Cruising into the Sunset: The Best Dinner Cruise in Melbourne This 2025

Looking for the best dinner cruise in Melbourne?

Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, world-class restaurants, and stunning waterfront views. As day turns to night, the city’s skyline lights up, creating a magical atmosphere you can best experience from the water. And what better way to soak in this beauty than on a dinner cruise along the Yarra River?

A dinner cruise in Melbourne offers the perfect blend of fine dining and breathtaking scenery. You can enjoy gourmet meals while drifting past some of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Imagine gliding along the river, sipping on premium Australian wine, and taking in the views of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Federation Square, and the illuminated Arts Centre, all while indulging in a delicious, chef-prepared meal.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or seeking a memorable evening, a Melbourne dinner cruise offers a unique experience. Below is our top pick for the best dinner cruise in Melbourne! Let’s dive in.

Our Top Pick: Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise

About The Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise

Embark on a luxurious dinner cruise in Melbourne along the Yarra River and indulge in a delightful evening of fine dining and breathtaking city views.

As the shimmering city lights reflect on the water, you’ll savour a 4-course gourmet meal featuring the finest local ingredients and premium beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits.

The experience also includes coffee, tea, dessert, port, and a cheese plate, making it the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the night.

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars – With more than 900 positive reviews! 

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours

This dinner cruise in Melbourne offers an unforgettable dining experience. You will enjoy stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including Federation Square and Flinders Street Station, beautifully illuminated against the night sky.

As you sail along the Yarra River, you will enjoy the city’s glittering skyline while indulging in a four-course gourmet meal and premium beverages like wine, bubbly, beer, and spirits.

Starting at $136 per person, the 3-hour cruise includes exceptional onboard service as you pass by notable attractions. This experience is perfect for a memorable night out, combining luxury dining with breathtaking views of Melbourne.

Why You Should Try a Dinner Cruise in Melbourne

A dinner cruise in Melbourne is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers several compelling reasons to try.

Firstly, it provides an opportunity to view the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks from a different perspective. The stunning views of the city’s illuminated skyline and famous attractions, such as the Royal Botanic Gardens, are breathtaking.

Cruise was better than expected. Staff were friendly and very attentive Great food with exceptional service!

-michael (see more reviews)

Secondly, a dinner cruise in Melbourne allows a fine dining experience while cruising down the Yarra River. With talented chefs preparing exquisite cuisine, you’ll savour the flavours of premium Australian wines paired with your gourmet meal. Additionally, the boat’s attentive staff and romantic ambience create a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere.

Thirdly, a dinner cruise in Melbourne offers an excellent setting for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or romantic dates. Whether you want to surprise your loved one with a romantic evening or treat your friends to a unique dining experience, a dinner cruise provides an ideal opportunity.

Beautiful view, nice staff, very classy setting and good food, A nice way to finish off a day of exploring Melbourne

-danielle (see more reviews)

Lastly, the Melbourne dinner cruise provides an ideal way to unwind and de-stress after a long day of sightseeing or work. The serene environment of the boat, combined with the delicious food and drink, make for a perfect evening of relaxation.

Other Things to Do in Melbourne

Melbourne is a city full of life, excitement, and endless opportunities for exploration. While a dinner cruise is a great way to experience the city from the water, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Melbourne that will leave a lasting impression.

Melbourne has something to offer everyone, from exploring hidden laneways and street art to visiting iconic landmarks and museums. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, a sports fan, or simply looking to soak up the atmosphere, Melbourne is a city that will captivate you. Let’s dive into some of the top things to do in Melbourne.

1. ArtVo Immersive Gallery Experience

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars – With more than 200 positive reviews! 

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 1-2 hours

Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of colour at ArtVo, an interactive art space in The District Docklands, just a stone’s throw from Melbourne’s central business district. Over 100 paintings spread across 11 themed zones invite visitors to touch and interact with the art.

We had a blast at this exhibit. Super fun and laid back atmosphere and so many fun photo ops. Could have spent all day in there playing around with different poses.

