dinner cruise yarra river

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If you are looking for an unforgettable experience in Melbourne, then look no further than a dining cruise! Enjoy a delicious meal and take in the stunning views of the Yarra River while cruising along it. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset dinner cruise, a lunch with the family along the river, or just want to take in the scenic views of Melbourne from a new angle, there’s something for everyone on a dining cruise. These are also perfect for Valentine's Day gifts for couples , birthday gifts or Father's Day gifts .

• $150 - $300
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Best Yarra River Cruises

Melbourne may be well known for its vibrant arts scene and lively cafe culture, but there’s more to the Victorian capital than first meets the eye. If you’re looking for a unique opportunity to see some of the city’s sights, including the iconic waterway that winds through Melbourne’s inner suburbs, book a dining cruise or scenic cruise . With RedBalloon, you can discover a wide selection of Melbourne and Yarra River cruises in one handy spot, allowing you to find or gift an experience that’ll be remembered for years to come.

What can I expect on a Melbourne cruise?

Every river cruise in Melbourne is different, which is one of the beauties of cruising along the Yarra River. Although your cruise’s inclusions may vary depending on whether you’re set to enjoy a sunset cruise, a bottomless brunch, high tea or another fun experience, expect to enjoy some incredible city views. Your cruise operator may provide some informative commentary on the landmarks you pass by, while if your cruise includes drinks or a bite to eat, you can indulge in style. Cruises will also vary in duration, meaning you may enjoy a longer outing, a basic sightseeing tour or something in between.

How much does a Melbourne cruise cost?

With various experiences, routes and inclusions to choose from, Melbourne Yarra River cruises vary in price. Basic one-hour sightseeing cruises start from $35 per adult, while Melbourne dinner cruises are typically more expensive, offering food, drinks and even onboard entertainment. If you’re looking for great things to do in Melbourne but are working to a budget, use the Price Range filter to discover which of the great cruise options available suit your needs.

Where do Melbourne cruises leave from?

In Melbourne, Yarra River cruises depart from several locations, such as Docklands and Southbank Promenade. As the locations Melbourne cruises leave from vary from operator to operator, you’ll be provided with the specific departure details of your outing ahead of time.

What should I wear on a Melbourne dining cruise?

Combining fantastic views and great food, a Melbourne dinner cruise offers a lovely way to see the city’s sights and may even be a good date idea . But what should you wear on your cruise? Unless your cruise operator specifies a dress code, opt for a smart casual outfit. This includes a collared shirt and either long pants or dress jeans for men and an outfit suitable for a meal at a nice restaurant for women. Look to avoid beachwear, activewear, thongs and any overly casual clothing. Contact your cruise operator if you’re unsure what’s appropriate for your dinner cruise.

If you’re thinking of spending some time outside at any point during your Melbourne dinner cruise, consider taking a coat or jacket with you. When you’re out on the water, the temperature can drop quickly, especially after dark and during the cooler months.

Not sure which style of cruise is best for you? Have you got a taste for cruising after your Yarra River cruise? With RedBalloon, you’ll find an assortment of cruise experiences to choose from, from memorable dining cruises to classic scenic cruises along some of Australia’s most beautiful waterways. See some of the country’s best-known landmarks from a whole new perspective, dine in style, or simply enjoy a lovely day out on the water with friends, family or the special someone in your life.

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Stunning Yarra River Cruises

Discover hidden gems beyond melbourne’s waterway's, unforgettable yarra river cruises for every occasion.

Experience unforgettable moments on our meticulously curated  Yarra River Cruises, tailored for every occasion . Immerse yourself in opulence as you navigate Melbourne’s waterways aboard our  exquisite vessels , available for  self-drive or skippered adventures , seven days a week.

Embark on Melbourne’s first and only Yarra River three-course progressive lunch or dinner cruise , starting from Docklands. Indulge in a unique and social dining experience that combines breathtaking views with delectable food and wine , creating an unforgettable journey for your taste buds.

Discover new horizons as you venture beyond the shipping lanes and container docks, heading west to explore the captivating Maribyrnong River.  Delight in different sights and points of interest  as you cruise past the illustrious Flemington racecourse and the historic Old Pipe Works.  Come and explore the rich history of Melbourne  and its bustling ports as you disembark during your Maribyrnong River cruise .

