Gem Pier

Gem Pier is where passenger ferries dock to drop off and collect those who visit Williamstown by boat. It's a fitting way to arrive, given the area's maritime ambience. Williamstown Ferries (tel: 9506 4144; www.williamstownferries.com.au) plies across Hobsons Bay, stopping at Southgate (daily) and St Kilda (weekends), visiting a number of sites along the way, including Scienceworks and the Docklands.

Melbourne River Cruises (tel: 9629 7233; www.melbcruises.com.au) also docks at Gem Pier, travelling up the Yarra River to Southgate. Ticket prices vary according to your destination. Pick up a timetable from the visitors centre in Williamstown or at Federation Square, or contact the companies directly; bookings are advised.Also on Gem Pier, walk the gangway of the WWII minesweeper HMAS Castlemaine (www.hmascastlemaine.com; adult/child around A$5/around A$3; noon-17:00 Sat & Sun), which has been converted into a maritime museum, with nautical exhibits and memorabilia.