The Best Boat Rentals in Melbourne

Most small boats and simple river cruisers in Melbourne start around A$100–A$150 per hour, mid‑size sailboats and cabin cruisers typically run A$180–A$400 per hour, and larger yachts or event boats range from about A$400 up to A$1,200+ per hour depending on size, crew, and season. Rates commonly include the vessel, standard safety gear, fuel for short city cruises, and a licensed skipper for captained charters. Extras like catering, premium beverages, extended fuel for bay crossings, late‑night wharf fees, and post‑cruise cleaning may be additional, and each listing will spell out what’s included before you book.

You’ll find a good mix tailored to Melbourne’s waterways, including sleek motor cruisers for city and bay sightseeing, sailboats and catamarans for relaxed afternoon sails, sportier RIBs and runabouts for faster bay hops, classic yachts for special occasions, and purpose‑built fishing boats for snapper and whiting trips. Larger event vessels are available for corporate functions and celebrations, while compact electric or low‑speed river boats suit easy Yarra River cruising.

If you book a captained charter, you don’t need a licence—the skipper takes care of the driving so you can focus on hosting. For self‑drive “hire and drive” boats, Victoria generally requires a marine licence when the vessel is capable of more than 10 knots; some low‑speed river boats are limited below that and may be offered licence‑free. Always check the licence requirement listed on the boat’s page, and bring valid photo ID either way.

Popular city departures include the Docklands precinct—especially Melbourne City Marina and NewQuay Marina—for easy access to Victoria Harbour and the Yarra. On the bay side, St Kilda (Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron marina and the St Kilda marina precinct) is a frequent starting point, and Williamstown’s historic Gem Pier is another classic embarkation spot with great skyline views. Some sightseeing cruises also board along Southbank near Princes Bridge and the convention centre.

City routes along the Yarra River showcase Southbank, Federation Square and Flinders Street Station, plus landmark bridges like Seafarers, Bolte and West Gate. Out on Port Phillip Bay, you can take in St Kilda’s foreshore, the city skyline at sunset, Port Melbourne’s Station Pier with visiting cruise ships in season, Williamstown’s maritime heritage and HMAS Castlemaine, and—on longer bay runs—the Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes. Keep an eye out for seabirds and, occasionally, dolphins in the bay.

Yes, families are welcome on most boats, and operators provide appropriately sized lifejackets. In Victoria, children under 12 must wear a lifejacket in open areas when the vessel is underway, and crews will help ensure a proper fit. Strollers can be tricky on smaller decks, so a baby carrier is often easier, and it’s smart to pack sun protection, snacks, and layers for Melbourne’s changeable weather.

Most private charters allow BYO food and beverages, and many can arrange catering if you prefer a hands‑off experience. For everyone’s safety, skippers may prefer cans and reusable cups over glass, and some vessels restrict red wine or messy foods. Let your captain know about cakes, decorations, or dietary needs in advance so the boat is set up when you arrive.

Some boats welcome well‑behaved dogs on private charters, usually with prior approval and a small cleaning fee. Space, deck layout, and weather exposure vary by vessel, so confirm pet policies before booking, bring a lead and water bowl, and plan for your pet to remain on deck and off upholstered seating. For wildlife protection, note that pets are not permitted on the St Kilda breakwater penguin area.

Melbourne’s weather can shift quickly, especially with afternoon sea breezes on Port Phillip Bay. Captains monitor conditions and will recommend calmer morning departures when wind is forecast. If conditions are unsafe—strong winds, storms, or poor visibility—your skipper may reschedule or cancel; in those cases most listings offer a free date change or a refund according to the stated policy. If your plans change, message the owner early to keep your options open.

The peak boating season runs from late spring through early autumn, roughly November to April, with warmest, longest days in January and February. Local high‑demand periods include New Year’s Eve on the Yarra, Australia Day around January 26, the Labour Day long weekend and Moomba on the river in early March, and the Melbourne Boat Show in Docklands in mid‑October. Weekdays often have the best availability and pricing, mornings are usually calmer on the bay, and golden‑hour sunset cruises are a favorite for photos. U.S. holidays like Memorial Day or July 4 don’t impact Melbourne availability, but local long weekends do—so book early around those dates.

Absolutely. Many boats in Melbourne are set up for celebrations, from laid‑back river cruisers for 10–20 guests to spacious bay‑going yachts and party boats. Tell your captain the occasion, headcount, music preferences, and any BYO or catering plans. For bigger groups, lock in dates a few weeks ahead, especially for Saturdays, public‑holiday weekends, and sunset time slots.

Choose a captained charter if you want a stress‑free event, local route tips, and the flexibility to mingle instead of mind the helm. Pick self‑drive if you’re confident handling a boat, understand local speed limits and bridge clearances on the Yarra, and meet any licence requirements. If you’re unsure, captained is usually the easiest option for groups and first‑time visitors.

Yes. Short, scenic runs include Docklands to Williamstown for maritime history and waterfront pubs, or out to St Kilda for skyline and beach views. Longer bay charters can add Brighton’s Bathing Boxes or a dolphin‑spotting cruise when conditions are calm, and dusk trips near St Kilda sometimes glimpse little penguins around the breakwater from a respectful distance. Always follow crew guidance on protected wildlife areas and keep safe viewing distances.