewed from a river cruise under a bridge.
River cruise on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in the background.
Melbourne skyline with Ferris wheel viewed from the river during a 2-hour cruise.
Sightseeing Cruises
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr
  • Cruise the Yarra River for 2 hours, passing iconic landmarks like Federation Square, Docklands, and the Crown Entertainment Complex.

  • See Melbourne’s natural and urban beauty, from the Royal Botanic Gardens to Melbourne CBD views and the striking Bolte Bridge.

  • Discover history with views of the 19th-century “Polly Woodside” sailing ship and Melbourne’s bustling shipping channels.

  • Enjoy live commentary, revealing fascinating stories about Melbourne’s landmarks, from sports arenas to world-class cultural hubs.

  • Fun fact: Many animals call Yarra River home, including 18 different species of frogs and 170 bird species!

More details

  • Cruise the Yarra River for 2 hours, passing iconic landmarks like Federation Square, Docklands, and the Crown Entertainment Complex.

  • See Melbourne’s natural and urban beauty, from the Royal Botanic Gardens to Melbourne CBD views and the striking Bolte Bridge.

  • Discover history with views of the 19th-century “Polly Woodside” sailing ship and Melbourne’s bustling shipping channels.

  • Enjoy live commentary, revealing fascinating stories about Melbourne’s landmarks, from sports arenas to world-class cultural hubs.

  • Fun fact: Many animals call Yarra River home, including 18 different species of frogs and 170 bird species!

from
AU$70
Cruise boat on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in the background.
Melbourne River Cruises boat on Yarra River with city skyline and bridge in background.
Melbourne skyline with boats on Yarra River during a river cruise.
Passengers view colorful sculpture from Melbourne Yarra River cruise.
People enjoying a Yarra River cruise with Melbourne skyline in the background.
Melbourne River Cruises boat on Yarra River with city skyline in background.
Guests enjoying Melbourne River Cruise with city skyline and greenery.
Melbourne River Cruises boat on Yarra River with city skyline in background.
Guest viewing Melbourne skyline from a river cruise.
Melbourne skyline viewed from Yarra River, featuring cityscape and riverbank greenery.
Melbourne skyline reflected in Yarra River during a river cruise.
Melbourne skyline viewed from a river cruise under a bridge.
Melbourne skyline with Yarra River view, featuring city buildings and Ferris wheel.
Sightseeing Cruises
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
50 min
  • Cruise the Yarra River and spot Melbourne’s top sights from both directions in just 45–50 minutes, ideal when you're short on time.

  • See icons like Southbank, Flinders Street Station, and the city skyline as you cruise downstream towards Queen's Bridge.

  • Head upstream to catch leafy parklands, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and glimpses of the MCG near Punt Road Bridge.

  • Refresh with drinks or light snacks from the onboard bar and relax in the covered seating area or on the open-air deck.

  • Choose your cruise: gardens upstream, ports downstream, or city highlights both ways.

  • The captain’s live commentary adds local flavour and fun facts throughout the ride, making it great for first-timers and families.

More details

  • Cruise the Yarra River and spot Melbourne’s top sights from both directions in just 45–50 minutes, ideal when you're short on time.

  • See icons like Southbank, Flinders Street Station, and the city skyline as you cruise downstream towards Queen's Bridge.

  • Head upstream to catch leafy parklands, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and glimpses of the MCG near Punt Road Bridge.

  • Refresh with drinks or light snacks from the onboard bar and relax in the covered seating area or on the open-air deck.

  • Choose your cruise: gardens upstream, ports downstream, or city highlights both ways.

  • The captain’s live commentary adds local flavour and fun facts throughout the ride, making it great for first-timers and families.

from
AU$35
Self-drive boat on Yarra River with cityscape and palm trees in Melbourne.
People boarding a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River with city skyline in background.
Group enjoying a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River.
Women taking a selfie on a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River, Melbourne.
Group enjoying a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in background.
Group with a dog on a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River, Melbourne.
Person steering a boat on Yarra River during a self-drive picnic cruise.
Group enjoying a self-drive picnic cruise on Yarra River at sunset, Melbourne.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
1 hr
  • Choose a 1-, 2-, or 3-hour rental and cruise the Yarra River at your own pace—no boat license or prior experience required.

  • Steer past city landmarks like Flinders Street Station, Royal Botanic Gardens, Docklands, and Melbourne’s iconic sporting arenas.

