Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
4
About
Williamstown is Melbourne’s historic port town, located at the meeting point of Hobson’s Bay and Port Phillips Bay. On this tour, take the most scenic route to Williamstown from Melbourne with a ferry cruise down the Yarra River. You can use your one-way or round-trip ticket at a time that suits you, so you can spend as long as you like enjoying the shops, cafés, and beaches of Williamstown.
from per adult
$21.57
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 10 per group
Duration: 1–2 hours
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
English
Highlights
- Scenic, hassle-free ferry journey from Melbourne to Williamstown
- Spectacular views of Melbourne and the Yarra River from the water
- Flexible tour: one-way or round-trip, multiple departure times
- Live commentary onboard ensures you don’t miss anything
- Tea and coffee
- Live commentary on board
What's not included- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Gratuities
- Make your way to Melbourne’s Southbank to board the ferry to the historical suburb of Williamstown. Set sail along the Yarra River on the 1-hour cruise, enjoying magnificent views of parts of Melbourne including the Docklands and Port Phillip. Along the way, listen to the onboard audio commentary—which points out notable landmarks and offers some background information on Williamstown—and enjoy refreshments (tea or coffee is included). On arrival in Williamstown, spend as long as you like strolling around the historic port town, browsing the many shops, or enjoying lunch at one of the atmospheric waterfront cafés. If you’ve booked a round-trip ticket, head back to the port in time for your return ferry and end your day with a leisurely cruise back to Melbourne.
- Departure details
- Melbourne River Cruises, Berth 2, Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia Berth No 2, Southgate Arts and Leisure Precinct Landing.
- Gem Pier, 1 Syme St, Williamstown VIC 3016, Australia If starting in Williamstown please meet us near the giant war ship off Syme Street.
Return details- Returns to original departure point
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3013SIGHTCD- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Confirmation for this product will be received at time of booking
- The boat is completely enclosed and windowed so that passengers won't be subject to the elements
- Unfortunately the vessel is NOT wheelchair accessible. However, passengers in a wheelchair can be accommodated only if they can get on and off the vessel on their own and if the wheelchair is collapsible. The staff are not permitted to assist handicapped persons due to insurance restrictions
- Important Note:
- Cruise duration times are approximate and subject to change, often due to tides and river traffic
- Cruise direction and timetable subject to tidal conditions and river closures
- Passengers MUST check timetable for their return trip to ensure departure times connect
- Most travelers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- How much is Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise?
- Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise price starts from $21.43. Discover and book Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise on Tripadvisor
- What is the Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise cancellation policy?
- Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Discover and book Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise on Tripadvisor
- Which company provides Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise?
- Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise is hosted by Melbourne River Cruises. Read reviews, discover additonal experiences or contact Melbourne River Cruises on Tripadvisor. Discover and book Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise on Tripadvisor
- How much time do I need for Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise?
- On average, this experience will take approximately 1h. Discover and book Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise on Tripadvisor
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3013SIGHTCD
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About the operator
- kevlindabond00Lovely garden cruise in good companyThe staff were friendly informative and helpful. The cruise was very interesting, and the commentary was well informed, funny and lighthearted. The boat trip was smooth with plenty of seats inside. Tea and coffee available. There are Wc's onboard. I loved that a staff member put out his hand to steady you as you got on board if you required it. Well done crew.
- KathyDavid201400Very Engaging for High School StudentsWe had a group of High School Students that we took on a city explore on foot and by tram - starting at 830am and just arrived home at 9pm. We prebooked the ferry and the kids LOVED it. One way was very affordable for our budget, the captain's commentary was fantastic - full of lots of information, it's a gentle cruise so no one was 'seasick' and the group on the back of the boat were very engaged with just looking at the scenery. The staff were very polite and one of the nice young men took some photos of us off the back of the boat. Thank you so much and we will be very happy to rebook again.
- Shruts88800Bottomless BrunchThe brunch cruise was just amazing. Loved the concept of eating those delicious bites while cruising the yarra. Drinks were bottomless. Mimosas and Spritz. Highly recommended .
- davidsM6309RL00Great way to see MelbourneExcellent overview of Melbourne from the Yarra River. Smooth ride and knowledgable crew made it a good couple of hours.
- Wanderer1736365825700The best anniversary I've ever had I could not recommend this enough!!!Firstly the captain himself brought me and my partners drinks out to the deck for us and wished us a happy anniversary before offering to take photos for us which is amazing service on its own but then we had the most amazing server lily who was super attentive and sweet and ready to help, the food was phenomenal and the views were absolutely beautiful, if you're looking for somewhere nice to have a date night this is the place!!
