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Heritage Harbour Cruises

Climb aboard the heritage motor launch harman  (c.1943) for a unique 1 hour cruise on sydney harbour..

The Westside Stories Highlights Tour shows the transformation of Sydney Harbour from a major working port into one of leisure.

See the remaining vestiges of the working waterfront as you’re taken deep into the bays and coves, west of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Highlights include Rozelle Bay where many of the city’s historic vessels are being restored; see where Palmolive and Protex soap was made; be visually transported to ‘Scandinavia’ by multi-coloured harbour front workshops, and unlock what the name Ultimo means?

Booking Information

• Tickets are in high demand for Heritage Harbour Cruises on Harman. Reserve your spot in advance online for only $10.
• Subject to availability there may also be spots available on the day of your visit. These spots are free with the purchase of a See It All ticket. See front of house staff on day of visit.

Conditions of Boarding

• Due to safety requirements children must be at least 90 cm tall to board the vessel.
• On arrival, please check in with our front of house staff and they will inform you where Harman is departing from. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before departure.
• Please wear sensible footwear and dress appropriately for the weather on the day - a windproof jacket may be useful.
• Tickets can be purchased online in advance or on the day (pending availability) from the main museum foyer or Action Stations ticket desk.
• The vessel is licensed to carry a maximum of 24 passengers.
• If, in the opinion of the Master on the day in the event the wind or sea state is deemed unsuitable for the comfort of passengers, an alternate tour may be offered or the cruise will be cancelled and passengers refunded.

Presented by the Australian National Maritime Museum in partnership with the Sydney Heritage Fleet.

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Dinner Cruises

Clearview glass boat signature dinner cruise.

Enjoy uninterrupted harbour views with signature dinner and premium beverages aboard Clearview Sydney Harbour dinner cruise.

• 3hr dinner cruise on Sydney’s only glass boat dining cruise on the harbour
• Air-conditioned dining deck with glass-wrapped windows for comfortable cruising with 360° views
• Restaurant-quality dining with reserved seating and waiter service
• Chef’s signature 3-course dinner featuring entrées, main course & dessert
• Fully licensed bar on all levels stocked with drinks for purchase

Beverage Package

• Email Enquiry

Clearview Dinner Menu

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:.

Vegetarian (V), Vegan (VE), Gluten Free (GF), and Dairy Free (DF)

*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

• Crown Lager
• Pure Blonde
• Coopers Premium Light

Beer, Wines & Soft Drinks - $48pp

Beer, wine & soft drink package - $48pp, house beverage package.

• James Squire 150 Lashes Pale Ale

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

Juice & Soft Drink Package - $30pp

Showboat classic dinner cruise.

Spectacular Sydney dinner cruise with restaurant-quality dining set up and 1-hour cabaret show.

• Popular 3hr cabaret dinner cruise on Sydney’s famous paddlewheeler
• Enjoy a spectacular cabaret show ‘Voyage of Love’ by talented Aussie cast
• Wrap-around verandahs and cathedral windows for unrivalled harbour views
• 3-course seated and served dinner, freshly prepared on board
• Fully licensed bar with drinks and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase

Showboat Dinner Cruise Menu

Showboat dinner - popular 3-course set menu.

• Delhi Chaat (V, D, 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

• Salted Caramel Popcorn (D, N, GF) OR Passionfruit Raspberry Kiss (D, GF)

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)

Magistic Express Dinner Cruise

The perfect dinner cruise offering a sumptuous buffet dinner and splendid harbour views.

• 2hr express dinner cruise perfect for a short evening out on the harbour
• Cruise on a multi-million dollar Australian catamaran with modern interiors
• Outer decks on all levels for best harbour views and crowd-free experience
• Dine with views in the air-conditioned dining saloon with panoramic windows
• Enjoy an unlimited multi-cuisine buffet dinner; reserved seats & waiter service
• Fully licensed bar stocked with drinks and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase

Magistic Contemporary Buffet Menu

Fresh, healthy, wholesome, salads & entrée.

• Granny Smith apple and chicory salad with walnuts + blue cheese dressing (D,N,V)
• Zaatar-spiced couscous nuts and green bean salad with halloumi + pomegranate dressing (N,V)
• Beetroot, feta and orange salad with cayenne + orange blossom vinaigrette (D,V)
• Potato salad + sour cream (D,V)
• Fattoush salad + crispy pita (N,G,V,VE)
• Roasted Japanese pumpkin and pearl barley salad + honey mustard dressing (D,G)
• Bread rolls & butter (D,N,V)

Buffet Hot Selection

• Mediterranean Fish Bake (SF) Grilled fish fillets baked with tomatoes & Kalamata black olives
• Beef-Loaded Wedges (D,G) Savoury beef mince on crispy skin potatoes with tomato salsa & cheese
• Murgh Makhni (D,N) Tender chicken fillets simmered in classic butter chicken sauce
• Orecchiette Pasta Basilico (D,N,G,V) Shell-shaped pasta with rocket & tomato in basil pesto sauce
• Root Vegetable Roast (V,VE) Medley of roasted seasonal root vegetables with Italian herbs
• Oriental Vegetable Fried Rice (V,VE) Fried jasmine rice, diced vegetables & edamame beans
• Tiramisu (D,G,N,V) Espresso , mascarpone , ladyfinger cake

House Spirits, Beers, Wines & Sparkling - $33

Beers, House Wines & Sparkling(2hr) - $27.50

House White, Red & Sparkling(2hr) - $24

Orange Juice, Coke & Lemonade(2hr) - $15

Beer, Wines & Soft Drinks (2hr) - $39pp

Beer, wine & soft drink package - $42pp, soft drinks & juices, juice & soft drink package - $27pp.

*Indicative beverage list only. Items may be subject to change *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 RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL POLICY. (The captain has complete discretion to refuse boarding if you are deemed to be intoxicated). The purpose of the beverage package is for you and your guests to enjoy beverages at your convenience. These packages are not designed to promote excessive consumption resulting in intoxication. All guests must use personal discretion not to become intoxicated. If a guest is deemed intoxicated by our crew they will be removed from the vessel and dropped off at the nearest wharf (at Captain’s discretion). If it is a group booking, and the group does not comply with the direction of the Cruise Director, the entire group will be required to leave the vessel. You will not receive any part payment, either for the cruise or the beverage package if you or the group are removed from the vessel due to intoxication. If you fail to comply with our directive, the Captain or Cruise Director will report the matter to the NSW Water Police. We would like to advise you that the NSW Water Police can access our vessels whilst they are underway, or at the nearest wharf, at their discretion.