  • Each boat seats up to 8 people around a picnic table, with shaded seating and space for snacks, drinks, and furry friends.

  • Bring your own picnic or pre-order catering at select docks for a laid-back, food-friendly river adventure.

  • Designed with recycled materials and powered by electric motors, these boats offer a quiet, zero-emission way to explore Melbourne.

More details

  • Choose a 1-, 2-, or 3-hour rental and cruise the Yarra River at your own pace—no boat license or prior experience required.

  • Steer past city landmarks like Flinders Street Station, Royal Botanic Gardens, Docklands, and Melbourne’s iconic sporting arenas.

  • Each boat seats up to 8 people around a picnic table, with shaded seating and space for snacks, drinks, and furry friends.

  • Bring your own picnic or pre-order catering at select docks for a laid-back, food-friendly river adventure.

  • Designed with recycled materials and powered by electric motors, these boats offer a quiet, zero-emission way to explore Melbourne.

from
AU$99
Melbourne skyline view from Yarra River cruise with people enjoying the cityscape.
Visitors enjoying the view from Melbourne Skydeck at sunset.
Melbourne cityscape view from Skydeck, featuring skyscrapers and urban landscape.
Cruise captain checking tickets of guests on Yarra River sightseeing cruise.
Guests enjoying the Melbourne River Cruise with city skyline views.
Family observing miniature city model at Melbourne Skydeck.
Child looking through binoculars at Melbourne Skydeck.
Person taking a photo at Melbourne Skydeck, Eureka Tower.
Visitors enjoying the view at Melbourne Skydeck during Cocktails in the Clouds Experience.
Viewing Melbourne from Eureka Tower Skydeck at sunset.
Melbourne River Cruise boat docked with city skyline in the background.
Guest viewing Melbourne skyline from a river cruise.
Cruise boat on Yarra River passing under a bridge in Melbourne, Australia.
Guests enjoying Melbourne River Cruise with city skyline and greenery.
Melbourne skyline viewed from a river cruise under a bridge.
Melbourne skyline with Yarra River view, featuring city buildings and Ferris wheel.
Free cancellation
Flexible duration
  • Save on Melbourne's best views: from 300m high atop the Melbourne Skydeck while leisurely cruising the Yarra River for 1-2 hours.

  • Get to the highest observation deck in the southern hemisphere. Do it in style, by riding the fastest elevator in the southern hemisphere.

  • Enjoy stunning 360°views of Melbourne spotting iconic landmarks. Spot them again as you sail the Yarra River for 1 or 2 hours (you choose).

  • Say hello to Herring Island, Federation Square, Royal Botanic Gardens, etc. Opt to greet major ports and docklands as well by upgrading your tour.

  • Fun fact: Ancient Chinese rever 88 as an auspicious number. The Skydeck sits on the 88th floor, wishing happiness and luck to everyone visiting!

More details

  • Save on Melbourne's best views: from 300m high atop the Melbourne Skydeck while leisurely cruising the Yarra River for 1-2 hours.

  • Get to the highest observation deck in the southern hemisphere. Do it in style, by riding the fastest elevator in the southern hemisphere.

  • Enjoy stunning 360°views of Melbourne spotting iconic landmarks. Spot them again as you sail the Yarra River for 1 or 2 hours (you choose).

  • Say hello to Herring Island, Federation Square, Royal Botanic Gardens, etc. Opt to greet major ports and docklands as well by upgrading your tour.

  • Fun fact: Ancient Chinese rever 88 as an auspicious number. The Skydeck sits on the 88th floor, wishing happiness and luck to everyone visiting!

from
AU$80
Cruise boat on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in the background.
Dining guests toasting with drinks on the Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant.
Dining guests on the Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant enjoying a meal.
Dining table with seafood platter on Spirit of Melbourne cruise, river view in background.
Chef preparing seafood dishes at Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant.
Cruise boat on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in the background.
Couple enjoying wine on the Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise with city skyline in the background.
Couple enjoying Melbourne city lights on a dinner cruise.
Dinner on Spirit of Melbourne Cruise with seafood platter and champagne on Yarra River.
Gourmet seafood and pastry dishes served at Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant.
Dining on the Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise with gourmet dishes and wine.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr
1 more
  • Good food, great drinks and even better views sailing down the Yarra River– the Spirit of Melbourne experience is straight out of the movies!

  • Savor meticulously prepared dishes like baked barramundi filet, lamb shank, or a selection of mini desserts that represent the vibrant food culture of Melbourne.

