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As far as Australian cruise destinations go, Melbourne is one that requires little introduction. Home to almost 5 million people and 70% of Victoria’s population, Melbourne has repeatedly been voted one of the world’s most liveable cities - and it’s not hard to see why. Between the thousands of restaurants and cafes, mix of modern and heritage architecture, and many sporting attractions, there are plenty of things to see and do in this bustling city.
Arrive in Melbourne onboard a P&O Main Events cruise and immediately immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Australia's sporting capital. Whether you’re keen to explore local wineries or want to step back in time and learn about the city’s storied past, see all the highlights and more by booking into a P&O Shore Tour.
Looking for an unforgettable Melbourne holiday experience? Hop onboard an Australian Open or Melbourne Cup cruise to arrive at two of Australia’s biggest sporting events in style. From the minute you step onboard to the second you disembark, you’ll enjoy a smorgasbord of themed onboard events and guest appearances in addition to our regular cruise activities and facilities.
In addition to an overnight stay in Melbourne, our Main Events cruises also include tickets to the relevant sporting event. Book into our Melbourne Cup cruise and enjoy transfers and entry to Flemington racecourse, where you’ll have a chance to view all the action firsthand! Alternatively, join our Australian Open Tennis Cruise and receive Ground Pass tickets that are valid for 2 days and 2 nights, so you can cheer your favourites on from the courtside.
With plenty of restaurants and cafes, it’s no surprise that Melbourne is often regarded as one of the world’s great culinary capitals. Take a trip down memory lane and enjoy a delicious meal onboard the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant, the first travelling tramcar restaurant in the world, or sample local delicacies at a nearby cafe. Afterward, wander through Melbourne’s many museums, gardens, and beautiful colonial buildings, including the Fitzroy Gardens and Cook’s Cottage.
Fancy yourself a wine connoisseur? Join the Wildlife and Wineries Shore Tour and head to the spectacular Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley, located just outside of Melbourne. Renowned for its natural beauty, national parks, and wineries, the region is also the site of the Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary. There, you’ll have a chance to learn all about the more than 200 species of native birds, mammals, and reptiles who call the sanctuary home.
Sports lovers will delight in the Legends and Champions Shore Tour, which takes you behind the scenes of the Melbourne Cricket Ground, National Sports Museum, and Living Legends property.
Population
3,847,570 (2011 census)
Language
English
Government
Democratic
Currency
Australian Dollar
P&O Cruises can take you to Melbourne from Sydney or Brisbane. Join the Melbourne Cup Cruise to enjoy 2 nights in Melbourne onboard your ship and transfers and entry to Flemington Racecourse. Alternatively, book into the Australian Open Tennis Cruise for an overnight stay in Melbourne onboard your ship and ground pass tickets for 2 days and 1 night.
Guest favourites, the most booked Shore Tours at this port
Our handpicked Shore Tours are a must for any guest.
Home to thousands of restaurants and cafes representing a wide range of cuisines, it’s no wonder that Melbourne is considered one of the world’s great culinary capitals. Explore the city on foot to discover a foodie haven with something for every taste and budget.
With so much to see and do in Melbourne, the hardest part will be fitting everything into your stay! Discover the city on your own, or book into a P&O Shore Tour to ensure you don’t miss any of the highlights.
Your ship will dock at Station Pier in the Port of Melbourne.
Taxis are widely available in Melbourne. The city’s trains, buses, and famous trams - including the free city circle tram - also provide an excellent public transport system.
With more than one quarter of its inhabitants born overseas, Melbourne is now home to just about every style of cuisine. For an authentic Melbourne experience try some of the restaurants, cafes, and intimate bars hidden in the small lanes in the heart of the city. Other popular dining venues can be found on Brunswick Street in Fitzroy, Lygon Street in Carlton, as well as in Southbank and St Kilda.
Please note that quarantine authorities do not generally allow food such as fruit and vegetables, dairy and meat products, and sandwiches to be taken off the ship. However, commercially packaged confectionery, chips, and bottled drinking water are allowed subject to inspection.
Renowned as a shopper’s haven, Melbourne has everything from department stores and factory outlets to small boutiques and antique shops. A wander along Chapel Street in South Yarra or a trip to the Queen Victoria Markets are “very Melbourne” shopping excursions.
Melbourne is famous for having four seasons in one day, but in truth the city actually records less rain than its “sunny” rival, Sydney. Wind, drizzle, and heavy rain can loom in from the south and across Port Phillip Bay, but the summers can be blazingly hot and dry.
Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted, and ATMs can provide currency to foreign card holders.
Public telephones and internet access are widely available throughout the city. Mobile coverage is generally available.
To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, please wear comfortable flat soled shoes, lightweight clothing, and a hat. You are also advised to bring sunscreen, bottled water, and a warm jacket in case it becomes cool.
Our Shore Tours can help you make the most out of your time in Melbourne. Tours can be booked before departure via Cruise Control or onboard at the Shore Tours desk, and are subject to availability.
During your time ashore, we ask that you dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully.