FAQ’s
Please find below the list of Frequently Asked Questions. If you have any other questions or need any information, please give us a call on 0481 455 410 or email us on info@puntingonthelake.com.au.
What happens if it’s bad weather?
We have umbrellas and waterproof blankets for light showers, but we don’t operate in heavy rain or extreme heat. If we have to cancel, we can re-schedule, refund or issue a Gift Voucher which is valid for a year. See our Terms and Conditions for more details.
Do we get the punt to ourselves?
Yes! If you book online in advance, it’s always a private punt. We have a minimum of 2 adults for each booking.
How many people can fit in the punt?
Our punts comfortably seat 8 people. If you would like to go on a tour with more than 8 people, please contact us and we can make arrangements for your group.
Can I bring a picnic on board?
Yes! You are welcome to bring your own food and drink on board, we can provide a small table on the punt.
Do you sell food and drink to take on board?
We are not able to provide food and drink, however you are more than welcome to bring your own. The Terrace Café next door has a good selection of refreshments, and they sell picnic boxes as well (must be ordered in advance – call them on a weekday on 03 9820 9590). As the Café can be very busy, please allow plenty of time to collect any orders before your punt departure. We have a wonderful High Tea and Punting package available as well – perfect for a special occasion.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Well-behaved bogs are always welcome on board! Dogs need to be on a lead in the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Do you provide parasols?
Yes! We have plenty of parasols to use while you are on the punt.
Can I propose on the tour…?
Yes! If you want to let us know beforehand, we will talk less during the ride to give you ample time to pop the question.
Isn’t a punt the same as a gondola?
They might look similar at a distance, but they’re not. The key difference is that a punt is propelled by pushing a pole against the river or lake bottom, while a gondola is propelled by rowing with an oar that is unique to Venice. We don’t have any gondolas, but one operates occasionally on the Yarra River – you can find more information here.
Will the punter sing?
No, but you’re welcome to sing yourself, if you feel so inclined!
Is there parking nearby?
Yes. The closest street parking is along Alexander Avenue. Check the parking signs for days and times. The cost is less than $1 per hour, and most of the street has free parking at the weekend. If you park near Gate A, corner Alexander Avenue and Anderson St, just by the Yarra, we’re 150m inside the gate. See our Location page for more details.
When and how can I pay?
We recommend you book online through the “Book Now” button on our Home Page and receive your tickets via email. You can also buy tickets at our ticket desk, but we strongly recommend booking in advance in summer and on weekends. We accept cash, Visa, MasterCard, Union and EFTPOS cards.
What time to the tours depart, and do I have to make a reservation?
Tour times and frequency vary according to the season. We suggest you check available times on our website (via the “Book Now” button) for the day you wish to come. You’re welcome to arrive at our ticket desk and check the next available tour, but we strongly recommend that you book in advance in summer and at weekends as there is often a long wait – or we are fully booked – at those times. The best way to buy tickets is through the “Book Now” button on our Home Page.
Do you offer concession prices?
Sorry, we don’t have concession prices.
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes, you can purchase a gift voucher through our website (look for the “Buy a Gift Voucher” button on our Home Page) or from our ticket desk.
How can I redeem a gift voucher?
Gift vouchers purchased on our website can be redeemed through our website by clicking on the “Redeem a Gift Voucher” button on our Home Page. To redeem other vouchers, please call us on 0481 455 410.
What will I see?
We cruise around the islands and bays of the Ornamental Lake so you can see parts of the Gardens that you don’t usually see when you walk around. There is a lot of bird life on the islands, and if you’re lucky you might also get a close-up view of turtles sunning themselves on the partly submerged logs in summer. Sitting close to water level, you’ll get a completely different perspective on our beautiful surroundings, not to mention some unique photo opportunities. Your punter will give you a guided tour as you go around. Have a look at some of the photos in our Gallery.
Is it safe for children?
Yes, a punt is a very stable, flat-bottomed boat. However, children must remain seated during the trip and must be under the supervision of an adult. Our operating licence requires children under 12 years old to wear a lifejacket (we supply these). There are no age restrictions for the tour.
Is it suitable for people with limited mobility?
We generally advise that the mobility required to get in and out of a punt is about the same as for getting in and out of a car. You will need to be able to negotiate three or four steps to the punt, then sit on a low seat. Our staff will assist, in accordance with your instructions. We allow plenty of time to board and disembark, particularly for elderly passengers or customers with limited mobility.
Do I have to wear a life jacket?
Only children under 12 are required to wear a life jacket. However, each of our punts is equipped with life jackets and you are welcome to use one if you feel more comfortable doing so.
Will I get wet?
No. Our punts move slowly over a calm lake. Remember to keep your hands inside the punt. If it rains we have umbrellas and waterproof blankets to keep you dry.
Is there a weight restriction?
No. Our punts are licensed to carry 8 adult passengers, and are extremely stable.
Can I push the punt myself?
Sorry, you’re not allowed to do that. Our punter will do all the work while you sit back and take it easy.
Can I hire the punt without the punter?
No. All our tours are conducted by a punter. Self-hire is not permitted.
Can I hire a punt for my wedding in the Gardens?
Absolutely! We have a number of different options available for photo shoots, charter cruises for wedding guests, and cruises for the bride and groom. Please see our Packages page or call us to discuss your requirements, and please note that we are only able to pick up and drop off passengers at our landing, not at any of the lawns.
What other places to visit can I find nearby?
Several of the best places to visit in Melbourne are in our neighborhood! One of the top attractions in Melbourne is the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, where we are located. Here you can join a free guided walking tour, take the aboriginal heritage tour and visit the delightful Ian Potter Children’s Garden. The Melbourne Observatory sits on the edge of the Gardens, and the Shrine of Remembrance is just across the road. It’s a short hop across the Yarra River to the MCG and the well-known Melbourne and Olympic Parks sporting precinct containing Rod Laver Arena, Hisense Arena and AAMI Park Stadium. And all this is en route from the cafés and laneways of central Melbourne to popular St Kilda Beach and Luna Park.
