vivid lights magistic early harbour cruise

• Plan Ahead And Enjoy Vivid Sydney 2024 From The Best Vantage Points

As Vivid Sydney approaches, we'd like to share some insights that we believe will be valuable to our dear guests. Based on our years of Vivid Sydney cruise service, we've confirmed that the saying "a little planning goes a long way" holds true.

To ensure a seamless experience of this wonderful global festival, now is the ideal time to begin planning. Pay attention to even the seemingly minor details such as your mode of transportation, attire, essentials to carry, and selecting the best spots to witness the splendour of Vivid Lights.

In this blog, we will guide you in choosing unique vantage points to view Vivid Lights. Without further ado, let's delve right into it!

Cruise Into The Vivid Sydney Magic

While there are many ways to enjoy the festival, nothing comes close to a scenic cruise along Sydney Harbour. Not only has it become an inevitable part of a complete Vivid Sydney experience, these Vivid Sydney cruises also offer the best vantage points. 

From the outer decks of 'Magistic Two,' treat yourself to panoramic views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and other waterfront marvels, all aglow with the dazzling Vivid Lights. We offer two Vivid Lights cruises with early and late departures. Choose the one that suits your schedule and witness the festival like never before from the waters! 

Climb The Harbour Bridge

If you want a little bit of adventure added to your Vivid Sydney experience, join the ‘Vivid Sydney Climb’ by ‘Bridge Climb Sydney’, and climb the Harbour Bridge. The view from the summit is truly mesmerising! See Sydney glitter with Vivid Lights. If you time your climb just right, you can even reach the summit in time for the incredible Vivid Sydney ‘lights on’ moment. Imagine seeing the entire city light up from above all at once!

Lady Macquarie's Chair in the Royal Botanic Garden

Like the previous year, the Royal Botanic Garden hosts the mesmerising 'lightscape' event, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a world of wonders of lights – from enchanting light canopies to towering illuminated flowers. While exploring the garden's attractions, you'll find several vantage points that offer stunning views of other Vivid Lights installations.

One such vantage point, often overlooked in discussions, is the iconic Lady Macquarie's Chair. Perched on the edge of the garden, this historical landmark provides an unparalleled panoramic view of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Despite its lesser-known status, it's worth noting that Lady Macquarie's Chair can still attract crowds, so arriving early is recommended.

Up Above, On A Heli So High

If you wonder how the birds see Vivid Sydney, here’s your chance! Take a ride in a helicopter! As you soar above Sydney's skyline, you'll witness the city transform into a luminous wonderland unlike any other. 

From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the majestic Harbour Bridge, every landmark is lit up in a spectacular display of colour and creativity. A helicopter ride over Vivid Sydney is not just a sightseeing tour – it's an experience that allows you to fully appreciate the scale and grandeur of this extraordinary event. 

So, get ready to streamline your Vivid Sydney experience with ease! Here's a heads-up: book one of the Magistic Vivid Cruises now and enjoy early bird pricing. 

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• Vivid Sydney Cruises

Vivid Sydney Lights Cruise With Dinner & Cabaret Show

• 3-Course Menu
• Vivid Views
• Drone Show On 8 & 15 June

Price inclusive of cruising tariff, menu charges and wharf charges. Holiday surcharges applicable for special events & selected departures.

VIVID Sydney Showboat Dinner Cruise

• 3hr Vivid Sydney dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour (including boarding)
• See the 'Lighting of The Sails', Harbour Bridge projections and other Vivid lights
• 3-course seated & served dinner, prepared on board
• Spectacular 1-hour cabaret show ‘Voyage of Love’
• Reserved seating and waiter service
• Drinks available for purchase on board

Vivid Sydney Cruise - An Unrivalled Vantage Point To Experience The Magic of The Festival

Vivid Sydney is the annual celebration of Lights, Music, Ideas and Food that transforms the city into a winter wonderland. In its brand-new edition, Vivid Sydney is set to unite the most innovative artists, musicians, thinkers and culinary experts for a celebration like no other! We’re an official participant in the Vivid Sydney Local Business Program, and Sydney Showboat will light up in synchrony with the city’s skyline and the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. So, are you ready to experience it?

Like every year, Sydney Harbour is set to take the centre stage with an array of eye-catching installations lined up for 2024, including the iconic ‘Lighting of The Sails’ on the Opera House. Our Vivid Sydney cruise is a value-for-money experience that offers stunning on-water perspective of the light installations, along with gourmet 3-course dining and live entertainment.

Aboard the Vivid Sydney dinner cruise, you'll also see the Harbour Bridge pylon projections, the glittering installations at Barangaroo, Circular Quay and Luna Park, among others. It’s the perfect spectator experience that truly captures the essence of Vivid Sydney and what makes our city so special.

So, why not join this Vivid Sydney Harbour cruise, and experience the harbourside light installations from a great vantage point – the Sydney Showboat. Book your cruise today for early bird prices!

Book with Confidence

• Secure website for seamless payment process
• Free Cancellation Up To 72 Hrs
• Phone enquiries (10am-9pm)
• Email support

Frequently Asked Questions

On the Showboat Vivid Lights cruise, you can see the displays on the Sydney Opera House’s sails, the breathtaking projections on Sydney Harbour Bridge, light installations at Circular Quay, The Rocks, and Barangaroo and the grinning moon face of Luna Park.

