What are the Vivid Sydney cruise options available?

Vivid Sydney cruises are usually available either as a <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="HgeH8CCa" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6837fbc03f88544475994d4a" text="sightseeing cruise" uid="www.tickets-sydney.com.sydney-harbour-cruises.sightseeing-cruises" lang="en" /> or a <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="Q8raIYnR" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6837fbc23f88544475994e09" text="dinner cruise" uid="www.tickets-sydney.com.sydney-harbour-cruises.dinner-cruise" lang="en" />.

Is it worth going on a Vivid Sydney cruise?

Vivid Sydney is a festival of light and art installations, which reflect off the water to lend you spectacular panoramic views that you would rather be unable to experience on land. The best installations of the city are also along the harbor at <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="wzHl51tq" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6837fbb63c6892edc6306c5b" text="Sydney Opera House" uid="www.tickets-sydney.com.sydney-opera-house" lang="en" /> and Darling Harbour. Moreover, you can avoid the really crowded viewpoints by picking a cruise as a boat can’t carry more than a certain amount of people.

What will I see on a Vivid Sydney cruise?

You'll enjoy front-row seats to mesmerizing light installations and 3D projections on iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House sails, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, The Rocks, Darling Harbour, Barangaroo, Luna Park, and other city landmarks along the harbour.

Where do Vivid Sydney cruises depart from?

Common departure points for these cruises include King Street Wharf (Darling Harbour), Circular Quay, Walsh Bay, and Campbell's Cove Jetty (The Rocks).

How many people will be there on a Vivid Sydney cruise?

If you wish to avoid crowds, a Vivid Sydney cruise is your best pick during the festival as most cruises usually take less than 60-100 guests.

What cuisine is served on a Vivid Sydney dinner cruise?

You can usually find traditional Australian dishes on your dinner cruise, the most popular snack amongst them being canapes. They are usually paired with a complimentary drink and you can also usually purchase more from a selection of beverages.

Is parking available near departure points?

Parking is limited and often subject to road closures during Vivid Sydney. It's strongly recommended to use public transport (trains, ferries, buses, light rail) to reach your departure point.

Can I bring my own food and drinks onboard?

Cruises like the sightseeing cruise, allows you to bring your snacks but outside drinks are not allowed on the cruise ship. You can grab a drink from the onboard bar.

Vivid Sydney cruises

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Sightseeing Cruises

Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise

Best for families and tourists who want a convenient way to see Sydney’s must-see landmarks, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Book this if you want a flexible way to explore Sydney from the water on a leisurely cruise with live commentary.
What’s unique: You’ll pass by sights like the Sydney Opera House and Fort Denison while enjoying your cruise.
Icing on the cake: Upgrade to the afternoon or lunch cruise to enjoy Sydney’s landmarks with a delicious buffet lunch as per your convenience.
Top attractions: Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Luna Park

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1 hr 20 mins - 2 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Meals included

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Dinner Cruise

Sydney Harbour Multi-Course Dinner Cruise

Enjoy an evening on Sydney Harbour with live music, skyline views, and flexible dining and seating options aboard the Sydney 2000 super-cruiser.

Starting point: Sydney Harbour boarding point for the Sydney 2000 super-cruiser.
Everything you get: Cruise aboard the air-conditioned Sydney 2000 super-cruiser for an evening dinner experience with your selected menu and seating option. Enjoy live music on weekends and special event dates while dining as the illuminated harbour skyline drifts past your table.
Sights covered: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, waterfront skyline, and illuminated harbour neighbourhoods viewed from Sydney Harbour.
Why choose this: Choose the cruise length, course count, menu style, and seating option that best suits your evening plans, whether you want a casual dinner cruise or a more premium dining experience on the water.
Upgrades: Upgrade to guaranteed window seating, 4-course or chef’s menu dining, or select 2.5-hour premium cruise options with sparkling wine, tea and coffee, 360-degree harbour views, licensed bar access, and live music on weekend event sailings.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

2 hrs

Meals included

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Lunch Cruises

Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise with Buffet Lunch

Best for groups, families, or solo travelers who want a relaxed and enjoyable way to sightsee while savoring a fresh buffet lunch.
Book this if you want a 2-hour cruise around Sydney Harbour with a meal and great views of Circular Quay, the Opera House, and more.
What’s unique: The buffet features Aussie-inspired mains, and an array of salads, sides, and desserts, with gluten-free and vegetarian choices available.
Icing on the cake: The live commentary from the skipper enriches your experience by sharing interesting facts and stories about Sydney.