As the leading providers of bespoke water transport in Melbourne, we pride ourselves on crafting unforgettable experiences.  Surprise a lucky individual with a boat trip  on our beautifully appointed vessels,  a truly special gift  that promises an unparalleled adventure. Experience the charm of our Yarra River cruises , enjoying the delightful perspective of Melbourne from the water, where every moment is infused with luxury and enchantment.

Discover the best Yarra River Cruises

Self-drive boat hire, lunch & dinner cruises, private boat charters, hens party cruise, wedding cruise packages, public cruises, spring racing transfers, skippered cruises.

Experience unforgettable moments on our meticulously curated Yarra River Cruises, tailored for every occasion . Immerse yourself in opulence as you navigate Melbourne’s waterways aboard our exquisite vessels , available for self-drive or skippered adventures , seven days a week.

Discover new horizons as you venture beyond the shipping lanes and container docks, heading west to explore the captivating Maribyrnong River. Delight in different sights and points of interest as you cruise past the illustrious Flemington racecourse and the historic Old Pipe Works. Come and explore the rich history of Melbourne and its bustling ports as you disembark during your Maribyrnong River cruise.

As the leading providers of bespoke water transport in Melbourne, we pride ourselves on crafting unforgettable experiences. Surprise a lucky individual with a boat trip on our beautifully appointed vessels, a truly special gift that promises an unparalleled adventure. Experience the charm of our Yarra River cruises, enjoying the delightful perspective of Melbourne from the water, where every moment is infused with luxury and enchantment.

Find Your Luxury Yarra River Cruise

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Professional Skippers & Crew

Eco-friendly, luxury boats, spectacular views of melbourne, private luxury cruises.

Leave a lasting impression and celebrate your special occasion in style! Elevate your end-of-year office celebration with our Christmas party boat hire ,  an extraordinary and unique way to commemorate the festivities . Our private charter vessels cater to groups of all sizes, accommodating  up to 35 passengers . Let the spirit of merriment flow as you create lasting memories against the backdrop of the Yarra River’s beauty.

Planning a hens night or bachelor party ? Look no further! Our exclusive boats are at your disposal, catering exclusively to your private group. Design a memorable day or night out on the water, tailoring the experience to your desires. Customise your booking with the hours, extras, catering, BYO, drinks, and entertainment that perfectly suit your group’s preferences. Choose from our esteemed fleet of self-drive vessels, where no boat licence is required .

Leave a lasting impression and celebrate your special occasion in style! Elevate your end-of-year office celebration with our Christmas party boat hire, an extraordinary and unique way to commemorate the festivities . Our private charter vessels cater to groups of all sizes, accommodating up to 35 passengers . Let the spirit of merriment flow as you create lasting memories against the backdrop of the Yarra River’s beauty.

Planning a hens night or bachelor party ? Look no further! Our exclusive boats are at your disposal, catering exclusively to your private group. Design a memorable day or night out on the water, tailoring the experience to your desires. Customise your booking with the hours, extras, catering, BYO, drinks, and entertainment that perfectly suit your group’s preferences. Choose from our esteemed fleet of self-drive vessels, where no boat licence is required .

Fully Catered or BYO

Luxurious & private, celebrate in style, boat transfers.

Make a grand entrance at the renowned Spring Racing Carnival by taking advantage of our exclusive water taxi services . Customise your journey with a catered cruise, accompanied by your own personalised playlist, and revel in a truly extraordinary experience. Leave the queues, traffic, and parking concerns behind as you embark on a delightful voyage of convenience and luxury.

For seamless on-water transfers to exquisite riverside restaurants, concerts, or an exciting night out, our water taxis await. Whether you’re an intimate duo or a group of up to 35 passengers, enjoy the freedom to see a show, savor a delectable dinner, or simply enjoy the magic of an evening spent on the Yarra River.