We usually run an Early Bird sale many months ahead of the festival. So, if you plan your Vivid Sydney cruise early enough, you can book at these special rates. Once that expires, we offer an online discount for our Vivid cruise experience.

Yes, we do. Child price for the Showboat Vivid Sydney dinner cruise is $121.

For individual bookings (up to 9 passengers) Up to 4 days | 0% cancellation fee. Full refund provided. Last 3 days | 100% cancellation fee For group bookings (10+ passengers) Up to 7 days | 0% cancellation fee. Full refund provided. Last 6 days | 100% cancellation fee

A Spotlight on Showboat Vivid Cruises

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Looking for an exceptional dining experience? Relish a three-course seated & served dinner on the waters. Cruise aboard one of our best – Showboat Sydney Harbour dinner cruises. Enjoy a splendid waterfront dining experience with spectacular views of the iconic attractions. The Opera House and Ha...

Vivid Sydney Cruises with a Difference| Sydney Showboat Edition

Brace yourself! After a two-year absence, the biggest festival of lights in the Southern Hemisphere is making its return!

Cruising Through ‘Humanity’ With Showboat: Vivid Sydney 2024

Vivid Sydney 2024 is here! From 24 May to 15 June, Vivid Sydney, Australia's largest festival of Lights, Music, Ideas and Food, invites you to step into 23 nights of unforgettable experiences. This year, the theme 'Humanity' will be highlighted across light installations, concerts, workshops, pop...

Guest Reviews

Excellent experience for Vivid lights.

I booked the cruise only for myself and my husband and was pleasantly surprised to be offered a downstairs table with dinner as an upgrade. We were extremely appreciative and thoroughly enjoyed both the meal and the cruise in general including the fabulous show. Will definitely choose to cruise again with Australian Cruises. It was everything we expected and certainly value for money. Thank you for your generosity.

Amazing night at the best table to see a fabulous show..! Many thanks for your work and your kindness Can’t wait to come again.

Absolutely loved it! Sow was incredible and very professional, food was delicious and views of Vivid lights was fantastic!

It was a wonderful experience. Food was better than expected in both quality and quantity. Service was friendly and attentive. Cabaret was professional and entertaining. View was spectacular!

We send out a customer survey form to all guests that join us on board. This form aims to understand how we can improve our cruise experience for future guests. Our customer service team regularly follows up with guests that report a sub-optimal experience to better understand their concerns.

While we feature positive reviews on our website, all feedback is appreciated and taken into consideration when developing our products & training staff.

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• Showboat Dinner Cruise with 3-Course Menu & Show
• Magistic Express Dinner Cruise
• Clearview Glass Boat Signature Dinner Cruise
• Clearview Glass Boat Signature Dinner Cruise With Drinks
• Magistic 3hr Buffet Dinner Cruise
• Sydney Harbour Sunset (Twilight) Cruise
• Magistic Express Buffet Dinner Cruise With Drinks
• Showboat Dinner Cruise with 3-course Menu, Show & Drinks
• Magistic 3hr Buffet Dinner Cruise With Drinks
• Clearview Glass Boat Sunset Dinner Cruise
• Showboat Art Decko Dinner Cruise (Without Show)
• Magistic Sunset Cruise
• Clearview Dinner Cruise With 3-Course Menu
• Prestige Showboat Cruise W/ Priority Seating & 4-Course Menu
• Clearview Dinner Cruise With 2-Course Menu
• Showboat Prelude Dinner Cruise
• Vivid Sydney Cruises
• NYE Fireworks Cruises
• Australia Day Dinner Cruises
• Valentine's Day Dinner Cruises
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• 8+ million happy customers - 37 years of cruising
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• Secure website for easy online booking
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Book Online & Save $5/pax

5% extra group discount

Vivid Sydney Cruises 2024

Vivid Sydney Clearview Glass Boat Dinner Cruise With Drinks

Enjoy a premium cruise dining experience which promises a delicious dinner on board a vivid sydney cruise offering 360° views of Vivid lights at the harbour.

• 3hr Vivid Sydney dinner cruise (including boarding)
• 360° views of Vivid Lights on Sydney Harbour
• Upgrade to drinks and beverage package at additional cost
• Chef's signature 3-course dinner with entrées, main course & dessert
• Beers, wines and soft drinks for the duration of the cruise

Vivid Sydney Showboat Dinner Cruise

Experience a thrilling Vivid Sydney dinner cruise experience that combines a 1-hour cabaret show “Voyage of Love”, fine-dining and prime views of the lights.

• 3hr Vivid Sydney Cruise (including boarding)
• Delicious 3-course deluxe dinner
• 1hr cabaret show “Voyage of Love”

Vivid Lights Glass Boat Cruise (Mezzanine Bar Lounge)

Sit back and enjoy the prime views of Vivid Sydney 2024 on the world-famous harbour aboard the Clearview Mezzanine Vivid cruise.

