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Vivid Sydney cruises

4.5(2.7K Ratings)
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Expert guides. Unique insights.
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A view of the Sydney harbor bridge at night.
The Sydney Tower Eye at dusk
Sydney A view from the Observatory Hill in Sydney, Australia
Harbor bridge at dusk
Brighton Tours coach transfers in Sydney.
Brighton Tours coach transfers in Sydney.
A view of the Sydney harbor bridge at night.
The Sydney Tower Eye at dusk
Sydney A view from the Observatory Hill in Sydney, Australia
Harbor bridge at dusk
Brighton Tours coach transfers in Sydney.
Brighton Tours coach transfers in Sydney.
A view of the Sydney harbor bridge at night.
The Sydney Tower Eye at dusk
Sydney A view from the Observatory Hill in Sydney, Australia
Harbor bridge at dusk
Brighton Tours coach transfers in Sydney.
Brighton Tours coach transfers in Sydney.
NEW

Sydney Night Tour with Tower Eye Tickets

from
AU$129
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
3 hr.
Transfers included
  • Buckle up for a 3-hour Sydney Night tour that'll have you saying "G'day mate!" in no time. Take a guided tour of the famed landmarks with easy transfers.
  • Zoom up to the observation deck of the Sydney Tower Eye for stellar skyline views and watch as the sky lights up in shades of peony pink.
  • Head to Observatory Hill, a perfect spot for sweeping views of Parramatta River, while your English or Mandarin-speaking guide shares Sydney’s finest tales.
  • Cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge and catch the stunning neon-lit skyline. Then, swing by the charming harborside neighborhood at Kirribilli.
  • Finally, the grand finale awaits–Mrs. Macquarie's Chair. Spot the Opera House bathed in the soft glow of night lights.
  • Buckle up for a 3-hour Sydney Night tour that'll have you saying "G'day mate!" in no time. Take a guided tour of the famed landmarks with easy transfers.
  • Zoom up to the observation deck of the Sydney Tower Eye for stellar skyline views and watch as the sky lights up in shades of peony pink.
  • Head to Observatory Hill, a perfect spot for sweeping views of Parramatta River, while your English or Mandarin-speaking guide shares Sydney’s finest tales.
  • Cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge and catch the stunning neon-lit skyline. Then, swing by the charming harborside neighborhood at Kirribilli.
  • Finally, the grand finale awaits–Mrs. Macquarie's Chair. Spot the Opera House bathed in the soft glow of night lights.

Inclusions

  • 3-hour Sydney night tour
  • English and Mandarin-speaking guide
  • AC coach transfers
  • Entry to Sydney Tower Eye
  • Bottled water
  • 6:30pm: Meet at Pitt St Mall, City Centre
  • Sydney Tower Eye
  • Observatory Hill
  • Luna Park & Kiribilli
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • Mrs Macquarie Chair
  • 9:30pm: Drop off at Central Station or Holiday Inn Darling Harbor
  • Tip: The Observatory Hill hosts exhibitions on astronomy and meteorology. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline.
  • This experience is pram/stroller accessible.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Couple enjoying dinner on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise
Captain Cook Cruise during sunset
Couple enjoying dinner on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise
Chef preparing a dish during the Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Tourist having Australian Beef Cheek in evening cruise
Live music on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour
Couple enjoying dinner on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise
Captain Cook Cruise during sunset
Couple enjoying dinner on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise
Chef preparing a dish during the Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Tourist having Australian Beef Cheek in evening cruise
Live music on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour
Couple enjoying dinner on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise
Captain Cook Cruise during sunset
Couple enjoying dinner on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise
Chef preparing a dish during the Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Tourist having Australian Beef Cheek in evening cruise
Live music on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour
4.5(905)

