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Vivid Sydney cruises

4.5(2.7K ratings)
Multiple route options
Multiple route options
Frequent departures
Frequent departures
Scenic views
Scenic views
























Select your experience

Catamaran Kirralee cruising Sydney Harbour with the iconic Opera House sails and Harbour Bridge in the background, inviting guests to a BYOB experience
Cockpit of a Sydney Harbour cruise boat with blue seating and clear weather protection, ready for guests to enjoy a BYOB experience
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a catamaran on the harbor.
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a catamaran on the harbor.
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated city skyline in the background.
Vivid Sydney - Darling Harbour
Catamaran Kirralee cruising Sydney Harbour with the iconic Opera House sails and Harbour Bridge in the background, inviting guests to a BYOB experience
Cockpit of a Sydney Harbour cruise boat with blue seating and clear weather protection, ready for guests to enjoy a BYOB experience
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a catamaran on the harbor.
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a catamaran on the harbor.
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated city skyline in the background.
Vivid Sydney - Darling Harbour
Catamaran Kirralee cruising Sydney Harbour with the iconic Opera House sails and Harbour Bridge in the background, inviting guests to a BYOB experience
Cockpit of a Sydney Harbour cruise boat with blue seating and clear weather protection, ready for guests to enjoy a BYOB experience
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a catamaran on the harbor.
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a catamaran on the harbor.
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated city skyline in the background.
Vivid Sydney - Darling Harbour
NEW

Vivid Sydney Intimate Cruise with Bring Your Own Beverage

from
AU$49
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. 30 min.
  • Join the super intimate 90-minute Vivid Sydney cruise, limited to just 25 guests. Added perk? You can tailor it to your taste (quench your thirst)!
  • You can BYOB (bring your own beverage) so stock up on your favorite drinks. Best of all, there are no corkage fees.
  • Wondering what to pair with your drinks? They’ll be serving antipasto platters, bread rolls, and refreshing beverages (soft drinks, juice, or water) throughout the cruise.
  • The vessel has a good mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, and with a limited guest count, everyone is guaranteed a clear, unobstructed view of the Vivid Sydney installations.
  • From this prime harbour position, watch Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge turn into a canvas for high-definition art projections, crafted by artists from across the globe.
  • Join the super intimate 90-minute Vivid Sydney cruise, limited to just 25 guests. Added perk? You can tailor it to your taste (quench your thirst)!
  • You can BYOB (bring your own beverage) so stock up on your favorite drinks. Best of all, there are no corkage fees.
  • Wondering what to pair with your drinks? They’ll be serving antipasto platters, bread rolls, and refreshing beverages (soft drinks, juice, or water) throughout the cruise.
  • The vessel has a good mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, and with a limited guest count, everyone is guaranteed a clear, unobstructed view of the Vivid Sydney installations.
  • From this prime harbour position, watch Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge turn into a canvas for high-definition art projections, crafted by artists from across the globe.

Inclusions

  • 90-minute cruise on Sydney Harbour
  • Experienced skipper and deck hand/host
  • Italian-inspired antipasto spread with bread rolls
  • Soft drink, juice, or water
  • Tip: Pack a small tripod or phone stand. It will help you achieve stable shots during those long exposure settings.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 96 hours before the experience begins.
Sydney Harbour lit up during Vivid 2022 Cruise with illuminated Opera House in view.
Glass boat Bella Vista in Sydney harbour
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated skyline in the background.
Woman photographing illuminated Sydney Harbour Bridge on Vivid Lights Cruise.
Light sculptures at Vivid Sydney
Sydney Harbour during the Vivid Festival Sightseeing Cruise with Buffet Dinner
Sydney Harbour lit up during Vivid 2022 Cruise with illuminated Opera House in view.
Glass boat Bella Vista in Sydney harbour
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated skyline in the background.
Woman photographing illuminated Sydney Harbour Bridge on Vivid Lights Cruise.
Light sculptures at Vivid Sydney
Sydney Harbour during the Vivid Festival Sightseeing Cruise with Buffet Dinner
Sydney Harbour lit up during Vivid 2022 Cruise with illuminated Opera House in view.
Glass boat Bella Vista in Sydney harbour
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated skyline in the background.
Woman photographing illuminated Sydney Harbour Bridge on Vivid Lights Cruise.
Light sculptures at Vivid Sydney
Sydney Harbour during the Vivid Festival Sightseeing Cruise with Buffet Dinner
NEW

