About this tour
Captain your own Harvey A vessel down [Melbourne](/places/melbourne)'s Yarra River for two hours without needing a licence. Cruise with up to nine others past the Botanical Gardens, MCG, Southbank and Docklands, choosing morning, lunch or afternoon slots that suit your schedule. The boat comes equipped for casual entertaining—fridge, champagne buckets, stereo and table settings included—though you'll bring your own food and drinks.
Highlights
- Self-drive without a boat licence required
- Up to 10 people per vessel
- Views of Botanical Gardens, MCG, Southbank, Docklands
- Fridge and champagne buckets onboard
- Choose morning, lunch or afternoon departure
- Built-in stereo with AV connectivity
- Escape the city without leaving it
What to expect
You'll receive a laminated map and straightforward briefing before taking the wheel of a well-maintained private boat. The Yarra's a forgiving stretch for self-driving—mostly flat water with gentle flow. You'll navigate past some of Melbourne's best-known landmarks while the river keeps things peaceful compared to street-level crowds. Bring a picnic or BYO supplies; the onboard fridge keeps everything cold. The stereo lets you set the mood, and furnished table settings mean you can actually sit down and eat properly rather than balancing plates.
Good to know
Minimum age 21 to skipper. Infants go on an adult's lap; prams welcome. Service animals allowed. No hotel transfers included—use nearby public transport or arrange your own way to the boat. Food and beverages are entirely your responsibility.
Frequently asked
- How long does 2-Hour Self-Drive Boat Hire on the Yarra River take?
- 2-Hour Self-Drive Boat Hire on the Yarra River runs for approximately 2 hours.
- How much does 2-Hour Self-Drive Boat Hire on the Yarra River cost?
- Prices start from AUD $299 per person. Final pricing varies by date, group size and any add-ons — confirmed at checkout via Viator.
- Where does 2-Hour Self-Drive Boat Hire on the Yarra River run?
- This tour operates around Australia. Specific meeting points and pickup options are listed by the operator at checkout.
- Who runs 2-Hour Self-Drive Boat Hire on the Yarra River?
- The tour is sold and operated by its supplier through Viator. VIC Travel earns a small commission on bookings made via the link, which keeps this site free for travellers.
- Is the tour confirmed at the listed price?
- The price shown is the operator's "from" price as of our last sync. Final price, currency conversion, group discounts and cancellation policy are confirmed at checkout — always review before paying.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original VIC Travel summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.