Clearview Glass Boat Signature Dinner Cruise With Drinks

Enjoy Sydney Harbour in all its glory from the comfort of a glass boat. Premium dining. Bottomless beverages. 360° harbour views.

• 3hr dining experience on Sydney’s only glass boat dinner cruise
• Air-conditioned deck with glass-wrapped windows for 360° views
• Beers, wines, sparkling and soft drinks for the duration of the cruise

Beverage service for the duration of the cruise.

*Indicative beverage list only. Items may be subject to change *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

Showboat Classic Dinner Cruise With Drinks

Sydney’s classic dinner cruise aboard a paddlewheeler with unlimited drinks, a 3-course dinner and a live cabaret show!

• 3hr Sydney Harbour dinner cruise on an authentic paddlewheeler
• Welcome on the wharf by Showboat follies
• Spectacular ‘Voyage of Love’ cabaret show by talented Australian cast
• 3-course seated and served dinner freshly prepared on board
• Wines, sparkling & soft drinks for the duration for the cruise
• Individual reserved tables with waiter service

• 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

* 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.

Magistic 3-Hr Buffet Dinner Cruise

Family-friendly dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour. Take in the stunning night views from its expansive outer decks and panoramic windows.

• 3hr dinner cruise perfect for relaxed evening out on Sydney Harbour
• Unlimited multi-cuisine buffet dinner; reserved seats & waiter service
• Fully licensed bar with beers, wines, sparkling, soft drinks & juices

Magistic 3-Hr Buffet Dinner Cruise With Drinks

An inspiring dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour with panoramic views of Sydney’s biggest icons, a delicious buffet spread and unlimited drinks.

• Enjoy an unlimited multi-cuisine buffet dinner; reserved tables & waiter service
• Service of wines, sparkling, and soft drinks for the duration of your cruise

Sydney Harbour Sunset (Twilight) Cruise

Savour a delectable dinner aboard this sunset dinner cruise and watch the sun slowly fade away into the horizon in an ambient setting.

• 1hr 30min sunset dinner cruise experience on Sydney Harbour
• Spacious decks for panoramic views of the harbou
• Capture picture-perfect snaps of the harbour and iconic attractions at sundow
• Enjoy a scrumptious dinner freshly prepared and served to your table
• Fully licensed bar stocked with an extensive range of beverages for purchase

3 Course Seated & Served Style

• Smoked salmon & prawn ceviche, avocado, chives & tomato salsa (SF)
• Oven-roasted chicken breast with honey-glazed carrots, broccolini, potatoes and mushroom sauce (D,G) OR Steamed fish with honey-glazed carrots, broccolini, potatoes and soy & ginger sauce (SF)
• Chefs Dessert of the Day

Vegetarian Menu

• Caesar salad with garlic croutons, romaine lettuce, cherry tomato & parmesan (D,G,V)
• Potato gnocchi with sage pesto, spinach & broccolini heads (N,V,VE)

Bottomless Mimosa (1hr 30min) - $24

Bottomless sparkling & moscato (1hr 30min) - $24, bottomless sangria (1hr 30min) - $22, soft drinks & juices (1hr 30min) - $12.

• Orange Juice, Coke & Lemonade

Tall Ship Twilight Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a unique dining experience on board an authentic timber tall ship offering delicious dinner with stunning harbour views.

• 2hr twilight dinner cruise
• Authentic tall ship sailing experience
• Menu includes salads,mains and dessert
• Enjoy the mast climb & hoisting sails
• Sail on Southern Swan or Soren Larsen

Tallships Twilight Dinner Cruise Menu

Starters (not included from the period – 1 april to 30 september).

• BBQ Chorizo Slices
• Spinach & Cheese Triangles

Main Dishes

• Classic Butter Chicken with in-house cooked tandoori chicken, cooked in a rich buttery tomato sauce with Indian spices and fresh cream. – Non-Vegetarian
• Classic Goan curry sauce, gently simmered with spice roasted cauliflower, chunky sweet potato, chickpeas, lentils, and roasted eggplant. – Vegan
• Plain white rice
• Baby potato salad, almonds, red capsicum & spices in a creamy mayonnaise.
• Green leaf salad
• Chocolate hazelnut brownie – Gluten Free

This menu is subject to change to ensure fresh produce of premium quality. Menu is vegetarian and gluten free with the exception of the Butter Chicken dish. Note that our vegetarian options are not vegan.

Wine & Canapes Evening Cruise

Experience the gloaming beauty of Sydney Harbour on this relaxing evening cruise with premium canapes, drinks and more.

• Relaxing 2.5-hour cruise on Sydney Harbour
• Premium canapes served throughout the cruise
• Top-shelf Australian wines including bubbly
• Music by live acoustic artist
• Glorious evening views of the harbour attractions

Lunch Cruises

Clearview deluxe lunch cruise.

Relax on an elite harbour lunch cruise with delicious lunch. Catch sight of the iconic Sydney attractions from its 3 meter glass windows.

• 2hr 45min lunch cruise on Sydney’s one and only glass boat dining cruise
• Luxury multi-level vessel with Mezzanine Cocktail Lounge and Sky Deck
• Reserved seating at individual tables with attentive waiter service
• Freshly prepared lunch featuring a salad bar, main course and desserts
• Licensed bar on all levels well-stocked with drinks for purchase

DELUXE LUNCH MENU

Buffet selection of fresh salads.

• Beetroot & goats cheese salad with candied walnuts (D,N,V)
• Tomato, bocconcini and basil salad (D,V)
• Watermelon, feta and mint salad (D,V)
• Citrus salad with chilli, lime, peanuts and cilantro (N,VE)
• Roasted pumpkin with cumin yoghurt + pepitas (D,G,V)
• Roasted fennel & carrot salad with champagne vinegar, tarragon and fried haloumi (D,V)
• Zucchini ribbons, rocket, snow peas and almond salad (N,V)
• Loaded vegetarian Caesar salad (V)

Main Course - Served Alternate

• Roasted chicken Supreme with creamy polenta, seasonal vegetables and mushroom sauce OR Oven baked Fish of the Day with Sauce Vierge and Thai salad (SF) OR Handmade beetroot & ricotta ravioli with basil & spinach pesto, pine nuts, edamame & red vine sorrel (V)

Dessert - Served Alternate

• Fruit of the forest pavlova with crème Chantilly, meringue & strawberry coulis (GF,V,D) OR Chef’s delight – Dessert of the day (V)

Beer, Wine & Soft Drink Package - $45pp

Magistic sydney harbour buffet lunch cruise.