Vivid Sydney Glass Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner

from
AU$75
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr.
Meals included
  • Vivid Sydney from the water hits different, especially from a glass boat, complete with a buffet dinner. With floor-to-ceiling windows, you'll catch every color and light.
  • The buffet offers a variety: roast chicken, fresh pasta, Mediterranean roast vegetable couscous salad, and more.
  • On this 2-hour cruise, you'll find elegantly arranged cocktail-style high-top tables and ample room to roam across 3 decks.
  • Bars on each floor mean your next drink is just steps away – keep the good times and drinks flowing!
  • Up top on the open-air deck, you've got a 360º view. From the Opera House to the Harbour Bridge – every frame is like a big, bright art show.
  • Vivid Sydney from the water hits different, especially from a glass boat, complete with a buffet dinner. With floor-to-ceiling windows, you'll catch every color and light.
  • The buffet offers a variety: roast chicken, fresh pasta, Mediterranean roast vegetable couscous salad, and more.
  • On this 2-hour cruise, you'll find elegantly arranged cocktail-style high-top tables and ample room to roam across 3 decks.
  • Bars on each floor mean your next drink is just steps away – keep the good times and drinks flowing!
  • Up top on the open-air deck, you've got a 360º view. From the Opera House to the Harbour Bridge – every frame is like a big, bright art show.

Inclusions

  • 2-hour Vivid Sydney sightseeing cruise
  • Buffet dinner (menu here)
  • Access to indoor & outdoor decks

Exclusions

  • Drinks (available for purchase onboard)
  • Tip: Plan to be at Vivid Sydney on June 8, 9, or 15. There’s a special drone show called 'Love is in the Air' with a beautiful display of lights in the shape of hearts and more.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Sydney Harbour night cruise with illuminated Opera House during Vivid Sydney festival.
Vivid Sydney - Darling Harbour
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated skyline in the background.
Couples enjoying the cruise
Food and drinks for Tourists
Sydney Harbour night cruise with illuminated Opera House during Vivid Sydney festival.
Vivid Sydney - Darling Harbour
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated skyline in the background.
Couples enjoying the cruise
Food and drinks for Tourists
Sydney Harbour night cruise with illuminated Opera House during Vivid Sydney festival.
Vivid Sydney - Darling Harbour
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated skyline in the background.
Couples enjoying the cruise
Food and drinks for Tourists
NEW

Vivid Sydney Intimate Cruise with Canapes & Complimentary Drink

from
AU$69
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. 30 min.
  • Drinks, appetizers, and stunning views of Vivid Sydney – Enjoy it all on this 1.5-hour cruise, with just 40 guests onboard. It’s as exclusive as it can get.
  • Feeling snacky? They'll have delicious canapés going around, and your first drink is on the house – choose from beer, wine, or something lighter.
  • Swing by the licensed bar if you'd like more. Whether you want cocktails or classic drinks, you'll find them all.
  • With ample seating and standing area across the large internal cabin, upper deck area, and front deck, watch the light show from wherever you want.
  • The highlight? The Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Luna Park turning into gigantic screens, with colorful light projections.
  • Drinks, appetizers, and stunning views of Vivid Sydney – Enjoy it all on this 1.5-hour cruise, with just 40 guests onboard. It’s as exclusive as it can get.
  • Feeling snacky? They'll have delicious canapés going around, and your first drink is on the house – choose from beer, wine, or something lighter.
  • Swing by the licensed bar if you'd like more. Whether you want cocktails or classic drinks, you'll find them all.
  • With ample seating and standing area across the large internal cabin, upper deck area, and front deck, watch the light show from wherever you want.
  • The highlight? The Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Luna Park turning into gigantic screens, with colorful light projections.