• 3hr Vivid Lights cruise on the mezzanine level of a premium glass boat (including boarding)
• Floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing 360° views of the Vivid Lights display
• Get the best instagrammable photos on your glass boat experience
• Free seating - lounges and chairs both indoors and on the outer deck
• Fully licensed bar offering a wide selection of beverages for purchase
• Limited food menu with items available for purchase (from 8:30 pm)
• Strictly NO BYO food and drinks
• Salt & Pepper Calamari $20
• Korean Chicken Drumettes $20
• Wagyu Sliders $20
• Vegetarian Sliders $15
• Charcuterie Platter (Serves 2) $30
• Eton Mess $15

Vivid Sydney Clearview Glass Boat Dinner Cruise

Luxury glass boat cruise to experience the harbourside Vivid Sydney light installations – includes 3-course dinner.

• 3hr Vivid Sydney on Sydney Harbour (including boarding)
• 360° views of Vivid Lights displays on the harbour
• Watch the art projections on the Opera House, Harbour Bridge etc
• Chef's signature 3-course dinner

Vivid Lights Magistic EARLY Harbour Cruise

Experience an ideal Vivid Sydney spectator experience on board a Vivid Lights Harbour cruise that offers breathtaking views and a complimentary drink.

• 1hr 45min Vivid Sydney lights cruise
• One complimentary welcome drink
• Spacious outer decks for great views
• Free seating available on all three levels
• BYO snacks allowed; no dinner included
• Bar onboard to purchase drinks; No BYO

Vivid Lights Magistic LATE Harbour Cruise

Get aboard the spectacular Sydney Vivid cruise with spacious decks to enjoy front-row access to the Vivid displays along with one complimentary drink.

MV Fusion Vivid Sydney Cruise

Celebrate this Vivid season with a Sydney Harbour cruise aboard MV fusion and enjoy a gourmet buffet dinner with splendid views of the lights.

• 3hr Vivid Sydney harbour dinner cruise (including boarding)
• Watch Vivid Sydney displays on the Opera House & Harbour Bridge
• Gourmet buffet dinner prepared on board
• Cruise on the ‘MV Fusion’, a 24m catamaran with spacious outer decks
• Drinks available for purchase on board

Cruise Menu

Gourmet buffet menu.

• Garden salad with French dressing
• Pesto pasta salad
• Stir fry seasonal vegetables
• Herb roasted potatoes
• Baked fish of the day with garlic Aioli sauce
• Sauteed Moroccan chicken
• Beef & pork meatballs with Italian basil tomato sauce
• Tiramisu cake
• Tea & coffee

Tall Ships Vivid Sydney Festival of Lights Cruise

Experience the best Vivid Sydney highlights aboard this Tall Ship cruise with dinner, drinks and more!

• 1.5hr Vivid Sydney cruise on Sydney Harbour
• Prime views of Vivid Lights on the harbour
• 3-course dinner with main course, salads and desserts
• Service of wine included
• Cruise on a Tall Ship - Southern Swan or Soren Larsen
• Mixed leaves garden salad
• Potato Salad

Main Dishes

• Steamed white rice
• Butter Chicken mild
• Loaded Veggie Indian Curry

Dessert Menu

• Homemade chocolate brownies – Gluten Free

(V)=Vegetarian (GF)=Gluten Free

Vivid Sydney All-Inclusive Dinner Cruise

All-inclusive Vivid Sydney experience on a luxury boat to see the stunning Vivid Lights on the harbour; dinner & premium drinks included.

• 3hr Vivid Sydney cruise on Sydney Harbour (including boarding)
• See the Vivid Sydney art displays on the Opera House, Harbour Bridge etc
• 3-course menu with entree, main course and dessert
• Premium beverages – selection of beers, wines & non-alcoholic drinks
• Luxury vessel with spacious outer decks for best harbour views

Testimonials

We send out a customer survey form to all guests that join us on board. This form aims to understand how we can improve our cruise experience for future guests. Our customer service team regularly follows up with guests that report a sub-optimal experience to better understand their concerns.

While we feature positive reviews on our website, all feedback is appreciated and taken into consideration when developing our products & training staff.

"The crew members were so nice. The cruise was exceptional: great views of the city, the Opera House, the Bridge, the garden along the bay... It was simple but delighful!"

"Loved it. Will cruise with you again and again…)))"

"Great little vivid cruise."

"Excellent experience for Vivid lights."

"Great glass boat, we were able to enjoy the wonderful Vivid show without the crowds. Plenty of time to take it all in."

"We did this cruise to catch the vivid lights and it certainly didn't disappoint, there were plenty of sightseeing opportunities from both inside and outside and, apart from that, the food and staff were wonderful."

"FANTASTIC EXPERIENCE! After researching options for Vivid dinner cruises I looked into so many but on all accounts the reviews for your Clearview Glass boat were really really positive and the reason I chose your cruise. I understand now why they were great reviews… your staff were so attentive, courteous, and always smiling, the service was amazing… on top of that the food was 11/10, delicious and generous in servings, great selections and your vessel is super clean and modern. Will recommend!"

"We did a Vivid Cruise. Was a beautiful night and not crowded. Was amazing. Plenty of room for everyone to spread out."

"We were visiting for vivid. Cruise was great but some extra seating upstairs would have been nice. The view from the roof of the boat was great and plenty of people were up there."

Experience Vivid Sydney 2024 On A Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise

Vivid Sydney is the biggest festival of Lights, Music, Ideas and Food in the Southern Hemisphere, transforming our ‘Harbour City’ into a technicolour wonderland for 23 nights. From May 24 to June 15, Vivid Sydney 2024 will shed light on the theme ‘Humanity’ through a dazzling array of events. So, are you ready to experience it aboard a Vivid Sydney dinner cruise?!

Sydney Harbour takes the centre stage every year with its breathtaking light projections and 3D displays, adorning the shores! From the decks of a Vivid Sydney cruise, you can take in the brilliant ‘Lighting of the Sails: Echo’, the 40km rainbow beams emanating from the Sydney Tower Eye, the Harbour Bridge displays, and plenty more.

Our Vivid Lights cruises glide along picturesque routes on the harbour, offering you the chance to take in the full splendour of the Vivid Lights. Choose from our range of exclusive spectator cruises. From comprehensive dinner packages to lighter-on-the-wallet sightseeing options, find some of the most popular Vivid Sydney cruises. Book in advance to enjoy early bird prices and to avoid surge prices!

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Clearview Dinner – 3-Course Signature Menu

Indicative 2022 Vivid Menu (2023 menu will be updated 30 days prior to the cruise, please expect some changes)

Hors d’oeuvres

• Chef’s selection of 3 hors d’oeuvres

Entrée Sharing Platter

• Radicchio, Endive, Fig Salad (D, GF, V, N) Bocconcini | Candied Walnut | House dressing
• Seared Scallops in Half Shell (D,SF) U10 Scallops | Minted Peas | Shallots | Furikake
• Salmon Ceviche (SF) Smoked Salmon | Avocado l Seared Prawns
• Butterflied Grilled King Prawns (SF) U8 King Prawns | Red Chilli | XO sauce

Main - Choice of One

• Roasted Chicken Supreme (D, G) Chef's Signature Potato | Baby Carrots | Broccolini | Crispy Enoki | Mushroom Sauce
• Herbs crusted Fish of the Day (D, SF, G) Broccolini | Heirloom Tomato Salsa | Orange and Fennel Salad | Brown Butter Sauce
• Potato Gnocchi (VE,V,GF,DF) Roasted Medley | Heirloom Tomato Nage | Fresh Basil | Basil Oil

Dessert - Choice of One

• Tropical Delight (N,VE) Lychee Mousse | Tropical Jelly | Cocoa Pearls | Pistachio
• Fruit of the Forest Pavlova (D,V) Fresh Berries Medley | Strawberry Coulis | Crème Chantilly | Meringue

Clearview Dinner – Vegan 3-Course Signature Menu

• Cauliflower Steak (VE) Wilted Greens | Chickpeas | Hummus | Tomato Salsa
• Aloo Bonda Chaat (VE) Curried Potato Fritter | Chickpeas | Coconut Yoghurt | Tamarind | Coriander
• Potato Gnocchi (VE,V,GF,DF) Sage Pesto | Spinach | Broccolini Heads

OPTIONAL UPGRADES

½ cuban lobster thermidor 200g (d,sf) - $42.

• Cooked lobster meat served in shell with Mornay sauce

CHEESE PLATTER TO SHARE (D,N,V) - $38

• Three Australian cheeses paired with fruits, chutney, cretzels & nuts

DELUXE HALF LOBSTER THERMIDOR - $27

Dietary & Allergen Information: Contains Dairy (D) | Contains Tree Nuts (N) | Contains Seafood (SF) | Contains Gluten (G) | Gluten Free (GF) | Vegetarian (V) | Vegan (VE)

Beverage Package

Bottomless beverage upgrades.

BEER, WINES & SOFT DRINKS - $48pp

WINES & SPARKLING BEVERAGE PACKAGE - $36pp

BEERS, HOUSE WINES AND SPARKLING - $39pp

HOUSE SPIRITS, BEERS, WINES AND SPARKLING - $45pp

SOFT DRINKS & JUICES - $18pp

House Spirits

• House whiskey

House Beverage Package

• Crown Lager
• James Squire 150 Lashes Pale Ale
• Coopers Premium Light
• Coopers Light
• James Squire 150 lashes

Wines and Sparkling

• The Riddle Brut Reserve
• Angas Sparkling Moscato
• The Riddle Sauvignon Blanc
• The Riddle Shiraz Cabernet

Mineral Water

• San Pellegrino Sparkling Mineral Water

Soft Drinks and Juices (Choice of any of the soft drinks or juices from the list) -->

• Fruit Juices - Orange & Apple
• Soft Drinks - Coke, Coke No Sugar, Ginger Ale, Lemonade

SOFT DRINKS & JUICES - $24pp

Soft Drinks and Juices (Choice of any soft drinks or juices from the list)

• Orange Juice, Coke & Lemonade

Onboard Beverage Upgrade: $39

Pre-book online and save 15%

Showboat Dinner - Popular 3-Course Set Menu

• Avocado and black bean with sautéed prawns, rocket and fried white bait with wasabi dressing (SF, G)
• Shaved fennel and smoked salmon (SF)
• Carpaccio of tomato and bocconcini with basil dressing (D,N,SF)

