Australia · BOAT TRIPS IN MELBOURNE
Good boat trips in Melbourne fill up weeks ahead; the great ones go first. Below: the 15 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Review of Melbourne’s 2-hour Yarra River cruise, with skyline views, landmark commentary, practical tips, pricing, and who should book.
“An excellent two hours. We thoroughly enjoyed it and it was very informative.”
Review the Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise, with Yarra River views, a four-course meal, free-flowing drinks, and practical booking tips.
“We had a wonderful dinner cruise on 21/12/2025. The staff were outstanding—very friendly, attentive, and welcoming. The food was delicious, and drinks were offered regularly throughout the evening. As we were celebrating our 40th wedRead more”
Review of Melbourne’s one-hour Yarra River cruise, with skyline views, live commentary, tea and coffee, onboard facilities, and practical booking tips.
“Had a lovely experience cruising down the Yarra River! The tour was not only scenic but genuinely informative thanks to the fantastic staff. They shared fascinating tidbits about Melbourne’s history and landmarks, and were warm, approachable, and happy to answer questions. Their friendliness really added to the relaxing vibe of the journey. A perfect way to spend the afternoon—highly recommend for anyone looking to explore the city from a new perspective!”
Review of Melbourne’s 2-hour Yarra River cruise, with skyline views, Docklands, MCG, gardens, commentary, costs, and practical booking advice.
“Do not go on this boring tour, what a waste of time. We had a rubbish seat, no scripted commentary ( boat pilot tried to ad-lib, but failed due to his tainted views on everyone and everything) Talk about milking the public for every $ possible”
Review of Melbourne’s 3-hour Yarra River dinner cruise, with a four-course meal, drinks, city lights, practical tips, and honest value advice.
“This experience exceeded my expectations. The 4 course meal was second to none. The staff and customer service were outstanding. Absolutely nothing to improve on. Loved every minute of the experience.”
Cruise from San Remo to Cape Woolamai for cliffs, caves, seabirds, possible seals and dolphins, plus tea, coffee and cake.
“VERY GOOD , GREAT CRUISE, FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL CREW. RECOMMEND FOR OTHER”
Review of Melbourne’s two-hour bottomless brunch cruise, with free-flowing drinks, generous food, Yarra River views, and practical booking tips.
“Food and service was fantastic, would love to go again”
Cruise from Cowes to Seal Rocks, seeing thousands of fur seals, coastal wildlife, and scenic views with tea, coffee, and cake.
“Fantastic! Whales were in the bay so shortened visit to Seal Rock. Bonus whale viewing!”
Review of Melbourne’s one-hour Yarra River cruise, with city views, live commentary, tea, coffee, and Gardens or Docklands routes.
“Very relaxing way to see the Yarra river and sites along the river.”
Review of Melbourne’s Spirit of Melbourne lunch cruise, with a three-course meal, included drinks, Yarra River views, value tips, and practical advice.
“Excellent cruise, food and drinks were great. Staff amazing - highly recommend this cruise when visiting Melbourne.”
See Melbourne’s skyline, Southbank, Flinders Street Station and the Royal Botanic Gardens on a relaxed 45-minute Yarra River cruise.
Swim with wild dolphins and Australian fur seals from Sorrento, with wetsuits, lunch, drinks, and a free return trip if dolphins stay away.
Search for whales and dolphins off Phillip Island on a three-hour cruise with Cape Woolamai views, wildlife spotting, tea, coffee, and cake.
“I love the first part, we got to see many whales but I thought the last hour and a half it wasn’t as great because we were just on the boat and didn’t see any whales.”
Review of a 13-hour Phillip Island tour from Melbourne with penguins, seals or hop-on bus, The Nobbies, comfort transport, and practical tips.
“Great day, a lot to see. So make sure to have comfortable shoes. :)”
See Melbourne’s ports, Docklands, and city lights from the water on a 75-minute sunset cruise with an onboard bar.
“Not much to actually sight see, boat was crammed with seats hardly any leg room but the workers / staff were lovely”
Reef days, coast roads, wine country and the red centre.