Multi-Course Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour

from
AU$115
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr. - 2 hr. 30 min.
Meals included
  • Best for couples, friends, or visitors celebrating a special dining experience with stunning evening views.
  • Book this if you want an evening of fine dining on the water, with views of the Opera House while savoring gourmet dishes.
  • What’s unique: You’ll cruise aboard the Sydney 2000, a super-cruiser with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing uninterrupted views of the skyline.
  • Icing on the cake: Choose between a 3- or 4-course meal, with the option of a window seat on your Captain Cook cruise.
  • Best for couples, friends, or visitors celebrating a special dining experience with stunning evening views.
  • Book this if you want an evening of fine dining on the water, with views of the Opera House while savoring gourmet dishes.
  • What’s unique: You’ll cruise aboard the Sydney 2000, a super-cruiser with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing uninterrupted views of the skyline.
  • Icing on the cake: Choose between a 3- or 4-course meal, with the option of a window seat on your Captain Cook cruise.

Inclusions

  • 2 or 3-hour Sydney Harbour dinner cruise (based on option selected)
  • Cruise aboard AC super-cruiser Sydney 2000
  • 3 or 4-course meal (based on option selected)
  • Guaranteed window seating (based on option selected)
  • Live music on weekends and special events

Dinner Menu

  • 3-course dinner menu here
  • 4-course dinner menu here

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic beverages (available to purchase on board)
  • Tip: Don't miss the smaller sights like glowing lighthouses, illuminated forts, or the twinkling boats bobbing on the water.
  • The meal includes vegetarian and gluten-free options.
  • Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Strict dress code: Wear smart casuals.
  • This experience is wheelchair accessible.
  • Assistance dogs and pets are allowed, provided they are restrained in a suitable box, basket, or other container at all times whilst onboard
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Couple enjoying Luxury Gold Penfolds 6-Course Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Couple enjoying dinner on the Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner and drinks, city skyline in background.
Live music on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner and drinks, city skyline in the background.
Luxury Gold Penfolds wine
Dinner at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Syndey Harbour
Dinner at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Syndey Harbour
Couple enjoying Luxury Gold Penfolds 6-Course Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Couple enjoying dinner on the Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner and drinks, city skyline in background.
Live music on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner and drinks, city skyline in the background.
Luxury Gold Penfolds wine
Dinner at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Syndey Harbour
Dinner at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Syndey Harbour
Couple enjoying Luxury Gold Penfolds 6-Course Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Couple enjoying dinner on the Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner and drinks, city skyline in background.
Live music on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner and drinks, city skyline in the background.
Luxury Gold Penfolds wine
Dinner at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Syndey Harbour
Dinner at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Syndey Harbour
4.5(1.8K)

Luxury Gold Penfolds 6-Course Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour

from
AU$279
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Meals included
  • Best for luxury seekers who want an elevated dining experience paired with premium Penfolds wines, all while cruising Sydney Harbour.
  • Book this if you want an exclusive, 6-course gourmet dinner with nighttime views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, perfect for a special occasion.
  • What’s unique: You’ll be treated to hand-picked wines from Penfolds, paired with fresh salads, scallops, and dessert.
  • Icing on the cake: Upgrade to a window seat on this Captain Cook cruise for guaranteed views of Sydney’s glittering skyline.
  • Best for luxury seekers who want an elevated dining experience paired with premium Penfolds wines, all while cruising Sydney Harbour.
  • Book this if you want an exclusive, 6-course gourmet dinner with nighttime views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, perfect for a special occasion.
  • What’s unique: You’ll be treated to hand-picked wines from Penfolds, paired with fresh salads, scallops, and dessert.
  • Icing on the cake: Upgrade to a window seat on this Captain Cook cruise for guaranteed views of Sydney’s glittering skyline.

Inclusions

  • 3-hour Sydney Harbour luxury dinner cruise
  • Cruise on AC super-cruiser Sydney 2000
  • 6-course dinner (see menu here)
  • Penfolds' Gold beverage selection
  • Penfolds' private bin and vintage wines
  • House spirits, liqueurs, beers, and soft drinks
  • Live music on weekends
  • Guaranteed window seating (if option selected)
  • Tip: Don't miss the smaller sights like glowing lighthouses, illuminated forts, or the twinkling boats bobbing on the water.
  • The meal includes vegetarian and gluten-free options.
  • Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.
  • This experience is wheelchair accessible.
  • Assistance dogs and pets are allowed, provided they are restrained in a suitable box, basket, or other container at all times whilst onboard.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Sydney Harbour CruisesEvening cruises

Celebrate art atop the sparkling harbor on a Vivid Sydney cruise

From the 24th of May to the 15th 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 harbor. 

