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Surrounded by water on three sides, Williamstown was Melbourne’s first working seaport. Today it’s a fashionable bayside village, but thankfully it hasn’t lost its maritime roots with old piers, slipways and docks dotting the foreshore. Moor your boat at Anchorage Marina and step back in time at the old Fort Gellibrand military site, or visit the Timeball Tower, which was used by ships’ captains for timekeeping and navigation. Historic buildings once frequented by raucous sailors and wharfies are now dressed as chic restaurants, hotels and galleries.

Back on the water, cruise the Yarra, taking in the Melbourne skyline. Williamstown Beach sweeps along the southwestern side, where boaties can enjoy swimming, waterskiing and fishing. Heading further west, you’ll come across Jawbone Reserve wetlands, named after its distinctive shape.

Williamstown