Attractions – Cultural

Williamstown Bay and River Cruises

City: Southgate
Williamstown: Gem Pier (Commonwealth Reserve)
Ph: + 61 3 9686 4646
Fax: + 61 3 9682 9599
Email: bayriver@ozonline.com.au
Website: www.williamstownferries.com.au

"Williamstown Ferries" were established in 1984 when the launch Heritage cruised from the City to Williamstown daily – the first boat since 1948 to go to Williamstown on a regular basis.

In 1986 the ferry "John Batman" was designed and built primarily for the purpose of providing a regular ferry service linking the City of Melbourne with Williamstown and St Kilda. This was a "first" for Melbourne, the last ferry service across Hobson’s Bay was the Rosney, which operated between Station Pier, Port Melbourne and Williamstown, and ceased in 1931.

Since 1997 both the John Batman and Southern Spirit have been used simultaneously on the St Kilda run to provide for increased patronage and to maintain the advertised timetable.

The Southgate – Williamstown ferry service is operated by five yellow and blue ferries (Williamstown football colours) headed by the Williamstown Seeker. Being low profile, the Williamstown Seeker and the Bay City Ferries are ideal for traversing under low bridges and the conditions in the Southbank area.

The Bay-City ferries are ex-naval work boats that have been converted with comfortable seating in the main cabin and an extended stern deck for outdoor sightseeing. Being navy vessels they are extremely reliable and sturdy.

Both the Southgate – Williamstown and St Kilda ferries were born of passion – not only for boating but to share the views of our marvellous city and the hidden delights of Williamstown with locals and travellers alike.

For more information on Williamstown Bay and River Cruises, including timetables and ticket prices, please click here.