Australia Day in Melbourne

The sun is out, the tennis is in town and there’s heaps happening in Melbourne so it’s a great time to jump on your boat and head for the city.

The T20 Big Bash is coming up to the finals with the Melbourne Stars currently on top, and in the A-League, Melbourne Victory will play Sydney FC on Australia Day. Flemington will also have the races on this Saturday so there are plenty of great sports happening in Melbourne this summer.

There’s also going to be another magnificent fireworks display in the harbour on Australia Day. Melbourne City Marina still has vacancies, although if you would like to turn up just for the 9.15pm fireworks at Victoria Harbour, alternative visitor berthing areas will be available in Victoria Harbour on a first come first choice basis and no bookings are required.

Australia Day Special Event Berthing Conditions state that vessels must not be left unattended and must depart by 11:00am, 27 January. Also be prepared to raft up and ensure adequate fendering is provided on each side of your vessel.

Bookings at Melbourne City Marina for the long weekend are filling fast with only seven berths remaining, so make sure you don't miss out on a berth and book early.

Celebrations of Australia Day at Docklands will start in the morning with the MS Colour Dash. There will be activities from 4.00pm in New Quay Piazza including DJ Nathan Op De Coul spinning the hottest tracks, and games and giveaways throughout the afternoon. Join the fun with entertainment and great Aussie backyard activities.

Melbourne’s Australia Day celebrations will be capped off with a spectacular Australia Day fireworks over Victoria Harbour at 9.15pm.

Anyone participating in the Festival of Sails passage race from Melbourne to Geelong on Friday January 24 and wanting to stay in the city, berths are still available.

With an amazing array of colourful yachts, power vessels, trailerable boats and personal watercraft on display, you can’t afford to miss Melbourne’s only on-water boat show Jan 31 to Feb 2. There’s a boatload of fun activities for the whole family, on and off the water, including kayaking, fishing competitions, live demonstrations and come try sessions.

The Summer Boat Show this year is at Melbourne City Marina so be aware that no berths are available to the public at the Marina from Tuesday January 28 until Tuesday February 4. For other berthing options, contact Marina YE, d’Albora Marina and New Quay Marina.