  • Enjoy some delicious Australian cheese and crackers along with your spirit of choice as you watch the Melbourne skyline from the glass windows.

  • Choose between a dinner, lunch, or brunch cruise to enjoy a fab time with the gang while watching top Melbourne spots like the Royal Botanic Gardens.

  • Fun fact: The name of the river comes from the Wurundjeri language where "Yarra Yarra" means "ever-flowing".

More details

  • Good food, great drinks and even better views sailing down the Yarra River– the Spirit of Melbourne experience is straight out of the movies!

  • Savor meticulously prepared dishes like baked barramundi filet, lamb shank, or a selection of mini desserts that represent the vibrant food culture of Melbourne.

  • Enjoy some delicious Australian cheese and crackers along with your spirit of choice as you watch the Melbourne skyline from the glass windows.

  • Choose between a dinner, lunch, or brunch cruise to enjoy a fab time with the gang while watching top Melbourne spots like the Royal Botanic Gardens.

  • Fun fact: The name of the river comes from the Wurundjeri language where "Yarra Yarra" means "ever-flowing".

from
AU$128
Couple enjoying champagne on a Melbourne brunch cruise with city skyline in background.
Melbourne skyline view from the Yarra River during a brunch cruise.
Pouring orange juice into a glass on a brunch cruise in Melbourne.
Guests toasting with drinks on a brunch cruise in Melbourne, with burgers on the table.
Guest enjoying a cupcake on a Bottomless Brunch Cruise in Melbourne.
Cruise boat on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in the background.
Cruise boat on Yarra River in Melbourne with tables set for brunch.
Melbourne skyline with Yarra River and city buildings at sunset.
Aperol bottle and citrus fruits on bar for Bottomless Brunch Cruise in Melbourne.
Melbourne skyline with Yarra River and Flinders Street Station in view.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr
1 more
  • As good as a bottomless brunch sounds, it's even better when it's on a 2-hour cruise of the Yarra River, with views just as delicious.

  • Tuck into an all-you-can-eat brunch featuring yummy veggie and non-vegetarian options, complete with desserts, tea and coffee.

  • If day-drinking on a cruise is your idea of a sophisticated afternoon, welcome onboard to savor premium reds, whites mimosas, and more.

  • Now that you've got gram-worthy food pics, top this up with clicks of Melbourne's cityscape and its iconic landmarks all around you as you sail.

  • Fun fact: The Yarra River, before the infamous gold rush, had water so clean and fresh, that people could drink right off the river. Yum?

More details

  • As good as a bottomless brunch sounds, it's even better when it's on a 2-hour cruise of the Yarra River, with views just as delicious.

  • Tuck into an all-you-can-eat brunch featuring yummy veggie and non-vegetarian options, complete with desserts, tea and coffee.

  • If day-drinking on a cruise is your idea of a sophisticated afternoon, welcome onboard to savor premium reds, whites mimosas, and more.

  • Now that you've got gram-worthy food pics, top this up with clicks of Melbourne's cityscape and its iconic landmarks all around you as you sail.

  • Fun fact: The Yarra River, before the infamous gold rush, had water so clean and fresh, that people could drink right off the river. Yum?

from
AU$128
Cruise boat on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline at sunset.
Passengers celebrating on a Yarra River sunset cruise in Melbourne.
Passengers toasting with champagne on a Yarra River sunset cruise in Melbourne.
Lady M boat on Yarra River near Crown Casino at dusk, Melbourne.
Sunset cruise on the Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in the background.
Luxury cruise boat on Yarra River at sunset with Melbourne city lights.
Cruise boat on Yarra River at sunset with Melbourne cityscape in background.
Passengers enjoying a sunset cruise on the Yarra River, Melbourne.
1 hr 30 min
  • This Yarra River cruise on Lady M, a boutique boat, seating 25, offers an intimate sightseeing trip perfect for couples, friends, and families.

  • Your skipper handles all the navigation while the onboard commentary brings the sights to life, whether it's the old-school buildings or the modern centers.

  • Sunset views got you speechless? Make it even better with a drink you can buy right on board.

  • Every way you look, the views are amazing – see the MCG and Botanical Gardens one way, or Docklands and Victoria Harbour the other way.

  • Did you know? Crown Casino puts on a fire show every night, where large columns of flame shoot up into the sky over the Yarra River.

