Make your way to the Docklands to board your boat. A captain welcomes you with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.
Admire the classic charm of the recently renovated Melbourne Showboat, one of three of its class that provided ferry service in Sydney Harbour for more than 20 years, starting in the late 1960s. The boat boasts plenty of indoor and outdoor space to dance and mingle with your group and fellow passengers.
When everyone has boarded, your boat sets off downriver through the Port of Melbourne en route to Williamstown. Pluck cooked shrimp, freshly prepared sushi rolls, and Australian cheeses, among other nibbles, from passing trays throughout the evening. Want a cocktail? Additional drinks can be purchased from the open bar.
The burlesque show takes place inside the spacious cabin on the upper deck. Half of the passengers get to watch the first one-hour show, while the other group heads to the main deck to enjoy the views, cocktails and DJ music. After one hour, guests switch places for the second burlesque show.
Expect to see performers strut their stuff in traditional burlesque, cabaret and comedy acts. Colorful corsets and costumes shimmer with sequins and feathers during playful (and slightly naughty!) performances.
Not all the best views are on stage, though. Step out on the deck to enjoy the city skyline and waterfront as your boat sails past Melbourne's shipping channels to the old maritime seaport of Williamstown. From there, cruise back up the river to arrive back in the Docklands in the late evening.