melbourne river garden cruise

Melbourne River Gardens 1 hour Sightseeing Cruise

Melbourne, Victoria

Enjoy a scenic river cruise meandering past the beautiful Melbourne Botanic Gardens and Herring Island with the scenic backdrop of Melbourne’s city skyline.

DESCRIPTION

Take in some of Melbourne’s beautiful sights with a cruise along the iconic Yarra River. Cruising for a total of 1-hour, you’ll be able to take in views of Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Olympic Park and Herring Island to name a few.

With live commentary throughout the journey from the onboard crew, you’ll learn about the region as you explore it. Food and drinks are available to purchase on board, however, you are allowed to bring your own light snacks and refreshments.

Departure times vary from day to day and are subject to tides, so be sure to check directly with the operator, Melbourne River Cruises, on the day of your cruise for specific times.

• 1 hour Melbourne Sightseeing River Cruise
• Live commentary
• Hotel transfers
• Food and beverages
• Federation Square
• Royal Botanic Gardens
• Governor’s residence
• Lexus Centre
• Melbourne Olympic Park
• Melbourne Park (Home of the Australian Open)
• Herring Island
• Melbourne Cricket Ground
• IMPORTANT: The cruise timetable changes daily & is subject to tidal & weather conditions.
• CRUISE B departs 11:00AM & 1:30PM daily,
• CRUISE B departs 4:00PM from 23 December 2019 – 21 April 2020
• All other times can be confirmed on the day of travel by calling the Tour Operator.
• Departing from Southbank Promenade, BERTH 2

Departure Location

What to bring.

• Light snacks and drinks

Additional Information

• Please note Child/Infant tickets can only be booked with an Adult ticket

Booking Information

• Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
• Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of cruise
• We recommend arriving 20 minutes prior to boarding. There is limited or no departures on public holidays and event days
• For your information: Completed Tour Operator Information, including contact details is included on your tour voucher
• IMPORTANT: The Departure Times can be confirmed on the day of travel by calling the Tour Operator
• Vessel subject to change without notice

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WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

Short note to thank you for a terrific itinerary and choice of accommodations. We got back from Australia having had the best 'real' holiday in years. Loved it! The order of the trip was perfect and all the hotel bookings worked seamlessly.

We had a wonderful time! We so appreciate your arranging everything for us. It all went very smoothly. We just had to show up where and when you told us to. It took away any stress to this leg of our journey.

At long last & very overdue, we wish to thank you very much for all the bookings you made on our behalf for our adventure. We were pleased with all the accommodation bookings you made, we particularly noted we got what we asked for, walk in showers, twin beds & all clean & tidy. Thanks Madi, well done!!

Just wanted to say a big thank you!!! We have now returned from our holiday & it was fantastic. We would really like to thank you for how well everything was organised. Accommodation & tours were fabulous. We really loved how well organised our trip was and this is a credit to you!!! Thanks again, will be recommending you to friends and family.

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River Gardens Melbourne Sightseeing Cruise

Tickets 🎫 River Gardens Melbourne Sightseeing Cruise for 1 adult (13-64), one of Melbourne’s finest city cruises 🎫 River Gardens Melbourne Sightseeing Cruise for 1 senior (65+), one of Melbourne’s finest city cruises Highlights 🌇 Enjoy unique views of Melbourne’s historic centre 🌊 Cruise on the famous Yarra River ☕ Complimentary tea and coffee General Info 📅 Date: various dates (select when you purchase) 🕒 Time: various times (select when you purchase) 📌 Departure Point: Melbourne River Cruises, Berth 2 (you will return here) ⏳ Duration: 1 hour ♿ Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible ❓ Please note: This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund ❗ For this event, all sales are final and tickets can’t be refunded, changed or modified. For more information, please refer to our T&Cs Description Cruise up Melbourne's famous Yarra River and enjoy the sights of Melbourne's scenic gardens, parklands and famous sporting arenas. This one-hour sightseeing cruise is a wonderful chance to view the scenic river gardens and Herring Island. Your cruise includes the famous Princes Bridge, Royal Botanic Gardens and the Governor’s residence, encompassing the scenic river gardens and Herring island with the contrasting port and former-industrial Docklands area; giving you an extensive appreciation of the entire Melbourne region.  

Getting there

Melbourne River Cruises, Berth 2

Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia, 3006

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• 03 8610 2600

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No Booking Fees

Flexible cancellation and payment options. Call, email or pop in our office for changes to your plan or budget.

Unique Experience

Discover Melbourne from a unique perspective. Experience all Yarra River has to offer. Make memories you can share with your family and friends!