Main Course

• Oat and quinoa crumbed roasted chicken breast on a bed of mashed potato and pea puree with broccolini and sauce vierge (D, G, N)

Dessert - Alternative Serve

• Chef’s deconstructed Eton mess (D,N,G,V)
• Tiramisu (D,G,N,V)

Showboat Dinner - Vegetarian Popular 3-Course Set Menu

• Assorted Vegetarian Delhi Chaat (D,V)
• Smashed samosas, yoghurt, tamarind chutney & chickpea salsa
• Flaky cottage cheese & spinach pocket
• Beetroot ravioli with beurre blanc, muscatels, edamame beans, red vine sorrel & parmesan (D,G,V)

BEER, WINE & SOFT DRINK PACKAGE - $54pp

JUICE & SOFT DRINK PACKAGE - $30pp

Soft Drinks and Juices (Choice of any soft drinks or juices from the list) -->

Vivid cruise social menu, canapes (served to 2x canape stations in the dining saloon) (this is not an unlimited service).

• Tandoori chicken filo pockets + coriander chutney
• Traditional beef bourguignon pies + tomato sauce
• Salmon, dill and peas croquettes + tartar sauce
• Dukkha spice lamb kibbeh + hummus
• Pumpkin and spinach calzones + chunky tomato relish (V)
• Cocktail vegetable samosa + tangy mango chutney (V)
• Königsberger Klopse Beef meat balls in creamy mushroom sauce with capers
• Murgh Makhni Tender chicken fillets simmered in classic butter chicken sauce
• Orecchiette Pasta Basilico (v) Ear shaped pasta in basil pesto sauce with rocket & tomato
• Beetroot, feta and orange salad with cayenne + orange blossom vinaigrette (v)
• German potato salad + sour cream shallots +chives (v)
• Fattoush salad + crispy pita+ pomegranate molasses (v)
• Pure Blonde

Wines & Sparkling

• Hardy’s Brut Reserve Bubbly texture and rich fruit flavours & toasty character
• Angas Moscato Hot pink sparkling with exotic mix of lychee, musk and spice
• The Riddle Sauvignon Blanc Vibrant tropical fruit flavours, passionfruit lift, green apple crunch, crisp & refreshing
• The Riddle Shiraz Cabernet Rich blackcurrant and raspberry fruit flavours with savoury notes & pepper spice

Soft Drinks & Juices

• Fruit Juice (Orange & Apple)
• Soft Drinks (Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Solo, Ginger Ale, Lemonade)

Showboat Dinner Cruise 3 Course Menu

First flavour (platter shared between two guests).

• Smoked salmon & prawn ceviche + virgin olive oil + chilli
• Vegetarian samosas + tamarind date chutney
• Herb & garlic bread

Main Flavour

• Oven-roasted chicken breast + Chef’s special potatoes + Broccolini + Baby carrots + Chimichurri

Sweet Flavour (Served Alternately)

• Chef's deconstructed eton mess
• Tiramisu (D,G,N,V) Espresso , mascarpone , ladyfinger cake

Vegetarian Menu

Entrée platter.

• Caprese salad with roma tomatoes + boccocini + kalamata olives + pine nuts
• Vegetable samosas
• Haloumi + broad beans + capers + roast garlic
• Beetroot ravioli + pine nuts + raisins + beurre blanc

Dessert (Served individually to the table)

Seated buffet.

• Portuguese style chicken marinated in fresh chilli, lime & parsley (GF)
• Fresh pasta tossed with baby eggplants, zucchinis, capsicum and mushrooms in a fresh tomato, olive oil dressing
• Potato au gratin – layers of potatoes, onion and parmesan cheese (V/GF)
• Steamed New Zealand ½ shell mussels served with a tomato, lemon and coriander salsa (GF)
• Platters of fresh tiger prawns accompanied with seafood aioli (GF)
• Salt & pepper calamari served with a homemade aioli
• Grilled Mediterranean vegetable pesto pasta salad served with roasted pine nuts
• King prawn, crab meat & avocado seafood salad
• Green salad bowl tossed with wild rice, toasted soya glazed nuts & seeds finished with a herb vinaigrette (VG)
• Antipasto platter of cured meats, marinated vegetables and cheeses (GF)
• Mixed leaf salad with parmesan & balsamic reduction (V/VG without the parmesan)
• Crisp, freshly baked dinner rolls
• Homemade butterscotch cake served with white chocolate ganache
• Chocolate ganache tart with Chantilly cream
• Seasonal fresh fruit platters

Beverage Package - $33 Upgrade

Must be purchased by all adults in the booking A selection of beers, house sparkling, white and red wine, mineral water, soft drinks and juices for the duration of the cruise Pre-book online and save 15%. Onboard beverage package upgrade - $39

HOUSE WHITE, RED & SPARKLING - $33pp

Beers (Choice of any of the beers from the list )

• Bottled sparkling mineral water

Soft Drinks and Juices (Choice of any of the soft drinks or juices from the list)

Vivid magistic dinner menu.

• Chef’s deconstructed Eton Mess and

½ CUBAN LOBSTER THERMIDOR 200 GRAMS - $33

Deluxe cheese platter - $18 (served after dessert).

