Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
4
Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
By Melbourne River Cruises
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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.
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
Live guide: English
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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.
- Start:Multiple meeting point options.
- Option 1Melbourne River Cruises, Berth 2, Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC 3006, AustraliaBerth No 2, Southgate Arts and Leisure Precinct Landing.
- Option 2Gem Pier, 1 Syme St, Williamstown VIC 3016, AustraliaIf starting in Williamstown please meet us near the giant war ship off Syme Street.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Pushchair 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 travellers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled 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 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- 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
From
AU$35.00
per adult
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- mjsg010 contributionsGreat dinner cruiseLovely relaxed trip down the river with good food and sights Well organised loading of the ship with each booking given a preset table number (so no advantage getting on first) Service was great with plenty of staff on hand to help with any queries or extra drinks. Food was of a good standard (better than expected for this type of trip)Written 8 October 2024
- susanwU2829DM0 contributionsOutstanding and Excellent Customer ServiceOur Cruise was Absolutely Fabulous and we Loved every moment. The boat was Amazing and the Team were Outstanding. Their Service was Excellent and they went Above and Beyond with Everything they did. We would like to Congratulate Ryan, Adrian and PJ for Customer Service Excellence. Keep doing what you do, it was the highlight of our 3 week Melbourne holiday. Thank-you. Kind Regards, Susan & Norman Webber Baldivis Western AustraliaWritten 6 October 2024
- D6131ESkiml0 contributionsAwesome river lunch cruiseLoved this experience. Lunch was surprisingly yummy. There were 7 of us and we all loved our meals. We had the eye fillet, salmon and lasagne. Entrees were shared and were also yum. So relaxing, nice tunes, great scenery and the staff were friendly and couldn’t do enough for us. A birthday cupcake and candle was a nice treat. Would highly recommendWritten 5 October 2024
- debbyh8010 contributionsBest River Cruise Ever!!!!!From the moment we stepped onboard the staff were friendly, professional and could not do enough for us all. The meal was restaurant quality and good size servings. Plenty of drinks to choose from and caters for all ages. Will definitely do this cruise again when we are in Melbourne again. Would highly recommend this cruise to everyone, we had the best time!!!!!Written 4 October 2024
- barbarabJ6118IZ0 contributionsGood way to see the cityThe tour was a great way to see all the sites along the river, especially the beautiful bridges, The 2 hr cruise option is slightly confusing, since it's basically staying on the boat after the hour tour is done, with the second hour going up the other part of the river. The crew was great. It was hard to hear the recorded tour audio, though, when the captain and asst were talking, to each other or on their radio. We recommend the tour. Great way to learn about this wonderful city.Written 25 September 2024
- O3014PCwendyh0 contributions90th birthday celebrationWe had an amazing day for my Mum’s 90th birthday. The food was amazing and our wait staff was a delight. The scenery was terrific and it didn’t rain on us. Overall a fabulous way to celebrate the day.Written 21 September 2024
- jerneja980 contributionsGood way to see the city from another angleThe cruise was good and the staff were very friendly. It’s a good way to see the city from another angle. There were quite a few kids on board so it got quite loud and I couldn’t hear all the commentary. Overall it was a great experience.Written 17 September 2024
- Curiosity560385395170 contributionsDon't Skip This!!Loved this cruise highlights. The city is beautiful and the more lovely from the boat. The crew are very good and must say very knowledgeable. The river is called Yarra and there is a lot of history in the commentary which is the best thing we heard in Melbourne city. They have a good control on their operation which you can see in the staff. The new Zealand man was very professional and courteous while making my booking.Written 9 September 2024
- Journey322538016460 contributionsGood cruise to see the cityBest way to see the city. Visiting from HK this time I had family and they loved it. Harry looked after us explaining us the sights and gave us the option of upgrade to 2 hours. Great customer service and the cruise itself was good. Kevin the service staff greeted us politely and gave us cold drinks. Captain Jimmy a retired sailor now navigating in the city fitted in well. Dont miss this cruise you will enjoy it.Written 9 September 2024
- EscarioCentralH0 contributionsMoney's worth!Food was very good! Steak was done properly. Staff were pleasant and they ensure your wine glasses never go empty. As I was dining solo and I was thoughtfuly seated on a good spot. Where I enjoyed front seat and had dinner with the view.Written 8 September 2024
- brielogan0 contributionsAn ok experienceAt times it was difficult to hear the commentary due to lots of noisy children being very loud. Other than these distractions it was an enjoyable cruiseWritten 7 September 2024
- SallyC19950 contributionsA wonderful luncheon cruise.What a lovely relaxing cruise. The boat is very comfortable, there is a decent amount of space between tables, and the windows were immaculately clean. The staff were very friendly and attentive. Plates were cleared promptly, and glasses were topped up as often as you wished. The food was beautifully cooked, and the portion sizes were spot on. The steak was tender and juicy and the chicken was cooked to perfection. The entrees and sweets were superb. I highly recommend this cruise up the Yarra for couples, groups, and families.Written 6 September 2024
- Ted J0 contributionsA river dining treat not to be missedThe best dining river trip we have ever experienced. The boat was well set out, clean and tidy and there were tablecloths. Food was first rate and better than you can get in some restaurants. Drinks were included. The scenery at night was very calming. Staff could not have been more helpful.Written 5 September 2024
- Bianca R0 contributionsGreat experience!Staff, boat and amenities were top notch. The reason I gave 4 stars was due to the river being so high and not being able to go under all the bridges- not companies fault. Amazing couples experience, the food was yum and drinks were a plenty.Written 31 August 2024
- Lisa S0 contributionsGreat food and service. Recommended.Food was excellent and they accommodated a dairy free menu. Service was also excellent. Only negative comment is that it is very costly.Written 30 August 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members 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.
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4.0
154 reviews
Excellent
75
Very good
42
Average
16
Poor
13
Terrible
8
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 1 January 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 2 January 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 16 December 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, Australia449 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 15 March 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 16 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
SuzB
Sydney, Australia4 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 17 April 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 4 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
nomads59
Sunshine Coast, Australia224 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 14 May 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 26 May 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 29 January 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 30 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
James T
Perth, Australia3 contributions
July 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 1 July 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 5 July 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kim S
1 contribution
June 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 21 June 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 26 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Suedaytripper
Prospect, Australia72 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 8 April 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 16 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
AishaLea
Brisbane, Australia125 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 20 December 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 20 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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
Written 22 January 2023
Guguvub S
Melbourne, Australia
Is the price indicated for both ways or just one way?
Written 7 August 2018
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.
Written 7 August 2018
Hi do you need to buy tickets online or can you purchase on the day before boarding?
Thanks
Written 27 May 2018
You can buy the ticket at the ticket booth next to the bridge.
Written 29 May 2018
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