Take in the million-dollar views of the Sydney Harbour attractions on board the ultra-modern budget-friendly catamaran.

• 1hr 45min Sydney Harbour lunch cruise on a multi-million dollar catamaran
• Restaurant-style waterfront dining experience with changing harbour vistas
• Capture breathtaking shots of the Opera House & Harbour Bridge from outer decks
• Reserved seats in the air-conditioned dining saloon lined with panoramic windows
• Multi-cuisine buffet with salads, mains and dessert, freshly prepared onboard
• Fully-licensed bar stocked with drinks and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase

Magistic Sydney Harbour Long Lunch Cruise

Indulgent lunch cruise on a luxury catamaran with roving harbour views, delicious buffet & a bar.

• Sydney Harbour long lunch cruise on a million dollar catamaran
• Multi-cuisine buffet with salads, mains and dessert, prepared freshly on board
• Licensed bar stocked with beers, wines, sparkling, soft drinks & fruit juices
• Three large outer decks to enjoy views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge & more

Clearview Deluxe Lunch Cruise with Drinks

Sydney’s best glass boat offers an upscale dining experience with 360° harbour views, chef’s deluxe menu and unlimited drinks.

• 2hr 45min glass boat lunch cruise on Sydney Harbour
• Luxury vessel with floor-to-ceiling glass windows for uninterrupted views
• Unlimited salad bar with variety of wholesome options
• Main course & dessert served to the table
• Reserved seating at individual tables with personalised waiter service

Sydney Showboat Buffet Lunch Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing 2hr 30min lunch cruise on an authentic paddlewheeler with buffet lunch. Beverages available for purchase.

• 1hr 45min lunch cruise on the Sydney’s famous New Orleans-style paddlewheeler
• Restaurant-quality dining with reserved seats and waiter service
• Large wrap-around verandahs for roving harbour views
• Multi-cuisine buffet lunch – all dishes prepared on board

Showboat Contemporary Buffet Menu

Magistic sydney harbour long lunch cruise with drinks.

All-Inclusive long lunch experience complete with panoramic views, unlimited buffet, bottomless drinks & more!

• 3hr 30min Sydney Harbour long lunch cruise on a multi-million dollar catamaran
• Reserved tables in the air-conditioned dining saloon lined with panoramic windows

• German potato salad + sour cream (D,V)
• Fattoush salad + crispy pita (G,V,N,VE)
• Roasted Japanese pumpkin and pearl barley salad + honey mustard dressing (G,D)
• Königsberger Klopse (D,G) Beef meat balls in creamy mushroom sauce with capers
• Orecchiette Pasta Basilico (G,V,N,D) Ear-shaped pasta in basil pesto sauce with rocket & tomato
• Root Vegetable Roast (V,VE) (Medley of roasted seasonal root vegetables with Italian herbs)
• Oriental fried rice (V,VE) (Fried jasmine rice & edamame beans)
• Menu Contains : Dairy (D)   Tree Nuts (N)   Seafood (SF)   Gluten (G)   Vegetarian (V)   Vegan (VE)

* Indicative menu only. Items may be subject to change at any time without notice

* Requests for dietary (gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free), substitutions and modifications of menus will be politely declined, as we have an on board kitchen and our kitchen team is required to serve the menus within a required time period, of the respective cruises. We cannot guarantee that certain products or ingredients (nuts, gluten, dairy, etc.) will not be in our food, and we explicitly accept no liability in this regard. For serious food allergies you must make your own decisions on selecting meals. Our staff’s comments are only to assist you in making an informed decision.

Sydney Showboat Buffet Lunch Cruise With Drinks

Treat your friends or family to an uplifting lunch cruise experience with a lavish buffet, bottomless drinks, picturesque harbour views and more!

• 1hr 45min Sydney Harbour lunch cruise
• Authentic paddlewheeler with theatre-style layout
• Deluxe multi-cuisine buffet
• Wines, sparkling and soft drinks
• Individual reserved tables
• Best harbour views and photo ops

Tall Ship Lunch Cruise

Make an ordinary day extraordinary on board an authentic tall ship offering freshly prepared lunch with stunning Sydney Harbour views.

• 2hr adventure lunch cruise on an 1850s-style authentic timber tall ship
• Cruise past the famous Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison, Garden Island etc
• Get the unique opportunity to help hoist the sails of the tall ship
• Freshly prepared lunch including salads, mains & dessert
• Opt for the Mast Climb challenge upgrade for the complete tall ship experience

Cruise Menu

• Baby potato salad with basil mayonnaise
• Butter Chicken - Non-Vegetarian
• Potato and Pumpkin Curry ( Vegans)
• Chocolate hazelnut brownie - Gluten Free

Champagne Brunch Cruise

Spend a glorious morning on the harbour on this Tall Ship brunch cruise with finger food and unlimited bubbly.

• 2-hour cruise aboard an authentic Tall Ship
• Substantial finger food brunch
• Free-flowing Aussie bubbly, juices & water
• Get involved in climbing the mast, steering the ship etc
• Magnificent morning views of Sydney Harbour

Sightseeing Cruises

Magistic cruisesmart harbour sightseeing cruises.

Budget-friendly sightseeing Sydney Harbour cruise. Catch sight of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House & many more.

• 1hr sightseeing cruise on Sydney Harbour
• One complimentary soft drink per person
• Cruise on a luxury catamaran with three expansive outer decks
• Cruise under Sydney Harbour Bridge & past the Opera House, Fort Denison, Luna Park etc
• Informative commentary about Sydney Harbour attractions
• Fully licensed bar to purchase additional drinks on board

1Hr 30min Tall Ships Afternoon Discovery Cruise

Enjoy the stunning harbour views on board a 1850s-style timber tall ship. Beverages from the fully licensed bar available.

