How long is the City Highlights Express cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately 45 to 50 minutes, covering both upstream and downstream sections of the Yarra River.

Where does the cruise depart from?

Departures take place at Federation Wharf, located at 15-19 Princes Walk, Melbourne VIC 3000.

Is food or drink available on board?

Yes, beverages and snacks can be purchased on board the vessel.

Are the boats wheelchair accessible?

No, vessels are not wheelchair accessible and passengers must be able to manage stairs to board and disembark.

Are there commentary or guided insights during the cruise?

Yes, a knowledgeable captain provides live commentary sharing local history and points of interest.

Can I book tickets online and what is the cancellation policy?

Tickets can be booked online and cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours before departure without penalties.

Melbourne River Cruises: City Highlights Express on Yarra River

Melbourne’s vibrant core pulses alongside the meandering Yarra River, a natural artery threading through Victoria’s capital. From the vantage point of Melbourne River Cruises’ City Highlights Express departing Federation Wharf, the city unfolds in a refreshingly dynamic view — where urban energy meets riverside calm. This 50-minute journey offers a compact yet immersive perspective that’s ideal for travelers pressed for time but hungry for authentic city experiences.

Boarding at 15-19 Princes Walk, Melbourne VIC 3000, guests glide downstream past Southbank’s lively arts precinct and the sleek Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. The historic silhouette of Polly Woodside, a restored 19th-century sailing ship, punctuates the docks as the cruise slips underneath the looming Bolte and Westgate Bridges, framing the industrial heartbeat of Melbourne’s shipping channels. The city skyline rises sharply here, its glass towers reflecting the shifting river light.

Turning upriver, the pace softens. The cruise passes the Royal Botanic Gardens, where lush greenery edges the water and native eucalyptus scent drifts to the boat’s deck. On river islands like Herring Island, wildlife thrives just out of sight. Sporting landmarks such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and AAMI Park punctuate the skyline with a sense of local pride and history.

What sets Melbourne River Cruises apart is their unique blend of casual relaxation with cultural insight. The onboard captain’s commentary weaves stories of Melbourne’s maritime heritage and contemporary vibrancy, making stops at Docklands and Federation Square all the more meaningful.

Ideal for families, solo travelers, and locals seeking a fresh perspective, the City Highlights Express is more than a boat ride; it’s a moving gallery of the city’s evolving narrative. Whether under clear skies or sapphire sunsets, this cruise makes Melbourne’s riverfront come alive, offering an accessible gateway to some of Australia’s most engaging urban landscapes.