Celebrate New Year's Eve aboard a private boat cruise in Melbourne, with prime fireworks views and a cozy atmosphere. Discover why this experience is a top choice for ringing in 2025 on the water.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3-4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; some standing and walking involved
Wildlife
History
Melbourne’s waterfront has been a hub of activity since the 19th century, transforming into a vibrant entertainment and event district today.
Conservation
Boat operators follow strict regulations to minimize environmental impact, including waste management and fuel efficiency.
ON A BOAT
Celebrate New Year's Eve aboard a private boat cruise in Melbourne, with prime fireworks views and a cozy atmosphere. Discover why this experience is a top choice for ringing in 2025 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.
Book Early
Secure your spot well in advance as these cruises fill up quickly for NYE.
Dress Warmly
Layer up to stay comfortable while enjoying the night’s festivities outdoors on the boat.
Bring a Camera
Capture spectacular fireworks and city views from the boat’s deck.
Arrive Early
Get onboard early to settle in and find the best viewing spots.
Warm clothing
Necessary for staying comfortable during the outdoor nighttime celebration.
winter
Camera or smartphone
To capture fireworks and scenic views during the cruise.
Windbreaker or jacket
Provides extra protection against the wind on the water.
summer
Small backpack or bag
Convenient for carrying personal items and essentials.