THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Step aboard ON A BOAT’s private cruise and glide along Melbourne’s Yarra River for a fresh perspective on the city’s skyline and natural charm. This intimate trip is ideal for groups up to 20 wanting a relaxed, scenic adventure on the water.
Step aboard ON A BOAT’s private cruise and glide along Melbourne’s Yarra River for a fresh perspective on the city’s skyline and natural charm. This intimate trip is ideal for groups up to 20 wanting a relaxed, scenic adventure on the water.
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 offers a refreshing vantage point to see the city from the water’s edge, and ON A BOAT’s Private Cruise provides an intimate, flexible way to do just that. Boarding from Southbank, this relaxed cruise accommodates up to 20 guests, making it perfect for small groups, gatherings, or just unwinding away from the bustling city streets. The Yarra River winds through Melbourne’s central districts, flanked by modern cityscapes, historic landmarks, and verdant parks that reveal a side of the city often overlooked from land.
The vessel is thoughtfully outfitted for comfort, with cushioned seating, removable windows to suit the weather, onboard bathrooms, and accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs. A Bluetooth speaker and ice with glasses come standard, but guests are encouraged to bring their own drinks and snacks to personalize the experience. The captain expertly navigates the calm waterways, pointing out sights ranging from the iconic Federation Square and Crown Casino precinct to lesser-known natural pockets where native birds and urban wildlife thrive.
This cruise stands out as a unique way to discover Melbourne beyond the typical attractions. It’s a true outdoor adventure that’s gentle yet immersive, offering fresh air and perspective in the heart of one of Australia’s most vibrant cities. Plus, with pet-friendly policies and life jackets for kids, it’s an inclusive option for virtually any group. Whether it’s a special occasion, a casual outing, or simply a pause to appreciate the city from an unexpected angle, ON A BOAT’s private Yarra River cruise is a standout choice for local recreation and visitors seeking something different in Melbourne’s outdoor scene.
easy.
1-4 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels as cruising requires minimal physical effort.
The private cruise boat accommodates up to 20 people, including children and toddlers.
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and beverages, including alcohol consumed responsibly.
Yes, the boat is equipped to be stroller and wheelchair accessible for all guests.
Yes, life jackets suitable for children are available onboard for safety.
Yes, ON A BOAT welcomes pets, making it a great option to include your furry friends.
Reservations can be rescheduled or cancelled for credit free of charge up until 24 hours before the trip.
The Yarra River has been central to Melbourne since its founding in 1835, vital to the city's growth and culture.
Efforts to maintain water quality and protect native wildlife help keep the Yarra River a sustainable urban habitat.
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