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Cruises on the Yarra River

We're Melbourne's premier providers of bespoke Yarra River Cruises . Boat trips range from 2 hours to half day tours which travel throughout the Docklands, Southbank and shipping precincts.

Flexible touring itineraries allow us to schedule tours to your preferences- whether for sunset, sunrise, photography or a special dinner or luncheon.

Catering is available for our boat trips- offering a selection of culinary delights which complement the occasion. Arrange a meal or drinks or both! A river boat trip provides opportunities for dining and sightseeing unlike any other experience.

Explore Melbourne's Yarra River. See Docklands, Southbank, Crown Casino and travel beyond the city, out into the quieter suburban waters. Board from anywhere along the water's edge. There are jetties near the restaurants and waterside hotels of Southbank, and you can disembark near the Victorian Arts Centre and visit an exhibition.

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BOOK YOUR PERFECT MELBOURNE YARRA RIVER CRUISE

We provide personalised Yarra River cruises in Melbourne. Staying near the river? Enjoy a sunset cruise when you have dinner or see a show. Board or disembark in Docklands or Southbank.

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• Wine and dine

3 Course Lunch Cruise on the Yarra River - Melbourne

• Indulge in a 3-Course banquet meal as you cruise down the Yarra River
• Elevate your lunch experience as the cruise blends flavours with urban energy
• The perfect date idea or a unique dining experience to share with a loved one

Indulge in a divine three-course meal with drinks as you cruise along the Yarra River, savouring both exquisite flavours and breathtaking city views for a memorable two-hour experience.

What's Included?

• 3 Course banquet meal with drinks
• 2 hour dining cruise

Hop onboard the Spirit of Melbourne Lunch Cruise, for a 2-hour delectable journey on the Yarra River. Cruise in elegance and comfort, as you indulge in dishes meticulously prepared using locally sourced ingredients chosen by the chefs, ensuring the freshest flavours and supporting the vibrant food culture of Melbourne. As you savour your meal, gaze out the panoramic windows and be mesmerized by the stunning waterfront views that unfold before your eyes. Cruise along the Yarra River and admire the iconic landmarks of Melbourne. The ever-changing scenery adds an enchanting backdrop to your dining experience.

Sample Menu (subject to change):

• Antipasto includes a selection of Seafood and Small Goods.
• Roasted Ratatouille in Filo with Tomato Relish (V)

Main Course - Your choice of:

• Pan seared Chicken Breast served with wild rice and porchini mushroom sauce
• Chargrilled Eye Fillet with green peppercorn sauce
• Oven Baked Salmon Fillet topped with lemon butter sauce served with Seasonal Vegetables
• Roasted Mediterranean Vegetable Lasagna with Bechamel Sauce served and Seasoned Vegetables

Dessert Platter

• Assorted Cake Platter
• Variety of Tea & Barista Coffee available for purchase
• Standard Bar consisting of Beer, Wine, Sparkling Wine, Juices & Soft drinks
• Spirits available for purchase

Session Length

• This experience is 2-hour duration, 1:00pm to 3:00pm
• Check-in starts at 12:45pm and closes at 1:00pm sharp

Important Information

• Participants must be 18 years and over to consume alcohol; photo ID may be required
• Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking
• The Cruising Restaurant may sometimes operate on the Yarra Countess and the Yarra Empress, depending on demand, weather, major events, river closures, and tides

Cancellation

• Change your booking up to 7 days before the start time of your experience
• Changes are not permitted within 7 days of your experience
• Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience

Numbers on the Day

Maximum of 100 participants.

The boat is fully enclosed and will depart in all weather conditions, unless deemed severe and unsafe.

Neat, casual attire.

This experience takes place in Melbourne, VIC.

Available dates

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Private Progressive Yarra River Lunch/ Dinner Cruise - 3.5 hrs - Birrarung - 11 to 35 passengers

• Duration: 210 Minutes (approx.)
• Location : Docklands, Victoria
• Product code: MBH-PYRDC

Melbourne celebrates excellent food and offers both unique and social dining experiences. 

