Two venues get approval for floating bars on the Yarra River

It’s been a staple of Melburnians’ summer for two seasons, now a new deal has been stuck to add another pontoon bar to the Yarra River as well as bring back Arbory Afloat with a jaw-dropping new attraction.

Arbory Afloat will be back on the Yarra River this summer.

Melbourne’s iconic summer sessions are making a splash after two venues won approval for floating bars on the Yarra River.

Australia Venue Co’s will be mooring its first pontoon bar, Yarra Botanicals, while the iconic Arbory Afloat will rebirth for its third consecutive season boasting a top-deck swimming pool, complete with lifeguard.

Parks Victoria last year put out the call for new concepts to activate the Yarra and maximise the river’s potential for tourism.

Parks Victoria’s chief operating officer, Simon Talbot, said the Yarra was a central feature of one of the world’s most liveable cities.

The Arbory Afloat has been a popular choice for Melburnians over summer. Picture: Alex Coppel

Since then the river has undergone a facelift which has included improvements to infrastructure, new floating bars and eateries and dog-friendly picnic boats which can be rented for the day.

Parks Victoria has allocated two new three-year licences for floating commercial and recreational concepts.

Credited with bringing new life to Melbourne’s waterways, the iconic Arbory Afloat is being reimagined this year, creating a new concept and design inspired by 1970s Miami.

Sprawling over 500-square-metres, the float will hold up to 800 guests across two levels. Opening in mid-September, positioned on the river in front of sister venue, Arbory Bar & Eatery.

Australia Venue Co’s will be mooring its first pontoon bar, Yarra Botanicals.

Australia Venue Co’s will be mooring its first pontoon bar, Yarra Botanicals Picture: Supplied.

After their success the second river top bar will take the plunge after submitting plans of their own to cash in on the potential of Melbourne’s famous waterway.

Spreading across two levels and brimming with native plants and indigenous aquatic vegetation, the new floating botanical garden oasis will be situated on the southern side of the Yarra River.

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The all-day eatery, bar and floating park will be covered in native flora designed to resemble the historic Australian landscape.

Parks Victoria CEO, Matthew Jackson, said they’re continuing to protect and activate the Yarra while opening it up to new experiences for locals and visitors.

“These two venues will have a strong focus on sustainability and be world-class additions to our vibrant food, wine and entertainment scene.”