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2 hrs 15 mins

Meals included

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Sightseeing Cruises

Sydney Harbour Sunset Cruise With Drinks and Grazing Platter

Starting location: Man O'War Steps
Safety briefing (2 minutes)
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Opera House
Luna Park
Barangaroo
Darling Harbour
Arrive back at: Man O'War Steps

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

1 hr 30 mins

Meals included

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Lunch Cruises

Sydney Harbour 3-Course A La Carte Lunch Cruise

Settle into a leisurely afternoon on the harbour with panoramic views from a sightseeing vessel.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 1.5 to 4-hour cruise on a sightseeing vessel while you sit down to a 3-course Australian à la carte lunch, choosing each course from the menu as the harbour skyline drifts past. Stay seated as everything is served to your table.
Why choose this: Works well if you want a midday outing that fits between morning sightseeing and your evening plans in the city.
Upgrades: Choose optional or guaranteed window seating for added harbour views.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

4 hrs

Meals included

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Lunch Cruises

Sydney Harbour Multi-Course Lunch Cruise

Unwind on a 2-hour harbour sailing with multi-course dishes, bubbles, and city skyline views.

Starting point: Darling Harbour, Sydney
Everything you get: Settle into a 2-hour harbour sailing as you enjoy a 2-course menu built around regional produce. Savour the mains and dessert, followed by tea and coffee while windows frame the bridge, Opera House, and harbour.
Sights covered: Sail past Sydney Harbour’s most iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, Fort Denison, Garden Island, and the scenic eastern foreshore lined with waterfront mansions, secluded bays, and marina views.
Why choose this: Enjoy a relaxed harbour dining experience that combines a multi-course menu, skyline views, and flexible upgrade options, all without planning a separate lunch venue in the city.
Upgrades: Upgrade to a 3-course menu or guaranteed window table, or pick a lunch cruise aboard the AC super-cruiser Sydney 2000.

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Book now, pay later

1 hr 30 mins - 4 hrs

Meals included

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Dinner Cruise

Sydney Harbour Cabaret Cruise with 3-Course Dinner

A 3-hour Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with a 3-course meal & live cabaret entertainment.

Starting point: Board the paddlewheeler at King Street Wharf for an evening departure on Sydney Harbour.
Everything you get: Enjoy a 3-hour cruise featuring a seated 3-course dinner with restaurant-style table service, reserved seating, and attentive waitstaff. After dinner, watch the one-hour “Voyage of Love” cabaret show with international dance performances. Take in stunning night views of Sydney Harbour, with drinks available for purchase onboard.
Sights covered: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Barangaroo, Fort Denison, Lady Macquarie’s Chair, Luna Park, and illuminated city skyline views.
Why choose this: A classic Sydney dinner cruise experience combining gourmet dining, theatrical live entertainment, and iconic harbour sightseeing, ideal for couples, celebrations, and visitors looking for a memorable night on the water.
Upgrades: Choose between this classic dinner cruise for a year-round glamorous dining and cabaret experience or the Vivid Sydney dinner cruise during the festival season to enjoy the same 3-course dinner and cabaret show plus spectacular light projections on the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

3 hrs

Meals included

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Dinner Cruise

Tall Ship Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour

Best for anyone looking for a unique dining experience that blends adventure with history aboard an 1850s-style tall ship.
Book this if you want a dining experience unlike any other, on a historic vessel, while sailing past the Sydney Opera House.
What’s unique: You’ll be cruising on a tall ship which gives you a rare opportunity to sail Sydney Harbour like the sailors of the past.
Icing on the cake: The option to go for a champagne brunch or take part in a mast climb makes this an interactive and customizable experience.

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1 hr 30 mins - 2 hrs 30 mins

Meals included

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Sightseeing Cruises

Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Marine Biologist Commentary

Educational whale watching cruise with a marine biologist onboard.

Starting point: Circular Quay
Everything you get: A 2-hour 45-minute cruise aboard a spacious sightseeing vessel with indoor and outdoor seating, live expert commentary from a marine biologist, and a whale sighting guarantee offering free rebooking within 1 year if no whales are spotted.
Why choose this: A comfortable, family-friendly experience that combines whale watching with educational insights from marine experts, helping you understand whale behaviour in context while enjoying a relaxed time on the water.
Sights: Scenic views of Sydney Harbour and the Pacific Ocean, with frequent sightings of humpback whales breaching and playing—plus occasional encounters with dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life.
Upgrades: Choose from 2h45, 3-hour, 4-hour, a 2-day hop-on hop-off ferry pass, or whale watching + Taronga Zoo cruises with deck or lounge layouts, plus options for meals, drinks, extended harbour views, a zoo visit, and a longer whale sighting rebooking window for more time on the water and increased whale spotting opportunities.

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2 hrs 45 mins

Meals included

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Sightseeing Cruises

[Exclusive Promo] Sydney Harbour Whale Watching Cruise by Captain Cook

What to bring

Whale watching cruise

Pack your seasickness meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.