There is just a no better way to savour a gourmet dining experience, surrounded by the vibrancy of this world-class culinary city while cruising on a luxury boat.

Enter Melbourne’s first and only Yarra River three-course progressive lunch or dinner cruise which includes a scenic cruise along Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River with spectacular breath-taking views and delicious food and wine to savour your taste buds.

Indeed this is an experience not to miss.

Commencing from Docklands and cruising upriver while having pre-dinner drinks onboard, the first stop off is at the Southwharf for entrée with a glass of wine or beer then we proceed to Southbank for the main course and choice glass of wine or beer.  After the main course, we re-board and cruise up to Morell Bridge while enjoying more drinks and taking in the signature views of Melbourne city and then return through the heart of Melbourne enjoying last course –dessert.

Our Yarra River progressive lunch/dinner cruises are suitable for groups from 12 persons up-to 35 persons onboard our vessel Birrarung.

The duration of the cruise is approximately 3.5hrs and is all inclusive of three courses, and all beverages included.

Lunch cruise departs Docklands at 12 pm sharp and returns approximately 3:30 pm

Dinner cruise departs Docklands at 6 pm sharp and returns approximately 9:30 pm

Stop # 1 - Entree - Southwharf

Stop # 2 - Main Course - Southbank

Stop # 3 Dessert Course - Onboard

Pricing Per Person:

11 - 14 Persons = $280

15-19 Persons = $245

20-24 Persons = $210

25- 29 Persons = $199

30-35 Persons = $189

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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Yarra River Cruise: A Journey Through Melbourne’s Heart

The Yarra River, weaving through Melbourne, offers a canvas on which the city paints its most picturesque sights. Melbourne river cruises today unlock a unique avenue for both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in the vibrant life along its banks. Yarra River cruises in Melbourne are celebrated for taking in the stunning skyline, lush gardens, and cultural hotspots, all from the tranquil waters of the river, creating an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of the city’s heart.

Embark on a Unique Yarra River Experience

Yarra River cruises in Melbourne stand as a testament to the city’s allure, inviting passengers to witness its beauty from a unique perspective. Melbourne river cruises today are not just about the journey; they’re about taking in the stunning vistas, architectural marvels, and serene landscapes that define Melbourne’s character.

Award-Winning Yarra River Cruises for Every Taste

From the thrill-seeker to the history buff, award-winning Yarra River cruises cater to every taste, offering a variety of themed voyages that promise more than just a scenic ride.

No Booking Fees – Hassle-Free Planning

Planning your Yarra River cruise is as breezy as the journey itself. With no booking fees, guests can focus on the excitement of their upcoming adventure without the worry of hidden costs, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable planning process.

Unique Experiences – Tailored to Your Preferences

Every traveler seeks something different, and Yarra River cruises understand this well. Offering unique experiences tailored to individual preferences, these cruises provide a unique perspective of Melbourne, ensuring that each guest’s journey is as unique as the city itself.

Commitment to Quality – Ensuring a Memorable Journey

The dedication to quality and guest satisfaction sets Yarra River cruises apart. From impeccably maintained vessels to exceptional service, every aspect of the journey is designed to ensure a memorable experience that guests will cherish long after they disembark.

Discover Melbourne’s Hidden Gems from the Water

From the water, Melbourne reveals secrets not visible from its streets, inviting guests to discover hidden gems and breathtaking views only accessible by river.

Ports & Docklands – Explore Melbourne’s Maritime Hub

The Ports & Docklands present a lively picture of Melbourne’s maritime heritage, blending modern developments with historic landmarks, all visible from the unique vantage point of a Yarra River cruise .

Parks & Gardens – A Green Escape Amidst the City

Aboard a Yarra River cruise, the lush parks and gardens lining the riverbanks offer a tranquil escape, showcasing the city’s dedication to green spaces amidst its bustling urban environment.

