Yarra River Tours
401 Reviews
The Yarra River winds its way through Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD) plus a number of suburbs. In the city, bars, restaurants, and parks thrive along its banks, bringing locals and tourists together. Numerous festivals and sporting events take place on the Yarra, including the famous Moomba Festival and rowing regattas.
The Basics
The Yarra River boasts a number of activities for visitors to enjoy. There are tours for every type of traveler ranging from sightseeing cruises to cabaret dinner cruises to an adventurous kayak tour along the river. See riverside landmarks such as Crown Casino, Federation Square, the Royal Botanical Gardens, Melbourne Cricket Ground, and the Ian Potter Centre.
For those who want to stay on land, walking and bike tours explore the banks of the Yarra River at a leisurely pace. Walk or peddle along the Southbank Promenade or the Main Yarra Trail for a closer look at Melbourne’s green spaces, bike paths, and numerous shops and restaurants that grace the banks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes to walk along the Yarra’s long esplanade.
- The area’s weather can change at any moment, so bring layers and an umbrella to be prepared.
- The river offers some of the most picturesque views in the city, so come prepared with your camera.
How to Get There
Set in the center of Melbourne, the Yarra can’t be missed. In addition to sightseeing cruises, visitors can navigate the river with hop-on hop-off cruises that offer many stops in between Williamstown and Abbotsford. Some notable stops along the route include Southgate, Federation Square, and the Docklands, so you can see as much of Melbourne as possible.
When to Get There
Visitors can access the best of the Yarra River year-round, but there are a few special occasions that are worth a visit: the Dragon Boat Festival in June, Christmas and New Year’s Events, the Moomba Festival in March, and numerous sporting events throughout the year.
The River of Culture
Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital and that means the Yarra is full of history. Check out some of the art museums along its banks, learn about Aboriginal culture and heritage on a river walk, discover thousands of plant species at the Royal Botanic Gardens, or stroll by some Australia’s most famous sporting venues.
Address: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Admission: Free
35 Tours and Activities to Experience Yarra River
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Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise
Spend an evening on the Yarra River during this Melbourne dinner cruise. As you admire the twinkling city lights reflecting on the water, enjoy a 4-course gourmet meal inclusive of beverages. This fine dining experience includes beer, wine, and spirits, as well as coffee, tea, dessert, port, and a cheese plate. Cruise past attractions like Federation Square and the Royal Botanic Gardens while soaking up the elegant and relaxing atmosphere of the boat.
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From
$114.57
From
$114.57
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Melbourne Laneways, Arcades and City Morning Tour with Optional Yarra Cruise
Spend a delightful morning exploring top Melbourne sights from aboard a comfortable coach. Learn about the city’s fascinating history from your informative driver and guide as you explore highlights such as Queen Victoria Market, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Parliament House, and Cook’s Cottage. To extend your sightseeing, upgrade for an optional cruise along the scenic Yarra River.
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From
$46.62
From
$46.62
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

River Gardens Melbourne Sightseeing Cruise
Take in a bounty of Melbourne’s highlights along the scenic Yarra River on this narrated sightseeing cruise. Spend a delightful hour aboard a riverboat as you glide under the Princes Bridge and past beautiful river gardens, Herring Island, the Melbourne Cricket Ground and other top cultural attractions.
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From
$21.33
From
$21.33
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
Cruise from Melbourne to the historic seaport city of Williamstown while soaking up the sights along the Yarra River. Spend as much time as you like in Williamstown, where you can browse art galleries, explore local seafaring history or enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the many charming cafés. Customize your cruise options and travel one-way in either direction or take a round-trip cruise for a delightful day trip.
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From
$18.96
From
$18.96

Highlights of Melbourne Cruise
Discover Melbourne’s history and highlights on this guided Yarra River cruise. Float past the city’s towering skyscrapers and lovely urban gardens while learning about the transformation of this vibrant city from 19th-century port town to a modern cultural capital. Your sightseeing cruise takes you upriver and downriver for a scenic overview of attractions on both banks.
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From
$30.82
From
$30.82
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Melbourne Balloon Flight at Sunrise
Get an enchanting new perspective on Melbourne aboard a hot air balloon flight over the city at sunrise. Soar over modern skyscrapers, urban parks, famous sporting arenas, and the Yarra River as early morning light bathes the skyline in a rosy glow. After your unforgettable flight, toast the new day with an optional champagne breakfast.
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From
$391.13
From
$391.13
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Rediscover Melbourne Tour
Join our tour guides for a walk through Australia’s culture capital and learn what makes this city great and so much more.
When you arrive, you'll explore Melbourne with a local who can share the history of the city as well as point out things to do after your walking tour is done. Depot Adventures tour guides want to show you the real Melbourne – the city we know and love.
Your tour will stop for a coffee and conclude near the Old Melbourne Gaol, where you learn about Australia’s most infamous bush ranger. After your tour is finished, your guide will brings the group to a classic Australian pub where you can experience traditional Aussie food.
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From
$54.52
From
$54.52