Boat Tranfers

Make a grand entrance at the renowned Spring Racing Carnival by indulging in our exclusive water taxi services . Customise your journey with a catered cruise, accompanied by your own personalised playlist, and revel in a truly extraordinary experience. Leave the queues, traffic, and parking concerns behind as you embark on a delightful voyage of convenience and luxury.

For seamless on-water transfers to exquisite riverside restaurants, concerts, or an exciting night out, our water taxis await. Whether you’re an intimate duo or a group of up to 35 passengers, enjoy the freedom to see a show, savor a delectable dinner, or simply bask in the enchantment of an evening out on the Yarra River .

Our Vessels

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Who Are Melbourne Boat Hire?

Locally owned and operated, Melbourne Boat Hire is Melbourne’s premium, eco-friendly, electric self-drive boat hire and boat tour operator on the iconic Yarra River in Melbourne.

Melbourne Boat Hire offers a unique, intimate water tourism experience with a difference. Cruise the beautiful Yarra River – the social heart of Melbourne like never before, in the comfort of your own luxury vessel with the option of enjoying exquisite food and beverage dining packages.

See What’s New With Us

Arrive or depart in style: a memorable wedding transfer by boat on the yarra river, eloping on a boat in melbourne, cruising the yarra river, exploring the advantages of electric boating on the yarra river, follow us on instagram.

Awaiting guests to board Lady M at Crown Casino ...

Awaiting guests to board Lady M at Crown Casino landing after arriving by helicopter for their private cruise on the #yarrariver #boat #microflight #melbourneboathire #ladym #crowncasino #melbourne #melbournecbd #privatecruise ...

Another day, another sunset 🌅 Late Autumn ...

Another day, another sunset 🌅 Late Autumn weather bringing the goods on the #yarrariver. Enjoy the city views and sunset from our public sunset cruises departing from Southwharf. #sunset #sunsetlovers #cruise #melbourne #southwharf #ladym #melbourneboathire #sunset #cruise #sunsetcruise #melbourne #city #melbournecity #docklands #yarrarivermelbourne ...

Happy Hump Day! A sunny day on the Yarra River ...

Happy Hump Day! A sunny day on the Yarra River with friends☀️ 10/10👍🏼 #melbournecbd #melbourne #boathire #cruising #visitmelbourne #selfdrive #docklands #yarra #yarrarivermelbourne #melbourneboathire #thingstodoinmelbourne #yarrariver #humpday #happyhumpday ...

The behind the scenes of the Lady M refurbishment....

The behind the scenes of the Lady M refurbishment. Our COVID-19 project was to create a luxury charter boat for Melbourne that is 100 % electric powered 🔋⚡️⚓️ #electricboats #electric #electricboat #ladym #yarrariver #boatconversion #boat #melbourneboathire #electricpropulsion #luxury #melbourne #docklands #electricboat #privatecharter #batterypowered #boathire #boatcruise ...

Picnic in style on the Yarra River with a ...

Picnic in style on the Yarra River with a @picnicsbyfiorella setup. Perfect addition for a #proposalcruise or #selfdriveboathire 🧺🌸🥂 #yarrariver #melbourneboathire #boat #picnic #melbourne #yarrarivermelbourne #docklandsmelbourne #boatcruise #melbournecbd ...

What do we love just as much as cruising on the ...

What do we love just as much as cruising on the river? Reading your reviews!🫶🏽 #boat #yarrarivermelbourne #boathire #melbourne #visitmelbourne #thingstodoinmelbourne #docklands #selfdrive #cruising #yarra #melbournecbd #melbourneboathire #privatecharter #WeekendVibes #review #feedback ...

Who doesn’t love a sunset in the city🌅🌇 ...

Who doesn’t love a sunset in the city🌅🌇 #docklands #cruising #melbourneboathire #cruise #boat #party #thingstodoinmelbourne #yarrarivermelbourne #visitmelbourne #yarrariver #boathire #WeekendVibes #melbournecbd #familytime #melbourne #sunset #yarra #luxury #selfdrive #melbournetodo #lovemelbourne #visitvictoria #docklandsmelbourne ...

Going to the Flemington Races on the 18th May? How...

