Marina Profile- Marina Yarras Edge, Docklands Melbourne

by Fiona Harper on 27 Jan 2010 Marina Yarras Edge, on the south bank of the Yarra River just downstream from the Charles Grime Bridge, with the Melbourne CBD beyond, is in the heart of Docklands entertainment precinct. It's a modern, welcoming marina with dedicated visitor berths, making it a perfect weekend destination in the city.

Passing beneath the dramatic pylons that reach skywards above the Bolte Bridge, Docklands emerges with Victoria Harbour opening up to port while the Yarra River continues upstream to starboard. Marina Yarras Edge is on the south bank, downstream of the Charles Grime Bridge. Amid the tinkling wine glasses and heady aromas that waft out of the dockside restaurants, Docklands is the boat owners' Melbourne hub. Surrounded by city skyscrapers, Marina Yarras Edge is smack in the middle of all the action.

With 175 berths (25 dedicated solely to visiting vessels), Marina Yarras Edge lays out the welcome mat for visitors. Their modern guest lounge has all the comforts of a living room away from home with large TV, tea and coffee facilities, couches and plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the morning paper. Plus there's a computer with internet connection and printer. On the dock wireless internet is available Visitors have access to swanky bathroom amenities with towels and toiletries provided, as well as a modern laundry.

Visitor berths cost $50 per night, regardless of vessel size. Berths are also available for sale with a 12 mt berth priced at $120,000 and a 15 mt berth at $190,000, available on a 17 year lease with a further five year option.

Navigating your way to Docklands is easy. Simply follow the ‘upside down' Yarra River 4 nm from Williamstown and Port Phillip Bay, passing beneath the Westgate Bridge, which is visible 40 nm down the Bay on a good day. Beware of the heavy shipping though as you navigate the Yarra, as Melbourne has one of the busiest container terminals in the country.

Reasons to Linger
With so many tempting delights, and 3 km of waterfront on offer it's really a question of not, why linger, but why leave? Marina guests are given a voucher booklet on arrival containing discounts at local restaurants and service providers. Dining out is a pastime that multicultural Melburnians have perfected. In fact, gastronomy rivals that other great Melbourne culture of sport. Docklands itself has over 60 restaurants and bars at last count, ranging from cafes and takeaways through to fine dining and everything in between. Nearby Southbank and the city centre have countless more.

Try the over-water Mecca Bah on the north bank for an exotic dining room with the charm of a Middle Eastern bazaar. It's all cosy banquettes, brightly tasselled cushions, and an inspired menu that is just made for sharing. For after dinner partying, head to nearby Alumbra bar, housed in a 1914 heritage-listed cargo shed that oozes opulence. As with much of Melbourne's vibrant bar scene, it's social, it's energetic and it's no place for shrinking violets.

Admittedly, Docklands is still a work in progress, with much still under construction. But don't let the ‘under construction' signs deter you, as part of Docklands attraction is the way it is constantly evolving in this melting pot of residential, entertainment and commercial districts.

Local Essentials
The closest chandlery is McDonald Marine, and it's about 1 km away in South Melbourne. There's an IGA mini market onsite at Marina Yarras Edge, plus there's a major supermarket, baker, chemist and cafes just a short stroll down the promenade. Beyond Southbank, there's an excellent Market every Sunday at the Arts Centre on the Yarra.

Getting around is simple as it's literally a few languid steps from the dock to the CBD. Or for an authentic Melbourne experience, catch the free City Circle Tram. Using classic 1930's era W class trams, the City Circle Tram runs all day every day.

Maintenance & Repairs
Marina Yarras Edge is the sort of marina that encourages hedonistic pleasures while discouraging boat owners from getting their hands dirty and dragging out the tools. It's all about having fun and enjoying your boat and surroundings. The closest haul out facility is at Royal Yacht Club of Victoria, Williamstown.

Events
Moomba Waterfest - March
Melbourne Food and Wine Festival - March
AFL season starts in April at the MCG & Telstra Dome


Fact File
84A River Esplanade Docklands Melbourne VIC
www.marinaye.com.au
Ph 03 9681 8394

Wet Berths - 175
Fuel - No (Closest fuel is at d'Albora Marina Pier35)
Dry Berths - Nil
LPG - No
Max berth length - 25m
Bar - Plenty in immediate vicinity
Haul out - No
Restaurant - Plenty in vicinity
Monitor VHF? - Yes Ch16 but prefer contact by phone
Chandlery - McDonald Marine Ph 03 9696 5211
Coastguard - St Kilda Ph 03 9525 3714
Wifi Internet - Yes (Azure)

For a complete directory of marinas visit the Australian Marinas Guide www.marinasguide.com.au