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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1-4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as cruising requires minimal physical effort.
Wildlife
History
The Yarra River has been central to Melbourne since its founding in 1835, vital to the city's growth and culture.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain water quality and protect native wildlife help keep the Yarra River a sustainable urban habitat.
ON A BOAT
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.
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.
Reserve Early for Group Bookings
Private cruises accommodate up to 20 people; book in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Bring Your Own Snacks and Drinks
While the boat offers ice, glasses, and speaker, guests should pack food and beverages to enhance their cruise.
Dress for the Weather
Windows can be removed or added, so bring layers or sun protection suited to the season you visit.
Accessibility Friendly
The boat is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for all ages and abilities.
Layered Clothing
Helps adjust to weather changes on the river throughout the trip.
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Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Protects you from sun exposure during daytime cruises.
spring|summer|fall
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated without generating waste.
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Camera or Smartphone
Capture Melbourne’s stunning riverside sights from a unique angle.
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