THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Sail from Melbourne’s Southbank to the charming coastal town of Williamstown on a scenic ferry cruise. Enjoy stunning harbor views and a taste of local history and beaches with flexible return times.
Sail from Melbourne’s Southbank to the charming coastal town of Williamstown on a scenic ferry cruise. Enjoy stunning harbor views and a taste of local history and beaches with flexible return times.
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 an inviting daily ferry service connecting Melbourne’s vibrant Southbank precinct to the historic coastal town of Williamstown. Departing from Berth 2 at the Southbank Promenade, this one-hour voyage across Port Phillip Bay delivers uninterrupted views of Melbourne’s skyline, the iconic Westgate and Bolte Bridges, and the bustling shipping channels near Swanson Dock. On clear days, the silhouettes of towering landmarks like Eureka Tower and the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel punctuate the horizon, setting a striking backdrop for a relaxed journey on the water.
Williamstown presents a contrasting pace from the city’s urban hum, blending maritime heritage with inviting seaside charm. The ferry docks at Gem Pier, where visitors can wander streets lined with 19th-century architecture, visit the Polly Woodside—a meticulously preserved tall ship turned museum—or sample local flavors at quaint cafes that lean into the town’s fresh ocean air. Beaches stretch along the foreshore for those wanting to stretch their legs or soak in the bay’s calm. Art galleries and small boutique shops offer quieter pursuits for culture enthusiasts.
The ferry’s schedule accommodates flexible day trips with multiple daily return options, making it easy to fit a waterfront escape into any itinerary. This service stands out as a seamless outdoor experience merging effortless transportation with sightseeing and local discovery. Its accessibility to all ages and fitness levels, combined with the dynamic views of Melbourne’s urban and maritime environments, makes it a unique attraction for locals and travelers alike.
Whether you’re seeking a scenic cruise, a historic township stroll, or a mix of both, Melbourne River Cruises’ City to Williamstown Return trip delivers a vivid introduction to one of Victoria’s most picturesque harbor settings and a genuine taste of coastal Australian character.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels, as the main activity involves sitting on the ferry and gentle walking around Williamstown.
Beverages and snacks are available for purchase during the ferry trip but are not included in the ticket price.
Unfortunately, the vessels are not wheelchair accessible and require passengers to manage stairs independently or with carer assistance.
Each leg of the trip takes approximately one hour across Port Phillip Bay.
Tickets are often available on-site but we recommend booking in advance during peak seasons or holidays to guarantee your spot.
Pets are not permitted onboard except for service animals.
Melbourne River Cruises will issue refunds or credits if the operator cancels due to weather or operational issues; always check for updates before your trip.
Williamstown served as Melbourne’s first port in the 19th century and retains many maritime relics like the Polly Woodside tall ship.
The ferry service promotes sustainable travel by reducing road traffic and preserving the bay’s natural environment through mindful operation practices.
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