2-Hour Boat Rental in Melbourne
Hire your own electric boat and cruise down the Yarra River to get a different view of Melbourne. Each boat can fit up to nine passengers, so grab your friends, family, and even your dog for a relaxing session on the river. Sail through the Docklands, past Flinders Street and the Crown, and much more over the course of your excursion.
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From
$196.75
per group
From
$196.75
per group
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Yarra River Christmas Cruise
Stunning views and scenery with our Melbourne river cruise service.
Fancy something a little different? How about a party on the Yarra River? Why not try one of our Christmas boat cruises around Melbourne? Impress your friends and colleagues with the best Yarra River cruise for a unique night out that they’ll never forget.
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From
$98.77
From
$98.77

2-Hour Self-Drive Boat Hire on the Yarra River
Enjoy a private 2-hour cruise on the Yarra River with this self-drive boat rental in Melbourne. No license is required to drive this vessel, which has a fully enclosed cabin option if needed. Bring up to 10 friends and family members on board for a relaxing and scenic cruise. Create your own sightseeing tour by passing top attractions such as the Royal Botanic Gardens, Southbank, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Federation Square and the Docklands. You can even disembark at Herring Island Park to walk around its outdoor sculpture park.
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From
$236.26
per group
From
$236.26
per group

Port of Melbourne and Docklands Sightseeing Cruise
Enjoy a new perspective of Melbourne’s port and Docklands area as you cruise down the Yarra River toward Hobson’s Bay. Learn about Melbourne’s history as a 19th-century port town while watching the sights go by on this narrated tour.
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From
$21.33
From
$21.33
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Luxury Private 90min Wine and Cheese Yarra River Cruise
Get the ultimate luxury boating experience on this 90-minute private cruise on the Yarra River. With a dedicated skipper to navigate and provide engaging commentary on the sights, you'll depart from the Docklands and sail past Melbourne's riverside attractions. Take great photos from your vantage point on the water, sip a bottle of wine, and dig in to the provided cheese plate featuring local products. This private tour for just you and your party ensures personalized attention and plenty of chance to ask questions.
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From
$347.67
per group
From
$347.67
per group

1.5-Hour Boat Rental in Melbourne
Price is per boat, fits up to 9 people. You don't need to have a boat licence or be an old salty to skipper yourself and explore Melbourne's spectacular Yarra River in our easy-to-operate electric boats. Get your crew of up to 9 people and see Melbourne from amazing new perspective.
• No boat licence required
• Up to 9 people
• Bring your own snacks & drinks
• Suitable for all ages
• Dog friendly!
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From
$165.14
per group
From
$165.14
per group
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Private Yarra River Lunch Cruise
Indulge and enjoy a private lunch cruise on Melbourne's spectacular Yarra River for you and your partner. This is a private cruise for two only.
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From
$477.35
per group
From
$477.35
per group

Guided Walking Tour of Melbourne Yarra River
Our small walking tours are designed for anyone with an interest in the LGBT history and culture in Melbourne. You will be able to enjoy the full circle walk of the Yarra River in Melbourne.
You will learn about the past, present, and future of Melbourne city. You will also discover the first Australian and the traditional owners of Melbourne. As well as know more about the native plants, animals in Melbourne and the LGBT communities.
Our small team of local guides acknowledges the local traditional owners of Melbourne past, present and future during our walking tours of Melbourne.
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From
$31.61
From
$31.61
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Private Tour: Melbourne City Discovery
Explore vibrant, multi-cultural Melbourne with a private guide and an itinerary customised to suit your interests. Admire architectural landmarks like the Town Hall, St Paul’s Cathedral and Parliament House; learn about the city’s fascinating colonial history; or stroll around the idyllic botanical gardens. Alternatively, visit beachside St Kilda, browse the shops of the Block Arcade or Chapel Street, or discover ‘Little Italy’ in the Carlton district. This 4-hour tour includes hotel pick-up and morning tea.
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From
$210.18
Price varies by group size
From
$210.18
Price varies by group size