What's not allowed

Whale watching cruise

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the cruise.

Taronga Zoo

Animal costume, ball, balloon, scooter, skateboards, rollerblades, apparatus alcohol, audio equipment, or musical instrument is not allowed inside Toranga Zoo.
Please refrain from touching animals, feeding animals, throwing objects, damaging structures or signs, lighting fires, or littering.

Accessibility

Whale watching cruise

This experience is accessible by wheelchairs.
All vessels are fitted with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.

Sydney Harbour HOHO pass

The entrance level deck of rocket ferries is wheelchair accessible with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.

Additional information

Please complete this form prior to arrival to ensure a smooth check-in and boarding process.
Dress snug in warm layers; the ocean is known to have a chilly twist in the weather.

Whale watching cruise

The Whale Guarantee applies when a whale is not sighted during your cruise. Cruise again in the same season for free on a standby basis confirmed 24 hours prior, subject to availability.
The cruise is subject to weather conditions.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Sydney Harbour HOHO pass

The HOHO pass is valid for two days and commences from the date of the whale-watching cruise.

Taronga Zoo

You can download the Taronga Zoo map from here.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

Explore at your pace

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Celebrate art atop the sparkling harbour on a Vivid Sydney cruise

From the 23rd of May to the 14th of June this year, Sydney will host the annual celebration of art, innovation and creativity called Vivid Sydney. Famous landmarks illuminated by spectacular art and light installations, the entire city of Sydney is a sight to behold. And one of the most unique ways to indulge in this celebration has to be taking a memorable Vivid Sydney cruise along the harbour.

Read on to learn more about what this festival of art and lights holds in store for you on a Sydney Harbour cruise.

Navigate your guide to Vivid Sydney cruises

5 reasons you should go on a Vivid Sydney cruise this festival
Guide to finding your perfect Vivid Sydney cruise match
Vivid Sydney cruise options explained
Views from a Vivid Sydney cruise
Know before going on a Vivid Sydney cruise
Frequently asked questions about Vivid Sydney cruises

5 reasons to embark on a Vivid Sydney cruise this season

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Mesmerizing art installations

Vivid Sydney celebrates art through brilliant art installations and 3D projections. Famous artworks, intricate patterns and various light installations are cast on Sydney's most iconic landmarks near the harbour, including the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour. Hundreds of drones zoom around in the skies to make massive and sophisticated 3D projections as well!

Best pick to avoid crowds

Vivid Sydney being a famous annual celebration, you’re bound to come across large crowds no matter where you go. With spacious viewing decks on every Vivid Sydney cruise, you can enjoy the festival relaxing on the waters without worrying about bumping shoulders in crowded viewpoints.

Spectacular waterfront views

Vivid Sydney is a popular festival attracting massive crowds along the Sydney Harbour to glimpse the light installations project a kaleidoscope of colors on the water. With spacious decks and indoor-outdoor seating, a Vivid Sydney cruise provides a truly unique vantage point to soak in the beauty of this festival.

Live music onboard

Vivid Sydney is a celebration of art and innovation of all kinds, including music! With live music aboard your vessel, you can sing and groove to catchy tunes while you enjoy the nighttime views.

Delectable gourmet cuisine

Whether you’re looking for a multi-course meal, an open buffet, or even a BYOB cruise, you can find a Vivid Sydney cruise that caters to your specific needs. Indulge in a variety of Australian flavors that are expertly paired with curated wine selections and signature cocktails.

Guide to finding your perfect Vivid Sydney cruise match

Vivid Sydney cruises are usually of two kinds: sightseeing and dinner cruises. A Vivid Sydney sightseeing cruise takes you along various light installations along the harbour. If you simply wish to sightsee, a Vivid Sydney sightseeing cruise is your budget pick. A Vivid Sydney dinner cruise shows you the same sights, but provides an elevated experience with dinner and beverages, perfect for couples or hungry families or those looking to end a long day of sightseeing.
Most Vivid Sydney cruises last 90 minutes or 1.5 hours, making them suitable for all types of travelers. There are also 2-hour and 3-hour cruise options available, but this is usually included with dinner. If you have the time and budget, we suggest you pick a longer duration cruise to soak in the beautiful scenery for a longer period.
The prices start from AU$49 and can go up to AU$289 for dinner cruises, depending on the inclusions in your experience. If you spend a few more bucks, you can not only get a meal but also choose to spend more time on the cruise to better enjoy the festival.
Different Vivid Sydney cruises have a variety of inclusions in the tickets, including complimentary snacks and drinks and live music over the weekends. You can also find cruise options that allow you to upgrade your seating, select the meal course you want, or purchase additional drinks.
Vivid Sydney cruises usually occur aboard Catamarans and comfy cruise liners. This means that you get both indoor and outdoor seating options along with specific viewing decks to enjoy the views.
There is also a unique Tall Ship Vivid Sydney cruise that takes you back to the golden era of sailing. Climb aboard a restored Southern Swan or Soren Larsen and add a touch of antiquity to your modern day celebration of the Vivid Sydney festival.
The Vivid Sydney festival will last from 23th May to 14th June in 2025. If you wish to enjoy Sydney Harbour in other ways, choose from a variety of other cruise options, including sightseeing cruises, lunch cruises, dinner cruises, and whale-watching cruises.

