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Vivid Sydney cruises

4.5(4,747)
Multiple route options
Multiple route options
Frequent departures
Frequent departures
Scenic views
Scenic views
























Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney Cruises.
Luxurious yacht deck with gourmet appetizers and Sydney skyline view during Vivid Sydney cruise.
Cruise boat near Sydney Harbour Bridge during Vivid Sydney event.
Guests toasting with drinks on Vivid Sydney Intimate Cruise, canapés in background.
Vivid Sydney light show over water with city skyline in the background.
Sydney Harbour Bridge illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a tall ship dinner cruise.
Interior of a Sydney cruise with canapés and drinks, featuring city views through large windows.
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney Cruises.
Luxurious yacht deck with gourmet appetizers and Sydney skyline view during Vivid Sydney cruise.
Cruise boat near Sydney Harbour Bridge during Vivid Sydney event.
Guests toasting with drinks on Vivid Sydney Intimate Cruise, canapés in background.
Vivid Sydney light show over water with city skyline in the background.
Sydney Harbour Bridge illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a tall ship dinner cruise.
Interior of a Sydney cruise with canapés and drinks, featuring city views through large windows.
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney Cruises.
Luxurious yacht deck with gourmet appetizers and Sydney skyline view during Vivid Sydney cruise.
Cruise boat near Sydney Harbour Bridge during Vivid Sydney event.
Guests toasting with drinks on Vivid Sydney Intimate Cruise, canapés in background.
Vivid Sydney light show over water with city skyline in the background.
Sydney Harbour Bridge illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a tall ship dinner cruise.
Interior of a Sydney cruise with canapés and drinks, featuring city views through large windows.
4.8(15)

Vivid Sydney Canapés Cruise with Complimentary Drink

from
AU$75
1 hr 30 min

Uncrowded cruise with canapés and a complimentary drink.

  • Starting point: Pier 2, Walsh Bay, Sydney Harbour
  • Everything you get: 90-minute cruise with roaming canapés, one included beer, wine, soft drink, or juice, and the option to purchase more at the licensed bar.
  • Sights covered: Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, Circular Quay, Museum of Contemporary Art, and other Vivid-lit landmarks
  • Why choose this: Perfect for friends or couples seeking a relaxed, social evening with light bites and drinks, all while soaking up Vivid’s dazzling harbour views in a cozy setting.

Uncrowded cruise with canapés and a complimentary drink.

  • Starting point: Pier 2, Walsh Bay, Sydney Harbour
  • Everything you get: 90-minute cruise with roaming canapés, one included beer, wine, soft drink, or juice, and the option to purchase more at the licensed bar.
  • Sights covered: Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, Circular Quay, Museum of Contemporary Art, and other Vivid-lit landmarks
  • Why choose this: Perfect for friends or couples seeking a relaxed, social evening with light bites and drinks, all while soaking up Vivid’s dazzling harbour views in a cozy setting.

Inclusions

  • 90-minute Vivid Sydney cruise
  • Roaming canapés and 1 complimentary beverage (beer, wine, soft drink, or juice)
  • Experienced skipper and deck hand/host
  • Access to a licensed bar

Exclusions

  • Additional drinks (available for purchase onboard)
  • Tip: Download the Vivid Sydney app. The app provides a map of all the light installations, including descriptions and show times.
  • A minimum of 8 passengers is needed for a cruise to depart.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Catamaran Kirralee cruising near Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge during Vivid Sydney.
Catamaran interior with seating and steering wheel on Vivid Sydney BYO Kirralee Cruise.
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney festival with city skyline.
Sydney Opera House illuminated with vibrant Vivid Lights display.
Sydney Harbour Bridge illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a tall ship dinner cruise.
Vivid Sydney light show over water with city skyline in the background.
Catamaran Kirralee cruising near Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge during Vivid Sydney.
Catamaran interior with seating and steering wheel on Vivid Sydney BYO Kirralee Cruise.
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney festival with city skyline.
Sydney Opera House illuminated with vibrant Vivid Lights display.
Sydney Harbour Bridge illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a tall ship dinner cruise.
Vivid Sydney light show over water with city skyline in the background.
Catamaran Kirralee cruising near Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge during Vivid Sydney.
Catamaran interior with seating and steering wheel on Vivid Sydney BYO Kirralee Cruise.
Sydney Opera House illuminated during Vivid Sydney festival with city skyline.
Sydney Opera House illuminated with vibrant Vivid Lights display.
Sydney Harbour Bridge illuminated during Vivid Sydney, viewed from a tall ship dinner cruise.
Vivid Sydney light show over water with city skyline in the background.
NEW

Vivid Sydney BYOB Catamaran Cruise

from
AU$59
1 hr 30 min

Intimate BYO cruise with just 25–30 guests—no corkage fees.

