Melbourne River Cruises

Melbourne River Cruises runs sightseeing and dining cruises on the Yarra River, and its office is in Vault 11 of Banana Alley at 365 Flinders Street. Its boats give a different view of the city from the water, and the range of trips means there is a cruise to suit most visitors, from a quick orientation to a full lunch or dinner on board.

The sightseeing cruises are divided by direction. The City Highlights Express is the shortest option, at 45 to 50 minutes up and down the river. The one-hour Ports and Docklands cruise heads downstream towards the port and the Docklands waterfront, while the one-hour River Gardens cruise, also listed as Parks and Gardens, goes upstream. The two-hour Melbourne Highlights cruise combines both directions for the fullest picture. Seasonal options include a Golden Hour cruise and Christmas Lights cruises, and there are trips designed for school excursions and seniors.

For a longer outing, the Williamstown Ferry runs between the city and Williamstown, in either direction. It can be taken one way, a trip of about an hour, or as a two-hour return, which makes it a practical way to combine a cruise with an afternoon exploring Williamstown.

Dining cruises run on the Spirit of Melbourne, with lunch, dinner and brunch cruises and themed events such as Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Melbourne Cup and New Year's Eve. During Melbourne Cup week the company also offers cruise transfers from the city to Flemington Racecourse and lunch cruises from Southgate. Boats are available for private functions, from celebrations and parties to corporate events and weddings.

The company won a silver award at the 2024 Victorian Tourism Awards and holds Eco Certified ecotourism status and Sustainable Tourism Accreditation. Its cruises suit first-time visitors who want an overview of the city, families, older travellers and anyone who would rather see the sights without walking.

Departure times and fares are listed on the Timetable and Fares page of the website, and some special cruises leave from Southgate rather than the main departure point, so check where your cruise departs when booking. Enquiries can be made by email at [email protected] or through the contact form, and large groups are asked to call.