Tailored Cruises to Fit Every Occasion

Whether it’s for birthday parties or simply a day out, Yarra River cruises offer tailored experiences that make any occasion special, ensuring a cruise down the Yarra River is unforgettable.

Melbourne Highlights – Must-See Attractions Along the Yarra

Every turn of the Yarra River unfolds unique and unforgettable sights, from iconic landmarks to hidden nooks, making river boat cruises an essential experience for anyone wanting to capture the essence of Melbourne.

City Lights Cruises – Melbourne’s Skyline Illuminated at Night

As dusk falls, the City Lights Cruise offers a mesmerizing view of Melbourne’s skyline, illuminated against the night sky, presenting the city in a whole new light.

Golden Hour Cruises – Experience the Magic of Sunset on the Yarra

The Golden Hour Cruise captures the enchanting moment when the setting sun bathes the city in a golden glow, offering a magical experience as the day transitions into night.

Private Yarra River Cruises for that Special Touch

For those seeking a more intimate setting, private Yarra River cruises offer a unique and unforgettable journey downstream, showcasing Melbourne’s waterfront and the combined ports, providing an unforgettable exploration of Melbourne’s heart.

Luxury Cruises – Exclusive and Elegant

Accommodating up to 35 passengers, luxury cruises on the Yarra River offer exclusive and elegant options for a memorable boat charter, sailing the tranquil waters of the Yarra River with unparalleled style and comfort.

Intimate Boat Transfers – Private and Personalized

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, intimate boat transfers offer a private and personalized way to explore the Yarra River . Catering to smaller groups, these transfers provide a serene journey past Melbourne’s stunning sights, allowing passengers to soak in the city’s unique ambiance away from the crowds. It’s the perfect option for special occasions , offering the Spirit of Melbourne in a more refined setting.

Our Fleet: The Heart of Your Yarra River Cruise Experience

At the core of any Yarra River cruise is our diverse fleet, designed to cater to every need and preference. From sleek, modern vessels to charming, traditional boats, each ship is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. The Arts Centre and city skyline serve as a stunning backdrop, making every cruise a memorable experience.

Our Vessels – Comfort, Style, and Safety on the Water

Our vessels are the epitome of comfort, style, and safety, ensuring a pleasant journey along the Yarra River. Every boat in our fleet is regularly maintained and equipped with the latest safety features, so you can relax and enjoy the scenic views with peace of mind.

Find Your Perfect Luxury Yarra River Cruise

For those looking for an extra touch of luxury, our selection of Yarra River boat cruises offers an unparalleled experience. Catering to groups of up to 35 passengers, our luxury cruises provide an exclusive setting for celebrating special moments. With a range of cruise options available, you can find the perfect package to suit your preferences, ensuring a memorable journey along the Yarra.

We Pride Ourselves on Exceptional Customer Satisfaction

We are dedicated to providing an exceptional cruising experience for every guest. Our commitment to quality and service ensures that from the moment you book until you disembark, every aspect of your Yarra River cruise is designed to exceed your expectations. Our team’s attention to detail and personalized service guarantee a memorable journey for all.

Why Choose a Yarra River Cruise for Your Next Adventure

A Yarra River cruise presents a unique opportunity to witness Melbourne from a different perspective. Whether it’s exploring the vibrant Ports & Docklands or simply soaking in the city’s dynamic skyline, a cruise down the Yarra offers an adventure that’s both relaxing and exhilarating. With no booking fees and a variety of cruise options, your next adventure awaits on the Yarra River.

A Yarra River Cruise is the Best Way to See Melbourne

Embarking on a Yarra River cruise offers a unique vantage point to experience Melbourne’s iconic landmarks. From the informative commentary detailing the city’s rich history to the stunning views of the Melbourne CBD at sunset, these boat tours create lasting memories. It’s an experience passionately curated for everyone, from school groups to those planning a Christmas party.