Going to the Flemington Races on the 18th May? How about arriving in style and getting the party started before you even get there!🪩🐎 #visitmelbourne #party #docklands #yarrarivermelbourne #cruising #yarrariver #boathire #melbourneboathire #WeekendVibes #privatecharter #cruise #boat #thingstodoinmelbourne #flemingtonracecourse ...

Meet one of the most beautiful boats that cruises ...

Meet one of the most beautiful boats that cruises the Yarra River😍 The Birrarung is our biggest boat and is perfect for partying the night away🎉 Come join us for a night to remember🍾🥂 #thingstodoinmelbourne #boat #cruising #melbourne #melbourneboathire #familytime #yarrariver #docklands #champagne #party #yarrarivermelbourne #privatecharter #luxury #WeekendVibes #yarra #melbournecbd #sunset #visitmelbourne #boathire #cruise ...

In need of a fun day out for the family? Cruising ...

In need of a fun day out for the family? Cruising through Melbournes CBD is fun for all ages and perfect for making memories that last a lifetime!🥰⛵️🇦🇺 #yarrariver #cruising #melbourne #melbourneboathire #familytime #thingstodoinmelbourne #boat #docklands #selfdrive ...

Want to spoil your mum on Mother’s Day? Well ...

Want to spoil your mum on Mother’s Day? Well this is the perfect way! Sipping on champagne and having some nibbles on the Yarra River💜💙 #melbourne #yarrariver #melbourneboathire #mothersday #champagne #thingstodoinmelbourne #familytime #cruising ...

Celebrating Sunny’s 12months on the job as ...

Celebrating Sunny’s 12months on the job as apprentice Captain 👨‍✈️ 🐾 #yarrariver #captain #sunnyb #dog #labrodor #melbourneboathire #yarrarivermelbourne #love #docklands #dogsofinstagram #melbourne #melbournedogs ...

Get in touch today to plan your perfect cruise. If you are looking for something luxurious, unique and intimate we have got you covered!

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Melbourne Boat Hire respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters we operate on, the Bunurong Boon Wurrung and Wurundejeri Woi Wurrung people of the Eastern Kulin Nation and pays respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Yarra River Cruise Dinner: A Romantic Culinary Journey Under the Stars

Introduction: the magic of the yarra river at night.

There’s something ineffably romantic about a cruise down a river, but combine it with Melbourne’s cityscape, gourmet food, and the gentle serenity of the Yarra, and you have an utterly magical experience.

The allure of a “Yarra River cruise dinner”

 Imagine gliding on the water with the Melbourne skyline twinkling against the night sky. That’s the allure of the “Yarra River cruise dinner”. It offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle while keeping its radiant charm close at hand.

Setting the scene: Melbourne’s iconic river under the stars  

The Yarra River, a natural dividing line in Melbourne’s heart, transforms as the sun sets. As skyscrapers illuminate and stars ascend, the waters reflect a dance of light and shadow, setting a romantic and mesmerising scene.

Why the Yarra River Cruise Dinner is a Must-Experience

Combining culinary delights with mesmerising views.

 A “Yarra River cruise dinner” isn’t just about the delicious meals. It’s about the harmonious blend of delectable dishes, superb wines, gentle river waves, and a panoramic view of Melbourne.

The unparalleled romantic ambience of cruising Melbourne’s waterways

There’s romance in stillness, but there’s a unique romance in movement – the kind you feel while cruising Melbourne’s waterways with someone special, holding hands and watching the world go by.

Savouring Melbourne’s Flavours: Onboard Cuisine Highlights

A showcase of local ingredients in gourmet dishes . .

Chefs onboard take pride in crafting dishes that encapsulate Melbourne’s culinary essence . Each dish becomes a mouth-watering journey through the region’s best flavours using fresh local ingredients.

Wine and dine: Pairing meals with Victoria’s finest wines  

Victoria is renowned for its wines, and a “Yarra River cruise dinner” celebrates this heritage. With curated wine pairings, each meal becomes a symphony of tastes and aromas that enhance the dining experience.

Planning Your Perfect Evening: Tips for the Ultimate Cruise Dinner

Choosing the best “yarra river cruise dinner” package.

There are various packages available, from luxury liners to intimate vessels. Consider the length of the journey, the menu, and onboard amenities when selecting the ideal package for your evening.