  • Starting point: Pier 2, Walsh Bay—just steps from Sydney Harbour Bridge and The Rocks
  • Everything you get: 90-minute cruise with an antipasto spread, bread rolls, one soft drink, juice, or water, and the freedom to bring your own alcoholic beverages.
  • Sights covered: Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, and the Vivid Sydney light displays along the shoreline
  • Why choose this: Perfect for small groups or friends seeking a cozy Vivid experience. BYO drinks flexibility, attentive crew for a relaxed, crowd-free night.

Intimate BYO cruise with just 25–30 guests—no corkage fees.

  • Starting point: Pier 2, Walsh Bay—just steps from Sydney Harbour Bridge and The Rocks
  • Everything you get: 90-minute cruise with an antipasto spread, bread rolls, one soft drink, juice, or water, and the freedom to bring your own alcoholic beverages.
  • Sights covered: Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, and the Vivid Sydney light displays along the shoreline
  • Why choose this: Perfect for small groups or friends seeking a cozy Vivid experience. BYO drinks flexibility, attentive crew for a relaxed, crowd-free night.

Inclusions

  • 90-minute Vivid Sydney Cruise
  • Light refreshments: Italian-inspired antipasto spread with bread rolls and 1 beverage (soft drink, juice, or water)
  • Small group of no more than 25 to 30 people
  • Option to BYO alcoholic beverages with no corkage fees
  • Experienced skipper and deck hand/host
  • Tip: Pack a small tripod or phone stand. It will help you achieve stable shots during those long exposure settings.
  • The schedule is subject to change due to traffic and weather.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 96 hours before the experience begins.
Couple dining on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise.
Captain Cook Cruise at sunset near Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Couple toasting with wine on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise.
Chef garnishing dish on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Tourist enjoying Australian beef cheek on evening cruise dining experience.
Live music performance on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Couple dining on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise.
Captain Cook Cruise at sunset near Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Couple toasting with wine on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise.
Chef garnishing dish on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Tourist enjoying Australian beef cheek on evening cruise dining experience.
Live music performance on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Couple dining on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise.
Captain Cook Cruise at sunset near Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Couple toasting with wine on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise.
Chef garnishing dish on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Tourist enjoying Australian beef cheek on evening cruise dining experience.
Live music performance on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
4.5(938)

Multi-Course Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour

from
AU$125
Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

2 hr - 2 hr 30 min
Meals included
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours - 2 hours 30 minutes
FREQUENCYWed-Sun, at 5pm
MODE OF TRANSFERShip

1 Boarding point

King Street Wharf Darling Harbour

Get direction

Sights covered

Cockle Bay

Cockle Bay

Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Harbour Bridge

The Rocks

The Rocks

Fort Denison

Fort Denison

  • 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 Sydney Harbour cruise with server presenting wine.
Couple dining with wine on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Penfolds wine bottles and glasses on a cruise dining table with a server in the background.
Live music performance on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Gourmet dishes served at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Penfolds wine bottles and decanter with wooden crate on display.
Scallops and garnishes served on a plate during the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Steak with sauce being poured, garnished with greens, on the Gold Penfolds Dinner Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Couple dining on Sydney Harbour cruise with server presenting wine.
Couple dining with wine on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Penfolds wine bottles and glasses on a cruise dining table with a server in the background.
Live music performance on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Gourmet dishes served at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Penfolds wine bottles and decanter with wooden crate on display.
Scallops and garnishes served on a plate during the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Steak with sauce being poured, garnished with greens, on the Gold Penfolds Dinner Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Couple dining on Sydney Harbour cruise with server presenting wine.
Couple dining with wine on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Penfolds wine bottles and glasses on a cruise dining table with a server in the background.
Live music performance on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Gourmet dishes served at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Penfolds wine bottles and decanter with wooden crate on display.
Scallops and garnishes served on a plate during the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Steak with sauce being poured, garnished with greens, on the Gold Penfolds Dinner Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
4.4(1,785)

