Top 15 Cruises And Boat Tours In Melbourne

Melbourne is a city that truly comes alive from the water. Its extensive Yarra River runs right through the city center, offering a perfect backdrop for a variety of boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re after a sophisticated dinner with skyline views, a lively bottomless brunch, or an eco-friendly boat rental, Melbourne’s waterscape provides something for all. We love the Melbourne: 4-Course Dinner Cruise with Drinks, not just for its delicious food, but for the chance to see Melbourne’s most famous sights from the river while enjoying a glass of wine. With so many options available, there’s no shortage of ways to explore Melbourne from the water.

Quick Overview

This list covers a wide range of experiences: elegant dinner cruises, lively brunches, short sightseeing tours, self-drive boat rentals, wildlife adventures, and even day trips to Phillip Island. Whether you prefer a relaxed hour-long cruise or a full-day tour with wildlife viewing, you’ll find options that suit your style and schedule. For detailed reviews and practical advice, keep reading.

1. Melbourne: 4-Course Dinner Cruise with Drinks

This top-rated dinner cruise offers a 3-hour evening experience on the Yarra River. It’s rated 4.8 out of 5 from nearly 500 reviews, and it’s easy to see why. The cruise features a tantalizing 4-course menu paired with drinks, all served in a setting that combines fine dining with a view of Melbourne’s skyline. The boat glides past iconic sights like Flinders Street Station, Crown Casino, and the Eureka Tower, making it a perfect romantic or special occasion outing.

What makes this cruise stand out is the combination of gourmet food and the relaxed atmosphere of a cruising restaurant. The reviews highlight the atmosphere and the quality of the meal, with many mentioning that it’s an experience they’ll never forget. It’s best suited for couples or anyone wanting a special night out with a view. The only potential downside? It’s a three-hour experience, so it’s not ideal if you’re tight on time.

Bottom Line: For a memorable, upscale evening with great food and scenic views, this cruise is hard to beat.

2. Melbourne: 2-Hour Bottomless Brunch Cruise

If brunch is your thing, this bottomless cruise hits the spot. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from nearly 300 reviews, it combines a lively atmosphere with the gorgeous backdrop of Melbourne’s riverfront. For 2 hours, you can indulge in a variety of delicious brunch foods while enjoying premium beer, wine, and Prosecco mimosas — all unlimited.

Guests love the relaxed vibe and spectacular city views, especially the chance to see Melbourne’s skyline while sipping and snacking. The cruise is ideal for groups of friends or lively celebrations. It’s a great value for the experience, given the included drinks and food. The only thing to consider is that it’s a shorter, more casual experience — perfect if you want fun without the formality of a dinner cruise.

Bottom Line: A fun, energetic way to enjoy brunch with friends on the water, especially if you love unlimited drinks and great company.

3. Melbourne: 2-Hour City Highlights River Cruise

This city highlights cruise offers a comprehensive 2-hour tour of Melbourne’s most famous sights. Rated 4.1 out of 5, it’s perfect for those wanting a quick yet informative overview. The boat travels both upstream and downstream, giving expansive views of the skyline, riverside gardens, and landmarks like the Royal Botanic Gardens and the MCG.

The GPS-triggered commentary adds a personal touch, sharing stories and insights about Melbourne’s history and architecture. Guests appreciate the open back deck for photos and the chance to see the city from a different perspective. This tour is suitable for first-time visitors or those short on time who still want a meaningful experience.

Bottom Line: An efficient, scenic introduction to Melbourne’s most famous sights from the water.

4. Melbourne: Electric Picnic Boat Rental on the Yarra River

For those who prefer to steer the boat themselves, this electric picnic boat offers a 1 to 3-hour self-guided adventure. Rated 4.7 out of 5, it’s a unique way to explore Melbourne’s waterways at your own pace without needing any experience or a license. The electric boat is eco-friendly, made of recycled PET bottles, and easy to operate — making it perfect for families or groups of friends.

