Punting on the Lake: A Serene Escape in the Heart of Melbourne
Tucked away in the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is a delightful experience that feels like stepping into a storybook—Punting on the Lake.
This peaceful, guided boat ride offers a unique way to see the gardens from a different perspective, gliding effortlessly across the Ornamental Lake in an elegant wooden punt.
Our Experience: Punting on the Lake
There’s something truly special about floating on the water, surrounded by lush greenery, blooming lotus flowers, and the occasional curious duck. My mum, Terrie, summed up the experience perfectly:
“Another Melbourne Botanical Gardens surprise was finding out a 30 min Guided Punting Boat Tour on the Lake has been operating for 11 years! How did I not know that?
This punt boat ride was just splendid. The step into the boat was fine, however, the seats are a bit low so I did take my husband’s hand to lower myself onto the seat. Once down it was very comfortable. The captain was also there to assist.
We were supplied with both paper umbrellas for the sun and a blanket in case we felt a bit cold, should there be a cool breeze. It was so pleasant sitting in the punt boat, being pushed effortlessly along by the captain (he did look like a gondolier). I am not a swimmer so don’t always feel comfortable on water, but this felt very safe, smooth, and soooo pleasant, romantic and quite intimate as you can have a small number of people—we had three—or a larger family. Ahhhh.
Seeing the plants, ducks, and water birds right next to us. It was also amazing to see the city buildings in the background, but here we were like in an oasis. Holding up our paper umbrellas, on the water with all the greenery of the trees, plants, the lotus, and water lilies were stunning, it felt like a scene out of Anne of Green Gables! Haha!
I loved it and could have happily stayed for a lot longer than the 30 minutes. I did need a hand to get up out of the seat when it was time to alight, but help was available from the captain if needed.
The $30 per person fee might seem dear for 30 minutes, but for a special occasion, I would recommend it. Very relaxing and enjoyable.”
– Terrie
Practical Information for Punting on the Lake
Booking & Prices
Bookings can be made online via Punting on the Lake’s website or in person on the day, subject to availability. Unfortunately there is no concession or seniors card price.
- 30-Minute Private Guided Boat Tour:
- Up to 3 Adults: $90 per boat
- Additional Adult: $30 per person
- Child (5-15 years): $15 per person
- Infant (0-4 years): Free
- Well-behaved dogs: Free
- Family Ticket (1-2 Adults + Up to 3 Children 5-15 years): $90
- 1-Hour Private Charter Tour (advanced online booking only):
- $190 per boat (Maximum 6-8 passengers)
- Function 1-Hour Multiple Rides:
- $290 per boat
Each boat holds a maximum of 6-8 passengers.
Opening Hours
Open: 1st September – 31st May, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm or 5:00 pm (depending on weather and bookings)
Closed: June, July, August, and Christmas Day
Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens
No visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne is complete without exploring beyond the lake. After your Punting on the Lake experience, take time to wander through the stunning gardens, home to over 8,500 plant species.
If you’d like a guided experience, the Explorer Tour offers a relaxing open-air ride through the gardens, while the free daily walking tours provide fascinating insights into the garden’s history and plant collections.
For a deeper connection to the land, the Aboriginal Heritage Walk is a must, led by Indigenous guides who share stories of the area’s cultural and botanical significance. The gardens also host a range of seasonal events, from outdoor cinema screenings to plant markets. For more details on exploring the gardens, check out my guides on visiting the gardens and the Explorer Tour.
Tips for Punting on the Lake
- Weather Preparedness: Check the weather forecast before your visit. Light showers can be managed with umbrellas and waterproof blankets, but heavy rain or extreme heat may result in cancellations.
- Book in Advance: To ensure you have a private punt experience, make an online reservation ahead of time, especially during peak seasons like summer and weekends.
- Group Size: If your group has more than 6 people, contact Punt Tours in advance to arrange accommodations.
- Picnic Essentials: Feel free to bring your own food and drinks on board. If you want a small table for your picnic, request it on the day of your tour.
- Dog Friendly: Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the punt. Remember to keep them on a lead while in the Royal Botanic Gardens.
- Payment Methods: It’s best to book online for guaranteed tickets. If purchasing at the ticket desk, you can pay with cash, Visa, MasterCard, or EFTPOS cards.
- Safety for Children: Children under 10 must wear provided life jackets, while adults may choose to use one for comfort. Ensure children remain seated and supervised at all times.
- Enjoying the Sights: Take advantage of the unique perspective from the punt to enjoy bird life and possibly see turtles. Keep your camera ready for some fantastic photo opportunities.
- Stay Dry: Keep your hands inside the punt to avoid splashes, and remember that if it rains, umbrellas and blankets are provided to keep you dry.
- Do Not Self-Punt: Enjoy the ride and relaxation as the punter handles all the steering; self-hire is not permitted.
Accessibility
If you have limited mobility, be prepared to navigate a few steps to board the punt. Staff assistance is available, and extra time is allowed for boarding and disembarking. The meeting point is on grass, but access to the water’s edge is via a gentle slope. If mobility is a concern, it’s best to call ahead to discuss options.
Getting There
Punting on the Lake is located within the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. Tours depart from in front of the Terrace Cafe, 200m from “Bridge Gate”(Gate A) on the corner of Alexandra Avenue and Anderson Street, South Yarra. Follow the directional signs for “Bridge Gate(GateA)” or “Terrace Cafe”. More information can be found here.
View the Melbourne Botanic Garden map here.
The best entrance is via Gate A on Alexandra Avenue, which is a short walk from public transport:
- Tram: Route 58 (Stop 19, Shrine of Remembrance) or Route 3/5/6/16/64/67/72 (Stop 19, Domain Interchange).
- Train: The closest station is Flinders Street, followed by a 15–20 minute walk.
- Bus: Route 605 stops nearby.
- Car: There’s metered parking along Alexandra Avenue and Birdwood Avenue.
Punting on the Lake
Ph: 0481 455 410
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