Take the helm of your own electric boat on Melbourne's Yarra River with ON A BOAT’s luxury picnic cruise. Perfect for groups up to nine, this stylish self-driven adventure offers unforgettable city views and a relaxed vibe on the water.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the electric boats require no physical exertion aside from light boarding and movement on the boat.
Wildlife
History
The Yarra River has been a central waterway for Melbourne since the city’s founding in 1835, historically serving as a trade route and cultural site for the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation.
Conservation
ON A BOAT’s use of quiet electric boats helps minimize disturbance to local wildlife and reduces water pollution, supporting sustainable river-based tourism.
ON A BOAT
Take the helm of your own electric boat on Melbourne's Yarra River with ON A BOAT’s luxury picnic cruise. Perfect for groups up to nine, this stylish self-driven adventure offers unforgettable city views and a relaxed vibe 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.
Arrive Early for Briefing
Plan to be at WTC WHARF at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to receive a full safety and operational briefing.
Bring Your Own Snacks and Drinks
The boat provides all picnic essentials except food and beverages, so pack your favorite treats and refreshments.
Mind the Weather Conditions
Check the forecast ahead and dress accordingly—remember that conditions on the water can feel cooler, even on sunny days.
Keep Alcohol Consumption Responsible
You may bring alcohol on board, but the skipper must maintain a 0.00% blood alcohol level at all times for safety.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong UV rays during daytime cruises.
summer
Light Jacket or Layered Clothing
Prepare for cool breezes on the river, especially in mornings and evenings.
fall|spring|winter
Comfortable Footwear
Non-slip shoes make boarding easier and safer.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout your cruise.