SINCE 1946
Eighty years on the water. Three royal visits. One vessel.
Built in 1946 for the Royal Australian Navy, Elizabeth Anne has spent her life on Melbourne's river. In 1956 she carried the Duke of Edinburgh to the MCG to open the Olympic Games. In 1963 she welcomed Queen Elizabeth II aboard. In 2003, Crown Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederik cruised the Yarra on her decks. Melbourne came to call her the Royal Barge — a title she earned, not one she claims.
- 1946Built for the Royal Australian Navy
- 1956The Duke of Edinburgh, to the Olympic Games
- 1963Queen Elizabeth II steps aboard
- 2003Crown Princess Mary & Crown Prince Frederik
ABOARD
How Melbourne sails with her
Water Transfers
Cross the city by river, not by road. Private, punctual, and rather more memorable.
Christmas Parties
The end-of-year celebration your team will still talk about in March.
Spring Racing Carnival Transfers
Arrive at Flemington by water, glass in hand.
New Year's Eve Events
Midnight on the water, fireworks overhead, thirty-eight guests at most.
Christmas Day Cruises
Lunch or dinner on the river, everything taken care of.
Hens Parties
Celebrate her in style — champagne, high tea, golden hour.
Private Events & Cruises
Milestones, proposals, long lunches: one vessel, yours entirely.
One party aboard at a time,
up to 38 guests.
“All staff were friendly and the boat was spotless… great way to get back to town.”
ON THE CALENDAR
Upcoming departures
One vessel, limited dates.