• Australian soft and hard cheeses + crackers + seasonal fruit + muscatels + walnuts + quince

Pre-Order Menu Items:

• Dusted fish & chips (DF) - $25
• Shoestring fries with tomato sauce (DF, GF) - $11
• Spicy calamari with sriracha aioli (DF) - $22
• Aranicini balls (4) (V) - $23
• Asian-style cucumber salad (VG, GF, DF) - $21
• Crispy chicken tacos - $24
• Seadek Burger - $30
• Garden Burger - $26

Kids Meals - $12:

• Fish & chips
• Chicken nuggets & chips
• Mini cheese pizza

Vivid Sydney

Vivid Sydney Dinner Cruises

Vivid sydney clearview glass boat dinner cruise with drinks.

Glass boat spectator cruise on Sydney Harbour with 360° views of the light installations, delicious dinner, beverages, and more.

• 3hr glass boat Vivid Sydney cruise (including boarding)
• 360° views of Vivid Lights on Sydney Harbour
• Chef’s signature 3-course dinner
• Beers, wines & soft drinks for the duration of the cruise
• Restaurant-quality dining with reserved seating and waiter service
• Beverage Package
• Email Enquiry

Clearview Dinner Menu

Indicative 2022 vivid menu (2023 menu will be updated 30 days prior to the cruise, please expect some changes), hors d’oeuvres.

• Chef’s selection of 3 hors d’oeuvres

CLEARVIEW DINNER – 3-COURSE SIGNATURE MENU

Entrée sharing platter.

• Radicchio, Endive, Fig Salad (D, GF, V, N) Bocconcini | Candied Walnut | House dressing
• Seared Scallops in Half Shell (D,SF) U10 Scallops | Minted Peas | Shallots | Furikake
• Salmon Ceviche (SF) Smoked Salmon | Avocado l Seared Prawns
• Butterflied Grilled King Prawns (SF) U8 King Prawns | Red Chilli | XO sauce

Main - Choice of One

• Roasted Chicken Supreme (D, G) Chef's Signature Potato | Baby Carrots | Broccolini | Crispy Enoki | Mushroom Sauce OR Herbs crusted Fish of the Day (D, SF, G) Broccolini | Heirloom Tomato Salsa | Orange and Fennel Salad | Brown Butter Sauce OR Potato Gnocchi (VE,V,GF,DF) Roasted Medley | Heirloom Tomato Nage | Fresh Basil | Basil Oil

Dessert - Choice of One

• Tropical Delight (N,VE) Lychee Mousse | Tropical Jelly | Cocoa Pearls | Pistachio OR Fruit of the Forest Pavlova (D,V) Fresh Berries Medley | Strawberry Coulis | Crème Chantilly | Meringue

CLEARVIEW DINNER – VEGAN 3-COURSE SIGNATURE MENU

• Cauliflower Steak (VE) Wilted Greens | Chickpeas | Hummus | Tomato Salsa
• Aloo Bonda Chaat (VE) Curried Potato Fritter | Chickpeas | Coconut Yoghurt | Tamarind | Coriander
• Potato Gnocchi (VE,V,GF,DF) Roasted Medley | Heirloom Tomato Nage | Fresh Basil | Basil Oil
• Tropical Delight (N,VE) Lychee Mousse | Tropical Jelly | Cocoa Pearls | Pistachio

Optional Upgrades

½ cuban lobster thermidor 200g (d,sf) - $42.

• Cooked lobster meat served in shell with Mornay sauce

Cheese Platter To Share (D,N,V) - $38

• Three Australian cheeses paired with fruits, chutney, cretzels & nuts

Deluxe Half Lobster Thermidor - $27

Dietary & allergen information:.

Contains Dairy (D) | Contains Tree Nuts (N) | Contains Seafood (SF) | Contains Gluten (G) | Gluten Free (GF) | Vegetarian (V) | Vegan (VE)

*Indicative menu only – items may be subject to change without notice. Note: Requests for dietary substitutions and modifications of menus will be politely declined, as our kitchen is not allergen free. We cannot guarantee that certain products or ingredients will not be in our food, and we explicitly accept no liability in this regard.

House Beverage Package

• Crown Lager
• James Squire 150 Lashes Pale Ale
• Coopers Premium Light

Wines And Sparkling

• The Riddle Brut Reserve
• Angas Sparkling Moscato
• The Riddle Sauvignon Blanc
• The Riddle Shiraz Cabernet

Mineral Water

• San Pellegrino Sparkling Mineral Water

Soft Drinks And Juices

• Fruit Juices - Orange & Apple
• Soft Drinks - Coke, Coke No Sugar, Ginger Ale, Lemonade

*Indicative beverage list only. Items may be subject to change *We strictly do not permit any alcohol to be brought on board for consumption. Any discussions with our representatives should not be construed as an acceptance to bring alcohol of any nature on board for any event or function. In line with our Responsible Service of Alcohol policy, such requests will be refused politely. *Australian Cruise Group strictly adheres to NSW Responsible Service of Alcohol guidelines. This is not an unlimited beverage package. We request our guests to drink responsibly, enjoy alcoholic beverages in moderation and consistent with the concept of the cruise. You will be refused service by our crew on board at their absolute discretion if you do not comply with any reasonable request consistent with the NSW liquor license regulations and our house policy

Vivid Sydney Showboat Dinner Cruise

Enjoy the vibrant Vivid festival in Sydney aboard the Showboat dinner cruise offering a spectacular show & delectable dinner.

