
Party Boat Hire Melbourne
Looking for the ultimate way to throw your next celebration? Our party boat hire Melbourne service delivers an unforgettable experience on the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay. Whether it’s a birthday bash, hens party, corporate event or just a fun get-together with friends, our luxury vessels and professional crew will ensure you make waves in true Melbourne style.
Why Choose Our Party Boat Cruise?
Tailored Packages
From two-hour express cruises to full-day charters, choose the duration and inclusions that suit your event. Add catering, a DJ, or BYO drinks for a fully bespoke celebration.Spacious, Stylish Vessels
Our modern party boats accommodate 10–35 guests comfortably. With sleek interiors, climate-controlled lounges, and open-air decks, they’re perfect for dancing, dining, or simply soaking in the skyline.Professional Crew & Skipper
Relax and enjoy the ride—our experienced skippers navigate, our friendly crew handle every detail, and you focus on the fun. All safety briefings, life jackets, and equipment are provided.Unbeatable Views of Melbourne
Glide past iconic landmarks—the Arts Centre, Crown Casino, Bolte Bridge and beyond. As you cruise under city lights, your guests will enjoy one of the most photogenic backdrops in Australia.Flexible Catering Options
Choose from gourmet finger food, seafood platters, BBQ buffets or fine-dining menus. Vegan, gluten-free and halal options available. Pair with your favourite beers, wines or a full cocktail bar.
Party Boat Cruise For Hens, birthday & Corporate
Birthdays & Anniversaries
Surprise your loved ones with a party boat hire Melbourne event that’s as unique as they are.Hens & Bucks Parties
Toast the bride-to-be or groom-to-be while cruising in privacy and style.Corporate & Team Building
Impress clients or reward staff with an exclusive river cruise—networking never looked so good.School Formals & Graduations
Celebrate milestones aboard our fully licensed vessels, dancing the night away under the stars.Public Holiday & New Year’s Eve Cruises
Book early for limited-edition Fireworks or Festival special departures.
How It Works
Select Your Date & Vessel
Check availability online or call our friendly team. We’ll recommend the best boat based on your group size and preferred cruising time.Choose Your Extras
From live entertainment to custom decorations, create your ideal party atmosphere.Confirm & Pay
Secure your booking with a 20% deposit. Final numbers and menu choices can be confirmed up to 7 days before departure.Board & Celebrate!
Arrive at Docklands Marina 15 minutes before departure. We handle setup, safety briefing, and cleanup—so you can party worry-free.
What Our Guests Say
“Best birthday party ever! The team at VIP Boat Hire went above and beyond. Amazing food, top-notch crew, and the Melbourne skyline looked incredible from the water.”
— Emma R., Melbourne
“Our hens party on the Yarra was epic. We danced, laughed, and made memories we’ll never forget. Highly recommend their party boat hire Melbourne service!”
— Sarah M., St Kilda
Book Your Party Boat Cruise In Melbourne Today!
Frequently Asked Questions
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If you're wondering about guest numbers, party boat hire in Melbourne offers options suitable for a wide range of group sizes. Generally, the minimum group size starts from around 4 guests, ensuring even smaller gatherings get the red-carpet treatment. On the flip side, for larger-scale events—think company celebrations or milestone birthdays—boats are available to accommodate up to an impressive 24 guests.
This flexibility means you can select a vessel that perfectly matches your party size, whether you’re hosting an intimate catch-up or a grand affair. Just keep in mind that minimum requirements can vary depending on the boat you select, so it’s always best to check availability based on your group.ription text goes here
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Our Melbourne’s party boats are thoughtfully equipped to turn your event into a truly memorable occasion—rain or shine. Step aboard and you’ll find expansive outdoor decks perfect for mingling and soaking up those city skyline views. Love to dance? Spacious dance floors and vibrant lighting set the scene, ensuring there’s always room to let loose with friends or coworkers.