More details

  • This Yarra River cruise on Lady M, a boutique boat, seating 25, offers an intimate sightseeing trip perfect for couples, friends, and families.

  • Your skipper handles all the navigation while the onboard commentary brings the sights to life, whether it's the old-school buildings or the modern centers.

  • Sunset views got you speechless? Make it even better with a drink you can buy right on board.

  • Every way you look, the views are amazing – see the MCG and Botanical Gardens one way, or Docklands and Victoria Harbour the other way.

  • Did you know? Crown Casino puts on a fire show every night, where large columns of flame shoot up into the sky over the Yarra River.

from
AU$70
Couple enjoying wine on the Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise with city skyline in the background.
Dining on the Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise with gourmet dishes and wine.
Dinner on Spirit of Melbourne Cruise with seafood platter and champagne on Yarra River.
Couple dining on a Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise with city skyline in the background.
Couple enjoying Melbourne city lights on a dinner cruise.
Dinner cruise boat on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in the background.
Melbourne city skyline with Yarra River and bridge at dusk.
Melbourne city skyline at night with illuminated bridge reflecting on the Yarra River.
Melbourne bridge illuminated in pink lights during the Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise.
Dinner cruise boat docked on Yarra River, Melbourne, with city skyline in the background.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
3 hr
1 more
  • Treat yourself to the finer things in life: an evening cruise along the Yarra River, yummy food, great drinks, and stunning city views.

  • The cruise offers a taste of the region's finest produce, including locally cured meats and vegetarian entrees, followed by a main course and desserts.

  • Polish the meal with beer, premium reds, whites, sparkling wines, and spirits as you tuck into a cheese platter and lip-smacking desserts.

  • Try to look away from the food and through the glass windows for stunning views of the Federation Square, waterfront precinct, Herring Island, etc.

  • Fun fact: During the Victorian gold rush in the mid-19th century, the Yarra River was a bustling waterway as thousands of people traveled upstream in search of gold.

More details

  • Treat yourself to the finer things in life: an evening cruise along the Yarra River, yummy food, great drinks, and stunning city views.

  • The cruise offers a taste of the region's finest produce, including locally cured meats and vegetarian entrees, followed by a main course and desserts.

  • Polish the meal with beer, premium reds, whites, sparkling wines, and spirits as you tuck into a cheese platter and lip-smacking desserts.

  • Try to look away from the food and through the glass windows for stunning views of the Federation Square, waterfront precinct, Herring Island, etc.

  • Fun fact: During the Victorian gold rush in the mid-19th century, the Yarra River was a bustling waterway as thousands of people traveled upstream in search of gold.

from
AU$195
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium tunnel and river cruise boat with city skyline.
Guide showing visitors a shark at SEA LIFE Melbourne aquarium.
Saltwater crocodile in Croc Lair, Sea Life Melbourne, viewed by a child.
Cruise captain checking tickets of guests on Yarra River sightseeing cruise.
Cruise boat on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline and bridge in view.
Penguins interacting with visitors at SEA LIFE Melbourne.
Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium exterior with city skyline in the background.
Coral caves exhibit at Sea Life Melbourne featuring vibrant marine life.
Cave of the Ancients exhibit entrance at SEA LIFE Melbourne with shark jaw display.
Child observing fish through a dome at Sea Life Melbourne interactive display.
Guests enjoying the Melbourne River Cruise with city skyline views.
River cruise on Yarra River with Melbourne skyline in the background.
Guests enjoying Melbourne River Cruise with city skyline and greenery.
Melbourne skyline viewed from a river cruise under a bridge.
Melbourne city skyline and Yarra River at sunset during river cruise.
Free cancellation
Flexible duration
  • Skip waiting in lines to enter SEA LIFE and meet nurse sharks, stingrays, crocodiles, etc. in their 2.2 million liter Oceanarium home.

  • Step into the world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons (24 Jun–17 Aug) through interactive exhibits that blend the game’s charm with engaging, hands-on marine education.

  • Get up close with 10,000 underwater species across 12 interactive zones: from fluffy penguins to scary sharks, meet them all.

  • Can't decide between parks and ports? No worries! Choose from 1-hour Yarra River cruises in both directions or a 2-hour cruise that shows you it all!

  • Snap, snap, snap – every bend presents a photo-op: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Royal Botanic Gardens, Federation Square, and many more!

  • Fun fact: Pinjarra is a 65-year-old, 750kg saltwater crocodile (one of Australia's biggest) who lives in SEA LIFE Melbourne.

