THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River from the comfort of a private, skippered boat. ON A BOAT offers an intimate cruise for up to eight guests with city views and your own drinks and snacks on board.
Discover Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River from the comfort of a private, skippered boat. ON A BOAT offers an intimate cruise for up to eight guests with city views and your own drinks and snacks on board.
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 cuts a striking path through the city’s lively heart, threading urban excitement with calm stretches of water bordered by parks and iconic landmarks. At Southgate Berth on Southbank, ON A BOAT offers a private skippered cruise experience that transforms this familiar setting into a tranquil floating vantage point. Designed for groups up to eight, this boat tour blends city sightseeing with the relaxing pace of river travel, unlocking fresh perspectives on Melbourne’s skyline, from Federation Square to the towering Eureka Tower.
This private cruise is a rare invitation to settle in with your own drinks and snacks while a professional captain guides you through Melbourne’s waterways. The boat includes cushioned seating, a Bluetooth speaker system, and an optional sun cover (bimini), ensuring comfort regardless of season or weather. Frequent bathroom stops every 30 minutes make it easy for guests of all ages, including kids who are supplied life jackets, to enjoy the journey without hassle.
By moving at a leisurely pace, this trip highlights elements often missed on foot or in rush-hour traffic. The riverbanks surrounding Southbank display a mix of heritage architecture, modern public art, and vibrant green spaces like the Alexandra Gardens. Birdlife such as black swans and native waterfowl occasionally glide by, adding a soft natural rhythm to the urban backdrop. Evening cruises offer dramatic twilight views as the city lights ignite.
ON A BOAT’s approach stands out because it balances accessibility and exclusivity. Whether a small group gathering, family outing, or intimate celebration, the private boat feels like a personalized retreat on water. For visitors based in Melbourne, this cruise is a memorable alternative to conventional tours—a chance to unwind and witness the city from a quietly different angle. Located at 4 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006, ON A BOAT’s private cruise transforms Melbourne’s waterways into a uniquely approachable adventure within the urban outdoors.
easy.
1–4 hours.
Minimal physical effort required; suitable for all fitness levels
The boat fits up to 8 guests, including children and toddlers.
Yes, alcohol is allowed but please consume responsibly.
Yes, ON A BOAT is pet friendly; just keep your pet safe and comfortable during the trip.
Yes, a central table is provided for snacks and drinks.
Cancellations or rescheduling can be made for credit without charge up to 24 hours before departure.
The boat includes restroom stops every 30 minutes during the cruise.
The Yarra River has been central to Melbourne's growth since European settlement in the 1830s, serving as a vital trade and transport route.
Efforts to reduce river pollution and protect native waterways have improved the Yarra's water quality, supporting local wildlife and recreational use.
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