Discover a unique, private cruise along Melbourne’s Yarra River with ON A BOAT. Enjoy unmatched city views, comfort, and customizable catering on this intimate river journey.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required.
Wildlife
History
The Yarra River has been central to Melbourne's development since the city’s founding in 1835, serving as a key artery for transport and trade.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on maintaining the river’s water quality and protecting native fauna, encouraging sustainable tourism practices along the waterways.
ON A BOAT
Discover a unique, private cruise along Melbourne’s Yarra River with ON A BOAT. Enjoy unmatched city views, comfort, and customizable catering on this intimate river journey.
ON A BOAT operates private and skippered boat experiences on Melbourne’s Yarra River from Southbank. The business offers a mix of skippered cruises and skipper-yourself electric boat hires, making river access simple and flexible for families, groups and special events.
Trips include private skippered cruises with capacities listed for groups up to 8, 16 and 20 people, a luxury picnic option aboard a fully styled electric boat, and a skipper-yourself option that does not require a boat licence. Seasonal and event-focused services include NYE 2025 cruises with early family and midnight options (with an experienced skipper, bottled water and bubbly provided), Spring Racing water transfers, and race-day transfers to Flemington Racecourse.
ON A BOAT also runs scheduled water transfers from Southbank to Melbourne Park Landing and other event landings, offering a direct river route to venues such as the MCG and AAMI Park. Additional themed cruises include a Desi Cruise & Lounge with Punjabi and Bollywood music, private sunset cruises, and Leonda wedding transfers.
The business emphasizes scenic Melbourne views, a quality sound system on certain trips, and the ability for guests to bring their own drinks and snacks on many experiences. Captains and skippers operate skippered services, and safety procedures are provided on board. All offerings are based in Southbank, Victoria, on the Yarra River.
Location
Southbank, Victoria
Departures from the Yarra River
Group Sizes
Up to 20
Private cruises for groups
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Private, themed and event trips
Event Transfers
Water transfers
Direct shuttles to event landings
Reserve a private cruise, skipper-yourself boat, or event transfer with ON A BOAT for stunning Melbourne views and seamless river travel.
Book Ahead for Popular Times
Reserve your private cruise early, especially for weekends and public holidays when demand spikes.
Bring Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Layers and a light waterproof jacket are ideal since the covered deck allows for open or closed windows depending on weather.
Pack Your Preferred Food & Drinks
You can bring your own refreshments or select from curated catering options—either way, don’t forget essentials like water and ice.
Arrive Early for Smooth Boarding
Plan to arrive at Southgate Berth at least 10 minutes before departure to ease the boarding process and meet your crew.
Layered Clothing
Adjust layers easily for comfort amid changing riverfront weather.
all
Sunscreen
Protect against sun exposure, especially during midday cruises.
spring|summer|fall
Hat and Sunglasses
Reduce glare and shield your face on sunny days.
summer|spring|fall
Camera or Smartphone
Capture Melbourne’s unique river views and cityscape moments.