Tours/Melbourne/1 Hour Sight seeing Melbourne River Cruise on historic vessel
Viator · group up to 20 pax

1 Hour Sight seeing Melbourne River Cruise on historic vessel

4.6(31)Melbourne1 hour
VIATOR4.6(21)TRIPADVISOR4.8(10)

Description

Classic Cruise's boat's depart from Berth 3, Southgate, every week, Wednesday through Sunday from 10:45am offering 60 minute cruises traveling, both upstream and down. If you are short on time this is a great way to experience the Yarra within the City of Melbourne. Step aboard and embark on a journey aboard our 100 year old + classic ferry's (MV Grower built 1924 and SL Protector built in 1914 ) where you'll be transported to an era of elegance and charm. Marvel at Melbourne's skyline and ever expanding waterfront bathed in the golden hues at sunset, and savour the thrill of gliding under historic bridges. Your adventure includes live commentary, adding an informative soundtrack to the scenic spectacle. Indulge in BYO gourmet bites and sip on fine wines as you meander through the heart of the city. This is more than a cruise; it's a voyage into the past, a rendezvous with history, and an unforgettable cruise on Melbourne's majestic waterway.

Tour Options

Public Scenic River Cruise
  • Private Cruises : PLEASE NOTE $475 is for hire of the vessel, for private bookings up to 25 guests. You may BYO any food and drinks. Public Tourist Cruise Duration: 1 hour BYO Yarra River and Docklands River Launch / Ferry

Itinerary

60 min

Travelers enjoy a 30min scenic upstream Yarra River cruise, passing Historic Rowing Sheds, Federation Square, Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Botanical Gardens and South Yarra/Toorak. Downstream 30 min cruise travels by City skyline, SeaLife, Casino, Melbourne Exhibition Centre, Historic South Wharf (Bars Restaurants) Docklands Precinct with a view of the Port of Melbourne and the ships. Both cruises up and down stream have a Captains commentary. Traveling speed onboard is 5 knots and all calm waters within the Yarra River, so plenty of photo opportunities. Total duration is 1hour and 10 min

Highlights

Restroom on board

What's included

Included
Restroom on board
Not included
Snacks

Traveller Ratings

4.6
31 reviews
5
26
4
2
3
1
2
1
1
1

Important Information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews(31)

5
556katarinak
July 6, 2026
Lovely and unique boat cruise

Pleasant cruise in heritage boat. Goes up and down the river to docklands and to the other side. Woody the labrador is a great companion

Operator response

Woof Woof :)

R
Randall_B
July 5, 2026
Nice little cruise down...

Nice little cruise down the river. Wasn’t too long of a tour and it gives you a chance to sit down and just enjoy the views.

Operator response

Good Morning, when I am not driving the boats I am responding to reviews, and its always nice for me to receive them as it shows I am going ok. Hope to see you back on the steamer soon

C
Chris_T
July 2, 2026
A great outing with the kids

A great way to explore Melbourne with the kids, both up and down the river. A nice touch letting the kids have a turn steering the boat

Operator response

Hi Chris, Hamish here! cheers for taking the time for the review and more than happ for the kids to have a drive. (saves me doing it) :) have a good day

R
ruthpG4561CT
June 17, 2026
a view from the river

I was visiting Melbourne city and wanted an activity that helped me get a view of the city without too much walking. It was great value for money, relaxing and perfect weather

Operator response

Good Morning Ruth, I am very glad you had a enjoyable time on the boat looking at the ever changing river and landscape...hope the commentary wasn't to bad either :) Thank you Captain / Owner Hamish T

E
Evan_K
June 3, 2026
Chill, quick, and...

Chill, quick, and affordable river cruise that gave us a great view of Melbourne. Hamish did a great job explaining the history of the bridges and sites along the river, and Woody (the dog and co-captain) made the trip even better

Operator response

Great work Evan, Mr Woody is a good boy! He loves all the pats and snacks :) Thanks for choosing to ride with us on our historic boats it all helps to keep them going

S
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

Operator response

Hello Stephanie, I really appreciate the review and very happy to hear that all was good! Sometimes I wonder why I muck around with this old stuff, but I do like the ide that I have preserved these vessels for the future and that they are in survey and others can enjoy them as well :)

A
Adaeze_O
April 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.

S
Sophia_M
April 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

Operator response

Thanks for taking the time Sophia to acknowledge It was a enjoyable cruise. It was very busy over the weekend with lots of people around, enjoying our late warm weather in Melbourne.

K
Katherine_K
April 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 👏🏼

Operator response

Always lovely to receive a review especially a 11/10 Thank you and Woody says Hello :)

B
bjp335
March 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.

Operator response

Good evening, Thanks very much for joining us on our little Yarra cruise. Very happy your group enjoyed the experience, Regards Hamish

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