Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise

Melbourne , Australia

Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise

Active

(357 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The City and Williamstown Ferry offers visitors an historic coastal village experience. Cruise past Melbourne's shipping channels on your journey to the old maritime seaport of Williamstown. Spend the day sipping coffee at a sidewalk café or discovering quaint shops and galleries, before taking a leisurely cruise back to the city.

Departure times are from the City unless stated otherwise.

Available options

Roundtrip from City

Roundtrip - Beginning in City Starting point: Melbourne River Cruises, Berth 2, Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia

City to Williamstown

Starting point: Melbourne River Cruises, Berth 2, Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia

Roundtrip from Williamstown

Beginning in Williamstown Starting point: Gem Pier, 1 Syme St, Williamstown VIC 3016, Australia

Williamstown to City

Starting point: Gem Pier, 1 Syme St, Williamstown VIC 3016, Australia

What's included

Tea and coffee

Live commentary on board

What you'll see

City to Williamstown

Cruise past Melbourne's shipping channels on your journey to the old maritime seaport of Williamstown. Explore this early colonial settlement, boasting a charming array of restaurants, cafes and galleries amongst picturesque gardens. Take in the stunning waterfront bay views overlooking the coastal waters. Duration: 50 mins to 1 hour.

Williamstown to City Ferry

Depart from this inner city treasure and historic coastal village. Journey across the bay into the Yarra River, past the port and docklands. A wonderful opportunity to see the magnificent vistas of the Melbourne skyline before entering into the hustle and bustle of city life.

Duration: 50 mins to 1 hour

Williamstown and City

For a great day out, take a return trip to or from Williamstown or the city. A wonderful range of activities, restaurants and attractions to explore for everyone. Duration: 1 ¾ - 2 hours

You can choose to go one-way or return! Just select which option suits you at the time of booking.

Onboard Facilities:
• Tea and Coffee
• Informative commentary
• Large panoramic windows
• Alfresco sun decks
• Comfortable onboard amenities (restrooms)

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.8

195 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

162 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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

Meeting point

If starting in Williamstown please meet us near the giant war ship off Syme Street.

Important notes

Please redeem your ticket at Berth 2, Southbank Promenade or Gem Pier, Williamstown about 20 minutes before your chosen departure time.

Please note all times are starting from Southgate unless booked otherwise.

Cruise duration times are approximate and subject to change, often due to tides and river traffic.

CRUISE C & D: CITY & WILLIAMSTOWN | DEPARTURE TIMES

CRUISE C: CITY TO WILLIAMSTOWN

OCT - APR: 10.30am*, 11.30am^, 12.30pm*, 1.30pm^, 2.30pm*
MAY - SEP (FRI-SUN): 10.30am*,12.30pm*, 2.30pm*

CRUISE D: WILLIAMSTOWN TO CITY

OCT - APR: 11.30am*, 12.30pm^, 1.30pm*, 2.30pm^, 3.30pm*
MAY - SEP (FRI-SUN): 11.30am*,1.30pm*, 2.30pm*

FRI - SUN CONFIRMED TO OPERATE (INCL. PUBLIC HOLIDAYS)

MON - THURS Please contact us on 8610 2600

About Melbourne

Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, and sporting culture. With a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, lush parks, and a thriving coffee culture, Melbourne offers a rich and diverse travel experience.

Top Attractions

Federation Square

Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting major events, exhibitions, and cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

Cultural 1-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

The Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre oasis in the heart of Melbourne, featuring a diverse range of plants, lakes, and walking trails.

Nature 1-3 hours Free

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The MCG is Australia's most iconic sports venue, hosting major events like the Australian Open, AFL, and cricket matches.

Sports 1-3 hours (longer for events) Free to enter (tours and events have fees)

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives, featuring breathtaking coastal views, the Twelve Apostles, and the lush Otway Ranges.

Scenic Drive Full day or overnight trip Free to drive (attractions may have entry fees)

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's largest and most iconic market, offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and souvenirs.

Market 1-3 hours Free to enter (food and shopping at your expense)

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

The NGV is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.

Art 1-3 hours Free (some exhibitions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast dish featuring toasted sourdough bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (can be made vegan without eggs or feta)

Lamb Rump

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served medium-rare with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a rich red wine jus.

Dinner Contains meat

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Dessert Contains dairy and egg whites (can be made gluten-free)

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee drink, similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam texture.

Drink Contains dairy (can be made with plant-based milk alternatives)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Dandenong Ranges Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley Kayaking on the Yarra River Spa and wellness retreats Picnics in the Royal Botanic Gardens Beachcombing at St Kilda Beach Visiting museums and galleries Attending live performances and events

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (UTC+10) during standard time, AEDT (UTC+11) during daylight saving time (October to April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Melbourne is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Didi, and always check the fare before starting your journey
• Book tours and tickets through official channels or reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Melbourne Airport • 23 km from city center

By train

Southern Cross Station

By bus

Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a convenient and iconic way to get around Melbourne. The free tram zone in the city center is a great way to explore.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fitzroy St Kilda Carlton Southbank Brunswick

Day trips

Yarra Valley

60 km from Melbourne • Full day

The Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, and stunning natural landscapes.

Mornington Peninsula

80 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, hot springs, and a range of outdoor activities.

Phillip Island

140 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

Phillip Island is a scenic island known for its wildlife, particularly the famous Penguin Parade, as well as beautiful beaches and coastal walks.

Festivals

Australian Open • Mid-January Melbourne International Comedy Festival • March to April Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) • August

Pro tips

Use the free tram zone in the city center to explore Melbourne's attractions and neighborhoods
Get a myki card for easy and discounted travel on trams, trains, and buses
Visit the Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs
Explore Melbourne's laneways and street art for a unique and authentic experience
Try Melbourne's famous coffee culture at one of the city's many specialty coffee shops and cafes