Inclusions

  • 90-minute cruise on Sydney Harbour
  • Experienced skipper and deck hand/host
  • Roaming canapes
  • 1 beverage per person (beer, wine, soft drink, or juice)

Exclusions

  • Additional drinks (available for purchase)
  • Your boarding point is at King Street Wharf 7, Darling Harbour
  • Get directions to the boarding point
  • Cruise timings:
  • Fleetwing: 5:45pm, 7:45pm, & 9:30pm
  • Heaven: 6:15pm & 8:15pm
  • Please arrive 15 to 20 minutes early.
  • Tip: Download the Vivid Sydney app. The app provides a map of all the light installations, including descriptions and show times.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Tall ship sailing in Sydney Harbour during Vivid Festival with illuminated skyline and buffet dinner.
Sydney Harbour night cruise with illuminated Opera House during Vivid Sydney festival.
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated cityscape in the background.
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated city skyline in the background.
Vivid Sydney - Darling Harbour
Woman photographing illuminated Sydney Harbour Bridge on Vivid Lights Cruise.
Tall ship sailing in Sydney Harbour during Vivid Festival with illuminated skyline and buffet dinner.
Sydney Harbour night cruise with illuminated Opera House during Vivid Sydney festival.
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated cityscape in the background.
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated city skyline in the background.
Vivid Sydney - Darling Harbour
Woman photographing illuminated Sydney Harbour Bridge on Vivid Lights Cruise.
Tall ship sailing in Sydney Harbour during Vivid Festival with illuminated skyline and buffet dinner.
Sydney Harbour night cruise with illuminated Opera House during Vivid Sydney festival.
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated cityscape in the background.
Tall ship sailing during Vivid Sydney event with illuminated city skyline in the background.
Vivid Sydney - Darling Harbour
Woman photographing illuminated Sydney Harbour Bridge on Vivid Lights Cruise.
NEW

Vivid Sydney Tall Ship Cruise with Dinner

from
AU$89
Free cancellation

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

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. 30 min.
Meals included
  • Fancy something more unique than a yacht cruise, step aboard an 1850s tall ship, complete with masts and sails, for a 1.5-hour Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
  • No trip is complete without great food. Enjoy a fab dinner spread and sip on wine as the Sydney skyline dazzles you.
  • Lend a hand hoisting the sails and enjoy outstanding views of the Opera House as the world-famous sails are transformed by 3D mapped projections
  • This cruise is perfect for all: families will be glued to the sights, couples can indulge in a date night, and solo explorers can unwind and make new mates!
  • Hear the history of Sydney’s transformation from a sleepy colony town to a world-class city, and how the tall ships facilitated trade across the oceans.
  • Fancy something more unique than a yacht cruise, step aboard an 1850s tall ship, complete with masts and sails, for a 1.5-hour Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
  • No trip is complete without great food. Enjoy a fab dinner spread and sip on wine as the Sydney skyline dazzles you.
  • Lend a hand hoisting the sails and enjoy outstanding views of the Opera House as the world-famous sails are transformed by 3D mapped projections
  • This cruise is perfect for all: families will be glued to the sights, couples can indulge in a date night, and solo explorers can unwind and make new mates!
  • Hear the history of Sydney’s transformation from a sleepy colony town to a world-class city, and how the tall ships facilitated trade across the oceans.