Seating is available both indoors and out, offering comfort for guests no matter the weather. Many vessels boast two levels, so you can spread out and enjoy different atmospheres—from a lively party zone to a more relaxed lounge area. Of course, every boat comes with a fully functional bar, so keeping your glass topped up is never an issue.
Organized by experienced event professionals, these boats are designed to be both spacious and well-appointed, blending convenience with that unmistakable touch of celebration that only Melbourne’s waterways can deliver.Description text goes here
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Planning a party boat cruise for major occasions—likeNew Years Eve or Christmas parties or end-of-year celebrations—requires a bit of foresight. Melbourne’s most popular dates tend to fill up months in advance, often as early as mid-year. If you want your pick of the best boats and the flexibility to lock in your preferred catering, entertainment, and extras, it's wise to start the booking process at least 3-6 months ahead.
During peak periods, such as the festive season or spring racing carnival, demand skyrockets, especially for group sizes between 10-50 guests. Getting in early means you won’t have to compromise on your ideal date, boat size, or onboard entertainment, whether that’s a DJ, live music, or specialty dining.
If your schedule allows for spontaneity, last-minute availability does sometimes pop up—but if you’re planning for a specific date, or have a must-have guest list, early booking is your safest bet. Secure your spot, then relax and look forward to a New years eve Christmas cruise that’s both seamless and stress-free.
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Item desour yacht charter experience isn’t just about being on the boat—it’s also about taking in Melbourne’s vibrant waterways and iconic skyline. Cruises typically set sail from Docklands and, depending on the weather, meander along the Yarra River or venture out towards St Kilda and Williamstown. For those seeking spectacular city views, the cruise can extend into Port Phillip Bay, gliding past anchored ships with the twinkling Melbourne skyline as your backdrop. This ever-changing panorama ensures every journey feels unique, whether you’re in the heart of the city or catching sea breezes further afield.cription
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Our Party boat hire location is centrally locatedat at Docklands, New Quay Promenade. Victoria Harbour. See our google MAP reference and our 5 star reviews!
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We have BT Sound connectivity with phones or a DJ can be organised. Dancers, performers can be invited. There is 240V power supply for entarinment providers.
During summer months water toys are provided, Floating matts plus BBQ facilities. Off the beach swim parties.
We have Kareoke options if required.
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We are not a 3rd party booking agency your reservation is with the provider of the service. We have our own boats see our fleet on our website.
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We provide custom bookings based on our guests unique requirements and expectations or fprform a on-line reservation.
A fifty percent depsoit is required and the final instlament is required 7 days prior to departure. We accept credit cards or direct transfer. Tax invoice can be provided for corporate party cruises. See our party boat packages
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The list of inclusions in our party boat services include:
Professional Skipper
All safety gear
Hi Fidelity Stereo (BT)
BBQ Facilities
Cutlery & Cooking Implements
Optional Items to Be Ordered
Ice
Catering to be ordered see our Menu Options
Decorations : Balloons, Streamers , birthday signage, corpoate banners
Linen service for overnight stays
Deckhand to serve drinks
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Chartering a yacht is a luxurious and thrilling experience, offering unparalleled access to breathtaking destinations, personalized service, and the ultimate in comfort. However, with such luxury comes a certain level of decorum and respect for both the yacht and its crew. Understanding and following yacht etiquette ensures that your trip is not only enjoyable for you and your guests but also for the crew working behind the scenes to make it memorable.
Here’s a refined guide to mastering yacht charter etiquette, so you can cruise in elegance and sophistication.
Table of contents
1. Respect for the Crew and Their Expertise
One of the key elements of a successful yacht charter is the professional crew at your service. These individuals are highly skilled in their respective roles, whether navigating, cooking, or ensuring your overall comfort. They are not only there to serve you but also to ensure your safety and the smooth operation of the vessel.
Treat the crew with the utmost respect, acknowledging their hard work and professionalism. Polite interactions, clear communication, and a general attitude of gratitude will foster a positive environment. While crew members are trained to cater to your needs, it’s essential to maintain a level of courtesy. Demanding or treating crew members poorly is inappropriate and can significantly diminish your trip's overall quality.