More details

  • Skip waiting in lines to enter SEA LIFE and meet nurse sharks, stingrays, crocodiles, etc. in their 2.2 million liter Oceanarium home.

  • Step into the world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons (24 Jun–17 Aug) through interactive exhibits that blend the game’s charm with engaging, hands-on marine education.

  • Get up close with 10,000 underwater species across 12 interactive zones: from fluffy penguins to scary sharks, meet them all.

  • Can't decide between parks and ports? No worries! Choose from 1-hour Yarra River cruises in both directions or a 2-hour cruise that shows you it all!

  • Snap, snap, snap – every bend presents a photo-op: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Royal Botanic Gardens, Federation Square, and many more!

  • Fun fact: Pinjarra is a 65-year-old, 750kg saltwater crocodile (one of Australia's biggest) who lives in SEA LIFE Melbourne.

from
AU$81

Millions love heading out with us

Aleyna Nur Altinors
AU

Aleyna

Australia
Jan 2026

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It's really cute. Having been on other Yarra boat tours, I wasn't a big fan of the pre recorded speech about the sights we were looking at; but otherwise it's an extremely cute hour that's more than just learning and viewing

1-Hour Yarra River Sightseeing Cruise

Lyndl Nanos
AU

Lyndl

Australia
Oct 2025

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The scenery was lovely and the commentary was informative On our return, the boat lost power and the crew were fantastic, turning into a really fun experience. It was very memorable

1-Hour Yarra River Sightseeing Cruise

Joanna Merlyn D’souza
AU

Joanna

Australia
Jan 2026

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I booked a ferry river cruise from Melbourne Southgate to Williamstown. I absolutely loved it. Definitely recommend if you want to soak up some sunshine and enjoy splashes of water all while travelling to Williamstown, which was amazing too! The ferrymen were welcoming and friendly as well.

Ferry Transfers between Melbourne and Williamstown

Karen Mulenga
AU

Karen

Australia
Dec 2025

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I visited SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium with my family, and it was our very first time there — and also our first time being together in Australia. It turned into such a special day for all of us. The exhibits were beautiful, the staff were friendly, and everything was easy to navigate as a family. The highlight for us was definitely the penguins. Watching them up close was magical and made the whole experience unforgettable. My family absolutely loved it, and it was the perfect way to celebrate being reunited. Highly recommend for families, first-time visitors, and anyone looking for a memorable day out in Melbourne.

Combo: SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium Skip-the-line Tickets + Yarra River Cruise

Adrianna Ohalloran
NZ

Adrianna

New Zealand
Dec 2025

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My trip to Melbourne SEA LIFE was absolutely amazing and unforgettable. From the moment I walked inside, I felt like I had entered a whole new underwater world. The lighting, the calming sounds, and the huge tanks immediately captured my attention. I was fascinated by the incredible variety of sea creatures, from graceful jellyfish glowing softly to playful penguins waddling around with so much personality. Walking through the ocean tunnel was my favourite part, as sharks and massive rays glided right above my head, making it feel like I was underwater with them. The colourful coral displays and tropical fish were breathtaking and made me appreciate how beautiful and diverse marine life is. The interactive exhibits were fun and educational, helping me learn interesting facts while still enjoying myself. Overall, the experience was exciting, relaxing, and inspiring, and it made my visit to Melbourne even more special.

Combo: SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium Skip-the-line Tickets + Yarra River Cruise

James Clausell
US

James

United States
Aug 2025

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The cruise was nice and informative but we did not get the two hour cruise. Due to the weather, we only were able to do a one hour cruise.

Combo: Melbourne Skydeck Tickets + 1 or 2-Hour Yarra River Cruise

Debbie Culver
US

Debbie

United States
Jan 2026
I really enjoyed the visit to the sky deck. The views were fantastic! It was exciting to see all the area, especially the complex for the Australian open. I'll be going there Monday and it really is nice to see how the grounds look and how big the area actually is I definitely would recommend this excursion to the Sky deck.

Combo: Ferry Transfers between Melbourne and Williamstown + Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower Tickets

William Warrilow

William

Jan 2026
Really serene trip up the river - we had 2 hours so got to hering island and back - you'd need 3 hours to get to docklands downstream as well. Bring a towel to sit on - the black cushions get hot in the sun!

2-Hour Yarra River Sightseeing Cruise

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