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Melbourne Attractions

Williamstown Ferry tickets

4.4(1.3K Ratings)
Multiple route options
Multiple route options
Frequent departures
Frequent departures
Scenic views
Scenic views
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The cruise captain checking tickets of the guests on Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River
The cruise captain checking tickets of the guests on Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River
Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
A guest looking at the city skyline from the cruise
Passengers enjoying the Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise with a view of the city skyline in the background
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
11907 - Melbourne - 1 or 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River - 06
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
The cruise captain checking tickets of the guests on Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River
The cruise captain checking tickets of the guests on Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River
Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
A guest looking at the city skyline from the cruise
Passengers enjoying the Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise with a view of the city skyline in the background
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
11907 - Melbourne - 1 or 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River - 06
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
The cruise captain checking tickets of the guests on Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River
The cruise captain checking tickets of the guests on Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River
Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise
A guest looking at the city skyline from the cruise
Passengers enjoying the Melbourne City and Williamstown Ferry Cruise with a view of the city skyline in the background
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
11907 - Melbourne - 1 or 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River - 06
Melbourne City skyline view from Williamstown ferry cruise.
4.5(292)

Ferry Transfers between Melbourne and Williamstown

from
AU$35
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. - 2 hr.
Transfers included
  • The ferry transfer between Melbourne and Williamstown is as convenient as it is pretty. Board at either point or enjoy a round trip.
  • Say yay to not opting for crowded trains or stuffy cars as you cruise along the Yarra River and enjoy views of Melbourne's iconic Crown Casino, Westgate Bridge, and more.
  • From its historic landmarks, beaches, and adorable cafes to being Melbourne's first port, Williamstown has plenty to offer.
  • Just here for the sail? No problem. Sail right back to where it all started: Southbank or Port Philip Bay and enjoy the views all over again.
  • The ferry transfer between Melbourne and Williamstown is as convenient as it is pretty. Board at either point or enjoy a round trip.
  • Say yay to not opting for crowded trains or stuffy cars as you cruise along the Yarra River and enjoy views of Melbourne's iconic Crown Casino, Westgate Bridge, and more.
  • From its historic landmarks, beaches, and adorable cafes to being Melbourne's first port, Williamstown has plenty to offer.
  • Just here for the sail? No problem. Sail right back to where it all started: Southbank or Port Philip Bay and enjoy the views all over again.

Inclusions

  • One-way ferry transfer between Melbourne City and Williamstown
  • Round-trip (optional)
  • Complimentary tea/coffee
  • Tip: Have your camera ready at all times, there's a photo-op at every bend!
  • The ferry is not accessible by wheelchair or mobility scooters.
  • Children will have to remain seated at all times.
  • Cruises may be delayed or rescheduled due to weather, tidal conditions, or shipping traffic.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guests on the Melbourne River Cruise
The cruise captain checking tickets of the guests on Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River
The Melbourne River Cruise
Melbourne cruise on Yarra river
Guests on the Melbourne River Cruise
Guests on the Melbourne River Cruise
The city skyline from Yarra River
The city skyline from Yarra River
Guests on the Melbourne River Cruise
The cruise captain checking tickets of the guests on Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River
The Melbourne River Cruise
Melbourne cruise on Yarra river
Guests on the Melbourne River Cruise
Guests on the Melbourne River Cruise
The city skyline from Yarra River
The city skyline from Yarra River
Guests on the Melbourne River Cruise
The cruise captain checking tickets of the guests on Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River
The Melbourne River Cruise
Melbourne cruise on Yarra river
Guests on the Melbourne River Cruise
Guests on the Melbourne River Cruise
The city skyline from Yarra River
The city skyline from Yarra River
4.4(993)