Special touches to enhance the romantic experience

Consider adding personalised touches like a bouquet on arrival, a dedicated song played during the cruise, or a custom dessert to celebrate an occasion.

Seasonal Surprises: How Different Times of Year Elevate the Cruise Experience

Summertime soirees: warm breezes and golden sunsets.

Summertime cruises have their charm with extended daylight hours, allowing guests to admire Melbourne’s skyline in a warm, golden hue.

Winter wonders: Cozy dining and the city lights reflecting off the water

Winter brings an intimate ambience. As the chill settles, the boat becomes a cozy haven with warm lights, heaters, and the sparkling reflections of the city on the Yarra.

Beyond the Meal: Entertainment and Activities on the Yarra Cruise

Live music and dance floors: grooving under the stars.

Some cruises come alive post-dinner with live bands, encouraging guests to dance the night away, feeling the city’s pulse from the water.

Special themed nights for a unique “Yarra River cruise dinner” experience

Look out for themed nights – from jazz evenings to cultural celebrations – offering a refreshing twist to the standard cruise experience.

Reviews and Recommendations: Best Yarra River Cruise Dinner Options

Acclaimed cruises that melburnians and tourists love.

Brands like Yarra River consistently earn high praise for their gourmet menus, attentive service, and overall cruising experience.

Hidden gems: Lesser-known cruise options offering intimate experiences

While popular options abound, lesser-known cruise dinners, like Yarra River Cruise and Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruises, offer intimate settings and unique culinary experiences worth exploring.

Responsible Cruising: Environmental and Safety Considerations

Sustainable dining: how cruises are supporting local and eco-friendly practices.

Many cruise operators prioritise sustainability, sourcing local ingredients, minimising waste, and ensuring their operations are eco-friendly.

Safety first: Ensuring a secure and enjoyable evening on the water

While the focus is on romance and enjoyment, safety is paramount. Trustworthy operators adhere to stringent safety guidelines, ensuring a worry-free experience for all.

Conclusion: Cherishing the Memories of Your Yarra River Culinary Adventure

Reflecting on the essence of the “yarra river cruise dinner” experience.

As the cruise concludes and Melbourne’s lights fade into the distance, the memories remain – of laughter, gourmet dishes, clinking glasses, and a city viewed from its quietly flowing heart.

Anticipating future innovations and offerings in Melbourne’s cruise dining scene

The “Yarra River cruise dinner” scene is ever-evolving, with new experiences and innovations always on the horizon. As we celebrate what’s available now, there’s excitement for the future of cruise dining in Melbourne.

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3Hr Yarra River Dinner Cruise

The Melbourne city skyline is even more breathtaking when viewed from the Yarra River. But don’t take our word for it – come see for yourself on this all-inclusive dinner cruise! The ‘Spirit of Melbourne’ is a popular vessel on the Yarra and will take you along picturesque routes, passing by some of Melbourne’s major landmarks. A gourmet 4-course dinner with entrées, your pick of main course and dessert will be served on board. Each dish is prepared with care using locally sourced produce, showcasing the culinary excellence of Melbourne. The ever-changing backdrop of the riverfront landmarks and other attractions adds to your dining experience on board. Your package also includes complimentary drinks. So, whether it’s a romantic date or a group dinner with the family, this cruise is a unique alternative to traditional restaurants in the city. Book now!

Cruise Inclusions

Cruise menu.

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Departure Details

Departure Location Southbank Promenade – BERTH 1, SOUTHGATE

Boards 19:15

Departs 19:30

Returns 22:30

• 3hr all-inclusive dinner cruise on the Yarra River
• 4-course dinner prepared with locally sourced produce
• Drinks including wine, beers, spirits, soft drinks etc.
• Scenic views of the Yarra and it’s popular landmarks