• 1.5hr Tall Ship Sightseeing Cruise
• Authentic Tall Ship sailing experience
• Fully licensed bar and drink packages

Make your Sydney Harbour cruise even better with a selection from our onboard bar. Our drinks package includes bubbly, wines, beers, soft drinks, juices and water (premium beers not included).

Convicts, Castles & Champagne Tour

Cruise Sydney Harbour on a historic Tall Ship before disembarking at Goat Island for a guided tour.

• Scenic harbour cruise with tour of Goat Island
• Listen to unnerving tales of Sydney’s convict past
• Private guided-tour of Goat Island
• Scrumptious lunch prepared by onboard crew
• Standard Aussie bubbly, juices & water

Mutiny! Pineapple's Pirate Cruise Experience

Take part in an array of exciting activities with Captain Pineapple & his crew on this Tall Ship pirate cruise experience.

• 1.5 hour family-friendly cruise on Sydney Harbour
• Hoist the sails, steer the ship etc
• Interactive experience - be a pirate
• Beverage packages available
• Sail on an 1850s-style Tall Ship

Tall Ships Laser Clay Shooting & Mast Climb

Action-packed Tall Ship adventure with Laser Clay shooting, mast climb, a delicious lunch, beverage packages and more!

• 2.5-hour adventure cruise on Sydney Harbour
• Laser clay shooting contest
• Climb the mast, steer the ships, hoist the sail etc
• Substantial lunch served on board

Whale Watching Cruises

Oz whale watching cruise sydney harbour lunch.

Enjoy a relaxed whale watching experience on board an adventure cruise with stunning Port Jackson views & BBQ lunch.

• 4-hr adventure cruise
• Aussie BBQ buffet lunch
• Commentary by whale naturalist
• Tea, coffee, water
• Amazing photo opportunities

OZ Whale Watching Cruise Sydney Harbour Breakfast

Enjoy a memorable whale watching experience on Port Jackson. BBQ breakfast with tea and coffee is available.

Tallship Whale & Sail Cruise

Enjoy a unique whale watching experience on board a tall ship with stunning Port Jackson views & delicious lunch.

• 5hr whale watching experience on a unique tall ship
• Cruise on the historic tall ship ‘Coral Trekker’ with open deck for best views
• See the migrating Humpback & Southern Right Whales in their natural habitat
• Unique tall ship sailing experience with a free mast climb
• Hearty lunch featuring a soup, lasagne and garlic bread & chocolate brownie

New Year's Eve Cruises

Vivid sydney cruises.

Sydney’s Best-Value Cruise Experiences

Port Jackson, comprising Sydney Harbour, North Harbour, Middle Harbour, Lane Cove and the Parramatta Rivers, is a recreational hub for both locals and visitors. Cruising these crystal-clear waters on a cruise is the perfect way to experience its stunning beauty.

We have shortlisted the best-value Port Jackson cruises in Sydney for your convenience. Find popular dinner cruises, lunch cruises, sightseeing tours, whale watching tours, special events cruises, and party cruises in this one-stop shop for cruising in Sydney. And the best party? On most of these cruises, you’ll get to see some of Sydney’s most legendary landmarks from the water – Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Luna Park etc.

So, whether you’re visiting Sydney for the first time, or have been a resident for quite some time, these Port Jackson cruises are something you don’t want to miss out on. Book a cruise today!

Snag a deal incl $30 off 7 day theme park pass. Limited time only. Book deals now.

Luxury Sydney Highlights Private Cruise

Highlights & inclusions, select date, august 2024, select travellers, what you can expect.

Join this luxurious Sydney cruise and explore all the highlights of Sydney Harbour on your very own private 1 or 2 hour cruise with a premium platter of Australian Cheeses and Sparkling Wine! Sit back and relax with a glass of wine in hand as your private Superyacht captain provides commentary pointing out the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and million dollar mansions. With 360 degree views, a private luxury cruise is the best way to see all the iconic sights with amazing photo opportunities while munching on a delicious platter.

Commentary is available in English, Mandarin, Korean or German for a completely personalised cruise with world class views of Sydney Harbour. This luxurious sightseeing experience is available daily from Darling Harbour with regular cruises available at 8.30am, 11am, 1pm or 2.30pm and 2 hour cruises at 10am.

Don't miss out on this unique experience discovering Sydney without the crowds! Book your spot on this luxury Sydney highlights private cruise here!

What you need to know

• 1 or 2 hour Sydney Luxury Private Cruise
• Premium Cheese Platter including Australian sparkling wine and a selection of Australian cheeses, crackers and fruits (special dietary requirements can be catered for)
• Selection of soft drinks and water included
• Superyacht Captain in livery with over 20 years of experience and extensive knowledge of Sydney Harbour
• Access to our captain's extensive knowledge of Sydney Harbour
• Private tour on a luxurious vessels on Sydney Harbour
• Discover the Iconic Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House from the water
• Commentary in English, Mandarin, Korean and German
• On-board toilet and WiFi
• Hotel transfers
• 1 Hour Cruise departs daily at 8.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm
• 2 Hour Cruise departs daily at 10am
• Please arrive 10 minutes before departure
• Departs from Convection Jetty, Darling Harbour
• 1 or 2 Hours
• Clothes suited to the weather
• Wearing high heels is allowed but not advisable
• Cruises hold up to 6 people
• Vessel subject to change without notice
• Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
• Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on the day of cruise
• For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
• Email us at [email protected]
• Help code: D2B-33A4
• This experience is supplied by Luxury Highlights Sydney Private Cruise

Sustainability

Our promise.

• We are committed to sustainability
• We have an approved Science Based Target
• We use third party verified standards

More to explore

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We acknowledge and pay respect to the Traditional Custodians of Country and their connections and continuous care for the skies, lands and waterways throughout Australia.

Dalbora Marina 1B New Beach Road Rushcutters Bay

• 0430 591 644

Time for Us Sydney Cruises

Your private sydney harbour adventure awaits, redefining sydney harbour luxury.

Choose your Sydney Harbour adventure with us: whether it's the curated Brunch Private Tour or the Fully Personalised Private Tour, both aboard our Beneteau Gran Turismo 32 boat. At the heart of our service are four cornerstone features that set us apart: a bespoke service tailored to your preferences, the luxury of an exclusive and serene setting, an unwavering commitment to quality and safety, and the unparalleled experience of having your own boat and captain. By offering this unique blend, we redefine value and experience, ensuring every moment on Sydney Harbour is nothing short of exceptional.