You can pack a picnic, bring along drinks, and savor the freedom of cruising past sights like Southbank, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and Herring Island. Many reviewers love the relaxed vibe and the chance to customize the route. Since it’s self-driven, it’s ideal for independent travelers who enjoy a flexible schedule.

Bottom Line: A fun, eco-conscious way to discover Melbourne from the water, with complete control over your adventure.

5. Melbourne: Yarra River Sightseeing Cruise

This short sightseeing cruise is perfect for a quick immersion in Melbourne’s waterscape. Rated 4.2 out of 5, it’s a 1-hour cruise with live commentary. You’ll see landmarks like the Eureka Tower and Royal Botanic Gardens, all while enjoying drinks available for purchase onboard.

Guests enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to learn about Melbourne’s history from the onboard guide. It’s suited for travelers with limited time or those who want a relaxing break during a busy day of sightseeing. The panoramic windows and optional outdoor deck let you choose your preferred view.

Bottom Line: An easy, informative, and relaxing way to see Melbourne’s sights from the river in just an hour.

6. Melbourne: Wilsons Promontory Morning Wilderness Cruise

For wildlife lovers, this morning wilderness cruise takes you to Wilsons Promontory National Park. Rated 4.9 out of 5, it’s a 2.5-hour trip on the world’s largest custom-built amphibious boat, designed to explore the coast and spot marine life.

Highlights include Skull Rock, stunning islands, and the chance to see native wildlife in their natural habitat. The boat’s amphibious design offers a different perspective, and the naturalist guide shares insight into the area’s flora and fauna. It’s a popular choice for nature enthusiasts wanting an authentic experience in one of Australia’s most beautiful parks.

Bottom Line: An exceptional wildlife and scenery tour that combines adventure with education, perfect for active travelers.

7. Melbourne: Highlights of Melbourne Cruise

This comprehensive 2-hour cruise offers a panoramic view of Melbourne’s port and skyline. Rated 4.0 out of 5, it features commentary on the city’s transformation, with stops near the Melbourne Convention Centre and Docklands. Guests praise its relaxed pace and the opportunity to photograph the city’s landmarks from the water.

Passengers appreciate the sun deck for outdoor viewing and the panoramic windows for protection from weather. It’s ideal for travelers who want a leisurely, detailed look at Melbourne’s waterfront while learning about its development.

Bottom Line: An accessible, scenic cruise for those interested in Melbourne’s urban evolution.

8. Melbourne: Spirit Of Melbourne Yarra River Lunch Cruise

For a refined daytime experience, this lunch cruise combines delicious food with scenic views. Rated 4.9 out of 5, it offers a 3-course banquet and the chance to see Melbourne’s waterfront landmarks. The cruise lasts about 2 hours, making it a perfect midday activity.

Guests rave about the locally sourced ingredients and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s suitable for food lovers and those wanting a leisurely, scenic meal. The unobstructed views from the yacht’s deck make every bite more memorable.

Bottom Line: A stylish, culinary-focused cruise ideal for a special lunch with a view.

9. Melbourne: City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise

This ferry cruise offers a relaxed way to see Melbourne from the water while heading to Williamstown. Rated 4.1 out of 5, it features commentary and panoramic windows. The trip is flexible, allowing you to spend time exploring Williamstown’s galleries, cafes, and maritime history before returning.

The ferry is an affordable way to combine sightseeing with leisure. Many reviews mention its relaxing nature and friendly crew. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a local experience with a bit of adventure.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, scenic ferry ride that doubles as a day trip to a charming seaport.

10. 2-Hour Self-Drive Boat Hire on the Yarra River

This self-guided boat hire is perfect for those who want control over their water adventure. Rated 5.0 out of 5, it allows up to 10 people to captain their own boat without needing a license. It’s a straightforward, flexible way to see sights like Southbank and the Melbourne Cricket Ground at your own pace.

You can customize your route and pack your own food. Reviewers love how easy it is to operate, with many mentioning the fun of navigating on their own. It’s especially suited for families or groups who love a bit of independence.

Bottom Line: An easy, private, and fun way to explore Melbourne from the water with no experience required.