Inclusions

  • 1.5-hour tall ship dinner cruise
  • Dinner (menu here)
  • Wine
  • Tip: Bandana? Check. Eye patch? Optional (but way more fun!). Grab a striped shirt, some rolled-up pants, and anything else that screams "pirate."
  • This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
  • Smoking is prohibited on the ship.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Sydney Harbour Bridge illuminated at night with city skyline in the background.
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.
Sydney Harbour Bridge illuminated at night with city skyline in the background.
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.
Sydney Harbour Bridge illuminated at night with city skyline in the background.
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

from
AU$79
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 Observatory Hill 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 Observatory Hill 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
  • Access to The Rocks
  • Access to Observatory Hill
  • Access to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
  • Access to Kirribilli
  • Access to Luna Park
  • AC coach transfers
  • Return ferry transfer
  • Bottled water
  • 6:30pm: Meet at Market and Pitts Street
  • 6.45pm: Observatory Hill
  • 7.45pm: The Rocks
  • 8.15pm: Mrs Macquarie Chair
  • 8.30pm: Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • 8.50pm: Luna Park & Kiribilli
  • 9:15pm: Return ferry transfer
  • 9.33pm: Arrive at Barangaroo
  • 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 dining on a Sydney Harbour cruise with city skyline in the background.
Sydney Harbour view from Captain Cook Cruise at sunset with city skyline and Sydney Opera House.
Couple dining on a Sydney Harbour cruise with city skyline in the background.
Chef preparing a dish on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise with city lights in background.
Tourist enjoying Australian Beef Cheek on a Sydney evening starlight dinner cruise.
Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with live music, featuring Gold Penfolds wine and a six-course meal.
Couple dining on a Sydney Harbour cruise with city skyline in the background.
Sydney Harbour view from Captain Cook Cruise at sunset with city skyline and Sydney Opera House.
Couple dining on a Sydney Harbour cruise with city skyline in the background.
Chef preparing a dish on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise with city lights in background.
Tourist enjoying Australian Beef Cheek on a Sydney evening starlight dinner cruise.
Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with live music, featuring Gold Penfolds wine and a six-course meal.
Couple dining on a Sydney Harbour cruise with city skyline in the background.
Sydney Harbour view from Captain Cook Cruise at sunset with city skyline and Sydney Opera House.
Couple dining on a Sydney Harbour cruise with city skyline in the background.
Chef preparing a dish on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise with city lights in background.
Tourist enjoying Australian Beef Cheek on a Sydney evening starlight dinner cruise.
Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with live music, featuring Gold Penfolds wine and a six-course meal.
4.5(920)

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 dining on a luxury cruise with Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background.
Couple dining on a boat during Vivid Sydney festival with city skyline in background.
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner and drinks, city skyline in background.
Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with live music, featuring Gold Penfolds wine and a six-course meal.
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with dining setup on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise.
Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with Luxury Gold Penfolds wine and six-course meal.
Sydney Harbour cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner, showcasing city skyline and waterfront views.
Sydney Harbour cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner, showcasing a 6-course meal on a luxury boat.
Couple dining on a luxury cruise with Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background.
Couple dining on a boat during Vivid Sydney festival with city skyline in background.
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner and drinks, city skyline in background.
Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with live music, featuring Gold Penfolds wine and a six-course meal.
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with dining setup on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise.
Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with Luxury Gold Penfolds wine and six-course meal.
Sydney Harbour cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner, showcasing city skyline and waterfront views.
Sydney Harbour cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner, showcasing a 6-course meal on a luxury boat.
Couple dining on a luxury cruise with Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background.
Couple dining on a boat during Vivid Sydney festival with city skyline in background.
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner and drinks, city skyline in background.
Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with live music, featuring Gold Penfolds wine and a six-course meal.
Sydney Harbour evening cruise with dining setup on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise.
Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with Luxury Gold Penfolds wine and six-course meal.
Sydney Harbour cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner, showcasing city skyline and waterfront views.
Sydney Harbour cruise with Gold Penfolds dinner, showcasing a 6-course meal on a luxury boat.
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 harbour 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

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

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
Facilities - Vivid Sydney cruises
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.