- N1606VCelainel00This cruise was great. Lovely nite great service .All the staff we lovely would go againThe views were Amazing seeing the city at night was Amazing Absolutely love every minute of the cruise
- 354yutongh00Wonderful Brunch ExperienceWondering experience, amazing services, enjoyed the yarra river view and sunshine :) Thanks for the unforgettable memories
- melburnian200900Sunday Afternoon Bottomless DrinksAmazing group activity. Saw this on TikTok and decided to give it a go. We absolutely loved it. Definitely good for Sunday afternoon drinking activity.
- TiffanyF57200Good food and serviceFood and fantastic service the let down was not going up the river due to the tide! 3 hours just doing a loop and I wanted to get off!
- SamithaP1100GreatGreat experience. Nice commentary, specially the history of what we were seeing. Opportunity to stay in the deck was great too. Could have improved the seating though. Chairs were very straight back and uncomfortable to sit for 2h.
- 90gilliann00A worthwhile experienceCourteous staff, genial captain/tour leader, good knowledge of the river and local history. Large school group on board, although well-behaved, raised the noise level and involved students in much moving around for the return half of the trip. Didn't interfere with the experience but changed the focus a bit with all the movement.
- Catherine D00Had a great time.Was lovely, wait staff were so kind and quick . Food was great. Lovely ride down the Yarra River win lots to look at. Will be doing it again.
- JasePotter00Outstanding food with even better serviceA spectacular meal with 5 star service. Highly recommend and will return on our next trip to Melbourne
- D6161YQfionas00Amazing!10/10 - delicious food, a lot of beverages and friendly helpful staff. The tables are well spaced and not cramped. From the moment you board the boat, the wait staff are there offering drinks. The 4 course meal had generous portions and was mind blowing. For a dinner cruise with unlimited drinks, we were surprised that the staff are offering you your next drink before you have finished the last one. If you enjoy good food and drinks this is well worth while. Value for money!!
- P3422CGmegans00Enjoyable eveningFood was good and staff were very generous with the drinks - always offering to top us up. We were a little cramped in the middle so our views weren’t great unless we stepped outside. Staff were very friendly & attentive.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
132 reviews
Excellent
63
Very good
39
Average
12
Poor
12
Terrible
6
James B
1 contribution
Jan 2023
So it was a very hot day and there isn't any shade to wait in if you want to keep a spot in the queue. You book on line but when you get there you need to show your bar code at the Kiosk for a paper ticket which took nearly 30 minutes in itself in the scorching heat (that's if you knew know to go to the kiosk as there aren't any signs to tell you that and you wont be let on board without the paper ticket). The ferry over to Williamstown was 30 minutes late and when we finally made it aboard there isn't any ventilation which had most people dozing of from heat and lack of oxygen by the time we arrived. Being late to Williamstown ensured that we had to change our day plans as we now needed to catch a later ferry back in order to spend any time there. When it came to return of course the ferry was late again and of course there isn't any shade on the wharf to shelter in and there was that many people waiting to return you had to make sure you got your spot in the Queue. We had had enough and decided that the hour long return in the heat wasn't worth the money so we went and called an Uber. To be honest the boat crew were nice however the hole operation is a disappointing mess. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone and an Uber to Williamstown and back for two full fare adults is cheaper and much more pleasant.
Written January 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Thank you for sharing your feedback with us. We are sorry to hear that you had an unpleasant experience on our cruise.
We always aim to deliver an exceptional level of service to our customer and we regret that we missed your marks. Thank you for bringing this issue to our attention.
We really hope to resolve the problem, please send us an email at info@melbcruises.com.au or simply contact our office at 03 8610 2600. Thank you.
Written January 2, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Chris
1 contribution
Dec 2022
If you want excellent customer service, reliable information and an enjoyable experience, DO NOT book with Melbourne River Cruises from Melbourne City to Williamstown.
I purchased 5 return tickets on the 6th December 2022 for the 16th December 2022 for a work Christmas lunch in Williamstown. At the time of booking and purchase, I was told that we had a return trip at 3:30 pm on the day. However, about 1 minute into arrival at Williamstown, the Captain advised everyone that this would be the only return trip that day due to prioritising other Christmas functions in the afternoon. The captain said our only option back would be an Uber or a 15 minute walk to the train station back to the city.
