INDIGENOUS CULTURAL CRUISE


An immersive Indigenous cultural experience on the Birrarung! Gather your group for an unforgettable journey of storytelling, local history, and ancient heritage. Check below for real-time availability and book now.

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• Booked as individual tickets

• Includes drinks package

• Runs most Friday and Saturday nights

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Book Online

Our desi cruises run most Friday and Saturday nights. Check here for real-time availability and book now for your crew!

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All Aboard

Gather your crew at our dock at least 15 mins before departure. Get set for a lively and intimate atmosphere for everyone!

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You're ON A BOAT!

Immerse yourself in a vibrant desi atmosphere with stunning skyline backdrop and amazing photo opportunities!

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Purchase Online Now

Our vouchers can be purchased as an entire cruise or contribute a value towards any cruise. This means our full range of both skipper yourself and skippered cruise experiences are available to gift.

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Instant Digital Certificate

We'll email you a digital gift certificate as soon as ordered, so all you need to do is print or just forward it on. Perfect even for the last-minute planners amongst us!

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Immersive historic journey

Our indigenous cultural cruises offer a deep connection to Melbourne’s ancient past. Book a unique experience that you and your group will be reflecting on long after you dock.

Bring the whole group

From small gatherings to larger groups, everyone is invited to share in this journey. There is plenty of space for meaningful conversation and immersive storytelling as we glide along the water.

Heritage, Culture, Connection

A truly authentic experience! Hosted in partnership with the Koorie Heritage Trust, this 1.5-hour cruise includes expert commentary and the unique opportunity to handle authentic Kulin Nations artifacts.

An Immersive Journey on the Birrarung

Connect with the deep and fascinating history of Melbourne’s iconic waterways! Gather your group for an unforgettable 1.5-hour experience that explores the ancient heritage of the river and its original custodians.


Experience the Birrarung (Yarra River) from a truly unique perspective with ON A BOAT’s Indigenous Cultural Cruise. In partnership with the Koorie Heritage Trust, this tour is led by an informative Aboriginal guide who shares profound insights into the significance of this ancient waterway to the local Kulin people. As you glide along the tranquil waters, you will learn about local Aboriginal culture, witness the remnants of the historical waterfall that once separated fresh and salt water, and discover the stories behind ancient Scar Trees.

Expert Koorie Heritage Trust Guide

Authentic Artifacts & Oral Storytelling

Spacious Vessel with Bathroom

Ancient Landmarks & Significant Sites

NEW YEARS EVE 2025

See in the New Year like a rockstar with a private boat cruise with your crew of up to 8, 16 or 20 people! We have an early and late sitting available on NYE (2 hours each), with the early cruise catering for the full families, which is then followed by a midnight cruise. Book early to avoid disappointment!

FAMILY CRUISE

8pm - 10pm

Includes family fireworks show

MIDNIGHT CRUISE

10.30pm - 12.30am

Includes midnight fireworks show

The ultimate desi night out

Imagine stepping onto a sleek, modern vessel that feels like a floating boutique lounge. Designed with plush seating that invites you to kick back and relax, the layout is perfectly curated to frame the Melbourne skyline as your personal backdrop. Whether you’re catching the sunset reflecting off the Yarra or posing against the city’s glittering night lights, the aesthetic is a total 'cheat code' for perfect photos. Plus, with the convenience of a full bathroom onboard, you can focus entirely on the scenery and the company without any logistical stress.

A premium South Asian experience

The vibe really shifts gears once the music hits, featuring a seamless blend of heavy Punjabi beats, Bollywood anthems, and those South Asian classics that everyone knows by heart. To keep the energy high and the conversation flowing, the experience is fully catered with wine, beer, and soft drinks all included, so you never have to worry about a tab. It’s the ultimate mix of sophisticated comfort and high-energy celebration, offering a premium way to experience the city from a perspective that’s usually reserved for the VIP list.

FAQs

Here's some common questions and answers below. If something else is on your mind, feel free to call us on 1300 915 605

  • Whats the departure schedule?

    Departing from:

    WTC Wharf, 18-38 Siddeley Street

    Boarding 7:15 PM | Cruise 7:30–10:00 PM

  • How many people per boat?

    This boat can carry up to 20 people.

  • Can reservations be rescheduled or cancelled?

    Reservations can be rescheduled or cancelled for credit free of charge up until 24 hours before trip.

  • Can we bring drinks onboard?

    BYO is not permitted. Full bar service available on board.

  • Can we bring food onboard?

    Yes, you’re welcome to bring light snacks and small food items onboard.

  • Is the cruise private or shared?

    This is a public cruise, so you’ll be sharing the experience with other guests - for private cruise enquiries please contact us.

  • Can I dance on the cruise?

    Absolutely! The Desi Lounge Cruise is designed to feel like a vibrant bar on the water, complete with space to dance.

  • Do I need to book in advance?

    Booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot, as spaces are limited.

  • What happens if the weather is bad?

    Rain or shine, the party’s on! Our vessel is fully covered, so you can keep cruising no matter the weather.