1 or 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on Yarra River

from
AU$38
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. - 2 hr.
  • Choose between 3 equally enticing cruise options, to sail the Yarra River and experience the best of Melbourne's views in 1 or 2 hours.
  • If beautiful landscapes meeting iconic government landmarks sounds like a great way to spend an hour, opt for the Parks & Gardens cruise.
  • For Melbourne's cultural heartbeat (think the World Congress & Trade Centre and shipping docks), Ports & Docklands cruise is your way to go.
  • Better yet, see everything. Spend 2 hours on the Melbourne Highlights Cruise to cover every iconic landmark in one picturesque sail.
  • Enjoy informative commentary throughout the Highlights cruise, and opt to purchase a drink, so it's not just your eyes doing all the feasting.
  • Choose between 3 equally enticing cruise options, to sail the Yarra River and experience the best of Melbourne's views in 1 or 2 hours.
  • If beautiful landscapes meeting iconic government landmarks sounds like a great way to spend an hour, opt for the Parks & Gardens cruise.
  • For Melbourne's cultural heartbeat (think the World Congress & Trade Centre and shipping docks), Ports & Docklands cruise is your way to go.
  • Better yet, see everything. Spend 2 hours on the Melbourne Highlights Cruise to cover every iconic landmark in one picturesque sail.
  • Enjoy informative commentary throughout the Highlights cruise, and opt to purchase a drink, so it's not just your eyes doing all the feasting.

Inclusions

  • 1 or 2-hour sightseeing cruise
  • Ports and Docklands Cruise, Parks and Gardens Cruise, Melbourne Highlights Cruise (based on option selected)
  • Commentary (Highlights cruise)
  • Complimentary tea/coffee

Exclusions

  • Beverages (can be purchased on the cruise)
  • Ports and Docklands Cruise Route
  • Southgate Arts & Leisure Precinct
  • Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre
  • 19th Century sailing ship “Polly Woodside”
  • Crown Entertainment Complex
  • World Congress & Trade Centre
  • Bolte Bridge & Westgate Bridge
  • Shipping Channels and dock area
  • Docklands and Docklands Stadium
  • Melbourne CBD views
  • Parks and Gardens Cruise Route
  • Federation Square
  • Royal Botanic Gardens
  • Government House
  • Melbourne & Olympic Parks including AAMI Park, Melbourne Arena, Holden Centre, Margaret Court Arena | MCA, Melbourne Cricket Ground | MCG, and Rod Laver Arena
  • Herring Island
  • Melbourne Highlights Cruise Route
  • All landmarks covered in both of the cruises above.
  • The cruise is both wheelchair and stroller accessible.
  • Guests appearing intoxicated may not be permitted on the cruise.
  • Children will have to remain seated throughout the cruise.
  • Australian citizens enjoy reduced prices with concession tickets. Please bring your valid IDs.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Melbourne

Top things to do in Melbourne

Getting around the city, made easy by the Williamstown Ferry

If you want to see the Garden City in a different light, you need to explore the suburb of Williamstown. The Williamstown Ferry is arguably the best way to get there, because not only do you see iconic tourist attractions like the Melbourne skyline, Westgate Bridge, Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, and more along the way, you also don't have to worry about being stuck in traffic, making it a convenient and budget friendly way to commute to and from Melbourne. Arrive in Williamstown with a smile, and explore the cute cafes, retail stores, and fascinating maritime history of the neighborhood.

Navigate your Williamstown Ferry guide

  1. Williamstown Ferry booking guide
  2. Boarding points for the Williamstown Ferry
  3. Views from the Williamstown Ferry
  4. Williamstown Ferry guest reviews
  5. Things to know before you board the Williamstown Ferry
  6. Frequently asked questions about the Williamstown Ferry

