Afloat’s 2026/27 Season Will Channel The Sun, Sea And Spirit Of The Glittering Greek Islands
On Thursday, 27 August 2026, Melbourne’s favourite floating bar and restaurant, Afloat, will return for its eleventh season on the Yarra River (Birrarung), unveiling Yamas Greece. Taking its name from the Greek toast meaning “to our health,” the venue’s latest transformation draws inspiration from the country’s coastal colours, sun-ripened flavours and spirit of the glittering Greek Islands.
Interior designer Emily Jamieson, now in her third year shaping Afloat’s venue design, shares,
“The Greek Islands are home to some of the most picturesque beaches and coastlines in the world. We wanted to bring that same warmth and effortless beauty to Afloat through natural textures, sun-washed terracotta and the distinctive blue-and-white palette of the Islands.”
The beverage menu will see returning Afloat favourites alongside new seasonal cocktails, as well as local and international wines curated by HQ Group Head of Wine Marcus Ellis, who shares;
“Alongside Afloat favourites, this year we’re showcasing a selection of Greek wines, with a focus on native grape varieties, from fresh, vibrant whites and rosés to medium-bodied aromatic reds.”
New cocktails have been created exclusively for the season by HQ Group’s Straight Up Cocktails team. Head of Straight Up Cocktails Tom Younger shares,
“We’ve taken familiar cocktails and reimagined them in a Greek manner. Expect a Greek version of the Long Island Iced Tea featuring Greek mountain tea, a light and fruity sangria made with a Moschofilero Greek wine, and even an ouzo frozen cola.”
Afloat’s food menu will bring returning Afloat favourites as well as new dishes inspired by the fresh produce used in Greek cuisine, perfect for long, relaxed days by the river. HQ Group Executive Chef Paul Dunlop shares,
“Our new menu dishes are inspired by travels and time spent working in Greece, drawing references from beach clubs, street vendors, tavernas and everything in between. Expect to see fresh local seafood, grilled meats, meze, gyros and beloved Greek sweets. We hope to make it feel familiar, a little exciting and very tasty to honour those classic Greek dining experiences.”
Table reservations, banquet bookings and beach club lounge packages for September onwards can be secured online now via afloat.melbourne. Tickets are also on sale for Christmas Day banquets and Afloat’s annual sell-out New Year’s Eve event to welcome 2027. While the NYE party theme is yet to be revealed, guests can expect an all-inclusive night of flowing drinks, roaming canapés, DJs and live entertainment, with panoramic views of Melbourne’s midnight fireworks from the river.
Image credit: Griffin Simm