Yarra River
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.
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.
Tours & Tickets
Half-Day Melbourne City Tour Including Yarra River Cruise From Melbourne
Cruise the calm waters of the Yarra River, past Melbourne's art, food and shopping precincts towards the Docklands area. Back on land join your premium ... Read more
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
The City and Williamstown Ferry offers visitors an historic coastal village experience. Cruise past Melbourne's shipping channels on your journey to the old ... Read more
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Melbourne Cup Carnival: Spring Racing Day Cruise Package
Join in the fun and action of the Melbourne’s Spring Racing Carnival with a Melbourne river cruise to Flemington Racecourse. Enjoy all the excitement of ... Read more
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Duration: 9 hours (approx.)
Melbourne Seafood Lunch Cruise
Gain a fresh perspective on Melbourne during a 3-hour Yarra River cruise that features a delicious seafood lunch on the double-decker Melbourne Showboat that ... Read more
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Duration: 3 hours (approx.)
Melbourne Bike Tour with Coffee and Drinks Including Yarra River and Southbank
Enjoy this relaxed and informative 3-hour Melbourne city tour covering approximately 7.5-miles (12-kilometers). Cycle comfortable urban cruisers with WIFI ... Read more
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Duration: Flexible
Half-Day Melbourne Kayak Tour
Start your half-day kayak tour in the city center of Melbourne on the Yarra River. You have a choice of paddling up stream away from the city or paddling into ... Read more
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Melbourne City Tour: Lifestyle of Melbourne's Rich and Famous
This 4 hour tour travels through suburbs in Melbourne’s East (10 kilometers from Melbourne's CBD), visiting the localities, homes, elite schools, world class ... Read more
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Duration: 4 hours (approx.)
2-Hour Self-Drive Boat Hire on the Yarra River
Hop aboard the Harvey A private vessel and self-drive with up to 10-people down the Yarra River. With no boat license required, choose between a morning, lunch ... Read more
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
Port Phillip Bay Sailing and Yarra River Cruise by Traditional Timber Tall Ship from Melbourne
Enjoy a breathtaking three hour sailing experience in Melbourne's beautiful Port Phillip Bay. Departing from Docklands, you will sail down the Yarra and out ... Read more
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Duration: 3 hours (approx.)
Australia Day Port Phillip Bay Sailing and Yarra River Cruise by Traditional Timber Tall Ship from Melbourne
Please note: 2016 dates are sold out! Please check back for 2017 dates later in the year. Celebrate Australia Day as you enjoy a breathtaking three hour ... Read more
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Duration: 3 hours (approx.)