Ports & Docklands – Diving Deep into Melbourne’s Maritime Heart

The Ports & Docklands area is a testament to Melbourne’s rich maritime heritage. A cruise through this bustling hub offers a glimpse into the city’s shipping history, with modern developments standing alongside historic docks. It’s a journey that dives deep into the heart of Melbourne’s maritime story, showcasing a blend of the old and the new.

Book Your Yarra River Cruise Today – Your Adventure Awaits

Don’t miss the chance to explore Melbourne in a truly unique way. Book your Yarra River cruise today and embark on an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, informative tours, and unparalleled comfort. With a variety of options to choose from, your perfect river cruise is just a reservation away. Your adventure on the Yarra awaits!

Wrapping Up Your Melbourne Waterway Adventure

As your journey along the Yarra comes to an end, the memories of the stunning sights and the unique perspective of Melbourne from the water will stay with you forever. It’s an experience that highlights the beauty and vibrancy of the city in a way that only a river cruise can offer.

Why Our Guests Love Our Yarra River Cruises

Guests consistently rave about their Yarra River cruise experiences, often highlighting the unique perspective they gained of Melbourne. It’s a journey that leaves a lasting impression, combining the excitement of exploration with the tranquility of the river.

See What Previous Guests Say About Their Experience

Our guests’ testimonials reflect the unforgettable experiences they’ve had on our cruises. From the stunning sights of Melbourne to the exceptional service and intimate atmosphere, every review underscores the unique joy of exploring the Yarra River with us. Their stories inspire us to continue providing memorable journeys for every passenger.

Your Guide to Booking the Ultimate Yarra River Cruise

Booking your ultimate Yarra River cruise is straightforward and hassle-free. Whether you’re interested in classic steamboat cruises or modern luxury experiences, our range of cruise packages caters to every taste. From the heart of the city to the tranquil Birrarung Marr, we make it easy to explore Melbourne’s maritime beauty.

No Hidden Fees, Just Unforgettable Memories

Our commitment to transparency means you can book your Yarra River cruise with confidence, knowing there are no hidden fees. Every cruise is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories, with clear pricing and exceptional value at every step of your journey. Embark on your adventure today and experience Melbourne like never before.

View our Yarra River Cruise options here

Progressive lunch & dinner cruise – pia mae, crown flames cruise, lady m private boat charter, 2-hour skippered luxury private cruise – up to 10 guests, 3-hour skippered luxury private cruise – up to 10 guests, yarra river wine and cheese cruise, harvey a – 2 hour self-drive boat hire, eliza j – 2 hour self-drive boat hire, felix g – 2 hour self-drive boat hire, yarra river sunset cruise – 1.5 hr public cruise.

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Melbourne Boat Hire respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters we operate on, the Bunurong Boon Wurrung and Wurundejeri Woi Wurrung people of the Eastern Kulin Nation and pays respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

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River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

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Who's going.

• Excursion River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
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Floating & Riverside bars on the Yarra

Cruising food and beverage experiences, spirit of melbourne cruising restaurant.

For those seeking an upscale experience on the water, look no further than the Spirit of Melbourne’s four-course dinner or weekend bottomless brunch cruise. The two-level boat seats over 100 guests and provides premier meals while cruising up the scenic Yarra and back down towards the picturesque Melbourne skyline.

The four-course dinner menu on board the Spirit of Melbourne cruising restaurant includes a seafood-based entree, guest’s selection from four main options and a delectable dessert platter, concluding with a board of Australian nuts, fruits and cheeses. Guests on board this Yarra River restaurant cruise are also served unlimited beverages from a selection of gourmet wine, local beer and a range of spirits to accompany their meal. There’s no better choice for dinner cruises in Melbourne!

This Melbourne cruising restaurant also offers a fantastic bottomless mimosa brunch cruise. Enjoy a two-tiered display of sweet and savoury finger foods, accompanied with endless mimosas, spritzes and other beverage options.

