How many people are on each boat?

Each vessel carries up to 20 passengers, providing an intimate yet social atmosphere.

Can reservations be changed or canceled?

Reservations can be rescheduled or canceled for credit free of charge up to 24 hours before departure.

Are outside drinks allowed onboard?

No, BYO drinks are not permitted. A fully stocked bar featuring wine, beer, and soft drinks is available.

Is the cruise private or shared?

This is a public cruise shared with other guests. Private bookings may be arranged separately.

Is there space to dance on the cruise?

Yes, the Desi Lounge Cruise includes an area designed for dancing to Punjabi and Bollywood music.

What if the weather is bad?

The boat is fully covered, so the cruise operates rain or shine.

Desi Lounge Cruise on Yarra River with ON A BOAT | Events | Boat Tour

Melbourne’s Yarra River offers a unique vantage point to take in the city’s urban pulse, but ON A BOAT brings an entirely different rhythm to this iconic waterway with its Desi Lounge Cruise. This 1.5-hour public cruise blends the vibrant energy of Punjabi and Bollywood music with Melbourne’s sharp skyline, crafting an experience that’s seldom seen on the water. Departing from Southgate Berth in Southbank, the sleek modern vessel seats up to 20 guests in lounge-style comfort, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere ideal for friends and adventurers seeking cultural beats mixed with stunning views.

As the boat glides beneath bridges and along the tree-lined riverbanks, guests enjoy a fully stocked bar featuring wine, beer, and soft drinks included in the ticket price — no BYO allowed, ensuring a seamless party flow. The onboard sound system pumps out South Asian classics alongside contemporary hits, inviting guests to relax or take to the small dance floor set up for those who want to move. This fusion of music and river scenery offers a refreshing alternative to Melbourne’s typical nightlife scene, appealing to locals and visitors who crave something fresh and fun.

The Yarra itself is a central artery through this city of Victoria, Australia, flowing through green parks and cultural districts. The Desi Lounge Cruise stands out as a cultural bridge, celebrating Melbourne’s diverse community while emphasizing comfort and accessibility, including onboard bathrooms and wheelchair-friendly access. Whether catching the sunset silhouette of the city skyline or the lights bouncing off the water at night, this cruise provides memorable photo moments paired with a soundtrack you won’t find anywhere else on the river.

For anyone interested in a social, music-filled escape that pairs urban adventure with laid-back cruising, ON A BOAT’s Desi Lounge Cruise is a one-of-a-kind evening. It redefines how you can experience Melbourne after dark — with great drinks, infectious music, and the cityscape unfolding around you on the Yarra.