Ring in the new year on a relaxing, scenic cruise along Melbourne’s Yarra River. Enjoy gourmet food, drinks, and lively music in an intimate setting that’s perfect for those over 40. Read more about this memorable NYE celebration.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3-4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
The Yarra River has served as Melbourne’s lifeblood since the 1830s, playing a key role in the city’s development and identity.
Conservation
The cruise operators promote eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction and respectful wildlife viewing.
Melbourne River Cruises
Ring in the new year on a relaxing, scenic cruise along Melbourne’s Yarra River. Enjoy gourmet food, drinks, and lively music in an intimate setting that’s perfect for those over 40. Read more about this memorable NYE celebration.
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.
Location
Southbank, VIC
Central boarding on the Yarra
Tours Offered
19 listed trips
Sightseeing, transfers, dining and events
Race Transfers
90-minute packages
Oaks and Derby day journeys
Dining Cruises
Spirit of Melbourne
Four-course meals and unlimited beverages
View schedules, check inclusions and reserve seats for sightseeing cruises, transfers, NYE events and dining experiences.
Arrive early
Get there at least 30 minutes before departure to secure the best seating and settle in comfortably.
Dress smart casual
Opt for comfortable yet polished attire suited for a festive evening on the water.
Bring a camera
Capture the city lights and river views, especially during sunset and fireworks.
Hydrate
Enjoy plenty of water throughout the night, especially after indulging in drinks.
Smart casual attire
Dress up comfortably and appropriately for a festive night on a boat.
Camera or smartphone
Capture memorable moments and city views.
Light jacket or sweater
Bring extra warmth in case of evening breezes.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the voyage.