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Best Yarra River Cruises in Melbourne & Fun Water Activities
Yarra River Cruises in Melbourne offer a unique perspective of the city’s picturesque landscapes.
Among the most popular experiences are the lunch or dinner cruises that offer a river cruise with an included meal. However, it’s important to note that while vegetarian meals are easily available, vegan options are currently scarce.
In this post, we’ll explore exciting riverboat tours without included meals and delve into some more adventurous water activities that promise a splash of fun.
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Electric Picnic Boat Rental on the Yarra River
✅ A Boat all to yourself
✅ Bring your own snacks and drinks
✅ Price per group
Why take a Melbourne river cruise?
Opting for a cruise on Melbourne’s famous Yarra River is an excellent choice when you’re in Melbourne. Why? Because it offers a chance to see the city from a perspective you just can’t get on dry land.
I had an amazing day when I, along with my friends, rented a small electric boat for a tour. The beauty of the river, the city’s skyline, and the tranquil environment made the experience unforgettable.
Everyone brought their favorite snacks, transforming the scenic cruise into a floating picnic amidst stunning scenery.
If that doesn’t sound like your thing, don’t worry, there are plenty of other great things to do on the Yarra River in Melbourne.
You can take a ferry to the quaint seaside town of Williamstown which makes for a delightful day trip, or immerse yourself in the cityscape with an unforgettable kayak tour along the River Yarra.
My Top 3 Picks: Best Yarra River Cruises in Melbourne
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Electric Picnic Boat Rental on the Yarra River
✅ A Boat all to yourself
✅ Bring your own snacks and drinks
✅ Price per group
Melbourne: City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
The best option if you want to combine a boat ride with a trip to Williamstown
Best Yarra River Cruises in Melbourne
1. Melbourne: Electric Picnic Boat Rental on the Yarra River
⭐️ RATING: 4.3/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1-2 hours | ✅ Book it!
You wouldn’t believe the fantastic time my mates (don’t usually use that word but since we’re in Australia 😉 ) and I had on a recent trip to Melbourne, thanks to an absolute gem of an experience – the Electric Picnic Boat Rental on the Yarra River.
And guess what? It’s one price per group which makes it very affordable if you bring along a few friends or family members. We decided to go all in – six of us in total – splitting the cost and doubling the fun!
We packed our own snacks, some alcoholic drinks, and some soft drinks and had a fantastic time. I tell you, there’s no better way to enjoy Melbourne’s scenic river views than over shared laughs, good food, and the gentle hum of an electric boat beneath you.
So, if you’re looking for a unique day out in this fabulous city that won’t break the bank, this is your ticket!
We had a fantastic day on the Yarra! The staff were friendly and helpful and made everything very easy. Would definitely recommend for anyone travelling to Melbourne!
GetYourGuide traveler (Read more reviews)
2. Melbourne: City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4.2/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1-3 hours | ✅ Book it!
The City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise is the best option if you want to combine a boat ride on the Yarra River with a visit to Williamstown, one of the best day trips from Melbourne.
You can opt for a one-way ticket if you fancy an extended stay in the charming Williamstown or choose a return ticket if you’ve spending a few hours in Williamtown is enough for you.
Spend your day soaking up the town’s rich history, indulging in its culinary delights or simply unwinding at one of its many serene spots. The freedom is all yours! Truly, it’s an adventure that mingles relaxation with exploration, making every moment worthwhile.
Group of 3 who very much enjoyed the trip. The commentary on the ferry was not only educational but entertaining. We spent 2 hours in Williamstown & thought that was plenty of time to enjoy a lunch & a wander alone the street to peruse the free shops that weren’t cafes.
Anne (Read more reviews)
3. Melbourne: 2-Hour City Highlights River Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✅ Book it!
This Yarra River boat tour is a great way to get a first glimpse of Melbourne from a different perspective.
See the most iconic landmarks and go past attractions in Melbourne, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, one of the most famous sporting arenas in Melbourne, and other renowned landmarks.
This 2-hour cruise offers insightful commentary as you drift past the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, making it a captivating experience not to be missed when in Melbourne.
It was the perfect introduction to the city! […] The journey went first left then right along the city! We had great weather and would do it exactly the same way again. Great uncomplicated trip.
GetYourGuide traveler (Read more reviews)
Best Other Water Activities
4. Melbourne City Sights Kayak Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour 45 min | ✅ Book it!
One of the best ways to experience the beautiful Yarra River besides on a river cruise is on a kayak ride. You’ll be closer to the water and can hear interesting facts about Australia from your kayak guide.
You’ll paddle down Melbourne’s Yarra River, taking in the city sights from a totally unique perspective. As you glide on your kayak beneath the city’s bridges and past iconic landmarks, sunlight sparkles off the water and the city skyline looms majestically overhead.
It’s an unusual, yet perfect way to experience Melbourne’s beauty. The Melbourne City Sights Kayak Tour is truly an idyllic adventure for those warm summer days when the sun is shining bright and everything feels alive!
However, while it’s an unforgettable experience bathed in summer warmth, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend embarking on this water adventure in bad weather or during Melbourne’s winter – unless you’re particularly fond of chilly breezes and cold splashes!
This kayak tour includes:
- All Paddling Equipment
- Kayak Tour Guide
Loved the tour. A tour of Melbourne skyline from the Yarra is a completely different experience. A bit of history lesson was a good add-on. Very relaxed pace. Not very physically intensive. Perfect activity for a warm and sunny day.
Sumeet_P (Read more reviews)
5. Yarra River Waterbike Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
If you’re looking for a truly unique thing to do in Melbourne consider a Yarra River Waterbike Tour. It’s like a combination of a bike and a kayak, it looks so fun!
There’s nothing quite like experiencing the Yarra River on a Waterbike Tour. Imagine cycling over the water, taking in Melbourne’s stunning skyline and beautiful parks from a unique vantage point.
It’s an adventure that combines fitness with scenic beauty, making it perfect whether you’re looking for a unique and fun experience or a nature enthusiast.
So why wait? Grab a friend, pack some snacks, and let’s make unforgettable memories together on the Yarra River Waterbike Tour!
Wonderful experience with fantastic views of Melbourne from a different perspective. I would definitely recommend this.
Dale_R (Read more reviews)
Final Thoughts: Boat Trips on the Yarra River Melbourne
Yarra River Cruises in Melbourne offer an enchanting way to explore this vibrant city from a unique perspective.
Whether you opt for the tranquil charm of a private boat picnic or the historical allure of a ferry ride to Williamstown, there’s something for everyone on these Melbourne water adventures.
But if you’re seeking an even closer connection with the water, the Melbourne City Sights Kayak Tour and the innovative Yarra River Waterbike Tour promise moments of fun and fitness, all while taking in the breathtaking cityscape.
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