Ahoy, Melbourne! The Inflatable Regatta returns to the Yarra River
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28.11.2023

Ahoy, Melbourne! The Inflatable Regatta returns to the Yarra River

Words by staff writer

There's nothing like floatin’ down the Yarra River in summer with your mates.

Get ready to set sail, Melbourne! The beloved Inflatable Regatta is making waves again in 2023, and this time, it’s bringing its buoyant festivities to the heart of the city at Hawthorn Rowing Club.

On Saturday, December 9, locals (or keen visitors) can embark on a unique nautical adventure down the iconic Yarra River, soaking in the unsung beauty of the waterway and enjoying breathtaking views of the CBD skyline.

Keep up with the latest in local news and entertainment here.

Gather your crew, because each participant gets their very own inflatable boat for a leisurely 2km, two-hour float down the river. It’s a chance to rediscover Melbourne from a fresh perspective, exploring the waterways with mates and creating memories that’ll stay afloat.

But the fun doesn’t end when you’ve floated the day away. Once you disembark at Hawthorn’s Scotsburn Street Reserve, you’ll roll right into the Inflatable Regatta Festival – a vibrant celebration filled with live music, food trucks, entertainment, drinks, and more. The festival is open to all, whether you’ve purchased a ticket to float or not.

Get ready to say ahoy to bevvies from Watts River Brewing and enjoy performances from folk-pop artist Darcy Fox and the cheeky duo Haybax.

It all kicks off from 11 am, with the last float setting sail at 2 pm. The festival, however, keeps the good times flowing until 6 pm. Tickets are priced at $65 for one person and one boat, $120 for two people and one boat, or $420 for eight people and four boats. Each ticket includes boat rental, oars, and life jackets – everything you need for a safe and enjoyable voyage. While solo paddling is an option, paddling in pairs is recommended for double the fun. Just make sure your crewmates are all eight years or older.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday 9 December 2023
  • First Float: 11 am
  • Last Float: 2 pm
  • Festival: 12 pm – 6 pm
  • Location: Float begins at Hawthorn Rowing Club (Entry via corner Creswick St & Denham St, Hawthorn), and the festival takes place at Scotsburn Street Reserve, 6 Scotsburn St, Hawthorn.

Get your tickets and find out more here