As beautiful as the Yarra is to look at from the banks, Melbourne is pretty spectacular when seen from the water. There are a number of operators who cruise the river, day and night, offering you the opportunity to be wined and dined ON the river, rather than just overlooking it.
The Lady Cutler Melbourne Showboat run cruises every second Sunday, offering a champagne and seafood brunch. For three hours, you will cruise from Docklands to Williamstown whilst enjoying a delicious seafood buffet, a roast meat carvery and champagne. Additional drinks packages can also be purchased. The Melbourne Showboat is a historic two level former Sydney ferry that has been fitted with large leather lounges for reclining, and various table arrangements to suit all group sizes. From $89pp (adult).
The Lady Cutler is also available to hire exclusively for events, and regularly runs special cruises, including Christmas and New Year events.
Melbourne River Cruises run sightseeing cruises and operate a ferry every day. You can travel between the Docklands and Williamstown, take in the city from the water and enjoy seeing Melbourne at a leisurely pace. On a clear day, it really is quite spectacular.
The Spirit of Melbourne cruising restaurant operates on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, with a three hour cruise departing from Southbank Promenade. Take in the city lights from the water whilst enjoying a four course dinner with wine. From $130pp (adult).
River Cruises can also transport you to and from events, such as the Melbourne Cup Carnival and offers special Christmas, New Years and Valentines Day cruises, plus the option to book the boat for your own function.
The MV Melburnian is a charter boat available for your exclusive use for weddings, corporate functions or private events. Able to transport up to 30 people, and working with Ed Dixon catering, the MV Melburnian is ideal for your next event.
The MV Melburnian is a timber motor boat first built in 1945 and restored in 1999, featuring a luxury leather interior and a sundeck. Many brides choose to travel on the MV Melburnian to the wedding venues along the river, such as the Langham, Crown and Leonda by the Yarra.
If you are looking for a great afternoon out, hire a boat from Melbourne Boat Hire – you don’t even need a license! 10-12 people can comfortably ride in the boat for a 2 or 4 hour trip, with the option to add catering or bring your own food.
If you would rather be wined and dined, book the boat with a driver and enjoy an afternoon of luxury with a group of friends.
Melbourne Boat Hire also provide transfers to and from Rod Laver Arena, the MCG or any one of a number of spots along the Yarra River. Private events, such as weddings or corporates, are also catered for.
For a more intimate water experience, look no further than Venice on the Yarra, a luxury gondola cruise for 2 or 4 people. In the spirit of cruising the canals of Venice, the team at Venice on the Yarra will take you on an experience you won’t soon forget. Many a wedding proposal has been staged on the gondolas, while birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions are regularly celebrated.
Travel under the stars with the lights of Melbourne as your backdrop and enjoy wine, chocolates and red roses, or cheese and antipasto. A wonderful way to celebrate and experience Melbourne differently.
