Skip the need for a boating license and take the helm of your own electric boat on Melbourne’s Yarra River. Comfortable, tech-savvy, and family-friendly, this unique water experience offers a fresh perspective on the city’s waterfront.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical effort needed; suitable for all fitness levels
Wildlife
History
The Yarra River has been central to Melbourne’s development since settlement in the 1830s, historically serving as a route for trade and transport.
Conservation
ON A BOAT’s electric boats produce zero-emissions on water, supporting eco-friendly access to Melbourne’s waterways with minimal environmental impact.
ON A BOAT
Skip the need for a boating license and take the helm of your own electric boat on Melbourne’s Yarra River. Comfortable, tech-savvy, and family-friendly, this unique water experience offers a fresh perspective on the city’s waterfront.
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.
Arrive Early for Onboarding
Plan to arrive at WTC WHARF at least 15 minutes before departure for a safety briefing and smooth boarding.
Bring Your Own Food and Drinks
Enjoy the freedom to bring your own snacks and beverages—just remember that the skipper must stay alcohol-free.
Safety First for All Ages
Life jackets are provided for children and toddlers, making the trip safe and welcoming for families.
Book Ahead to Secure Your Boat
Bookings fill quickly, especially on weekends and public holidays, so reserve in advance to guarantee availability.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare reflecting off the water.
summer
Light Jacket
Layer up to stay comfortable during breeze-exposed stretches.
spring
Waterproof Shoes
Shoes that dry quickly are handy for in and near the boat.
fall
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your trip on the water.