THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
Book with ON A BOAT
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by ON A BOAT · Southbank, Victoria
Melbourne’s Yarra River carves a dynamic path through the heart of the city, framed by a blend of historic bridges, modern skyscrapers, and leafy parklands. From Southgate Berth at 4 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006, ON A BOAT invites you to a private, skipper-led cruise tailored for up to 16 guests. This trip offers a rare chance to experience the city from a fresh vantage point, drifting smoothly beneath iconic landmarks like Princes Bridge and the Arts Centre spire, while absorbing the vibrancy of Melbourne’s waterfront precincts.
The vessel’s design centers on comfort and connection. A covered deck with teak interiors and plush leather bench seating ensures shelter and ease regardless of weather, with adjustable windows to suit the conditions. A quality Bluetooth sound system lets you bring your own soundtrack or let natural city sounds dominate. Whether you prefer bringing your own snacks and drinks or opting for elegant catering packages, the boat’s central table and on-board amenities keep the mood relaxed and social.
Beyond stunning city skylines and riverside green spaces, the Yarra’s urban ecosystem occasionally reveals herons, ducks, and playful eels below the surface. The cruise is ideal for all ages, whether seeking a peaceful retreat from busy streets or a special setting for celebrations and gatherings. ON A BOAT’s experienced captains navigate the river’s twists with skill and warmth, adding local insights into Melbourne’s maritime history and river ecology.
This private river cruise stands out in Melbourne’s outdoor scene as an accessible and intimate way to connect with the city’s pulse on water—ideal for groups looking for a memorable yet low-effort outing that blends urban beauty with gentle adventure.
easy.
1–4 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required.
The private cruise accommodates up to 16 people, including children and toddlers.
Yes, guests are welcome to bring alcohol but are asked to drink responsibly.
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks or choose from catering packages offered.
Yes, ON A BOAT is pet friendly and welcomes well-behaved pets on board.
Reservations can be canceled or rescheduled for credit free of charge up until 24 hours before departure.
Boarding is at Southgate Berth, 4 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006—please arrive at least 10 minutes early.
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.
Local efforts focus on maintaining the river’s water quality and protecting native fauna, encouraging sustainable tourism practices along the waterways.
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.
Book with ON A BOAT