Arbory Afloat is back for its seventh instalment. And it’s channelling the beautiful, boozy beach clubs of Spain’s Balearic Islands – think Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca and Formentera.

Melbourne’s favourite floating bar has been decked out with a new bohemian look, spearheaded by one of Australia’s leading interior designers, Tamsin Johnson.

The lower deck is all burnt orange, salmon and sage, with a new undercover dining area. Plus, find four-metre-high palm trees, a brand new tiled pool (on the lower deck this time) and plenty of sun-drenched cabanas.

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Food-wise, you’ll find a seafood-heavy menu brimming with Spanish flair, helmed by culinary director Nick Bennett and executive chef James Gibson. Sip on jugs of sangria and snack on a tapas selection for two, plus savoury churros with hints of manchego and chives, and whole southern rock lobster paella. You’ll also find woodfired pizzas with Spanish-inspired toppings, patatas bravas, and two seafood platter options: one entirely fresh, the other entirely tinned. Inspiration came from the team’s full-throttle, three-week research trip across Spain.

Cocktails are also on-theme: there’s a take on the Bloody Mary made with gazpacho and a Pina Colada with horchata – available by the glass or jug.

And in true Afloat style, expect a huge musical line-up over summer – with DJs on deck daily from noon till late. Plus, tickets are already on sale for its ’70s-Ibiza-themed party for New Year’s Eve, featuring live performances from The Huxleys and Discordia, and sets from local DJs.

“We’re expecting a supercharged summer ahead – full of more music, entertainment and fun than ever before,” marketing director Georgie Larkins says.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be back.”

Arbory Afloat
2 Flinders Walk, Melbourne

Hours:
Daily 11am–1am

arboryafloat.com.au

This article was updated on December 5 to reflect the pool opening. Swim times will be weather dependent; keep up to date on Arbory Afloat's Instagram.