Commitment to Quality

Quality is the key to our service. We achieved high ratings on both Tripadvisor and Google.

Award-Winning Business

Longest standing cruise business on the Yarra River. With 40+ years of experience and award-winning services.

Relaxing River Cruise in Melbourne

River city cruises in Melbourne have grown in popularity over the years due to their versatility and mass appeal. They can cater to a diverse range of interests and offer a uniquely refreshing way to see, experience and enjoy Melbourne’s iconic landmarks, waterways and attractions from a new perspective. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening with your significant other, a social gathering with friends or an office Christmas party, a river cruise in Melbourne is a great option for anyone looking to add a touch of excitement and adventure to their plans.

In Melbourne, the go-to provider of top-quality river cruises is Melbourne River Cruises. We have an experienced and knowledgeable team that takes great pride in showcasing the city from a decidedly unique vantage point, with highlights including the Yarra River, Federation Square and Southbank Promenade. You can rely on us to cater to different needs, preferences, events and budgets with our specialised city river cruises in Melbourne. Our tailored packages include romantic sunset cruises for couples, party cruises for social gatherings, Christmas-themed cruises for corporate events, and much more. You can rest assured that you’ll have an unforgettable boat ride with Melbourne River Cruises that will leave you with lasting memories.

Melbourne Yarra Cruises for Parties

Hosting a party can be fun and exciting, but it can be boring going to the same old venues after a while. At Melbourne River Cruises, we offer a unique alternative to traditional party venues. Our river boat cruises in Melbourne are a great choice for many different celebrations and events, ranging from milestone birthdays and corporate Christmas functions through to engagement parties and more. When choosing our boat cruise in Melbourne for your next event, you’ll know that your guests will get to enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience. Imagine going on a picturesque Yarra River cruise and enjoying stunning views of Melbourne’s skyline and iconic landmarks all while celebrating with your friends, family or colleagues. Our boats are well-equipped to cater to your party needs, with ample space for guests to socialise, dance and enjoy the views.

We know that every event is unique, which is why we’re proud to offer custom packages that suit your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a simple and no-fuss option or a fully catered package with food, drinks and entertainment, we’ve got you covered. Our experienced team can work closely with you to create a tailored package that perfectly matches your requirements, preferences and budget.

Booking Yarra cruises with Melbourne River Cruises is easy and hassle-free. Simply choose your date and time, select the package that best suits your needs, and let us take care of the rest. With our friendly crew, top-notch facilities and breathtaking views, your next event is sure to be a hit.

Boat Cruise in Melbourne for Dinners

If you’re interested in an unforgettable dining experience, our dining boat is available for you to enjoy multiple courses and unlimited drinks. Step aboard the Spirit of Melbourne and dine luxuriously while taking in the stunning sights of Melbourne at night as you cruise down the Yarra River. Whether you want to impress a first date or celebrate a special occasion, our Melbourne Yarra cruises will ensure a memorable experience. We’re equipped with all the amenities and comforts you could need, including a fully stocked bar along with a professional and attentive staff.

We’re also proud to offer a range of special Melbourne cruises on certain days of the year. This includes themed events for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Melbourne Cup Day and New Year’s Eve. These cruises can give you and others a fun and stylish way to celebrate any occasion with special menus, decorations and entertainment to match. Book your spot on the Spirit of Melbourne to experience some of the best dining and entertainment that Melbourne has to offer.

Educational Boat Tour in Melbourne

If you’re looking for a unique and enjoyable way to explore and learn more about Melbourne, you won’t be disappointed by an educational boat tour with Melbourne River Cruises. Our routes take you past notable landmarks and attractions, providing schoolkids and children with an amazing opportunity to learn about the city’s history and development from a different perspective.

During the tour, our captain will provide interesting and informative commentary about each and every location you pass, all of which is tailored to be engaging for children and school groups. Our captains are knowledgeable and passionate about Melbourne, ensuring kids will walk away with a wealth of new knowledge and a much deeper appreciation for the city.

We understand that cost can be a concern, which is why we offer affordable discounted rates for primary and secondary schools. This makes our boat trips in Melbourne a cost-effective option that can be easily incorporated into your school’s curriculum. We can accommodate groups of various sizes, so whether you’re planning a trip for a class or an entire year level, we can help.

Contact Us Today

To learn more about the various Melbourne Yarra cruises we offer, or to hire a boat as your next function centre, get in touch with Melbourne River Cruises today. Give us a call on (03) 8610 2600 or send an enquiry through our online contact form.