Things to know before you book your Williamstown Ferry tickets

  • There are two types of Williamstown Ferry tickets you can choose from: one way ferries from Melbourne or Williamstown, and return ferries from Melbourne or Williamstown.
  • The One Way Ferry from Melbourne to Williamstown will take you on a one-hour boat journey from the city to Williamstown. Sit back and enjoy the captain's commentary as you float along the Yarra River, and pass by attractions such as SEA LIFE Aquarium, Eureka Skydeck, and more.
  • The One Way Ferry from Williamstown to Melbourne takes you on a one-hour boat ride from the Gems Pier in Williamstown, to the Southbank Promenade in Melbourne. You'll see the Crown Casino, Flinders Street Station, and more as you cross from Hobsons Bay, into the Yarra River.
  • The Return Ferry from Melbourne to Williamstown is a two-hour cruise up and down the Yarra River and Hobsons Bay. Feel free to make use of your hop-on hop-off privileges, and get down at Williamstown to explore for a few hours before you take the next return cruise back to the city.
  • The Return Ferry from Williamstown to Melbourne is a two-hour cruise to and from Williamstown, along Hobsons Bay and Yarra River. This is a hop-on hop-off ticket, which means you get to explore the city and its tourist spots, before heading back to Williamstown. The famous live commentary from the captain is included in this journey, just like it is for all the other ferry options.
  • If you are a tourist looking for a day trip to Williamstown or Melbourne, then the return ferry tickets are the best option for you. You save AU$13 in tickets, just by booking both your going and return tickets for AU$48. Choose from three different return time slots to return back to your origin port.
  • If you plan on staying at Williamstown or Melbourne, then the one way ferry ticket is the way to go. Public commute options like the ferry are not only the environmentally conscious choice, you also get to skip the city traffic, and sightsee along the way! If you take a taxi from the city to Williamstown, you could be spending an average of AU$70 for a one way ride, so save big on commute by taking the Williamstown Ferry instead, for AU$35 for a one way ticket.
  • Please note: Children between 3 to 12 years get a discounted ticket, at AU$20. Children below 3 can board for free.

Boarding points for the Williamstown Ferry

Southbank Promenade Pier - Melbourne

  • Address: Berth 2, Southbank Promenade, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia
  • Nearest station: Arts Centre
  • Pick-up/drop-off: One way and return ferries to Williamstown

Getting to Southbank Promenade from Parliament House

  • via metro: Get on the Cranbourne Line from Parliament House station and get down at the Flinders Street station which is the last stop on this route. The Southbank Promenade is a 7-minute walk away.
  • via tram: Walk 550m to reach the Spring St/Flinders St station, and board the Clockwise (35) tram to Flinders Street tram stop, which is the third stop. From here, walk 350m to reach Southbank Promenade.
Directions to Southbank Promenade

Gem Pier - Williamstown

  • Address: 1 Syme St, Williamstown VIC 3016, Australia
  • Nearest station: Cole St/Nelson Pl
  • Pick-up/drop-off: One way and return ferries to Melbourne city

Getting to Gem Pier from Newport Railway Museum

  • via metro: Walk 280m to the North Williamstown station and board the Williamstown Line. Get down at the Williamstown station and walk 700m to reach the Gem Pier.
  • via bus: From the Railway Museum, walk four minutes to reach the North Williamstown bus station. Get on the Williamstown (415) bus and get down at the Ferguson Street Pier station. The Gem Pier is a 650m walk away.
Directions to Gem Pier

Views from the Williamstown Ferry

Flinders Street Station

Flinders Street Station

Akin to the Grand Central Station in NYC, the Flinders Station is the largest and busiest railway station in Melbourne, serving the entire metropolitan rail network.

Crown Casino
SEA LIFE Melbourne
Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre
See all photos

What guests have to say about their Williamstown Ferry ride

Things to know before you board the Williamstown Ferry

Timings
Best time to go on the ferry
Rules
Tips
Nearby
Williamstown Ferry timetable

Williamstown Ferry schedule

The Williamstown Ferry operates from Friday to Sunday, every week. While they are generally closed during weekdays, there may be the occasional weekday bookings available.

The one way and return ferries from Melbourne to Williamstown depart at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 3pm.

The one way and return ferries from Williamstown to Melbourne depart at 11:30am, 1:30pm, and 4pm.

Given that the ferry does not operate on weekdays, plan your ferry ride based on seasonality.

December to February is summer in Australia, making it a great time to step out and do some sightseeing. If you visit Melbourne during this time, be prepared for sunny days and cooler, pleasant evenings. The city will have plenty of tourists during this time, so expect larger crowds in tourist spots.