11. Melbourne: Phillip Island Tour w/ Hop-on Bus or Seal Cruise

For a full-day adventure, this Phillip Island tour combines wildlife viewing and scenic stops. Rated 4.9 out of 5, you can choose between a seal cruise or a flexible hop-on hop-off bus. The highlight is the Penguin Parade at sunset, where thousands of tiny penguins waddle ashore.

The tour includes visits to Grand Prix Circuit, Woolamai Beach, and Churchill Island, making it a well-rounded day. Travelers appreciate the small group size and the comfortable transportation. This experience is ideal for wildlife lovers with a full day to spare.

Bottom Line: A comprehensive, wildlife-rich day trip perfect for nature and animal enthusiasts.

12. Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise

This ferry cruise to Williamstown offers a leisurely experience with flexible options. Rated 4.0 out of 5, it’s perfect for those who want to explore the historic port town at their own pace. It features helpful commentary and panoramic views of the city skyline and shipping infrastructure.

Many reviewers note the ease and friendliness of the service, making it a relaxing way to enjoy Melbourne from the water. You can round out the day with a meal or a walk around Williamstown’s shops and galleries.

Bottom Line: An affordable, flexible day trip with scenic views and local charm.

13. Spirit of Melbourne Lunch Cruise

This lunch cruise offers a 2-hour elegant dining experience with locally sourced dishes and stunning river views. Rated 4.5 out of 5, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed, upscale meal on the water. The 3-course meal, including drinks, is served as you cruise past Melbourne’s landmarks.

Guests describe the food as “amazing” and the views as “spectacular,” making this cruise ideal for a memorable midday meal. It’s a good pick for food lovers and those wanting a refined experience without the formality of a dinner cruise.

Bottom Line: A refined, scenic lunch option perfect for a special daytime treat.

14. Melbourne: 1-Hour Gardens and Sporting Precinct River Cruise

This short, 1-hour river cruise is designed for quick sightseeing, passing major landmarks like the MCG and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Rated 4.1 out of 5, it’s an easy, relaxing way to see Melbourne’s most famous parks and stadiums from the water.

Ideal for travelers with limited time or those who want to combine river cruising with other activities, it features onboard commentary and beautiful scenery.

Bottom Line: A quick, informative tour for sports fans and garden lovers wanting a taste of Melbourne’s waterfront.

15. Melbourne: City Cruise with Tea, Coffee, and Commentary

This 1-hour city cruise combines scenic views with light refreshment. You can choose between upstream or downstream routes, both offering panoramic views and onboard commentary. Many travelers appreciate the included tea or coffee, making it a comfortable, casual experience.

It’s suitable for those wanting a brief, relaxing water tour while learning about Melbourne’s Docklands and port area. The outdoor sun deck adds a nice touch for fresh air and photos.

Bottom Line: An easy, scenic cruise ideal for a quick overview with a warm drink in hand.

How to Choose Your Melbourne Water Adventure

When selecting the best cruise or boat tour in Melbourne, consider your interests and schedule. Are you seeking a romantic dinner? The Melbourne: 4-Course Dinner Cruise with Drinks is perfect. Want a lively daytime activity? The bottomless brunch offers great food and drinks. For wildlife or nature lovers, the Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Cruise is unmatched.

Budget and time are also key. Shorter tours like the 1-hour sightseeing cruise or Port of Melbourne City Cruise are perfect for quick breaks, while full-day options like the Phillip Island trip suit travelers with more time. Booking early, especially for popular experiences like the Penguin Parade, is recommended.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne’s waterways offer a variety of memorable experiences tailored to different interests — from elegant dining cruises to wildlife encounters. For a special night out, the 4-course dinner is a top choice, while the bottomless brunch makes for a lively daytime celebration. Active travelers will love the self-drive boat to explore at their own pace.

No matter which you choose, booking in advance will ensure you secure your spot on these popular tours. With options suited for romance, family fun, wildlife discovery, or quick sightseeing, Melbourne’s waters are waiting to be explored.