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#melbournerivercruises

Set sail with your furry friend! 🐾 Discover pet-friendly river cruises along the Yarra to Williamstown for paw-some photo ops. Don’t miss out on the tail-wagging fun! ⛴️📸 #PetFriendly #RiverCruise #YarraAdventures #visitmelbourne #everybitdifferent

Sparkling Winter Day, Smiles & Melbourne Magic! 🇦🇺 From soaking up the winter sun pre-cruise ☀️ to enjoying drinks with a view on the back deck , experience Melbourne like never before with a Melbourne River Cruises! Our friendly captain gets you onboard (⚓️) and the iconic skyline will leave you speechless! #Melbourne #YarraRiver #RiverCruise #CityViews #ThingsToDoInMelbourne #WinterVibes #MakeMemories #MelbourneRiverCruises #everybitdifferent #YarraRiver #RiverCruise #MelbourneBoatTour #MelbourneCityCruise #MelbourneDayTrip #MelbourneActivities #Melbourne #Victoria #Australia #Travel #Travelgram #Explore #Instatravel #Holiday #Vacation #SeeAustralia

Fall in love all over again as you join us for a romantic dinner cruise along Melbourne’s stunning skyline. ❤️✨🚢❤️ #MelbourneMagic #RomanticDinner #MustDoMelbourne #CreateMemories #MelbourneRiverCruises #VisitMelbourne #everybitdifferent

🌸 Mother’s Day Giveaway Alert! 🌸 Enter our Giveaway and win one of our two all-inclusive Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant experience for 2! 🌷💖 Treat the special mom in your life to an unforgettable experience on the Yarra River with our giveaway worth up to $640!!! You could be the proud recipient of one of the fantastic choices below 🏆: 📍Mother’s Day Dinner Cruise for 2 📍Mother’s Day Lunch Cruise for 2 To enter, all you need to do is follow our page (Facebook & Instagram), like this post and tag your friends. It’s that simple! 🙌 Winners will be announced on the Thursday 2nd of May! ✨✨✨ To ensure you’re in the running for this exciting competition, make sure you’re following us. The winner will be randomly selected using an app, and only those who have followed our page will be in the running according to the app’s shortlist. Time is ticking! ⏳ Don’t miss out; grasp this chance to win awesome prizes! 💰 Act swiftly to enter and secure your shot at claiming your well-deserved reward! Meet the entry requirements and cement your place in the competition. Please refrain from spamming comments. Spamming does not increase your chances of winning‼️ #giveaway #giveaways #giveawaytime #melbournegiveaway #melbournegiveaways #mothersday #mothersdaygift #mothersdaygifts #mothersdaygiftideas #mothersdaygiveaway #mothersdayspecial #dinnercruise #finedining #drinks #wine #melbournefinedining #melbournefoodie #melbournedinner #melbournedinnerideas #melbournerivercruises #spiritofmelbourne #yarrariver #yarrarivermelbourne #melbournedining

Gift the experience of a lifetime with our Melbourne River Cruise Gift Vouchers! 🎁✨ Explore the Melbourne’s scenic beauty from the Yarra and create unforgettable memories. Purchase yours today! ✨ Link in Bio *Online & hardcopy vouchers are available #melbourne #giftvoucher #giftideas #visitmelbourne #whatson #sightseeing #yarrarivermelbourne #williamstown

🌊⛴️ Dive into this must-do family activity! Set sail on a scenic river cruise along the Yarra and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. 💫 #YarraRiver #FamilyFun #RiverCruise #MustDo #ExploreMelbourne 🚢💼 @travelinstylewithdebs

🚤 Fun times ahead! Bring your family aboard for a spectacular sightseeing cruise with Melbourne River Cruises. 🌆 Be a tourist in your own city and soak in the stunning views of Melbourne from the Yarra River. 🍹 Enjoy snacks and beverages while you explore, and dive into the city’s rich history with immersive commentary. Departing daily from Southgate, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss! . . . #MelbourneRiverCruises #YarraRiver #VisitVictoria #ExploreVIC #LoveVictoria #VictoriaAustralia #SeeAustralia #DiscoverVictoria #TravelVictoria #VictoriaTourism #VictoriaAdventures #VictoriaVacation #VictoriaGetaway #VictoriaEscapes #VictoriaDestinations #MelbourneTourism #MelbourneCity #MelbourneLife #MelbourneAdventure #MelbourneVacation #MelbourneGetaway #MelbourneExploring #MelbourneExperience #MelbourneMoments #Sightseeing #FamilyFun #visitmelbourne #everybitdifferent #yarrarivermelbourne #ExploreMelbourne 🌊🏙️