Vivid Sydney cruise options explained

Vivid Sydney sightseeing cruise

Ideal for: Budget & solo travelers, group of friends

Cruise along the Sydney Harbour and spot specialized art installations on famous landmarks and viewpoints.
Get unobstructed views of the most spectacular installations along the harbour including the Opera House, Darling Harbour and Harbour Bridge.

Recommended experiences:

Vivid Festival Sightseeing Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Vivid Festival Sightseeing Cruise with Bring Your Own Beverage

Vivid Sydney dinner cruise

Ideal for: Couples, families

Indulge in a delectable gourmet meal in a tranquil setting while enjoying spectacular views of the Vivid Sydney festival from the waters.
Pair your food with signature wines and delicious cocktails. Groove along with live music available over the weekends.

Recommended experiences:

Vivid Festival Sightseeing Cruise with 2 or 3-Course Dinner & Live Music
Vivid Festival Tall Ship Cruise with Dinner

Views from a Vivid Sydney cruise

Reflecting water views with a Vivid Sydney cruise

Dancing waters and light installations at Darling Harbour

Vivid Sydney cruise boarding points

Most Vivid Sydney cruises generally board at King Street Wharf in Darling Harbour. You can usually find the wharf number for your particular cruise on your voucher.

The other most prominent boarding point for Vivid cruises (Tall Ship cruises) is Campbells Cove.

Address: The Promenade, Lime St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia. Find it on Maps

Nearest bus stops: King Street Wharf, King St and King Street Wharf, Erskine St.

Address: Campbells Cove, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia

Nearest bus stop: Hickson Road opp. Wharf Theatres (850m)

Know before going on a Vivid Sydney cruise

The Vivid Sydney festival will be held from 23th May to 14th June, 2025.

Vivid Sydney is a nighttime festival because this is when the light projections and 3D projections are at their most spectacular. So, Vivid Sydney cruises also take place in the evenings.

You can find a range of cruises with various durations with the earliest cruise starting at 5pm and the latest cruise ending at 11pm.

The duration of most Vivid Sydney cruises is about 90 minutes, but you can also find 2-hour and 3-hour cruises with dinner and live music.

Vivid Sydney cruise timings

Expert host: Most Vivid Sydney cruises have a crew member on hand to assist you and offer recommendations during your meal.
Live music: Enjoy live music on your cruise over the weekends.
Wheelchair accessibility: Some cruises are wheelchair accessible—confirm availability and any special needs when booking.
Indoor & outdoor seating: Some cruises offer indoor and outdoor seating, plus a spacious viewing deck.
Dietary inclusions: Mention any dietary restrictions when booking so the crew can accommodate you.
Service animals: Service animals are usually allowed, as long as they have the necessary identification.

Plan your cruise

Vivid Sydney draws huge crowds, and cruise spots sell out quickly. It's best to start planning a few weeks ahead to secure your spot.
Be sure to arrive a little early. The boarding for your cruise usually starts about 10-15 minutes before the departure time.
Choose the right cruise time: 5pm is family-friendly with sunset views; 7:30pm offers full darkness for vivid displays; and 9pm is quieter with fewer crowds.
Carry warm layers. It is the peak winter season in Sydney during May-June, and it gets quite chilly over the water.
If you’re prone to get seasick, carry some medication to avoid feeling nauseous.
The best views of the Vivid Sydney festival are from the city’s harbour. Carry your camera to capture some kaleidoscope shots.
Experience spectacular fireworks at 8:00 PM on select nights: May 25, 28, and 29; June 1, 4, 5, 11, and 12.

Frequently asked questions about Vivid Sydney cruises

Vivid Sydney will be held from 23th May to 14th June 2025.

Vivid Sydney cruises

Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise

Sydney Harbour Multi-Course Dinner Cruise

Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise with Buffet Lunch

Sydney Harbour Sunset Cruise With Drinks and Grazing Platter

Sydney Harbour 3-Course A La Carte Lunch Cruise

Sydney Harbour Multi-Course Lunch Cruise

Sydney Harbour Cabaret Cruise with 3-Course Dinner

Tall Ship Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour

Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Marine Biologist Commentary