-rebecca (see more reviews)

Capture your memories with a selfie in front of the majestic Taj Mahal or angel wings. The friendly staff is readily available to offer guidance and spark creativity. Unlike conventional art museums, ArtVo is a relaxed and interactive space, providing endless opportunities for Instagram-worthy moments and artistic inspiration.

You can spend as much time capturing unique selfies and exploring the captivating artwork.

2. Melbourne Balloon Flight at Sunrise

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 150 positive reviews! 

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours

Experience a captivating and magical new view of Melbourne with a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the city. Take to the skies above modern skyscrapers, iconic sporting arenas, urban parks, and the tranquil Yarra River as the early morning light bathes the skyline in a beautifully rosy glow.

Following the unforgettable flight, consider celebrating with an optional champagne breakfast. This scenic journey offers plenty of photo opportunities to capture the stunning views of Melbourne from above. Your centrally located hotel in Melbourne will provide pick-up services for all hot air balloon flights, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience.

The magnificent view & the absolute serenity of floating over the wakening city.. punctuated witb the burst of flame.

-mark (see more reviews)

3. Melbourne Walking Tour

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 700 positive reviews! 

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours

Discover a more leisurely way of experiencing Melbourne with a walking tour that provides an unparalleled introduction to the city, particularly for first-time visitors.

Unlike traditional tour vehicles, this walking tour allows you to stop and appreciate the city’s top attractions, including Federation Square, Hosier Lane, Old Melbourne Gaol, and more, while learning fascinating stories and trivia you won’t find in guidebooks.

Very informative.Gave us an understanding about Melbourne’s history culture great places to eat and drink.One of the best walking tours we have been on.

-deborah (see more reviews)

With no concerns about parking, you can take your time to explore and admire Melbourne’s many highlights. Not only will you gain insights into the city’s history and culture, but you will also receive recommendations that will enhance the rest of your trip. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover parts of the city you might not have experienced.

4. Foodie Discovery Walking Tour

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 150 positive reviews! 

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours

To truly discover the culinary delights of Melbourne, you’ll need a local guide to lead you to the city’s best foodie hotspots. This food walking tour takes you on a journey through Melbourne’s atmospheric laneways and arcades, stopping at the most fantastic bars, cafes, and street food stalls.

The guide was friendly and full of valuable knowledge on coffee and food locations that’s Melbourne in one . Thanks again

-greg (see more reviews)

Sample various dishes, from delectable Chinese dumplings to sweet pastries and freshly brewed coffee. This small-group tour is limited to just ten people, ensuring an authentic local experience that immerses you in Melbourne’s culinary scene.

5. Melbourne City Bike Tour

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 400 positive reviews! 

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours and 30 minutes

Embark on a half-day bike tour in Melbourne to explore the city’s fascinating attractions, landmarks, and hidden gems. Enjoy the flexibility and speed of touring on two wheels while gaining an insider’s perspective from your knowledgeable guide.

Covered a lot of ground, and Geoff was entertaining and knowledgeable. His personal stories also added to the experience.

-maria (see more reviews)

Whether you want to explore historic sites, hidden laneways, or bustling neighbourhoods, this tour can be tailored to your interests. The tour begins at central Melbourne or the cruise port and includes bikes, gear, and lunch.

Throughout the tour, you’ll visit iconic landmarks like Federation Square, Parliament House, and the Melbourne Museum. Admire Melbourne’s street art and heritage arcades, and catch glimpses of celebrated sports venues such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground and National Tennis Centre.

This small-group tour is limited to eight people, ensuring you receive personalized attention from your guide.

The Wrap-Up: Dinner Cruise in Melbourne

In conclusion, a dinner cruise in Melbourne is a must-try experience that offers a unique and unforgettable way to see the city. From the sparkling skyline views to the delicious gourmet food and drinks, a dinner cruise on the Yarra River is the perfect way to spend an evening in Melbourne.

However, plenty of options are available if you’re looking for other exciting things to do in Melbourne. You may consider visiting ArtVo, taking a hot air balloon flight over the city at sunrise, or exploring Melbourne’s culinary scene on a food walking tour. With so much to see and do in Melbourne, you will indeed have a memorable time in this vibrant city.