Celebrate Mother’s Day in style with a luxurious lunch on the Yarra River 🥂👑 Indulge in a gourmet 3-course meal with drinks, accompanied by stunning waterfront views 🍽️🌅. Make this Mother’s Day truly memorable with an all-inclusive experience that she’ll cherish forever 💖. Join us an create unforgettable memories to treasure for a lifetime on Sunday, 12th May 12 PM 💕 Duration: 3 Hours Reserve your spot now! 🔗 Link in bio. #mothersday #mothersdaycruise #mothersdaylunch #melbourne #yarra #whatsonmelbourne #visitmelbourne #thingstodo

Experience a unique dining adventure aboard our @spiritofmelbourne ! 🚤 Enjoy the novelty as our waitstaff not only serve with a smile but also double as talented photographers, capturing all your memorable moments. Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or dinner, we do it all with finesse! . . . #BoatDining #NoveltyExperience #MemorableMoments #finessedining #MelbourneLife #ExploreMelbourne #MelbourneCity #VisitMelbourne #MelbourneEats #MelbourneCoffee #MelbourneFoodie #MelbourneStyle #MelbourneArt #MelbourneFashion #MelbourneCulture #MelbourneEvents #MelbourneCBD #MelbourneCafe #MelbourneLove #MelbournePhotography #MelbourneLifestyle #MelbourneStreetArt #MelbourneVibes #MelbourneGram #melbournetourism #visitmelbourne #everybitdifferent #yarrarivermelbourne

Yarra River Gardens Sightseeing Cruise

A one-hour boat cruise to explore the riverside sights of Melbourne

During this one-hour boat cruise, you’ll get the chance to travel up the Yarra River and discover the highlights of Melbourne from the water. Along the way, you’ll be able to listen to the guide's narration and take in the views of the riverside parks, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria and green areas.

Passing by Herring Island and under Princes Bridge, you’ll explore such attractions as the Government House, the National Tennis Center, the Olympic Park, the Arts Center and others. You’ll also be able to enjoy tea and coffee while relaxing on the sun deck.

What's included

• Tea and coffee
• Live commentary

What's Not Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off

Accessibility

• Accessible to strollers
• Service animals welcome
• Public transit links nearby

Health & Safety

• Suitable for all fitness levels

Restrictions

• Arrive at least 20 minutes before the start time.

Languages spoken by guide

Additional information.

Please note that the cruise duration times and directions are approximate and may be changed, depending on tides and river traffic.

The boat is completely enclosed and windowed.

A restroom is available on board.

Please note that no food or drinks are sold on board.

Bring your ticket with you to the attraction.

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Frequently asked questions, how do i book a ticket.

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Click through to the next page and enter your personal details.

After entering your personal details, select your payment method and enter your payment details.

Once you’ve entered your payment details successfully, you'll be redirected to your ticket page where you can check the status and details of your reservations.

You'll receive a confirmation email once the reservation is confirmed with the attraction operator. This could take some time based on the supplier.

You can view your tickets in your confirmation email or the Booking and Trips section of your account.

When do I pay?

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Each digital ticket contains a unique code. This is usually a QR or numerical code, but could be something else and can be found on your ticket or the PDF sent to you.

If your digital ticket contains a barcode or QR code, show it to the staff at the attraction's entrance or ticket collection point for them to scan.

For those with numerical codes, show your ticket to staff for verification.

Can I cancel or modify my tickets?

You’ll need to check the policy on the specific ticket you book. Last-minute bookings might not have free cancellation available.

When will I get my free cancellation refund?

After you cancel, we'll issue a full refund immediately. Depending on your bank or payment provider, it can take 3–10 days to be refunded to your original payment method.

Tickets and prices

Melbourne River Cruise Guide

Today, we think of Melbourne as a city that’s all about the outdoors. It’s a place for viewing spectacular panoramas, mountain peaks, and even rivers. So much so that there are now several beautiful riverside locations where you can take an afternoon or evening river cruise or simply visit by foot to see some of the most spectacular views of the Yarra River any time of year.

If you’re planning on visiting this great city soon and want to know what activities you can do there, we have good news: We have compiled an insider’s guide to the best things to do in Melbourne!