ENTRÉE | one choice per guest ENTREE TASTING PLATTER (Includes all three items)  Lamb Kofta served with minted yoghurt (GF) Peking Duck on a bed of garden salad (GF) Seafood Cocktail dressed in a creamy seafood sauce (GF)  VEGETARIAN ENTRÉE: Ratatouille Filo Parcel served with goats cheese and salad (V) MAIN COURSE | one choice per guest Chargrilled Chicken Breast with a porcini mushroom cream sauce, served with potato and seasonal vegetables (GF) Baked Barramundi Fillet, Cooked with Ginger and Lime, Dressed in a Coconut Veloute, served with wild rice and vegetables (GF) Chargrilled Beef Eye Fillet cooked "medium" with a port wine jus, served with potato and seasonal vegetables (GF) Portuguese Lamb Shank served upon mash potato with a confit of vegetables (GF) VEGETARIAN MAIN COURSE OPTIONS | one choice per guest Whole Baby Pumpkin filled with a stir fry of seasonal vegetables and quinoa, topped with melted cheese (V) (GF) Roasted Mediterranean Vegetable Lasagne with a béchamel sauce served with potato gratin & seasoned vegetables (V) DESSERT PLATTER Selection of Mini Desserts CHEESE TASTING PLATTER Australian Cheeses, dried fruit and nuts served with crackers TEA, COFFEE & CHOCOLATES Port or Liqueur (Available upon request during Tea & Coffee service) 

Beverage Package

Premium selection of Red, White & Sparkling Wines Selection of Beers & a range of Spirits Soft Drinks & Orange Juice

Additional Information

Guests are advised to reconfirm the reservation at least 72 HOURS PRIOR to date of cruise Upon arrival, all guests who have purchased tickets online must present their ticket(s) as proof of purchase

Please refer to our full passengers terms and conditions on the following link; https://www.australiancruisegroup.com.au/national-terms-of-services

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Adult Price

Child 2-12 years

Group Bookings

Cruising with a group of 10 or more? Get in touch with our team to get the best price.

Exclusive Hire

This boat is available for private charter – See how we can tailor the experience for your next event.

Explore Melbourne Sightseeing Cruises

Phillip Island Seal Cruise

Duration 2hr

1Hr Ports & Docklands Sightseeing Cruise

Duration 1hr

2Hr Sightseeing Cruise Up & Down Yarra River

32 The Promenade, King Street Wharf, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia

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Cruise Melbourne on a Private, Skippered Boat

The iconic Yarra River has been enthralling visitors for years. Take a private tour of the river and be immersed in the rich history of Melbourne as you pass iconic buildings and structures. Your experienced Captain will share insights and stories of this very beautiful city.

A private charter with Yarra River Cruises offers you a range of options to choose from a skippered private boat hire to a self-drive option where you be the guide and the tourist! Food and beverage packages are available and our range of options also take care of the dietary requirements of you and your guests.

Fancy just canapes or soft drinks or champagne and a range of starters or a full dining experience, we cater to it all.

What Will You See?

• Federation Square
• Melbourne Cricket Ground
• Crown Casino
• South Wharf
• Williamstown
• Herring Island Park
• Birrarung Marr

What sets Yarra River Cruises apart from the other operators on the Yarra River is experience in providing excellent service while you sit back and relax. Our on-board amenities will ensure your comfort and convenience. Our staff are well-trained and have up-to date qualifications to ensure all safety requirements are in order.

Whether it is a day or night tour, adventures await. Stop off at certain sites, explore and then come back to your private boat charter. The options are limited by your imagination and we will help you execute them.

To make a booking or to enquire, call us today.

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Cruising Food and Beverage Experiences

Spirit of melbourne cruising restaurant.

For those seeking an upscale experience on the water, look no further than the Spirit of Melbourne’s four-course dinner or weekend bottomless brunch cruise. The two-level boat seats over 100 guests and provides premier meals while cruising up the scenic Yarra and back down towards the picturesque Melbourne skyline.

The four-course dinner menu on board the Spirit of Melbourne cruising restaurant includes a seafood-based entree, guest’s selection from four main options and a delectable dessert platter, concluding with a board of Australian nuts, fruits and cheeses. Guests on board this Yarra River restaurant cruise are also served unlimited beverages from a selection of gourmet wine, local beer and a range of spirits to accompany their meal. There’s no better choice for dinner cruises in Melbourne!

