THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
Book with ON A BOAT
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by ON A BOAT · Docklands, Victoria
Located at WTC WHARF, 18/38 Siddeley Street in Docklands, Victoria, ON A BOAT offers a standout way to experience Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River scene. "Skipper Yourself" invites adventurers of all ages to pilot quiet, user-friendly electric boats without the need for any boating license. This unique setup opens the door to a hands-on, self-driven voyage through Melbourne’s vibrant waterfront and city skyline.
The Yarra River carves through Melbourne’s urban core, connecting Docklands and Victoria Harbour to the city’s renowned Central Business District. As you navigate the calm waterway, you’ll pass historic wharves, modern architecture, and leafy riverbanks that provide a blend of urban and natural sights. The river’s gentle current and sheltered environment make this an approachable aquatic playground even for first-time skippers.
Each deluxe boat seats up to nine passengers comfortably, with cushioned seating and built-in Bluetooth speakers that let you soundtrack your journey. BYO drinks and snacks elevate this from a simple boat ride to a retreat on the water, where you control the pace and path. The family-friendly nature of the experience is underscored by life jackets for all ages and a dog-friendly policy, making it easy to bring everyone along.
This adventure plugs directly into Melbourne’s outdoor lifestyle but stands apart because of its simplicity and accessibility. No complicated licenses, no large crew, just you at the helm surrounded by iconic cityscapes and tranquil waters. Available daily from 9:30 a.m. to sunset, it’s an ideal way to unwind, gather friends, or take visitors on a memorable cruise through Melbourne’s waterfront culture.
Whether seeking a relaxed sunset drift or a social day afloat, ON A BOAT’s Skipper Yourself experience redefines how locals and travelers connect with Melbourne’s river and skyline.
easy.
1–4 hours.
Minimal physical effort needed; suitable for all fitness levels
No licence is required; ON A BOAT provides a thorough safety briefing before your trip.
Each boat can safely carry up to 9 passengers including children.
You can bring alcohol but the designated skipper must maintain a 0.00% BAC at all times.
Yes, kids have life jackets and the boats are pet friendly, so the whole family can join.
You should contact ON A BOAT at least 3 hours before your booking to discuss options including rebooking.
The closest parking is at 671 Siddeley Street CarePark in Docklands.
The Yarra River has been central to Melbourne’s development since settlement in the 1830s, historically serving as a route for trade and transport.
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 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