We were unable to return due to our booking at the restaurant. When I asked the Captain about how we go about getting a refund for our trip back, I was told to ring the head office (pass the buck No. 1). I called the head office number to arrange the refund but head office told me I needed to contact Fay and provided me with her mobile number (pass the buck No. 2).
I called Fay and had to explain my situation numerous times. She was busy with people at the kiosk in Southgate and had to call me back. Whilst at the restaurant, I got a call back from Fay and once again explained the situation. When I was finally understood, Fay offered to refund half the purchase price and advised me to go back to the kiosk either Friday, Saturday or Sunday to arrange (pass the buck No. 3).
I went back to the Kiosk on Saturday and spoke to the young staff member. He was more than happy to provide a refund but had to check with his boss (Steve) first. I explained that I had been asked by Fay to come here for a refund. Steve mentioned that they don't do refunds at the kiosk and I had to contact the head office again on Monday to arrange (pass the buck No. 4).
I'm a fairly patient person but this is now totally unacceptable. I will NOT be booking any further trips with Melbourne River Cruises nor will I be recommending them to any friends or family who come to Melbourne to visit.
I purchased 5 return tickets on the 6th December 2022 for the 16th December 2022 for a work Christmas lunch in Williamstown. At the time of booking and purchase, I was told that we had a return trip at 3:30 pm on the day. However, about 1 minute into arrival at Williamstown, the Captain advised everyone that this would be the only return trip that day due to prioritising other Christmas functions in the afternoon. The captain said our only option back would be an Uber or a 15 minute walk to the train station back to the city.
We were unable to return due to our booking at the restaurant. When I asked the Captain about how we go about getting a refund for our trip back, I was told to ring the head office (pass the buck No. 1). I called the head office number to arrange the refund but head office told me I needed to contact Fay and provided me with her mobile number (pass the buck No. 2).
I called Fay and had to explain my situation numerous times. She was busy with people at the kiosk in Southgate and had to call me back. Whilst at the restaurant, I got a call back from Fay and once again explained the situation. When I was finally understood, Fay offered to refund half the purchase price and advised me to go back to the kiosk either Friday, Saturday or Sunday to arrange (pass the buck No. 3).
I went back to the Kiosk on Saturday and spoke to the young staff member. He was more than happy to provide a refund but had to check with his boss (Steve) first. I explained that I had been asked by Fay to come here for a refund. Steve mentioned that they don't do refunds at the kiosk and I had to contact the head office again on Monday to arrange (pass the buck No. 4).
I'm a fairly patient person but this is now totally unacceptable. I will NOT be booking any further trips with Melbourne River Cruises nor will I be recommending them to any friends or family who come to Melbourne to visit.
Written December 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Julia B
Sydney, Australia368 contributions
Mar 2023
We went on the 12:30 ferry to Williamstown. The outward journey includes a commentary, but it was a little difficult to hear, even when the passengers were quiet.
Because of this it would be useful if there was a sign up asking people to keep the noise down on the outward journey. Our trip included a party making quite a bit of noise, which made the passengers and guide rather cross.
Going on the 12:30 ferry meant that we could only come back on the 4pm one. That gave us 2.5 hours to look around. We decided to have lunch at one of the many cafe's which took up most of that time.
There was insufficient time to walk to the centre of Williamstown as this is about a 15-20 minute walk each way.
Because of this it would be useful if there was a sign up asking people to keep the noise down on the outward journey. Our trip included a party making quite a bit of noise, which made the passengers and guide rather cross.
Going on the 12:30 ferry meant that we could only come back on the 4pm one. That gave us 2.5 hours to look around. We decided to have lunch at one of the many cafe's which took up most of that time.
There was insufficient time to walk to the centre of Williamstown as this is about a 15-20 minute walk each way.
Written March 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Thank you for taking the time to share your review. We are sorry to hear that your cruise fell short of expectation due to trouble hearing and lack of time in Williamstown.
As we always look to improve our services, feedback like yours provides a truly important perspective, and we appreciate your thoughts. We hope to welcome you back in the future to provide a 5-star cruising experience!
Written March 16, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
SuzB
3 contributions
Apr 2022
Well worth the trip. Good views of Melbourne city and Wharfs from the river and great views looking back at the city from Williamstown. Dave, the Captain and guide, was a happy and very informative bloke. Seats very crowded and not very comfortable though for the hour trip, a good fit out to upgrade would be worthwhile. .
Written April 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Thank you for your review and recommendation, we will definitely look into your suggestion. We're glad to hear you had a great time on our cruise and we hope to see you back on board again soon!
