Arbory Afloat. Melbourne
2 Flinders Walk,
Melbourne VIC 3000
Floating bar + eatery on the Yarra
Open 7 days 11am-late
CLOSED FOR WINTER
A Melbourne favourite is back again for the summer months and this time it’s Mexican themed! I’m always uncertain about anything floating, but I can confirm this floating bar + eatery is accessible.
First up, how do you enter? Flinders Walk is accessed via the lift opposite Federation Square and Transport Bar (if coming from Flinders St), or across the Evan Walker Bridge (if coming from Southbank side of the river). There is then a ramp that will get you straight down onto the ground floor deck of Afloat!
There’s surprisingly a lot of different seating options. Plenty of tables + chairs that are standard height as well as higher tables with stools, lounges and even daybeds by the pool! They have the option to book a table, which i’d recommend in peak times and to note if you require wheelchair access. There’s enough space to move around the ground floor. Walkways are all wide enough (even near the bar) and there was space to leave my scooter next to me at the table. The upper deck is only accessible via a staircase. Everything you need is at ground level, including the accessible toilet.
The accessible toilet is at the very back of the ground floor. You do need to navigate through the venue, past the bar, up a small ramp and past the kitchen to reach them. The last corner is tight and requires a small turning circle to move past the pole and nearby table. I was able to get help to move a chair that made it easier. It’s big enough once inside and has a baby change table.
Accessible parking is available in the Federation Square Carpark or over Southbank side in the carpark next to the Langham. There’s 2 on street accessible spots on Southgate Avenue (the same spots from my Yarra Botanica and Hopscotch reviews).
If you’ve wanted to check this one out and haven’t yet, make sure you go this summer season for the tacos, cocktails and the tunes!
Report Card | B+
Entrance 10/10
Space 8/10
Toilet 8/10
Parking 8/10