Melbourne City River Trails
Although Melbourne is situated on the shores of one of the largest bays on the Australian coast, the city's main water feature is the Yarra River. That's because the city grew from the banks of the Yarra and even today the focus for the city is still very much on a one-kilometre section of the river..
The Yarra River precinct is a wonderful place for tailor made, short interesting walks covering the arts, maritime history and fabulous gardens.
This precinct is the hub of Melbourne's artistic and cultural scene, with generous examples of public art and exciting architecture.
This precinct includes the significant green spaces of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Birrarung Marr as well as smaller parks, gardens, reserves and Southbank.
…More
From
$205.76
per group
From
$205.76
per group

Private Romantic Melbourne Dinner Cruise for 2
Indulge and enjoy a private dinner cruise on Melbourne's spectacular Yarra River for you and your partner.
…More
From
$477.35
per group
From
$477.35
per group

Melbourne Sports Experience + Free MCG Tour
Starting from the heart of the city we walk along the Yarra River into Melbourne's world famous sporting precinct exploring over 150 years of sports history ranging from the Olympics, cricket, Australian football, rugby, tennis through to horseracing, F1, surfing and golf.
We finish with a guided tour inside the MCG, visiting behind the scenes locations such as the players change rooms, the famous Long Room and the media centre.
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From
$83.44
From
$83.44
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands

Melbourne Sports Experience + Free Australian Sports Museum entry
A small group tour taking you on a journey through Melbourne's amazing sporting past and present and an expert tour through its incredible sporting facilities on the doorstep of the city. Hear from local experts, stop for a snack and coffee break at one of the sport stadium cafes and then complete your tour with admission to the unique Australian Sports Museum. Relaunched in March 2020 it is a museum unlike any other in the world.
…More
From
$78.23
From
$78.23
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands

Melbourne City River Trails
Although Melbourne is situated on the shores of one of the largest bays on the Australian coast, the city's main water feature is the Yarra River. That's because the city grew from the banks of the Yarra and even today the focus for the city is still very much on a one-kilometre section of the river..
The Yarra River precinct is a wonderful place for tailor made, short interesting walks covering the arts, maritime history and fabulous gardens.
This precinct is the hub of Melbourne's artistic and cultural scene, with generous examples of public art and exciting architecture.
This precinct includes the significant green spaces of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Birrarung Marr as well as smaller parks, gardens, reserves and Southbank.
…More
From
$205.76
per group
From
$205.76
per group

Melbourne City Tour: Lifestyle of the Rich and Famous
Glimpse the decadent neighborhoods inhabited by Melbourne's celebrities and business elites on a half-day tour of the eastern suburbs. Discover the swanky Toorak neighborhood, stroll along an elegant section of the Yarra River, and have afternoon tea at the historic Como House and Gardens—a stately home built for one of the wealthiest pioneer families in Australia. Hear about past and present notables of Melbourne as your guide shows you sprawling mansions, elite schools, exclusive clubs, and upscale shopping districts during your tour.
…More
From
$75.07
From
$75.07
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Withlocals Highlights & Hidden Gems: Best of Melbourne Private Tour
Please be aware that this tour is adapted to the local regulations post Covid-19. Our hosts will deliver this experience with the required equipment always keeping the distance suggested by local authorities. It will be safe and entertaining!
Elegant Victorian buildings, dazzling modern developments, and a famous coffee scene to explore.
Enjoy the city to the max and hear more about the origins, history, and contemporary culture of Melbourne. Hear about the city’s Victorian roots as you wander around its heritage sites, gaze up at the world’s tallest residential building, and experience a nostalgic visit to the Australian Music Exhibition.
Follow your local host along the banks of the Yarra River to seek out sculptures as you look out at the skyline. Wander across the bridges, spot fascinating details in shops and hotels, and visit the monumental St Paul’s Cathedral. Stroll through the murals of Hosier Street and hear about what happened to those on AC/DC Street.
…More
From
$78.05
Price varies by group size
From
$78.05
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Happy Hour Twilight Cruise on the Yarra River
The historic monuments, waterfront parks, and scenic shipping channels of Melbourne are even more picturesque when viewed from the water. On this tour, set sail at sunset along the Yarra River and experience the city at its most magical. Cruise past the Botanical Gardens and Melbourne Park; explore the Docklands and admire the waterfront mansions of Melbourne’s suburbs; and peek at the sculpture garden on Herring Island.
…More
From
$30.82
From
$30.82
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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