• 3hr Vivid dinner cruise with show (including boarding)
• See Vivid Sydney lights
• Seated & served 3-course menu
• Amazing show by an all-Australian cast

Showboat Dinner Cruise Menu

Showboat dinner - popular 3-course set menu.

• Avocado and black bean with sautéed prawns, rocket and fried white bait with wasabi dressing (SF, G)
• Shaved fennel and smoked salmon (SF)
• Carpaccio of tomato and bocconcini with basil dressing (D,N,SF)

Main Course

• Oat and quinoa crumbed roasted chicken breast on a bed of mashed potato and pea puree with broccolini and sauce vierge (D, G, N)

Dessert - Alternative Serve

• Chef’s deconstructed Eton mess (D,N,G,V) OR Tiramisu (D,G,N,V)

SHOWBOAT DINNER - VEGETARIAN POPULAR 3-COURSE SET MENU

• Assorted Vegetarian Delhi Chaat (D,V)
• Smashed samosas, yoghurt, tamarind chutney & chickpea salsa
• Flaky cottage cheese & spinach pocket
• Beetroot ravioli with beurre blanc, muscatels, edamame beans, red vine sorrel & parmesan (D,G,V)

*Indicative menu only. Menu may be subject to minor changes. Note: Requests for dietary substitutions and modifications of menus will be politely declined, as our kitchen is not allergen free. We cannot guarantee that certain products or ingredients will not be in our food, and we explicitly accept no liability in this regard.

Beverage Optional Upgrades

House Spirits, Beers, Wines & Sparkling - $45

Beers, House Wines & Sparkling - $39

House White, Red & Sparkling - $33

Soft Drinks & Juices - $18

House Spirits

• House whiskey | Gin | Vodka | Rum

Beers - Choice of any of the beers from the list

• Pure Blonde

Beer, Wines & Soft Drinks - $48pp

Beer, wine & soft drink package - $54pp, juice & soft drink package - $30pp, vivid lights glass boat cruise (mezzanine bar lounge).

Sit back and enjoy the prime views of Vivid Sydney 2024 on the world-famous harbour aboard the Clearview Mezzanine Vivid cruise.

• 3hr VIVID Sydney lights cruise (including boarding)
• No kids below 14yrs
• See the VIVID lights on Opera House & Quay
• No reserved seating – only lounges, scattered chairs & outdoor furniture
• Dinner not included – limited bar menu available for purchase
• Fully air-conditioned boat
• 3-metre glass windows

• Salt & Pepper Calamari $20
• Korean Chicken Drumettes $20
• Wagyu Sliders $20
• Vegetarian Sliders $15
• Charcuterie Platter (Serves 2) $30
• Eton Mess $15

*For purchase on board. Please order at the bar (served between 8.30-9.30pm). *Sample menu only, subject to minor changes

Bar Drinks Menu

• Eastside $20 Gin, lime, mint, cucumber, sugar
• Blood Orange Spritz $20 Vodka, blood orange, soda, lemon
• Lychee Highball $20 Vodka, lychee, butterfly pea, lemon, soda

*For purchase on board. Please order at the bar. *Sample menu only, subject to minor changes

Vivid Sydney Clearview Glass Boat Dinner Cruise

360° vantage point on Sydney’s newest glass boat to enjoy the harbourside Vivid Lights vistas with a deluxe 3-course dinner.

• 3hr Vivid Sydney dinner cruise on a luxury glass boat (including boarding)
• See the stunning Vivid displays on the Opera House and Harbour Bridge
• Chef's signature 3-course dinner with entrées, main course & dessert
• 360° views of Vivid Lights from the Sky Deck & glass-wrapped Main Deck
• Drinks package available as an upgrade or drinks can be purchased on board

Wines & Sparkling Beverage Package - $36pp

• Coopers Light
• James Squire 150 lashes
• Hardy’s Brut Reserve (Sparkling Wine) - Bubbly texture and rich fruit flavours & toasty character
• Angas Moscato - Hot pink sparkling with exotic mix of lychee, musk and spice
• The Riddle Sauvignon Blanc - Vibrant tropical fruit flavours, passionfruit lift, green apple crunch, crisp and refreshing
• The Riddle Shiraz Cabernet - Rich blackcurrant and raspberry fruit flavours with savoury notes and pepper spice
• Fruit juices (Orange & Apple)
• Soft drinks (Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Solo, Ginger Ale, Lemonade)

Soft Drinks & Juices - $24pp

• Orange Juice, Coke & Lemonade

Vivid Lights Magistic EARLY Harbour Cruise

Witness the best views of Vivid on board the most popular catamaran on Sydney Harbour offering one complimentary drink & more.

