Celebrate Derby Day on a scenic Melbourne River Cruise, blending luxury, racing action, and stunning river views—all in one unforgettable outing. Discover why this cruise is a flagship event for Melbourne adventurers.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no strenuous activity involved.
Wildlife
History
Melbourne River Cruises has been operating since 2010, capitalizing on the city’s rich river and boating heritage.
Conservation
The company adopts eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction and supporting local wildlife conservation programs.
Melbourne River Cruises
Celebrate Derby Day on a scenic Melbourne River Cruise, blending luxury, racing action, and stunning river views—all in one unforgettable outing. Discover why this cruise is a flagship event for Melbourne adventurers.
Melbourne River Cruises operates from Southbank, Victoria, offering a range of river and bay cruises on the Yarra River, Maribyrnong River and Port Phillip Bay. The company provides sightseeing cruises such as Melbourne Highlights, Parks & Gardens Cruise and Ports & Docklands that pass Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens and Docklands Stadium.
Transfer services include Oaks Day TRANSFER PACKAGE and Derby Day TRANSFER PACKAGE, which feature a 90-minute cruise along the Maribyrnong River with morning tea, a premium bar and live race viewing to Flemington Race Course. Water taxi and transfer options include Oaks Day Water Taxi and Derby Day Water Taxi.
Commuter and day-trip services connect the city and suburbs with routes like City to Williamstown, Williamstown to City and City to Williamstown Return, offering scenic ferry travel across Port Phillip Bay to Williamstown’s waterfront attractions. Special event cruises include New Year’s Eve options such as NYE Party Cruise, NYE Party Cruise – Over 40’s, NYE Midnight Fireworks Cruise and NYE Twilight Cruise (Early Fireworks).
Dining experiences are available aboard the Spirit of Melbourne Cruising Restaurant with a four-course meal, illuminated Yarra River views and unlimited beverages, offered as dinner and lunch cruises. Brunch options are listed as Bottomless Brunch Afloat. A variety of other scheduled departures such as City Highlights Express - Fed Wharf are also offered. All trip names, durations and onboard inclusions are listed in publicly available schedules and product summaries. Schedules and booking information are published on Melbourne River Cruises' official website and partners.
Location
Southbank, VIC
Central boarding on the Yarra
Tours Offered
19 listed trips
Sightseeing, transfers, dining and events
Race Transfers
90-minute packages
Oaks and Derby day journeys
Dining Cruises
Spirit of Melbourne
Four-course meals and unlimited beverages
View schedules, check inclusions and reserve seats for sightseeing cruises, transfers, NYE events and dining experiences.
Arrive Early for Best Views
Get to the dock early to secure the best spots for viewing the race and photos.
Dress in Theme
Embrace the festive atmosphere by wearing Derby Day-inspired attire and decorations.
Bring Your Camera
Capture stunning shots of Melbourne’s skyline and river scenery during the cruise.
Stay Hydrated
Enjoy the premium bar offerings and remember to drink plenty of water during the cruise.
Hat or Cap
Protect yourself from the sun and stay comfortable during the cruise.
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Sunscreen
Prevent sunburn during the outdoor cruising experience.
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Camera or Smartphone
Capture scenic views and memorable moments on the water.
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Light Jacket or Sweater
Stay warm in cooler weather during the boat ride.
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