Spirit of Melbourne Cruise
Melbourne River Cruises, Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC, Australia
Boat
•Why you'll love Spirit of Melbourne Cruise
- Melbourne’s only premier cruising restaurant, operating since 2007.
- Award-winning dining, Silver winner at the Victorian Tourism Awards three years in a row.
- Renowned for exceptional service and food quality, highly rated across major platforms.
Spirit of Melbourne is Melbourne City’s flagship cruising restaurant, offering an elevated dining experience on the Yarra River with smooth, calm water cruising perfect for relaxed, uninterrupted dining. Designed as a double-deck, two-level vessel, the boat features fully air-conditioned indoor dining downstairs and alfresco dining upstairs, allowing guests to enjoy the river in all seasons.
The cruise showcases Melbourne at its best, gliding past riverside gardens, sporting arenas, and delivering magnificent views of the city skyline, especially spectacular in the evening.
The venue caters for 40 to 125 guests, specialising in sit-down premier banquets with all-inclusive 2, 3 or 4-course dining packages. Lunch, brunch, and the highly popular dinner cruises are available year-round. Small groups are accommodated with private tables, while the upstairs level is available for semi-private hire with a minimum of 40 guests ideal for corporate dining, celebrations, and premium social events.
Spirit of Melbourne Cruise Function Rooms
Spirit of Melbourne
Discover a world of breathtaking beauty on a dinner cruise along the Yarra River in Melbourne. This magnificent vessel is one of the many options available for events and functions, and is designed to accommodate 140 to 170 guests, making it an ideal venue for a range of special occasions, including milestone celebrations, weddings, and corporate end-of-year parties. As you set sail along the river, you will be treated to sweeping views of the riverbanks, the city skyline, and the twinkling lights of Melbourne. The spacious interior of the boat offers a versatile space that can be transformed to suit any occasion. As you dine, the boat will glide smoothly along the river, providing a peaceful and serene backdrop for your celebration.
Reviews for Spirit of Melbourne Cruise
Amber Belle
I went on the 3 hour Melbourne Highlights cruise. It had more comfy seats, was less crowded and the guide was very informative. I loved seeing the bridges, city views, Herring Island, the gardens and so much more. The views are honestly picture perfect. The cruise is such a reasonable price for what you get. Melbourne is so beautiful and I'll definitely be coming back again!
Debbie Ward
The cruise was amazing , the views by day and night were beautiful! The food was just amazing the steak was tender and melted in your mouth. The staff were great friendly and attentive. We enjoyed every moment of it !
Ray Mak
To me, Melbourne is one of the most beautiful cities in Australia. Don’t get me wrong — I truly enjoy Sydney as well. But Melbourne carries a more laid-back, relaxed charm. If I were to draw a comparison, it feels somewhat like the difference between Boston and New York City — where Melbourne embodies that calmer, more understated sophistication. One attraction I highly recommend is the river cruise along the Yarra River. It’s like taking a scenic shortcut through the city, offering a unique perspective from the water. The tour guide spoke with genuine passion about Melbourne’s history and architecture, which made the experience even more engaging. On a beautiful day, the cool breeze as the cruise glides along the river is incredibly soothing. Occasionally, seagulls fly alongside the boat at the same speed, creating the illusion that they are suspended mid-air. It’s quite a magical sight — though it’s wise to stay mindful of bird droppings! From the river, Melbourne’s skyline looks stunning. The skyscrapers reflect beautifully against the water, giving the city a modern yet elegant feel. The cruise duration feels just right — not too long, not too short. I would recommend booking tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot. It’s an experience I would gladly return for again.
Vanesa Carballo
The crew was so attentive from the moment you board, making you feel welcome quickly. As soon as you sit down, they offered you a drink to start with and then food comes in. Waiters were great, making recommendations, clearing tables, checking on guests and having chats, in particular Celia. We enquired vegetarian options in advance, so they brought all veggie items to our table without us asking for it. That was the extra mile for us. The brunch is not botomless however the food is plenty, with good variety of savoury and sweet, but the drinks are, and the staff is constantly offering you top ups or new drinks. They day was sunny, so we enjoyed it even more. You can go upstairs for the view, and also to smoke. Don't worry if you don't get a window table! The views are perfect anywhere in the boat. We found the experience ideal for special ocassions or to treat yourself with something different. Definetely recommend! Service, atmosphere and food 5/5. As someone who has been working in events and hospitality for several years, I would like to congratulate the crew, as your service and predisposition to make guests feel welcome was impecable! Thank you! Vanesa and James
Helen Z
We did the 2 hour cruise and it was wonderful, each section offering something different. The first part took us towards the gardens, which was incredibly tranquil and beautifully showcased the lush surroundings. The second part of the cruise headed towards the Docklands, which was amazing to see, especially with the informative commentary provided along the way. Highly recommend this experience
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