The Next Iteration of Arbory Afloat Will Nod to the Balearic Islands — And It's Launching Next Week

It's never too early to start dreaming of balmier days and all those al fresco sipping sessions to fill the sunny season. But this year, you can get a headstart on putting those plans into action, with Arbory Afloat revealing it'll return in its latest incarnation as early as next week.

After a winter hibernation, the famed floating bar and restaurant will reclaim its prime position in front of on-shore sister venue Arbory Bar & Eatery, opening the doors for its next season on Wednesday, September 21 — just in time for the four-day weekend Melbourne's just been gifted.

As always, Arbory Afloat will be rocking a whole new persona to the last time we saw it, this year pulling inspiration from the Balearic Islands, and the free-spirited energy of Ibiza, Formentera, Menorca and Mallorca.

Expect holiday vibes in abundance once you step aboard — even if Melbourne's holiday weather hasn't flown into town quite just yet. A Spanish-accented food offering will span from pintxos and tapas, to bocadillos (sandwiches) and raciones (shared bites); best enjoyed while kicking back overlooking the Yarra and soaking up what the Arbory Afloat team is calling its "dreamiest design yet".

Your Ibiza party dreams will be well catered to with concoctions like pina coladas, spritzes, sangria and Porn Star Sour Martinis, featured alongside a range of share-friendly cocktail jugs. Meanwhile, a wine list filled with local and international names will be heavy on Spanish varietals — think, albariño, tempranillo and mencía — and easy-drinking Mediterranean-style brews are set to rule the beer lineup.

Arbory Afloat 2019, by Simon Shiff

Catch Arbory Afloat 2022/23 at Flinders Landing from 4pm on September 21. Opening hours will be 11am–1am daily, from September 22 onwards.

Top Image: Arbory Afloat 2019, by Arianna Leggiero