Between June and August is peak winter in Australia. If you don't want to encounter large crowds while exploring, and are okay with lower temperatures, then this is the perfect time to visit. Make sure to layer up while you're out and about!

  • Safety protocols: Pay attention to the safety instructions provided while boarding, so you are aware of what to do, in case of an emergency.
  • Children on board: Children of all ages are free to take the Williamstown Ferry. Just make sure to keep a close eye on them while you are on board.
  • Wheelchair accessibility: The ferry is not wheelchair accessible, and staff are not permitted to help people on and off the boat, so plan accordingly while booking your tickets.
  • Smoking: There is strictly no smoking on board, including e-cigarettes.
  • Food & beverages: outside food and drinks are not allowed on board.
  • Arrive early: Boarding starts 15 minutes before departure, so make sure to arrive at the boarding point early to avoid delays or worse, missing your cruise.
  • Medication: While the journey is generally non-turbulent, carry nausea medication with you if you tend to get sea-sick easily.
  • Grab your cameras: It's practically impossible to forget this one, but get your cameras out for shots of iconic attractions like the Crown Casino, Flinders Street Station, and more!
  • Unexpected weather: In case of extreme weather, the ferry might get canceled. But don't worry, you can reach out to the venue for a full refund.
  • Yarra River Cruises: Go on sightseeing cruise along the Yarra river. You have the option to upgrade to a boozy brunch, if you're up for it!
  • SEA LIFE Melbourne: Encounter 10,000+ sea creatures from around the world, at this renowned aquarium in Melbourne.
  • Melbourne Cricket Ground: Visit the second largest cricket ground in the world and learn about some historic moments in cricket while you're there.
  • IceBar Melbourne: Grab an ice cold drink, or indulge in snow play at this ice paradise.

Frequently asked questions about the Williamstown Ferry

What is the price of the Williamstown Ferry ticket?

Your Williamstown Ferry ticket price can vary depending on whether you choose a one way or return trip. The one way ferry ticket (city and Williamstown variants) will cost you AU$35, while the return trip ferry ticket (city and Williamstown variants) will set you back AU$48.

Are there any discounts on Williamstown Ferry tickets?

Yes. Children between the ages of 3 and 12, can get a discounted ticket, which costs AU$20. Children below 3 can ride the ferry for free.

What is the cancelation policy on Williamstown Ferry tickets?

You can cancel your Williamstown Ferry ticket for free, up to 24 hours before the start of your experience. Beyond this, you will not be able to cancel and/or get a refund.

What is the validity of my Williamstown Ferry ticket?

Your ticket is valid for 1-2 hours (depending on the type of ticket chosen), on the date of travel.

Is there an audio guide on the Williamstown Ferry?

Yes, you will be treated to a comprehensive audio guide on board, which will cover all the attractions you pass by, on your journey. Feel free to ask the staff members on board for additional information, in case you get curious.

What do I need to carry with me on the Williamstown Ferry?

Carry some sea sickness medication, if you tend to get nauseous on the water. You will receive complimentary tea and snacks on board, so skip getting outside food and beverages.

How do I find the directions to the boarding point?

The Melbourne city boarding point is at Southbank Promenade | Find on maps. And the Williamstown boarding point is at Gem Pier | Find on maps. The Melbourne public transport system is extensive and well connected, making it super convenient for you to reach the boarding points via bus, tram, metro, and of course, car.

What are the benefits of taking the Williamstown Ferry?

The ferry is a much cleaner way to get around the city, not to mention you get to sightsee, without having to worry about things like traffic on the road. In terms of cost effectiveness, the Williamstown Ferry is a good budget option for commute. You save up to 50% of your one-way cab ride to Williamstown, which can cost you an average of AU$70.

Is the Williamstown Ferry wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, the ferry is not wheelchair accessible. The boat is made in a way such that ramps cannot be built in, so unless you can move independently up and down stairs, this might not be the best experience for you.

Is the Williamstown Ferry kid-friendly?

Yes, the ferry is open for kids of all ages. Just make sure to keep your kids under supervision at all times, especially near hand rails overlooking the open water.