Enjoy the Melbourne Cup Carnival with a luxurious 90-minute river cruise along the Maribyrnong River, complete with teas, drinks, and prime race views. Discover why this is a standout way to experience race day in Melbourne.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; comfortable seating and easy access.
Wildlife
History
The Maribyrnong River has been a vital waterway for Melbourne's indigenous peoples and early settlers, shaping the development of the surrounding neighborhoods.
Conservation
The cruise operators work to minimize environmental impact by adhering to local waterway regulations and promoting sustainable tourism.
Melbourne River Cruises
Enjoy the Melbourne Cup Carnival with a luxurious 90-minute river cruise along the Maribyrnong River, complete with teas, drinks, and prime race views. Discover why this is a standout way to experience race day in Melbourne.
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
Get on the boat at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Dress Code
Smart casual attire is recommended to match the festive atmosphere.
Photo Opportunities
Capture scenic river views and race day moments from the deck for memorable photos.
Weather Preparedness
Check the weather forecast and bring layers or rain gear if necessary.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during the outdoor parts of the cruise.
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Hat or Cap
Shade your face from the sun while enjoying outdoor views.
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Camera or Smartphone
Capture the scenic river views and race day moments.
Light Jacket or Wrap
Stay warm if the weather turns cooler.
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