Your Personalised Private Tour: Designed Entirely by You

Your Cruise, Your Way, tailor your 4-hour Sydney Harbour cruise for a variety of occasions, from corporate events and team-building retreats to milestone celebrations like anniversaries and birthdays. Whether you're interested in a romantic getaway, a family outing, or even a unique photography session, our personalise options ensure an unparalleled experience on the water.

Brunch Private Tour

A Morning of Exploration and Indulgence. Set sail at 9am from Rushcutters Bay and explore Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, Double Bay, and Rose Bay. Stop for a secluded bay brunch from 10am-11:30am, then continue your journey through Athol Bay, the Zoo, Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, Opera House, and Garden Island until returning to Rushcutters Bay by 1pm.

Scenic Indulgence

Each of our 4-hour tours includes a gourmet food platter and bottled water, ensuring you're well-nourished and hydrated as you explore Sydney Harbour's beauty. These thoughtful touches elevate your cruising experience, making it as satisfying for the palate as it is for the eyes. It's luxury and comfort, all rolled into one exceptional personalised journey.

Flexible and Convenient

Tours are available from 9am to 1pm, Wednesday to Saturday. The cost is $2500+GST for a maximum of 4 people. Feel free to bring your own soft drinks and alcohol, but please avoid red drinks as they stain the covers.

Mariana and Alex: Your Sydney Harbour Hosts

We’re Mariana and Alex, and we’re dedicated to offering you a unique and personable Sydney Harbour experience. Our passion lies in meeting new people, forming genuine connections, and sharing the hidden and awe-inspiring spots that make Sydney Harbour so special. We go the extra mile to make your day simply unforgettable.

Why Choose Us

Hosted by mariana and alex.

Know Who You're Cruising With: We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, ensuring your Sydney Harbour experience is nothing short of exceptional & unique .

Private and Intimate

Just You and Your Chosen Company: Say goodbye to crowds and hello to a private, personalised Sydney Harbour cruise.

Tailored Special Occasions

Make Your Special Day Even More Memorable: Just let us know your wishes and preferences, and we'll tailor the experience to make your special occasion unforgettable.

Your Own Boat and Captain

Cruise Sydney Harbour Your Way: A unique opportunity to have your own boat and captain, allowing you to spend more time where you want and tailor the journey to your own preferences.

Picture Your Perfect Day on Sydney Harbour

Get a sneak peek of the magic that awaits you on your private cruise.

Hear It From Our Happy Cruisers

“From the booking process to the actual cruise, everything was seamless. Mariana and Alex are the perfect hosts, and their love for Sydney Harbour is infectious. The gallery on their website doesn't do justice to the real experience. Highly recommend”

“The 4-hour tour was packed with incredible sights, delicious food, and top-notch service. The crew was professional and personable, making sure we were comfortable and well-fed. Best value for a private Sydney Harbour cruise!”

We don't just offer cruises; we offer experiences. Every guest who steps aboard becomes part of our extended family.

Most frequent questions and answers

“Time For Us” is a boat where you can experience the beauty of Sydney Harbour in a relaxed, bespoke, and friendly environment. Operated by Mariana & Alex, who has a deep love and respect for the water, it’s the perfect way to explore Sydney from a unique vantage point.

You can book a trip through our online reservation system or by contacting us directly via phone or email.

Up to 4 people

Expect a unique, relaxed, and personalized experience as you explore Sydney Harbour. You’ll see iconic landmarks, enjoy the natural beauty, and learn interesting facts about the area, meet fish, turtles, penguins, seals and whales in their environment. 

Yes, “Time For Us” is a family-friendly experience. However, children must be over 12 years old and accompanied by an adult.

Safety is our top priority aboard ‘Time For Us.’ We are fully equipped with all necessary safety gear, and our captain, Alex, is trained in first aid and emergency procedures. While fun is encouraged, bad behavior is not tolerated. For everyone’s safety, it’s crucial to follow the captain’s instructions at all times. If the captain deems any situation unsafe, the tour may be terminated, and no refund will be applicable. There is also no smoking on board. 

While knowing how to swim is beneficial, it’s not a requirement. We have life vests and other safety equipment on board.

We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, comfortable clothing, and a camera to capture the beautiful moments. Please avoid using spray sunscreen as it can make surfaces slippery and hazardous. High heels are not advised; you’ll need to be steady on your feet and will be required to remove your shoes while on board. We do provide water, but if you’d like other drinks, including alcohol, you’ll need to bring them yourself. Please note that red drinks and cola are not allowed as they can cause stains.

In case of bad weather, trips may be rescheduled or canceled. We will notify you in advance and offer an alternative date for your trip. If rescheduling is not possible, we will provide you with a gift voucher instead of a full refund.

You can cancel within 48 hours before your scheduled trip for a full refund. Cancellations made within 48 hours will incur a 100% cancellation fee

We accept all major credit cards, as well as cash payments.

Yes, private tours are available. Please contact us for more details and pricing.

We do not offer group discounts as the payment is for the boat and the tour, accommodating up to 8 people. Please reach out for more information

There is a rest room (which is called a head when it is on a boat) on board

For beverages, please refer to the guidelines mentioned above. As for food, we offer a variety of options including a wrap platter. Upon request, we can also provide sushi, cheese platters, or a sweet assortment. If you’d like to bring your own specific food items, kindly avoid anything that could cause stains, such as blueberries or cherries.

No wifi, but phone coverage, and recharging facilities

We have basic first aid and seasickness remedies on board. However, if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s a good idea to take preventative measures before the trip.

Parking on the street on New Beach Road, read signage for details of time limits. Walk from Edgecliff station. Arrive 30 minutes before departure for a briefing. We are located at Dalbora Marina 1B New Beach Road Rushcutters Bay 2027 NSW

Should you book a Sydney Harbour Cruise?

It’s a long-debated topic in Sydney travel forums. Should I take a harbour cruise in Sydney? Which cruises are the best? Is it really just as good to take the ferry? Well, the ferries are great, but there are some fantastic cruises too. Read on to find out which is right for you.

If you are considering a NYE Sydney Harbour cruise, read our tips here before you book.

Should you take a Sydney Harbour Cruise or ferry?