Luxury Gold Penfolds 6-Course Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour

from
AU$289
Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

Flexible duration
Meals included
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours - 3 hours 15 minutes
FREQUENCYWed-Sun, at 5pm or 7pm
MODE OF TRANSFERShip

1 Boarding point

King St Wharf 1

Get direction

Sights covered

Barangaroo Reserve

Barangaroo Reserve

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House

Mrs Macquarie's Point

Mrs Macquarie's Point

Fort Denison

Fort Denison

  • 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.
Cruise ship near Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House during Starlight Dinner Cruise.
Couple toasting with wine on Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
Tourist enjoying Australian beef cheek on evening cruise dining experience.
Guests toasting with cocktails on a Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
Group toasting at dinner table on Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
Grilled fish with quinoa, spinach puree, and pickled ginger on a black plate, Starlight Dinner Cruise Sydney.
Captain Cook Cruise at sunset near Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Cruise ship near Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House during Starlight Dinner Cruise.
Couple toasting with wine on Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
Tourist enjoying Australian beef cheek on evening cruise dining experience.
Guests toasting with cocktails on a Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
Group toasting at dinner table on Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
Grilled fish with quinoa, spinach puree, and pickled ginger on a black plate, Starlight Dinner Cruise Sydney.
Captain Cook Cruise at sunset near Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Cruise ship near Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House during Starlight Dinner Cruise.
Couple toasting with wine on Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
Tourist enjoying Australian beef cheek on evening cruise dining experience.
Guests toasting with cocktails on a Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
Group toasting at dinner table on Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
Grilled fish with quinoa, spinach puree, and pickled ginger on a black plate, Starlight Dinner Cruise Sydney.
Captain Cook Cruise at sunset near Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
4.3(28)

3-Hour Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney

from
AU$155
Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

2 hr 30 min
  • Spend a romantic or casual family dinner aboard Captain Cook's Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
  • Discover the secret behind some of Instagram’s picturesque moments.
  • Cruise past the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
  • Spend a romantic or casual family dinner aboard Captain Cook's Starlight Dinner Cruise in Sydney.
  • Discover the secret behind some of Instagram’s picturesque moments.
  • Cruise past the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Inclusions

  • 4-course à la carte dining menu
  • 2-3 hours of relaxed cruising
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Personalised service
  • Live music on Sat & Sun

Exclusions

  • Audio guide
  • Hotel transfers
  • If you're prone to motion/sea sickness, make sure to take medicines suggested by your doctor beforehand.
  • This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.
  • The experience is restricted for guests aged 4 and under.
  • The experience is not accessible for people with back and neck problems, serious medical conditions, injuries, and pregnant women.
  • All children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Couple dining with wine on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Gourmet dishes served at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Steak with sauce being poured, garnished with greens, on the Gold Penfolds Dinner Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Couple dining on Sydney Harbour cruise with server presenting wine.
Live music performance on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Scallops and garnishes served on a plate during the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Penfolds wine bottles and glasses on a cruise dining table with a server in the background.
Couple dining with wine on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Gourmet dishes served at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Steak with sauce being poured, garnished with greens, on the Gold Penfolds Dinner Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Couple dining on Sydney Harbour cruise with server presenting wine.
Live music performance on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Scallops and garnishes served on a plate during the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Penfolds wine bottles and glasses on a cruise dining table with a server in the background.
Couple dining with wine on Vivid Sydney dinner cruise.
Gourmet dishes served at the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Steak with sauce being poured, garnished with greens, on the Gold Penfolds Dinner Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Couple dining on Sydney Harbour cruise with server presenting wine.
Live music performance on Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Scallops and garnishes served on a plate during the Gold Penfolds Dinner & Drinks Cruise, Sydney Harbour.
Penfolds wine bottles and glasses on a cruise dining table with a server in the background.
4.5(2,007)

