Eureka Skydeck 88

Whilst I maintain a health scepticism for a claim of being the best that has any qualifying features, Eureka Skydeck 88 billed as the highest viewing platform in the southern hemisphere is worth the visit. Too many qualifications for my liking . It is not the tallest building anywhere but in Melbourne itself and not even the tallest viewing platform. I was surprised to see that the glorified aerial that is the Eiffel Tower has a viewing platform higher than this one.

It is like Usain Bolt, impressive as the world’s fastest man. It would be less impressive if he was described as the fastest male of African decent to run in an Olympic Games held on the Asian continent. Too many qualifiers.

Despite the declaration of there being better viewing platforms elsewhere in the world the entry price is worth it, if for no other reason than to ride the fastest elevator in the southern hemisphere (again with the overstated description).

On the 88th floor, of the world’s tallest residential building, the viewing platform is 285 meters above Melbourne’s CDB. Eureka Skydeck offers excellent views of the Melbourne skyline, suburbs and coastline. Fitted out with pointers, landmarks and historical sites are easily found.

As proof of the adage “less is more”, the developers of Eureka Skydeck went too far. Where the spectacular views with markers would have been more than enough the designers have added extra features.

There are broadcast sound effects that capture the unique sounds of Victoria’s history; noises from the goldfields, Aussie rules football, the last post and galloping. Whilst unnecessary these noises are tolerable. The noise of peak hour traffic almost 300m above the busy street is disconcerting. You do not want to see people ducking for cover from imaginary traffic where the only thing preventing them from plummeting 88 floors to their death is a pane of gold plated glass. Sure there has to be a sound more fitting of the CBD. Perhaps the romanticised ding of a tram bell.

The other added feature that proves to be more a hindrance than a help is the LCD scrolling facts running across the floors and walls. The facts are barely informative let alone entertaining. But the reflect of f the interior of the glass making it extremely difficult to take photographs. The blue LCD panels are so bright that they can be seen from the ground during daylight hours.

The Terrace is a unique experience where the glass has been replaced by a metal grill similar to a screen door. Visitors are exposed to the elements. Whilst completely safe , those who suffer vertigo will get a thrill from standing on the Terrace.

For an additional charge visitors can stand/sit/lie all to briefly in a glass cube called “The Edge” that extends and retracts from the building. No cameras are allowed in The Edge. This is not about safety but rather commercial interests. You can purchase a mass produced photo of your personal Edge experience from the kiosk. This “ride” and I use the term loosely do not warrant the additional charge.

Definitely worth the visit and worth waiting to get into the corners to block out the LCD screens to take photographs.

The kiosk will happily sell stationery, trinkets and clothing for people who want more than just their photographs to remember the experience.

Cost: $16 adults, $11 concession, $9 child, $29/$39 family, group bookings available
The Edge $12 adults, $10 concession, $8 child, $19/$29 family
Open 10am – 10pm seven days.
Address Riverside Quay, Southbank Melbourne.
Web www.eurekaskydeck.com.au