7 reasons why sydney harbour cruises are worth it, things to consider before you book your harbour cruise, what type of harbour cruises are available in sydney, frequently asked questions about cruises on sydney harbour, the best sydney sightseeing harbour cruises, the best sydney harbour cruises for foodies, the best sunset and evening dinner cruises, alternative ways to explore sydney harbour.

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If you are looking to spend some time out on Sydney Harbour and want to learn a bit of the city’s history, fancy a romantic sail , or would like a luxury experience, then a cruise is most likely going to suit you well.

If you are on a short Sydney layover you spending your short time enjoying the harbour is a great choice.

Lots of locals don’t recommend cruises, especially on the travel forums, usually citing the extensive and affordable ferry system as the reason booking a cruise is unnecessary; however, few locals have taken many paid cruises, so they don’t have a lot to compare.

In my work, over the last decade, with international visitors, I have taken a bunch of cruises, including almost all the ones offered by the major operators, Captain Cook , Journey Beyond, Majestic, Fantasea, Sydney Harbour Tall ships and Sydney Princess Cruises . Unless you have a tight budget, I think one of these experiences is worth considering.

We think that h arbour cruises offer lots of benefits over Sydney’s public ferries:

• There is more deck space so better views
• Often there is a commentary that explains the sites you are passing and gives some historical background
• They travel at a slower pace allowing you to compose better photos
• They usually cover the same ground a couple of times, giving you a chance to get a really good look at the city
• A ferry ride lasts 30 mins or less but the average cruising time is 1-3 hours
• You can choose between small boats, yachts, large sailing ships and standard ferry style boats
• There is a vast number of options with all sorts of activities included, making your day extra special.

If you are travelling on a tight budget of course, there are some fantastic  Sydney ferry  routes that will allow you to see much of the harbour.  

You can cover similar ground to a standard harbour cruise by taking, say, a Manly ferry and the ferry to Balmain; however, if you want something special, then a harbour cruise might just fit the bill. The key is to know what the boat and trip you are booking includes.

The first thing I recommend you do is look at the route /map that the cruise will take. Most will cover the eastern side of the harbour from Circular Quay to Rose Bay and over towards the heads and head under the bridge to Lavender Bay and over to Darling Harbour.

Some will go a little further down the western side of the harbour towards the Gladesville Bridge. Others also go right into the little coves and beaches of North and South Head. If you can, try to find one that includes Middle harbour; very few do, but this is an exceptional part of the harbour and worth looking for.

There are so many companies and styles of harbour cruises available it makes choosing one a challenging exercise. I have taken more of these cruises than I can count, and I have been disappointed more than once, so taking some time to choose a good one is worth it.

There are three main types of tours on Sydney Harbour:

Sightseeing cruises

The focus is on the harbour’s beauty and history.

• Adrenaline inducing Jetboat rides – Thrills, splashes and some background commentary on Sydney Harbour
• Beaches and Bay tours – small groups of 12 or less, on a 2.5 hour morning or afternoon tour that includes 2 stops
• Hop on Hop off tours with commentary – 1 or 2 day options for exploring the harbour
• Afternoon Tall ship Discover Cruise – A budget priced tall ship sail

Dining Cruises

You still get the beauty of a regular Sydney Harbour cruise, but the added benefit of food and some drinks to enjoy while you take in the view. Some cruises also offer a little commentary. These cruises are great for a special occasion dinner or a bit of romance!

• Brunch Cruise – Bubbles and pastries out on the harbour
• Tall Ship Lunch cruises – 2 hour cruise with 3 course lunch
• Seated Lunch Cruise – 2.5 hour cruise with 2 course lunch and premium bar package
• Island BBQ Cruise – 4 hour tour with BBQ on Shark Island
• Afternoon Tea Cruise – a 90 minute cruise with a traditional afternoon tea and a glass of bubbles
• Sunset Dinner cruise – 2 hours, 4 courses and a sunset
• 4 hour Dinner Cruises – 2 hour dinner with 4 courses
• Gourmet lunch or dinner cruise – 5 hr cruise with stops at famous Sydney waterfront restaurants

Special Interest Cruises

Spot some whales, take a spin on the dance floor, climb the mast or arrange a private tour around your own interests.

• Whale Watching Cruises – 2 hr cruise with pick-ups in Manly and the city.
• Luxury private tours – 1-6 guests for 1-2 hours of harbour fun 3 hour option also available

If you are considering a whale watching cruise check out our detailed guide to whale watching in Sydney .

What is the best time of day to take a harbour cruise?

A lunch cruise is lovely, but for photography, the harbour looks its best in the very early morning or late afternoon. The sun sets in the west behind the harbour bridge, often providing a lovely pink or orange tinge to your harbour shots.

What type of boat do you want to be on?

Do you want to be on a large boat, or would you prefer something more intimate?  Most of the regular cruises offered by the big companies operate on boats with at least two levels and sometimes even three levels. This gives more opportunity for window seats and good views for all diners. There are also glass-sided boats that allow protection from the weather.

The benefit of the larger boats is they offer a smoother ride for anyone who might not have their sea legs. They are also easier to board for children or the elderly. However smaller boats can sail closer to the shore and even go ashore at small bays and inlets for a bit of adventure.

Is the departure point important?

Most cruises depart from either Circular Quay or Darling Harbour near King Street Wharf.  Occasionally they also leave from the small wharf near the Opera House or Campbells Cove in the Rocks. This is usually shown clearly on the booking page of any operator so take note before you head off to join your boat.

Do you need to book your Sydney Harbour cruise in advance?

While not every cruise will book out, it is a good idea to book in advance if you want a particular cruise or a window seat, for example. It is also better to book early for cruises in December and January. Special event cruises like Christmas lunch, NYE , Vivid and Mothers Day can book out weeks in advance.

Should you book a meal while you cruise?

If you would like to dine while you explore the harbour, then there are plenty of options to choose between, including lunch, afternoon tea or dinner cruises. Both a la carte and buffet options are available.

• Generally, the price is a pretty good idea of the quality. If you are paying less than $60, it’s likely to be a buffet with things like chicken, basic salads and bread with fruit and cake for dessert.
• Higher priced meals offer more attention to detail, a more significant range of options, and some offer rather special seafood buffets. I have found lots of the standard buffets pretty uninspired and prefer to choose cruises that are offering something special if I decide on a lunch or dinner cruise.

