Melbourne River Cruise: Historic Ferry Experience

Experience Melbourne’s history on a 1-hour Yarra River cruise. Enjoy live commentary, stunning views, and BYO gourmet bites. Book your unforgettable journey today.

Duration: 1 hour, 10 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Yarra River - Visitors can delight in a 30-minute scenic cruise upstream on the Yarra River, passing by Historic Rowing Sheds, Federation Square, Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Botanical Gardens, and South Yarra/Toorak. The 30-minute downstream cruise offers views of the City skyline, SeaLife, Casino, Melbourne Exhibition Centre,…
What's Included
  • On-board restrooms
What's Not Included
  • Snacks
Additional Information

Classic Cruise’s boats depart from Berth 3, Southgate, weekly from Wednesday to Sunday at 10:45 am, offering 60-minute cruises that travel both upstream and downstream. For those with limited time, this is an excellent way to experience the Yarra within the City of Melbourne.
Step aboard and embark on a journey on our over 100-year-old classic ferries…

Location
3 Southbank Promenade
Southbank Promenade
Berth 3 South Gate is opposite Flinders Street Railway Station , in between St kilda rd and the Evan Walker foot Bridge. Just in front of the food Court at South Gate. GOOGLE MAPS (classic steamboat cruises) 5 min walk from arts Precinct and Federation Square
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.6
(27 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
Stephanie_m
May 24, 2026
River tour on lovely wooden boat - Hamish was excellent and it was lovely to be on his lovingly restored boat. I would highly recommend taking this trip
Review provided by Viator
Adaeze_o
Apr 29, 2026
Fantastic, relaxing boat cruise and tour of Melbourne on the Yarra River. - The cruise itself was very relaxing, and the Captain was really knowledgeable. Turned out to be quite an educational yet enjoyable boat ride. Also, it was a gorgeous boat that has apparently been kept in such a great condition. Definitely one of the highlights of my trip to Melbourne.
Review provided by Viator
Sophia_m
Apr 24, 2026
Melbourne River Cruise - Easy to locate. We had a glorious day but inside seating if not so nice. Nicer boat than the big glass boats
Review provided by Viator
Katherine_k
Apr 6, 2026
Such a worthwhile... - Such a worthwhile activity to experience the city in a relaxing and splendid way! I have lived in Melbourne awhile prior to taking a cruise and this tour specifically felt like the best experience. The boast has so much character and Woody the deck dog was a special surprise. The views are just that much more elevated as you glide along. 11/10 👏🏼
Review provided by Viator
Bjp335
Mar 29, 2026
Lovely way to spend the afternoon - Lovely boat one hour cruise was perfect with two small children. Commentary was kept minimal, highlighting the major points of interest. The seating arrangement was perfect for our large group allowing us to talk face to face rather than aisle seating. Definitely would recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Anna_l
Mar 23, 2026
It’s a wonderful way to... - It’s a wonderful way to see Melbourne from the water, going upstream and downstream. Great commentary too!
Review provided by Viator
Valerie
Mar 8, 2026
Great guy, beautiful boat - Great guy, his own business and passion, boat was lovely, information along river was great, highly recommend, well worth it
Review provided by Tripadvisor
P5871emkylep
Mar 1, 2026
Perfect - Great Yarra cruise. My friends and I loved it. The commentary was perfect too. I learnt so much!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Hollis_t
May 3, 2025
Relaxing and great views from the water - Friendly owner, beautifully restored boat. Nice history overview. Truly enjoyed seeing the city from the water - just beautiful! Recommend this tour!!
Review provided by Viator
Denis
Jan 11, 2026
Interesting and enjoyable - Very interesting and enjoyable Melbourne perspective. Unfortunately spoilt by fumes from the engine and barely discernible commentary. It was well worth the money though.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $25
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).