• 1hr 45min Vivid Sydney lights cruise
• One complimentary welcome drink
• Spacious outer decks for great views
• Fully stocked licensed bar
• Great photo opportunities

Vivid Lights Magistic LATE Harbour Cruise

Spend a memorable night on board a Vivid cruise on Sydney Harbour offering splendid views of the Vivid lights combined with a complimentary drink.

• Fully licensed bar
• Spectacular photo opportunities

MV Fusion Vivid Sydney Cruise

Enjoy splendid Vivid Lights views and a gourmet buffet dinner on a tri-level catamaran with spacious outer decks.

• 3hr Vivid Sydney harbour dinner cruise (including boarding)
• Watch Vivid Sydney displays on the Opera House & Harbour Bridge
• Gourmet buffet dinner prepared on board
• Cruise on the ‘MV Fusion’, a 24m catamaran with spacious outer decks
• Drinks available for purchase on board

Cruise Menu

• Garden salad with French dressing
• Pesto pasta salad
• Stir fry seasonal vegetables
• Herb roasted potatoes
• Baked fish of the day with garlic Aioli sauce
• Sauteed Moroccan chicken
• Beef & pork meatballs with Italian basil tomato sauce
• Tiramisu cake
• Tea & coffee

Menu is subject to change without notice.

Tall Ships Vivid Sydney Festival of Lights Cruise

Enjoy the incredible Vivid Lights from the decks of a Tall Ship cruise with dinner, drinks, and much more!

• 1.5hr Vivid Sydney cruise on Sydney Harbour
• Prime views of Vivid Lights on the harbour
• 3-course dinner with main course, salads and desserts
• Service of wine included
• Cruise on a Tall Ship - Southern Swan or Soren Larsen

• Mixed leaves garden salad
• Potato salad

Main Dishes

• Steamed white rice
• Butter Chicken mild
• Loaded Veggie Indian Curry

Dessert Menu

• Homemade chocolate brownies – Gluten Free

(V)=Vegetarian (GF)=Gluten Free

Vivid Sydney All-Inclusive Dinner Cruise

Comprehensive Vivid Sydney experience on a luxury boat to see the Vivid Lights and enjoy a 3-course dinner with drinks.

• 3hr Vivid Sydney cruise on Sydney Harbour (including boarding)
• See the Vivid Sydney art displays on the Opera House, Harbour Bridge etc
• 3-course menu with entree, main course and dessert
• Premium beverages – selection of beers, wines & non-alcoholic drinks
• Luxury vessel with spacious outer decks for best harbour views

Vivid Sydney Cruises

Vivid Sydney is ready to make its big return in 2023 and we can’t be more excited! Claimed to the biggest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, Vivid Sydney festival is a platform that weaves together creativity, curiosity and change. From renowned light artists and musicians to brilliant thinkers and creatives,the festival is destined to be power-packed with fun and innovation.

During the festival, the city gets crowded with visitors from near and far. Although, the festival encourages people to walk around the city to see the lights and installations, there are other ways too which can help you escape the crowd. A Vivid Sydney cruise is one such option. Port Jackson Cruises offer a range of spectacular Vivid sightseeing and dining packages, perfect for a memorable night on the harbour. On board these cruises, you will get an opportunity to cover several installations and light displays at one go. These cruises also offer dinner on board, the menu curated by experienced chefs on board. This promise of a lovely night on board a Sydney Harbour.

The festival of lights, music and ideas, has transformed the city into a playground for artists and art lovers. Come see the spectacular Vivid lights with us – on board one of our Vivid Sydney dinner cruises. Capture the most scintillating perspectives of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House from the waters.

Say cheers to the good times with a glass of your favourite drink surrounded by your best people. Also, don’t forget to click some amazing photos and selfies for the ‘gram! Book your seats today!

Sydney Harbour VIVID Sydney Cruises 23 May - 9 June 2014

• Vivid Sydney 2024 Countdown Begins!

The clock's ticking and the excitement is building! Vivid Sydney 2024 is gearing up to dazzle the city from May 24th to June 15th, with brighter lights, incredible art, mouth-watering food, and ideas that push all boundaries.

This year, Vivid Sydney celebrates its 14th edition with a theme that resonates deeply with all of us, 'Humanity.' Through art, innovation and technology, the festival will celebrate the essence of humanity, inviting visitors to explore powerful light installations and fascinating 3D art that will grace iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

While there are numerous ways—on foot, on a helicopter, or by bus—to experience the festival, Vivid Sydney cruises offer a unique perspective, allowing you to witness the spectacle from the tranquil waters.

Don't let time slip away – use this opportunity to plan your enchanting Vivid Sydney experience in advance. Now is the best time to get your Vivid Lights cruise tickets at early bird prices.

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Heart for Her 'Perspectives'

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Tuesday 28 May from 5:30pm to 9:30pm

Enter at 5:30 to beat the crowds and see lights on at 6pm. Formalities to commence at 6:30pm

Adult : $180.00

Join clinicians, ambassadors, guest speakers and patient families from the Royal Hospital for Women, for a unique and unforgettable experience among the lights of Vivid, as we launch Heart for Her.

Heart for Her ‘Perspectives’ will enable donors to directly support The Royal in advancing women’s health and important research.

MC Jana Pittman

4 hour food and beverage package with entertainment by Lucy Lucy

cocktail dress.

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• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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