6-Course Gold Dinner Cruise Sydney

from
AU$215
Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

2 hr 30 min
Meals included
  • Hitch a ride on a luxurious cruise vessel that blends sightseeing and dining together perfectly.
  • Take advantage of priority boarding and experience upper-deck seating on the Sky Deck to soak up Sydney’s striking skyline at nightfall.
  • Relish the extensive 6-course meal of the contemporary Australian menu, while being serenaded with live musical performances on weekends.
  • Enjoy your lavish spread of delectables while admiring unparalleled views of the Sydney skyline.
  • Take your pick of beverages with an expansive wine selection, local and imported beers, liqueur coffee, and soft drinks.
  • Hitch a ride on a luxurious cruise vessel that blends sightseeing and dining together perfectly.
  • Take advantage of priority boarding and experience upper-deck seating on the Sky Deck to soak up Sydney’s striking skyline at nightfall.
  • Relish the extensive 6-course meal of the contemporary Australian menu, while being serenaded with live musical performances on weekends.
  • Enjoy your lavish spread of delectables while admiring unparalleled views of the Sydney skyline.
  • Take your pick of beverages with an expansive wine selection, local and imported beers, liqueur coffee, and soft drinks.

Inclusions

  • Cruise on a premier sightseeing vessel
  • Welcome reception
  • 6-course Contemporary Australian a la carte dining menu
  • Live music & dancing on weekends.

Exclusions

  • Drinks (available to purchase)
  • Smart casual wear would be the recommended dress code for this dinner cruise.
  • Please note that children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • 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 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

  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 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 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 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 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

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

Timings
Facilities
Tips
Timings - Vivid Sydney cruises
Facilities - Vivid Sydney cruises
Tips - Vivid Sydney cruises
  • 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

What are the festival dates for Vivid Sydney 2025?

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

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.

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.

From happy customers

Ian Lewsey
GB

Ian

United Kingdom
dez, 2025
review-image
review-image
review-image
Sunset Cruise with Sydney Harbour Cruises was excellent 👌 Captain Frank was very knowledgeable & the buffet was great.
Sydney Harbour Sunset Cruise
Gary Nelson
US

Gary

United States
jan, 2026
Being able to see all the major sites and stop to visit them was great. The audio program wias very informative. We had only 2 buses on the red and blue routes, so waits were long.
Big Bus: Sydney Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Hop-on Hop-off Harbour Cruise
Paniz Hosseininaghavi
AU

Paniz

Australia
dez, 2025
The fact that you could see the city and the attraction without worrying about traffic or parking spot was a huge advantage
Big Bus: Sydney Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Hop-on Hop-off Harbour Cruise
COLETTE MARY KELLY

Colette

jan, 2026
We had a fabulous time. The weather was against us but it was still brilliant. The crew were very friendly and tge foid and wine were exceptional. A great way to see the sights. Thank you
Sydney Harbour Highlights Catamaran Cruise with Aussie Bites
Charles Stewart
US

Charles

United States
jan, 2026
The trip was serene and smooth. We enjoyed the music/songs in the background. Pretty views around the Harbour. Food was good and waiter was attentive.
Premium Multi-Course Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour
LESLEY MEREDITH
AU

Lesley

Australia
nov, 2025
the friends i was with also the staff were lovely, the food was good and appertising. The cruise was very enjoyable, and relaxing . Thankyou for the lunch cruise my friends and myself enjoyed it immensely
Premium Multi-Course Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour
John Ray Libiran
PH

John

Philippines
jan, 2026
My experience on the Sydney Princess Cruise sightseeing tour was absolutely wonderful! The highlight of the trip was Ron, our commentator — he was incredibly informative, engaging, and full of fascinating insights about Sydney’s history. His knowledge went beyond the sights — he also gave us great tips on other places to visit and the best ways to get there. It really made the experience more personal and enriching. A big shout-out as well to Roland, one of the crew members, who was courteous, professional, and attentive throughout the journey. The combination of stunning harbour views, a comfortable cruise, and such an outstanding team made this a memorable outing. I’ll definitely be recommending the Sydney Princess Cruise to my friends and family — it’s a must-do for anyone who wants to see Sydney from its most spectacular vantage point!
Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
John Kirby
AU

John

Australia
nov, 2025
We felt very lucky- sailed out of the Sydney heads and quickly saw a whale with calf. Followed them and saw lots of action, the boat felt safe and the sun was shining on us.
Sydney Harbour Whale Watching Cruise by Captain Cook