The Spirit of Melbourne creates all meals on board in its in-house kitchen. Guests are sure to be dazzled by the gourmet meals and spectacular views when dining at this Yarra River cruising restaurant in Melbourne.

Floating Bars

Arbory afloat.

Easily spotted just steps from Flinders Street Station, Arbory Afloat is a lively and vibrant beach-style venue that has emerged as a prominent social hotspot along the river. The venue reinvents itself with each season, showcasing a dynamic design and menu inspired by a vibrant and colorful coastal Spanish theme this year. The lunch and dinner menus at Arbory Afloat offer a delectable assortment of hot and cold tapas, oysters, charcuterie, premium pizzas, and Spanish-inspired classics that are sure to transport your taste buds straight to Ibiza.

The venue itself floats along the edge of the Yarra. Decorated with beach cabanas (available for rental) and even a small pool, Arbory Afloat captures the essence of paradise and beckons guests to a vibrant atmosphere on the Yarra River.

Yarra Botanica

One of the river’s newest additions, Yarra Botanica’s double-decker floating restaurant joins the Yarra’s lineup of creative dining options. The eye catching venue overflows with year-round greenery and showcases an array of locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and beverages crafted by Victorian producers.

The menu brings a selection of sharable items including hot and cold starter snacks, sourdough pizzas, and most notably, grazing boards available for purchase by the metre. An extensive cocktail menu utilizes spirits from local producers Marionette and Gospel, ensuring that each drink delivers an authentic taste of Victoria.

Yarra Botanica’s innovative and inspired approach to dining, combined with its picturesque location on the Yarra River, make it a must-visit destination for food and drink enthusiasts seeking local flavor.

Unique Waterfront Venues:

The boatbuilders yard.

Found on South Wharf, the industrial-style bar and restaurant is themed after the boat docks of an earlier time. Surrounded by river on three sides, the restaurant and event venue offers a distinctive choice for waterfront dining.

The establishment is particularly renowned for being the proud host of Juniperlooza, Australia’s inaugural festival devoted to gin. The Boatbuilders Yard showcases locally produced spirits and craft beverages, inviting gin enthusiasts for a weekend of exploratory tasting.

Beyond its exclusive events, The Boatbuilders Yard offers selections all day with dedicated brunch and lunch/dinner menus. Brunches can indulge in a unique spin on traditional breakfast items such as the “Morning After Tater Tots” and honeycomb waffle. Meanwhile, the lunch and dinner menu incorporates a South American-inspired theme, showcasing a range of barbecue and burger options.

To complement their meals, patrons can choose from a wide selection of wine, beer, spirits, and cocktails while admiring a panoramic view of the boats cruising up and down the river.

Ponyfish Island

One of Southbank’s favourite bars hides beneath the Evan Walker Pedestrian Bridge. Ponyfish Island, wrapped around a pillar of the bridge, may pique the interest of onlookers curious about the bustling scene in the midst of the river.

Ponyfish Island boasts a tasteful, tropical-themed design that creates an inviting space for friends to gather over drinks or light bites. The menu is limited but diverse, featuring a range of pizzas (including the kangaroo-topped “Australus” pizza), oysters, and a selection of bar snacks. The beverage menu is more extensive, offering sharable jugs and signature cocktails like the Ponystar Martini, as well as a curated selection of local and classic beers and wines.

The casual atmosphere during the day and cosy ambiance at night has cemented Ponyfish Island’s status as a beloved destination for Melbournians.

Melbourne’s favourite riverside beer garden is open year-round for signature cocktails, local brews, and culinary traditions like burgers and pizza. Located just below Federation Square, the eye-catching destination consistently draws a crowd.

Special promotions such as the two-hour “Bottomless Pizza and Spritz” keep Riverland set apart as an attractive and original venue. Also notable is Riverland’s central location: just a short walk from Melbourne’s best entertainment venues like the Melbourne Cricket Grounds, the beer garden is a convenient destination for pre- or post-footy bites and beverages

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