This Melbourne cruising restaurant also offers a fantastic bottomless mimosa brunch cruise. Enjoy a two-tiered display of sweet and savoury finger foods, accompanied with endless mimosas, spritzes and other beverage options.

The Spirit of Melbourne creates all meals on board in its in-house kitchen. Guests are sure to be dazzled by the gourmet meals and spectacular views when dining at this Yarra River cruising restaurant in Melbourne.

Floating Bars

Arbory afloat.

Easily spotted just steps from Flinders Street Station, Arbory Afloat is a lively and vibrant beach-style venue that has emerged as a prominent social hotspot along the river. The venue reinvents itself with each season, showcasing a dynamic design and menu inspired by a vibrant and colorful coastal Spanish theme this year. The lunch and dinner menus at Arbory Afloat offer a delectable assortment of hot and cold tapas, oysters, charcuterie, premium pizzas, and Spanish-inspired classics that are sure to transport your taste buds straight to Ibiza.

The venue itself floats along the edge of the Yarra. Decorated with beach cabanas (available for rental) and even a small pool, Arbory Afloat captures the essence of paradise and beckons guests to a vibrant atmosphere on the Yarra River.

Yarra Botanica

One of the river’s newest additions, Yarra Botanica’s double-decker floating restaurant joins the Yarra’s lineup of creative dining options. The eye catching venue overflows with year-round greenery and showcases an array of locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and beverages crafted by Victorian producers.

The menu brings a selection of sharable items including hot and cold starter snacks, sourdough pizzas, and most notably, grazing boards available for purchase by the metre. An extensive cocktail menu utilizes spirits from local producers Marionette and Gospel, ensuring that each drink delivers an authentic taste of Victoria.

Yarra Botanica’s innovative and inspired approach to dining, combined with its picturesque location on the Yarra River, make it a must-visit destination for food and drink enthusiasts seeking local flavor.

Unique Waterfront Venues:

The boatbuilders yard.

Found on South Wharf, the industrial-style bar and restaurant is themed after the boat docks of an earlier time. Surrounded by river on three sides, the restaurant and event venue offers a distinctive choice for waterfront dining.

The establishment is particularly renowned for being the proud host of Juniperlooza, Australia’s inaugural festival devoted to gin. The Boatbuilders Yard showcases locally produced spirits and craft beverages, inviting gin enthusiasts for a weekend of exploratory tasting.

Beyond its exclusive events, The Boatbuilders Yard offers selections all day with dedicated brunch and lunch/dinner menus. Brunches can indulge in a unique spin on traditional breakfast items such as the “Morning After Tater Tots” and honeycomb waffle. Meanwhile, the lunch and dinner menu incorporates a South American-inspired theme, showcasing a range of barbecue and burger options.

To complement their meals, patrons can choose from a wide selection of wine, beer, spirits, and cocktails while admiring a panoramic view of the boats cruising up and down the river.

Ponyfish Island

One of Southbank’s favourite bars hides beneath the Evan Walker Pedestrian Bridge. Ponyfish Island, wrapped around a pillar of the bridge, may pique the interest of onlookers curious about the bustling scene in the midst of the river.

Ponyfish Island boasts a tasteful, tropical-themed design that creates an inviting space for friends to gather over drinks or light bites. The menu is limited but diverse, featuring a range of pizzas (including the kangaroo-topped “Australus” pizza), oysters, and a selection of bar snacks. The beverage menu is more extensive, offering sharable jugs and signature cocktails like the Ponystar Martini, as well as a curated selection of local and classic beers and wines.

The casual atmosphere during the day and cosy ambiance at night has cemented Ponyfish Island’s status as a beloved destination for Melbournians.

Melbourne’s favourite riverside beer garden is open year-round for signature cocktails, local brews, and culinary traditions like burgers and pizza. Located just below Federation Square, the eye-catching destination consistently draws a crowd.

Special promotions such as the two-hour “Bottomless Pizza and Spritz” keep Riverland set apart as an attractive and original venue. Also notable is Riverland’s central location: just a short walk from Melbourne’s best entertainment venues like the Melbourne Cricket Grounds, the beer garden is a convenient destination for pre- or post-footy bites and beverages

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