Sightseeing Cruises

Melbourne City Highlights Express Cruise

Melbourne River Cruises boat on Yarra River with city skyline and bridge in background.

Melbourne skyline with boats on Yarra River during a river cruise.

Passengers view colorful sculpture from Melbourne Yarra River cruise.

People enjoying a Yarra River cruise with Melbourne skyline in the background.

Duration

50 min

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Cruise the Yarra River and spot Melbourne’s top sights from both directions in just 45–50 minutes, ideal when you're short on time.

See icons like Southbank, Flinders Street Station, and the city skyline as you cruise downstream towards Queen's Bridge.

Head upstream to catch leafy parklands, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and glimpses of the MCG near Punt Road Bridge.

Refresh with drinks or light snacks from the onboard bar and relax in the covered seating area or on the open-air deck.

Choose your cruise: gardens upstream, ports downstream, or city highlights both ways.

The captain’s live commentary adds local flavour and fun facts throughout the ride, making it great for first-timers and families.

45 to 60-minute on the Yarra River (based on option selected)

1-hour downstream cruise on Yarra River to see Melbourne’s renowned ports and docklands

1-hour upstream cruise on Yarra River to see Melbourne's riverbank gardens

40 to 50-minute up and downstream cruise on Yarra River to see Melbourne city highlights

Small group of up to 15 people

Live commentary from the captain

Access to onboard bar

Food and beverages (available to purchase onboard)

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

See Melbourne’s skyline, parks, and iconic sights in just 50 minutes on a round-trip Yarra River cruise with live captain commentary.

Getting started

Board at Federation Wharf (Berth 3), located beside Federation Square. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time to check in at the ticket kiosk. Cruise times vary daily due to tides and weather.

What to expect

The City Highlights Express Cruise covers both sides of the Yarra River, offering a quick yet immersive look at Melbourne from the water. As you travel downstream towards Queens Bridge and then upstream near the Royal Botanic Gardens, you’ll pass Southbank, Flinders Street Station, Docklands, Polly Woodside, and parkland-lined embankments. The journey is designed to give you a visual overview of the city’s architecture, green spaces, and river culture—ideal for first-timers or those short on time.

Features

You’ll see major sites like the MCG, Crown Entertainment Complex, Melbourne Convention Centre, and Birrarung Marr.

Live commentary by the captain provides historical insights and fun facts throughout the journey.

The cruise vessel includes open-air seating and a covered indoor area to suit all weather conditions.

Light snacks and beverages are available for purchase onboard.

Upgrades: Tailor your journey with a 1-hour upstream cruise to Melbourne’s serene riverbank gardens, a 1-hour downstream voyage to bustling ports and Docklands, or a 45–50 minute round trip showcasing the city’s top highlights.

Good to know

Suggested photo ops: Snap the skyline from the open deck, and capture the Royal Botanic Gardens from the river bend.

Meals: Light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages can be purchased onboard. You may also bring your own snacks.

Live commentary: If interested in Melbourne’s history and stories, sit as close as possible to the indoor speakers or inquire about the availability of live commentary before boarding.

Deck seating secret: As you board, head straight for the open rear deck, don’t wait for directions. This area fills first but offers the best mix of views, air, and socializing.

‘Duck Bridge’ moment: As the boat approaches low-clearance bridges, have cameras ready for a thrilling, only-in-Melbourne shot; kids especially love the sense of adventure!

Pet lovers welcome: This cruise is pet-friendly—don’t hesitate to bring your furry companion if you wish.

Scouting your next stop: Use the cruise as a wayfinding experience; note down cafes, markets, and artwork you see for a return on foot.

The cruise returns to Federation Wharf. From here, you’re within walking distance of Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, and other central Melbourne attractions.

What to bring

A confirmation ticket (digital or printed) is required for check-in.

A photo ID may be requested at the check-in kiosk.

Light snacks or non-alcoholic drinks are permitted if you prefer to bring your own.

Sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended—there’s an open-air seating area available.

Weather-appropriate clothing is advised; the cruise operates rain or shine and has both covered and uncovered areas.

A camera or phone for capturing skyline views and landmark moments.

Arrive 15 minutes early to check in and secure preferred seating.

What's not allowed

Outside alcohol is not permitted onboard.

Large luggage or bulky items are discouraged due to limited storage space.

Wheelchairs and mobility scooters cannot be accommodated due to boarding restrictions.

No refunds are provided for no-shows or changes made within 24 hours of departure.

Accessibility

Vessels are not wheelchair accessible and require passengers to climb steps for boarding.

Restrooms onboard are not accessible for those with mobility devices.

Staff cannot assist with lifting or carrying guests during boarding or disembarking.

Guests must either board independently or with assistance from their carer.

Additional information

The cruise is roughly 45–50 minutes, covering both upstream and downstream highlights.

Live commentary is provided by the captain throughout the cruise.

The onboard bar offers beverages and snacks for purchase.

Open seating is first-come, first-served; early arrival is strongly recommended.

Cruise times and directions may vary due to tides, weather, or major city events.

The vessel is partially covered, offering sun and rain protection while maintaining open views from the rear deck.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please display your mobile voucher along with a valid photo ID at the attraction.

Kindly ensure that you arrive 15 minutes before the start time of your experience to avoid any delays.

Boarding point

Board your cruise at Melbourne River Cruises - Federation Wharf (Berth 3).

Address: 15-19 Birrarung Marr Walk, Melbourne VIC 3004, Australia.

Get directions to the ticket redemption point