Additionally, please respect their time for rest and privacy. Crew members are occupied with various duties, from cooking to housekeeping to maintaining the yacht, so we kindly ask that you consider their downtime. They are entitled to rest between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., and we appreciate your understanding in allowing them this much-needed break.
2. The “No Shoes on Deck” Rule
One of the most universal rules on yachts is the removal of shoes when stepping on deck. This isn't just about comfort—it’s about preserving the yacht's delicate materials. Many yachts feature teak decks, which can easily be damaged or stained by footwear, especially those with hard soles.
Before stepping aboard, be prepared to either go barefoot or use soft-soled boat shoes that are typically provided by the crew. Not only does this protect the yacht, but it also maintains the level of luxury and cleanliness that is expected on such a vessel.
3. Packing Light: Function Over Fashion
Space is often at a premium on a yacht, especially in cabins where storage can be limited. Therefore, it’s essential to pack smartly and avoid bulky or unnecessary items. Soft-sided luggage is highly recommended, as it can easily be stored under beds or in smaller closets.
When considering what to bring, opt for lightweight, versatile clothing that can transition from day to night. Yacht charters are generally relaxed in terms of dress code, with the focus on casual elegance rather than formal attire. Think breathable fabrics, swimwear, sun protection, and a few smart-casual pieces for dining or evening cocktails on deck. Also, you can read our guide for what to pack for your yacht charter!
4. Treat the Yacht with Care
Luxury yachts are not only valuable assets but also often feature intricate designs and expensive materials. The fabrics, woods, and fixtures onboard are chosen for both aesthetics and durability, but they must still be treated with care. Spills, scratches, and other accidents can happen, but being mindful of your surroundings will minimize any potential damage.
To protect these materials, please avoid entering the saloon when wet. After enjoying the water or using the water toys, kindly use the shower on the swim platform to rinse off saltwater before walking on the teak decks and entering the interior. Saltwater and sunscreen can cause damage to surfaces and fabrics. Towel baskets are conveniently located around the decks for your use throughout the trip, and you may place a beach towel under your seat if you’ve just come from the water.
Additionally, the crew will prepare a selection of sunscreens that are harmless to the yacht’s surfaces. Please note that spray sunscreens are discouraged in favor of pump or squeeze-out containers, as they are less likely to cause damage. Use these products with care, and if you’re ever unsure about handling anything onboard, don’t hesitate to ask the crew—they’re here to help.
5. Moderation with Alcohol
Yacht charters are often synonymous with celebration and indulgence, but it’s important to consume alcohol responsibly while onboard. Overindulgence, especially at sea, can lead to dangerous situations. Open decks, moving vessels, and intoxication do not mix well.
Pacing yourself ensures that you remain in control and that your experience stays safe and enjoyable. Crew members are trained to look out for the well-being of everyone on board, and excessive drinking could lead to them having to intervene, which can disrupt the enjoyment of the charter.
6. Water and Energy Conservation
Yachts, especially when cruising in remote locations, may have limited resources, particularly freshwater. Showers, cooking, and cleaning all use up water, and it’s essential to be mindful of this during your stay. Shorter showers and responsible water use go a long way in ensuring that there’s enough for everyone on board.
Likewise, power conservation can be critical, especially when anchored in a secluded bay where the yacht may rely on generators for electricity. Turning off unnecessary lights and electrical devices when not in use helps conserve energy and minimizes the yacht's environmental impact.
7. Gratuity: A Reflection of Service
At the end of your charter, it's customary to provide a gratuity to the crew. The amount typically depends on the quality of service received. If the service was good, a tip of around 5% of the charter fee is appropriate. For exceptional service, gratuities can go up to 15%. These guidelines are in line with the recommendations of the Mediterranean Yachting Brokers Association (MYBA).

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