Punting on the Lake
📍 Melbourne, VIC
Guided punting on the ornamental lake inside Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens, with knowledgeable punters pointing out turtles, bird species, and garden features. Suitable for all ages including young children.
Me and my girlfriend had such an amazing time!! It was beautiful, peaceful and so nice to see the botanic gardens from the water as well as all the wildlife including birds and turtles! Our host was Ayami who was so gracious and kind (even though we were late!) and helped us with everything, from safety to explaining so many fun details and facts about our surroundings. She had a really hospitable and warm energy that made us very comfortable and added on to the experience. We were also greeted by name by her husband who also drives the other boat who was lovely as well! Overall we had a fantastic time and 100% would recommend to our friends. So grateful so thank you so much Ayami! We will be back :)
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children of any age who want a relaxed, nature-focused city experience with genuine wildlife — turtles and birds are regularly spotted. Punters provide commentary that engages kids without being child-centric, so adults enjoy it equally. A resident dog joins some sessions, which is a bonus for animal-loving children.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →305 Google reviews
Tom Saxon
5 months ago
“Me and my girlfriend had such an amazing time!! It was beautiful, peaceful and so nice to see the botanic gardens from the water as well as all the wildlife including birds and turtles! Our host was Ayami who was so gracious and kind (even though we were late!) and helped us with everything, from safety to explaining so many fun details and facts about our surroundings. She had a really hospitable and warm energy that made us very comfortable and added on to the experience. We were also greeted by name by her husband who also drives the other boat who was lovely as well! Overall we had a fantastic time and 100% would recommend to our friends. So grateful so thank you so much Ayami! We will be back :)”
Jayde S
3 months ago
“We were over visiting from Perth and this was on our list of things to do as a family of four. From our first encounter at check in we experienced wonderful customer service, which continued during our time with punter Angus and another punter who took photos for us. All were so friendly, approachable and professional. The boat ride itself was fantastic (better than my expectations), it was so calm and serene and we loved hearing about the history of the gardens and information we wouldn’t otherwise know. We did the 30 minute ride and found this to be the perfect amount of time to circle the lake. Highly recommend for a unique experience.”
Olivia Nemtsas
a month ago
“Thank you so much to the punting on the lake team for providing our guests with fun filled entertainment during our cocktail hour, this was an activity loved by all and well worth it! Additionally, our photographer captured some of the most beautiful images of us on the boat, these moments out on the lake observing our wedding from afar and enjoying some alone time on our wedding day will be a moment in time that we will remember and treasure forever. Thank you again xx”
Feckz
4 months ago
“What a beautiful experience. This is a must try if you come to Melbourne or even if you are a local. Being on the lake is so peaceful as you breathe in fresh oxygen and enjoy the beauty nature has to offer. The owners are wonderful and have truely brought something magical to Melbourne. Next time we book we will be sure to take a picnic on board. You must book in the 1 hour to truely relax . Highly recommend and prefect for taking the wifey out”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Punting on the Lake operates guided boat rides on the ornamental lake within Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens. Punters including Ayami and Angus are named by reviewers for friendly, knowledgeable commentary covering wildlife — turtles, waterbirds — and garden history. Photographers are on hand to capture moments during the ride. Available for private events including cocktail hours and wedding entertainment. Sessions are calm and slow-paced by nature.
