melbourne river cruises, williamstown to city

This has got to be the most fun and picturesque way to get right into the heart of the city!

Melbourne River Cruises runs a ferry service from Gem Pier directly to Southbank, and the experience is an adventure in itself. The hour-long journey takes you all the way up the Yarra River, under some of Melbourne’s most iconic bridges, like the Westgate, Bolte, Queensberry, and Spencer Street Bridges (some are even close enough to touch!). Mamma says it’s great to see Melbourne’s riverside from this perspective, and the kids have fun pointing out all the landmarks from this different view.

There is free tea and coffee on board, plus some guided tour information as you pass the Docklands and the mouth of the Yarra. You can sit inside or perch yourself on the back deck with the wind through your hair!

You can choose to go one way or return, and we love that it takes the stress out of heading into the city with the family. Forget about finding a parking spot or dealing with traffic! This trip is smooth, and the ride goes quickly as you take in the sights.