So which do you choose – well, I have spent hours going over all the options, and these are my recommendations.

Sightseeing cruises usually run for 90-120 minutes and include some commentary about the harbour, it’s history and in the case of the tall ships the vessel itself.

Sydney Harbour Tall Ships

Being out on the harbour on a tall ship is a fantastic feeling. Of all the cruises I have done, this is my number one way to experience Sydney harbour.

Sydney Harbour Tall Ships have two vessels that offer a variety of lunch, dinner and afternoon cruises. Being on these boats, you can easily imagine yourself arriving with the first fleet convicts. I wonder how the hell they fit so many people in such small ships?  Imagining several months confined to this space, it must have been hell!

There are two tall ships, the Søren Larsen and the Southern Swan, which was the vessel used in the First Fleet Re-Enactment.  Experiencing the harbour under sail is very special indeed, and Sydney Harbour Tallships have many options. I have taken both their afternoon sunset cruise with drinks package and the evening dinner and enjoyed them both.  The staff are good fun, and we had a really great singalong on our sunset cruise.

Check out the prices of the Tallship lunch & dinner cruises

Afternoon Tall Ship Sailing

Sydney Harbour Tallships also offer an afternoon cruise that features stories on the history of Sydney Harbour and tall ships.

This afternoon cruise offers

• Finger food and light refreshments
• the chance to try your hand at helping sail the ship
• 90 minutes cruising in the lovely afternoon light on Sydney Harbour
• the route includes all the key harbour attractions

This is a really well priced option and will leave you with very special memories of Sydney.

I have done this cruise three times and loved it each time. check full details here 

Sydney Harbour small group tour with beach visits

This small-group tour takes in all the famous harbour sites and gives you a chance to get your feet wet with 30-minute stops at three beaches around North and South Head; the Quarantine Station, Watsons Bay and Store Beach at Manly.

These are some of my favourite places in the harbour, and the small boat allows you to get into the Harbour’s nooks and crannies.

• Small group – maximum 16 guests
• Morning tea
• Wheelchair accessible cruise but beach visits are via wading in water so may not be suitable
• Departs from Darling Harbour – Convention Wharf

Check out tour photos, prices and reviews and see if this is for you.

If the food on offer is an integral part of the cruise experience for you, I suggest you look at the next couple of options. I would be more than delighted to spend a few hours on any (or all) of these experiences. I find the food on many cruises a bit of an afterthought, but I have been called fussy more than once 😉

Progressive Long Lunch Cruise

This cruise offers Sydney at its finest and is perfect for anyone wanting an indulgent day on the water. This 5-hour cruise takes in all the very best parts of Sydney Harbour, including the beautiful hidden gem of Middle harbour – not seen on regular ferry routes or mainstream cruises. It’s perfect for a proposal or a special occasion.

You also stop at two of Sydney’s finest harbourside restaurants along the way before settling down in Middle Harbour for dessert and some relaxation.

• Five-hour cruise
• Visit Balmoral, Watson’s bay, Middle Head, Double Bay and Point Piper
• Entrée at Doyles
• Main meal at Balmoral Dining Room
• Dessert on the boat as you explore Middle Harbour
• After you have finished dining you can swim, kayak or fish off the boat or relax in the sun on the deck.

If you have room in your budget for this, you will most certainly not be disappointed! 

If you are looking for a special occasion cruise, this is it!

Sydney Harbour Captain Cook 2 hour Dinner Cruise

This 2-hour cruise on Captain Cook MV Sydney 2000. The food is of a higher standard than offered on the other Captain Cook dinner cruises, and the service is top-notch.

• 4 course à la carte dining experience
• Live entertainment
• Priority boarding
• Private rooms available for group bookings

Check out the menu and reviews here.

After your meal, you can access the roof and take in the city skyline. We recently took this cruise as full paying passengers and really enjoyed the experience. 

Being on the harbour in the late afternoon and early evening is a joy. Watching the light change behind the Opera House and the Bridge is special. On a cruise, you have time to really enjoy the view and snap away until you get the perfect shot.

The Captain Cook sunset dinner cruise or the Sydney Harbour tall ships afternoon discovery cruise are my top picks

If you like a bit more adventure on your holiday, you might want to consider one of these:

• Kayak tour or rent your own
• Jumping in a water taxi and exploring the hidden parts of the harbour in just 30 minutes.
• Charter a cruiser or yacht all to yourself if privacy is important
• Take a Sydney ferry 

So we say splurge a little on a harbour experience and then fill the rest of your trip with things from our list of cheap things to do in Sydney !

Got a question? Head over to our Sydney Expert Facebook Group and ask a local.

4 thoughts on “Should you book a Sydney Harbour Cruise?”

One of the highlights of chartering a yacht in Sydney is the opportunity to explore the city’s picturesque coastline from a unique perspective.

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable cruising experience in Sydney, booking a harbour cruise is definitely worth considering. You’ll get to see some of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks like Luna Park, Fort Denison, Harbour Bridge, Opera House etc… From a different perspective while enjoying the beautiful harbour views. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a harbour cruise is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening.

Hello there,

I’ve been trolling the internet for hours and can’t seem to find what I’m looking for. I have guests coming from America in the first week of December and would like to take them on a day time harbour cruise. I’m looking for a cruise that encompasses both the main harbour and middle harbour included, up under the Spit Bridge.

Could you please advise if any of your cruises take that route or if you know of someone who does?

Preferably lunch time or afternoon tea.

Thank yu for your assistance.

Kind regards

Annette Kegler

Hi Annette, I have not been able to find a public cruise for middle harbour in quite some time. There might be a private tour you could book but they are very expensive.

Leave a comment

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boutique cruising on sydney harbour

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Sydney Luxury Cruise offers bespoke Experiences and Charters. Drawn from our many years of expertise, we have curated a number of different boutique boat experiences with the option to be fully customised. Each cruise is led by a qualified Crew who is dedicated to delivering a unique and wonderful experience.

EXPERIENCE SYDNEY  LIKE NEVER BEFORE

Sydney Luxury Cruise offers bespoke Experiences and Charters. Drawn from our many years of expertise, we have curated a number of different packages with the option to be fully customised. Each cruise is led by a qualified Crew who is dedicated to delivering a unique and wonderful experience.

