Yarra River
Clear. Quite cool.
2:02 AM Wednesday, May 22
Clear. Quite cool.
7 day forecast

The Yarra River flows west for more than 240 km (148 miles) from its source in the Yarra Ranges, through rural and suburban Melbourne to the city center and Docklands, where it empties into Port Phillip Bay. Transport and pedestrian bridges cross the river, and you’ll find some of Melbourne’s most popular golf courses and parklands along its length.

Melbourne was established on the banks of the Yarra River in 1835, and it was a vital source of water and transport for the city's settlers. Today the Yarra River flows past the pedestrian Yarra Promenade and Flinders Street Station in the heart of Melbourne.

Rowers stroke past from the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens, and pleasure boats cruise up and down the river. Cycling and walking trails also mirror its path, and there are popular picnic grounds on the suburban fringe at Yarra Bend and Warrandyte.

Latest Reviews

5 star rating: Highly Recommended Review by ruth m, April 2013
Doing what: Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise

THE CRUISE WAS WELL WORTH THE TIME TAKEN TO GO ON THE RIVER . FOOD WAS GREAT AND VERY WELL THOUGHT OUT . MY GROUP HAD A GREAT TIME . CREW WAS THE BEST . THANK YOU .

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5 star rating: Highly Recommended Review by Dennis S, April 2013
Doing what: Highlights of Melbourne Cruise

Melbourne CBD is a very busy. Lots of places to Eat and Lots of things to do.
My Highlight was the Yarra River Cruise. Very informative and Great Value for Money

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5 star rating: Highly Recommended Review by Pene, March 2013
Doing what: Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise

Magnificent balmy evening, Moomba celebrations along the banks of the Yarra set the scene for a superb cruise. Staff were obliging, food delicious and all the beverages you could consume were available. Three hours slipped by very quickly. The only disappointment would be the air conditioning struggled in the Melbourne heatwave and patrons cigarette smoke filtered everywhere. Otherwise a lovely trip for a party group or a couple.

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Practical Info

The best way to see the Yarra River is on the water itself. If sculling a rowing boat doesn't appeal, catch one of the cruise boats moored near Federation Square.

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