Written May 4, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
nomads59
Sunshine Coast, Australia180 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Very disappointing due to high tide we all had to trail half of the river route to catch the boat near the DFO, which took away from the city river experience. The ride from there to williamstown was pretty unspectacular just docks and large cargo ships. What a shame we were looking forward to this We didn’t even get offered the free tea/coffee advertised as part of the tour. Wouldn’t recommend
Written May 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello
Thank you for sharing your experience with us, and we apologise for the disappointment you encountered. We understand that the change in the river route due to the high tide may have affected the overall scenic experience you were hoping for, and we apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Regarding the ride from DFO to Williamstown, we apologise if it didn't meet your expectations. While the area does include docks and cargo ships, we strive to showcase different aspects of the river and its surroundings to provide a diverse experience for our guests.
We appreciate your feedback and will take it into account as we work on improving our services. We understand that your experience fell short of your expectations, and we apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, and we hope to have the opportunity to provide you with a better experience in the future.
Written May 26, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Getaway727651
1 contribution
Jan 2023
My friends and I enjoyed the round trip very much, particularly the lively and informative commentary on the way to Williamstown. It felt good to play tourist in our own city and learn so much about Melbourne that we hadn't known before. Great job Melbourne River Cruises team!
Written January 29, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Thank you so much. It fills us with pride to know that our service is valued by our community. We strive to be the best we can be every day. We look forward to seeing you on board again soon.
Written January 30, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
James T
Perth, Australia3 contributions
Jul 2023
We enjoyed arriving in the Melbourne city centre by a different mode of transport. The journey across the bay and along the river was made more interesting by the Captain’s commentary. Trip was price comparative to similar journeys in other cities.
Written July 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi James,
Thank you for choosing us as your mode of transportation! We're glad to hear you enjoyed the Captain's commentary and journey along the Yarra River. We can't wait to see you cruising with us again soon!
Written July 5, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kim S
1 contribution
Jun 2023 • Family
We had a amazing trip from the city to Williamstown, The guys at melbourne river cruises were really good and made it very easy to book and redeem the tickets. The trip had a commentary, tea and coffee complimentary and viewing deck to get some breathtaking views and photos. Definitely recommended.
Written June 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
We appreciate you taking your time and leaving us a splendid review! We're thrilled to hear that your experience with booking with us was smooth and easy. Thank you for booking with us and we're glad that you enjoyed your time on the Williamstown Ferry! We can't wait to have you back.
Written June 26, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Suedaytripper
Prospect, Australia20 contributions
Mar 2023 • Friends
We took the first ferry of the day the Williamstown. The commentary on the trip was interesting. We easily filled in a couple of hours in Williamstown, walked around and looked at some of the old buildings, ate our lunch (we brought with us, but there were cafe's etc at Williamstown) and bought a delicious gelati. We probably coule have spent longer but other plans back in the city.
Written April 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
We are so glad to have been a part of your wonderful day in Williamstown! The town is so fun to explore, and we're happy to have played a part in your great experience. Thank you for sharing your cruise experience, and we look forward to seeing you back again soon!
Written April 16, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
AishaLea
Brisbane, Australia106 contributions
its a lovely telaxing trip with some great commentary on melbourne along the way. very pleasurable. sadly i do think its overpriced, for 2 adults n 4 kids it cost us $220. i just feel thats excessive for a ferry ride.
Written December 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Aisha,
We're delighted to hear your family enjoyed our sightseeing cruise. We truely value your business and we hope we will see you on board again in the future! It there's anything we can do to assist you further, please let us know.
Have a great day!
Written December 20, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
What is the pick up time if I book a round trip
Mary A
2 contributions
Early morning is best but it depends where you like to have lunch and what you want see. City exploring is better. Willi is limited
Guguvub S
Melbourne, Australia
Is the price indicated for both ways or just one way?
Michael-4551
Caloundra, Australia5,458 contributions
You can purchase a single ticket or a return ticket, just depends on your plans. You can also break your journey and return on a later ferry depending when you travel. Check out their website.
Carolyn F
Melbourne, Australia1 contribution
Hi do you need to buy tickets online or can you purchase on the day before boarding?
Thanks
lovethisplanet2014
Palmerston, Australia223 contributions
You can buy the ticket at the ticket booth next to the bridge.
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
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Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise provided by Melbourne River Cruises
Product Overview: Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
Prices From | $14 |
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Number of Reviews | 132 |
Number of Photos | 90 |