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Our Sydney harbour experts are here to help you curate your wonderful experience

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Gold Vivid Dinner Cruise - Captain Cook Cruises

Friday 23 May 2025 to Saturday 14 June 2025

The quintessential Vivid Sydney gourmet food and wine experience on Sydney Harbour. For that truly special occasion or corporate entertaining, our Gold Penfolds Dinner is an unforgettable waterfront restaurant experience where every detail matters. Leave inspired, sated and breathless as you and your guests are treated to not only the view, but a swathe of plate matched Penfolds wines including the classic St Henri Shiraz.

Penfolds collection of benchmark wines are compelling for collectors and drinkers the world over. Since 1844, Penfolds has played a pivotal role in the evolution of winemaking in the constant and endless pursuit of quality. They exude both celebration and excitement.

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Whale tangled in fishing gear freed in Sydney Harbour after 24-hour rescue operation

A young humpback whale was freed from fishing gear that had entangled its tail in Sydney Harbour on Friday following a 24-hour rescue operation.

Rescuers were alerted to the 13-metre juvenile whale by operators of a whale watching cruise ship in the harbour at 1pm on Thursday.

A rescue attempt involving boats, helicopters and drones began Thursday afternoon and resumed at first light Friday.

Two boats of specialist crews freed the mammal and watched it swim toward Sydney Heads and the open Pacific Ocean at 11.15am on Friday morning.

The team used buoys to help keep the animal still as staff worked to cut the rope away.

Macquarie University whale expert Vanessa Pirotta said the whale may have been entangled far earlier than Thursday.

“Is the whale OK? I hope, I don’t really know. The reality is this animal has been through a huge ordeal,” she told Australian Broadcasting Corp.

“Being entangled in fishing gear is an awful thing, but then having boats and drones in the busiest harbour on Earth, Sydney Harbour — it’s just incredible to see where this has just unfolded”.

Luke McSweeney, who led the team helping to disentangle the whale, told CNN: “The challenge with that whale was that it had so much energy.

“It took quite a long time for us to tire it out so that we could get in and do that cut safely.”

Humpback whales usually sail north for warmer waters in June and July before returning south in September and November.

In 2021, Australian marine rescuers freed a humpback whale entangled in a shark net off Queensland 's Gold Coast.

Rescuers used blades at the end of long poles to try and cut a large mass of netting with orange buoys and yellow weights off the whale's tail.

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Humpback whale freed after long rescue mission in Sydney harbour

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Young humpback whale freed from fishing tackle that had entangled its tail in Sydney Harbor

A young humpback has been freed from fishing tackle that had entangled its tail during an almost 24-hour rescue operation in Sydney Harbor

MELBOURNE, Australia -- A young humpback whale was freed from fishing tackle that had entangled its tail during an almost 24-hour rescue operation in Sydney Harbor.

The juvenile whale immediately began swimming toward the Sydney Heads and the open Pacific Ocean after government wildlife rescuers removed the ropes late Friday morning, Macquarie University whale expert Vanessa Pirotta said.

The distressed whale was first reported by operators of a whale watching cruise ship in the harbor at 1 p.m. on Thursday.

A rescue attempt involving boats, helicopters and drones began Thursday afternoon and resumed at first light Friday.

Pirotta said the whale could have become entangled far earlier than Thursday.

She could tell by the sound of the whale’s breathing that it was “very fatigued” before it was freed.

“Is the whale OK? I hope, I don’t really know. The reality is this animal has been through a huge ordeal,” Pirotta told Australian Broadcasting Corp.

“Being entangled in fishing gear is an awful thing, but then having boats and drones in the busiest harbor on Earth, Sydney Harbor — it’s just incredible to see where this has just unfolded,” Pirotta added.

Jessica Fox, an official from the volunteer Organization for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia, said the rescue crew attached buoys to the tangled rope to slow the whale so they could eventually hold it in place while they cut the rope away.

“The whale has been going in circles in Sydney Harbor, making some erratic directional changes,” Fox said in video posted on social media on Friday before the mammal was freed.

“As you can imagine, it’s a very, very difficult task to try and disentangle a whale,” Fox added.

Pirotta said it was not clear why the whale had remained in the harbor rather than swim to the open ocean with its tail entangled. But staying in the harbor made rescuers’ job easier, she said.

A humpback whale is considered a juvenile up to 4 years old. Its gender is unknown.

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MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — A young humpback whale was freed from fishing tackle that had entangled its tail during an almost 24-hour rescue operation in Sydney Harbor.

The juvenile whale immediately began swimming toward the Sydney Heads and the open Pacific Ocean after government wildlife rescuers removed the ropes late Friday morning, Macquarie University whale expert Vanessa Pirotta said.

The distressed whale was first reported by operators of a whale watching cruise ship in the harbor at 1 p.m. on Thursday.

A rescue attempt involving boats, helicopters and drones began Thursday afternoon and resumed at first light Friday.

Pirotta said the whale could have become entangled far earlier than Thursday.

She could tell by the sound of the whale’s breathing that it was “very fatigued” before it was freed.

“Is the whale OK? I hope, I don’t really know. The reality is this animal has been through a huge ordeal,” Pirotta told Australian Broadcasting Corp.

“Being entangled in fishing gear is an awful thing, but then having boats and drones in the busiest harbor on Earth, Sydney Harbor — it’s just incredible to see where this has just unfolded,” Pirotta added.

Jessica Fox, an official from the volunteer Organization for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia, said the rescue crew attached buoys to the tangled rope to slow the whale so they could eventually hold it in place while they cut the rope away.

“The whale has been going in circles in Sydney Harbor, making some erratic directional changes,” Fox said in video posted on social media on Friday before the mammal was freed.

“As you can imagine, it’s a very, very difficult task to try and disentangle a whale,” Fox added.

Pirotta said it was not clear why the whale had remained in the harbor rather than swim to the open ocean with its tail entangled. But staying in the harbor made rescuers’ job easier, she said.

A humpback whale is considered a juvenile up to 4 years old. Its gender is unknown.

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'Excitement' after humpback freed in Sydney Harbour amid search for other entangled whales

The juvenile humpback whale was freed after rescuers spent hours following it around sydney harbour..

The whale was first spotted on Thursday afternoon. Source: Instagram / @nswdcceew

How the entangled Sydney Harbour whale was freed

Is time running out for the Great Barrier Reef?

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