THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Trade the city’s hectic pace for a calm ferry ride across Port Phillip Bay to Williamstown. Melbourne River Cruises delivers stunning skyline views and access to a historic coastal village—all in comfort.
Trade the city’s hectic pace for a calm ferry ride across Port Phillip Bay to Williamstown. Melbourne River Cruises delivers stunning skyline views and access to a historic coastal village—all in comfort.
Book with Melbourne River Cruises
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Melbourne River Cruises · Southbank, Victoria
Melbourne River Cruises offers a standout way to step away from the city's rush with their City to Williamstown ferry—a relaxing one-hour journey across Port Phillip Bay from Southbank to the historic coastal village of Williamstown, Victoria. Departing from Berth 2 on Southbank Promenade, this ferry trip delivers sweeping views of Melbourne’s skyline, the Westgate Bridge, and landmarks like the Polly Woodside sailing ship, all framed by the sparkling waters of the bay.
The journey itself is more than a commute; it's an invitation to breathe in fresh sea air, settle into comfortable seating, and take in the diverse waterfront panorama. Passengers receive complimentary tea and coffee while onboard, complemented by an informative commentary that highlights points of interest including the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and the Crown Casino. The ferry’s smooth glide past docks and shipping channels offers a unique vantage point rarely experienced from land.
Arriving at Williamstown’s Gem Pier opens the door to a town rich with early colonial charm. Visitors find themselves amid galleries, cafes, and well-maintained gardens that reflect a community deeply connected to maritime history. The town’s relaxed atmosphere—combined with scenic beaches and historical landmarks—makes it a soothing retreat just a short ride from the city center.
Melbourne River Cruises operates a handful of daily departures with extra services over summer and holidays, providing flexible options for day-trippers and casual adventurers alike. While the ferry is not accessible for wheelchair users due to vessel constraints, those with basic mobility can easily manage the onboard stairs with assistance.
This service not only acts as a peaceful escape but also as a practical link between bustling Melbourne and a quieter maritime enclave, making it a rare urban outdoor experience that balances sightseeing, comfort, and local flavor. For anyone looking to unwind while staying close to the city, Melbourne River Cruises’ City to Williamstown ferry offers a seamless blend of nature, culture, and history.
easy.
1 hour (one way).
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated trip with minimal walking required at destinations.
Bicycles are not permitted aboard the ferry due to space and safety constraints.
No, the vessel and boarding facilities are not wheelchair accessible. Passengers must be able to navigate stairs independently or with carer assistance.
Tea and coffee are complimentary; other beverages and snacks can be purchased onboard.
Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended.
You will receive a full refund or credit if Melbourne River Cruises cancels the trip for weather or operational reasons.
Yes, there are several parking options near Southbank Promenade, but availability can vary depending on events in the area.
Williamstown is one of Victoria's earliest European settlements, established in the early 19th century as a key port and shipbuilding center.
Port Phillip Bay faces challenges from urban runoff and shipping traffic; Melbourne River Cruises supports eco-friendly practices to minimize impacts on the bay's marine environment.
Melbourne River Cruises operates from Southbank, Victoria, offering a range of river and bay cruises on the Yarra River, Maribyrnong River and Port Phillip Bay. The company provides sightseeing cruises such as Melbourne Highlights, Parks & Gardens Cruise and Ports & Docklands that pass Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens and Docklands Stadium. Transfer services include Oaks Day TRANSFER PACKAGE and Derby Day TRANSFER PACKAGE, which feature a 90-minute cruise along the Maribyrnong River with morning tea, a premium bar and live race viewing to Flemington Race Course. Water taxi and transfer options include Oaks Day Water Taxi and Derby Day Water Taxi. Commuter and day-trip services connect the city and suburbs with routes like City to Williamstown, Williamstown to City and City to Williamstown Return, offering scenic ferry travel across Port Phillip Bay to Williamstown’s waterfront attractions. Special event cruises include New Year’s Eve options such as NYE Party Cruise, NYE Party Cruise – Over 40’s, NYE Midnight Fireworks Cruise and NYE Twilight Cruise (Early Fireworks). Dining experiences are available aboard the Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant with a four-course meal, illuminated Yarra River views and unlimited beverages, offered as dinner and lunch cruises. Brunch options are listed as Bottomless Brunch Afloat. A variety of other scheduled departures such as City Highlights Express - Fed Wharf are also offered. All trip names, durations and onboard inclusions are listed in publicly available schedules and product summaries. Schedules and booking information are published on Melbourne River Cruises' official website and partners.
Book with Melbourne River Cruises