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

  1. 5 reasons you should go on a Vivid Sydney cruise this festival
  2. Guide to finding your perfect Vivid Sydney cruise match
  3. Vivid Sydney cruise options explained
  4. Views from a Vivid Sydney cruise
  5. Know before going on a Vivid Sydney cruise
  6. Frequently asked questions about Vivid Sydney cruises

5 reasons to embark on a Vivid Sydney cruise this season

Vivid Sydney cruises
Vivid Sydney cruises
Vivid Sydney cruises
Vivid Sydney cruises
Vivid Sydney cruises
1/5

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 harbor, 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 harbor. 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 for Vivid Sydney dinner cruises don’t vary a lot from sightseeing cruises. The prices start from AU$49 and can go up to AU$89 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 24th May to 15th June in 2024. 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 cruise tickets

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 harbor 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 cruise tickets

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

Art projection on Sydney Opera house

Art projection on Sydney Opera house 1

Reflecting water views with a Vivid Sydney cruise
Dancing waters and light installations at Darling Harbour
Art projection on Sydney Opera house
Illuminated Sydney Harbour Bridge
Art projection on Sydney Opera house
See all photos

Vivid Sydney cruise boarding points

With the most spectacular water-front displays happening at Darling Harbour, most Vivid Sydney cruises start right opposite to it at King Street Wharf. There are multiple wharfs here that Vivid Sydney cruises depart from. You can usually find the wharf number for your particular cruise on your voucher. 

The other most prominent boarding point for Vivid 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

Timings
Facilities
Tips
Timings - Vivid Sydney cruises

The Vivid Sydney festival will be held from 24th May to 15th June, 2024. 

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.

Facilities - Vivid Sydney cruises
  • Expert host: Most Vivid Sydney dinner cruises include an experienced skipper or deck hand to give you recommendations and keep you assisted throughout your meal. 
  • Live music: Get live music on some Vivid Sydney cruises over the weekends. 
  • Wheelchair accessibility: Some cruise liners are also wheelchair accessible. We suggest that you confirm its availability and mention any additional requirements while booking your tickets. 
  • Indoor & outdoor seating: There is both indoor and outdoor seating available on some cruises, sometimes also along with a spacious viewing deck. 
  • Dietary inclusions: If you have any dietary restrictions, do mention them during the booking of your tickets to allow the crew to make accommodations for you. 
  • Service animals: Service animals are usually allowed, as long as they have the necessary identification.
Tips - Vivid Sydney cruises
  • Watch out for the festival dates: Vivid Sydney festival this year is from 24th May to 15th June. Make sure to plan your favorite Vivid Sydney cruise and other experiences between these dates. 
  • Book well in advance: This festival attracts massive crowds, which means that reservations run out well in advance. We suggest that you start planning at least a few weeks in advance. 
  • Reach before departure time: The boarding for your cruise usually starts about 10-15 minutes before the departure time. Be sure to arrive a little early. 
  • Carry warm layers: It is the peak winter season in Sydney right now, and it gets quite chilly atop the water. Carry a jacket, scarf or anything you may need to remain warm. 
  • Get sickness medication: If you’re prone to get seasick, carry some medication to avoid feeling nauseous. 
  • Don’t forget the camera: The best views of the Vivid Sydney festival are from the city’s harbor. Carry your camera to capture some kaleidoscope shots.

Frequently asked questions about Vivid Sydney cruises

What are the festival dates for Vivid Sydney 2024?

Vivid Sydney will be held from 24th May to 15th June or 2024.

What are the Vivid Sydney cruise options available?

Vivid Sydney cruises are usually available either as a sightseeing cruise or a dinner cruise.

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 Sydney Opera House 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.

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.