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
Maggie Vine
We did the back to back 2hr daytime cruise. Staff were lovely and boat was set up well for viewing. Appreciated the bar/coffee facilities. First part of cruise was out towards the MCG etc. To be honest we weren’t overly keen on this section of the cruise and, given how many people spent most of the time on their cellphones, we weren’t the only ones. Commentary was good but trees blocked the viewing of places like the MCG and photos were limited (no fault of the cruise providers). We had almost decided not to do the second part of the cruise but over a quick beer/coffee on shore while the boat was being re-set we decided to carry on … we are so pleased that we did! The second part was really great as we wound our way along the incredible skyline and out to the working part of the harbour. Past the very impressive towering buildings, beautiful leisure boats and, interesting working structures we thoroughly enjoyed seeing a different side to the hustle and bustle that is Melbourne life.
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!
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.
Billy
Not exactly the best river cruise I’ve been on. There was some steering issues and we hit a dock halfway through the experience during the Christmas tour. Other than that it was a fine short trip.
Leo Peters
What a lovely coast along Melbourne's Yarra River aboard MRC'S lovely Riverboat and a great way to discover Melbourne! The evening atmosphere was delightful as we watched the sun set over the city skyline. The four course dinner with wine was excellent in every way and served nicely by our very attentive and friendly hostesses Marie and Katie. A very relaxing and enjoyable experience in every way. Give it a try. You won't be disappointed.
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