River Cruise Guide to Melbourne

When people think of visiting Melbourne, they may not immediately think of the beautiful Yarra River. But those who travel to Melbourne will quickly discover that this river is one of the city’s most picturesque and iconic landmarks. In fact, the river is so beautiful that cruise boats have been sailing up and down its waters since the early 1900s! These boats have long been a favourite with locals and visitors alike, as they provide a fantastic, easily accessible way to see the city from the river’s many vantage points.

From the shopping, dining, and entertainment districts in the city’s CBD, to the suburban areas, riverside parks, and the famous “Gardens of Armstrong” – the city’s renowned world-class botanical gardens – the Yarra River has it all! And cruises are a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon or evening, with daily cruises available all year at Yarra River Cruises.

For those visiting in the autumn or winter months, a cruise is also a great way to ensure you don’t miss out on one of Melbourne’s most beautiful seasons. From October to April, the city’s beautiful autumnal colours can be seen at their best on the river, while the river’s banks are also decorated with colourful Christmas lights during the festive season. These lights are particularly beautiful when seen reflected on the river’s surface.

Melbourne’s Best Cafes, Restaurants, and Food Stops

For many visitors to Melbourne, coffee will quickly become an important part of their daily routine. And it’s easy to understand why Melbourne is home to some of the world’s finest coffee roasters and coffee shops. Visitors can find out more about the city’s famous coffee scene by joining a special walking tour that’s dedicated to Melbourne’s favourite caffeinated beverage.

On the “Coffee Lovers’ Tour,” tourists can visit some of the city’s best coffee roasters, cafes, and bars to sample their delicious brews and learn about the city’s rich coffee history. But coffee isn’t the only thing that Melbourne is famous for. The city is also home to some of the world’s finest and most innovative restaurants, and these can be found across the city, in every neighbourhood.

Visitors can get to know these restaurants better by booking a table at one of Melbourne’s “foodie” restaurants. These restaurants are a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a truly special dining experience, as they almost all have something special about them. Some, for example, offer a very unique “locavore” experience, while others feature a tasting menu designed by a well-known local chef, while others still offer a very specific type of cuisine.

Don’t Miss: A River Cruise in the Evening

Cruises along the Yarra River are available throughout the day, but the best time to take one is in the evening. This is particularly true during the autumn and winter months when the city’s famous leaf change is in full swing. Visitors can make use of the Yarra River Cruise services to hire a vessel to accommodate their friends and family and enjoy an experience of a lifetime.

During these months, the trees lining the banks of the Yarra River burst into a myriad of colourful hues, creating a truly stunning and magical scene. A cruise at this time of year is a truly unforgettable experience, and it’s the perfect way to end an autumn or winter day in Melbourne. Cruises also provide a fantastic opportunity to view the city’s stunning skyline at night, while passengers will also be able to spot some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the imposing Southern Cross and Eureka Towers .

But perhaps the best thing about a cruise on the Yarra River at night is the fact that it’s very unlikely any cruise passengers will be able to tear their eyes away from the river’s mesmerizing waters, which are beautifully illuminated with colourful lights. These lights are reflected on the river’s surface, creating a truly breathtaking and magical scene.

Visit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Visitors who want to learn more about the history of art can visit the National Gallery of Victoria. The Gallery is home to one of Australia’s most famous art collections, including works by some of the world’s most famous artists, such as Picasso, Dali, and Van Gogh. The NGV also holds the world’s largest public collection of Australian art, including works by some of the country’s most famous artists, such as Sidney Nolan and Arthur Streeton. The Gallery is located in Melbourne’s iconic CBD, making it easy to visit after taking a cruise on the Yarra River. The Gallery is open every day of the year and entry is free.

Harbour Cruise of the Yarra River

The Harbour Cruise of the Yarra River is one of the best cruises in Melbourne and is also one of the most scenic. The cruise passes by some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the famous Flinders Street Station and Federation Square, before travelling through the beautiful “Gardens of Armstrong,” where passengers can take a break and admire one of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens.

The cruise also passes by several beautiful riverside parks and ends at the city’s iconic Arts Centre, where passengers can explore the centre’s many galleries, exhibitions, and theatres. The Harbour Cruise is one of the most popular cruises in Melbourne and is a great choice for travellers of all ages and interests. The cruise is available every day of the year.

Contact Yarra River Cruises

Look no further than Yarra River Cruises if you want to take a stunning cruise along the Yarra river at any time of year. Consider Yarra River Cruises as a fantastic option for a Melbourne river cruise. You will surely have an outstanding trip thanks to our expert crew’s ability to assist you and our wide range of cruises to choose from. You can find more information on our website or contact us today at (03) 8488 8880 to book an appointment.

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