If you ask us, it's an unwritten rule of Melbourne that summer hasn't officially kicked off until you've spent a balmy arvo knocking back cocktails and soaking up the rays on a floating bar. To help you tick that box, Arbory Afloat recently came out of hibernation for its seventh season – and this time, it's upping the ante with a brand-new tiled pool.
Afloat changes its theme annually, this year resplendent in coral and salmon pink umbrellas and furnishings to transport you to the sun-drenched Balearic Islands. But it's a challenge to fully immerse yourself in the island theme when there's nowhere to dip your toes, aside from the questionable water of the Yarra River. Enter: Afloat's new swimming pool.
Located on the west end of the bar's lower deck, the infinity-edge pool is flanked by daybeds and faces the afternoon sun, making it the perfect spot to kick back with a sundowner. To really immerse guests in the idyllic European coastal vibes, it's also fitted with imported Italian tiles and bordered by two four-metre palm trees.
A hydraulic floor allows lifeguards to adjust the depth of the pool as needed, and there will be dedicated swim times that may vary from week to week. And no need to BYO towel, either; a towel concierge will be on deck, also hawking hats, t-shirts and sunscreen. For more details, head to the Arbory Afloat website.