Our much-loved vessel, FLEETWING II, has had a little upgrade. Sheâs officially gone from hosting 46 to now accommodating up to 60 guests!
So what does this mean for you? More room for your crew, your clients, your cousins, or your colleagues â whoever youâre looking to celebrate with on Sydney Harbour. Whether youâre planning a big birthday bash, a corporate outing, a hen’s celebration, or just want to gather all your favourite people in one spot, FLEETWING II now gives you even more flexibility to bring your event to life.
The same features you love are still here â spacious indoor and outdoor areas, a great sound system, comfortable lounges, and plenty of room to mingle, or just soak in the view. But now, you donât have to stress about trimming down your guest list.
We know this has been a common request, so weâre really happy to finally offer a larger capacity without losing the relaxed, boutique feel FLEETWING II is known for.
If youâve been holding off on booking a bigger celebration, nowâs your chance! Summer dates are already filling up, so get in touch with our team to lock in your next event on Sydney Harbour.
More mates, more memories, same great vibes â we canât wait to welcome you aboard. Start planning today!
Thereâs nothing quite like a day on the waterâfresh air, sunshine, and the freedom of the open sea. Whether youâre planning a family outing, a romantic cruise, or a celebration with friends, being prepared is key to ensuring smooth sailing.
To help you make the most of your time aboard, weâve put together the ultimate pre-departure checklist. Whether youâre a seasoned sailor or new to boating life, these essentials will set you up for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable experience.
â 1. Confirm the Basics
Before anything else, double-check the foundational details:
đ Departure Location & Time â Know exactly where youâre boarding and when. Factor in time for parking or traffic.
đ Contact Information â Save the skipper or company’s number in case you need to reach out last-minute.
đ¤ Weather Forecast â Keep an eye on the weather; pack and dress accordingly and always remember a smile.
𧳠2. Pack Smart
Think light, but think ahead:
𧴠Sunscreen â The sun reflects off the water, so SPF is non-negotiable.
𧢠Hat & Sunglasses â Shade and UV protection are your best friends.
𧼠Light Jacket â Even warm days can turn breezy on the water.
đ Swimwear & Towel â If swimming is an option, youâll want to be ready!
đ Non-slip Footwear â Safety first. Avoid stilettos or slippery soles.
Pro tip: Bring a dry bag or ziplock for phones and valuables.
đ´ 3. Food & Drink
Some charters provide catering and beverages, but if not:
đ§ Plenty of Water â Hydration is key, especially on sunny days.
𼪠Substantial Food â Platters or a BBQ are easy to prepare and easy to share.
đž BYO Drinks? â Aim for tasty and fun, but keep it simple and try not to overstock the bar or eskies. Ice and other amenities are normally provided but check with your event planner beforehand.
đą 4. Technology Check
Donât forget these simple yet important tech tasks:
đ Fully Charged Phone
đˇ Camera
đś Maps â To keep you on time and on the correct path to the wharf.
đś Playlist Downloaded â Bring music and set the vibe ahead of time.
đ 5. Safety First
All of the hard work is done for you on a crewed vessel.
â Lifejackets provided
â Safety briefing at boarding
â Medical concerns? Let your event planner know in advance if you have allergies or conditions.
đ 6. Extras that Make the Day
If you want to go the extra nautical mile:
đ Decorations if itâs a celebration cruise – pre-access is available on most vessels (charges apply)
𧊠Games
đś Matching sunglasses for the group (hello, Instagram!)
𧴠Sea-sickness tablets if anyoneâs unsure about their sea legs
â ď¸ Final Reminders
đ° Be on time! Boats run to tight schedules, especially in busy harbours.
đ§ Respect the marine environmentâdon’t throw rubbish or any other items overboard.
Ready to Set Sail?
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to a day on the water. With this checklist in hand, youâre not just readyâyouâre set to enjoy a seamless, stress-free and memorable boating experience.
Havenât booked your charter yet? Our team is here to help you plan the perfect day on the waterâwhether itâs a casual cruise, a celebration, or something in between. đ Get in touch today and letâs go cruising!
Every year, Vivid Sydney transforms the city into a glowing celebration of creativity, light, and innovation. With the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and skyline illuminated in brilliant colour, itâs no wonder Vivid Sydney is one of the most anticipated festivals in the world. But instead of battling the crowds on land, thereâs a better â and more breathtaking â way to experience it all: from the water.
đWhy Watch Vivid Sydney from a Cruise?
1. The Best Seat in the House â No Crowds,
No Stress
While thousands gather onshore for a glimpse of the action, a harbour cruise
offers a crowd-free experience with front-row seats to the city’s most iconic
installations. Sit back, relax, and soak in the lights from the comfort of your
vessel.
2. Unmatched Views of the Icons
Thereâs nothing quite like seeing the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge
illuminated â and even better when youâre watching them from the centre of the
harbour. From this perspective, the entire city becomes your personal light
show.
3. A Dynamic, Ever-Changing Perspective A Vivid Sydney cruise gives you more than one view. Glide past multiple precincts like Circular Quay, Barangaroo, and Luna Park, all shimmering with reflections on the water. Itâs a constantly shifting, 360° canvas of colour.
4. Ideal for Photos and Peace of Mind
Cruising gives you unobstructed angles for those perfect night-time shots. No
crowds in the frame, no pushing through packed walkways â just clear, dazzling
scenes and plenty of space to move and capture the moment.
5. Make it a Night to Remember Whether youâre planning a romantic evening, family night out, or a celebration with friends, a Vivid Sydney harbour cruise is a magical experience that takes your night to the next level.
đ˝ď¸ Introducing the Vivid Cruise & Dine Package
For a truly special night out, our Cruise & Dine Package combines a premium dining experience with the magic of Vivid seen from the water.
Start your evening with a delicious dinner at Jounieh Walsh Bay â one of Sydneyâs most celebrated waterfront restaurants, known for its modern Lebanese cuisine and panoramic harbour views. Located just steps from the cruise departure point, Jounieh offers the perfect blend of flavour, atmosphere, and convenience.
After dinner, stroll to the nearby wharf to board your Vivid Sydney harbour cruise and watch the city come alive in lights. Itâs the perfect way to enjoy the full Vivid experience â without the hassle of crowds or coordination.
Whether you’re entertaining clients, enjoying a romantic night out, or sharing a special evening with friends, the Cruise & Dine Package featuring Jounieh is the ultimate way to experience Vivid Sydney 2025.
đĽď¸ Types of Cruises for Vivid Sydney 2025
Private Charters â For groups wanting an exclusive, personalised night out.
Vivid Sydney is more than just a light show â itâs an immersive, unforgettable experience. And thereâs no better place to take it all in than from the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour. Whether you choose a cruise on its own or pair it with dinner through a Cruise & Dine Package, youâre in for a night of colour, creativity, and connection â far from the crowds, and right at the heart of the action.
Spots are limited and Vivid Sydney is one of the busiest times on the harbour â book your Vivid Sydney experience now to secure your front-row seat to the lights!
Letâs face it, traditional team-building events can sometimes feel a bit⌠meh. Stale conference rooms, awkward icebreakers, and endless PowerPoints arenât exactly inspiring. But what if you swapped all that for sunshine, sea breezes, and stunning views?
A Sydney Harbour charter is the ultimate way to bond with your team, relax, and have fun. Here are five reasons why itâs the perfect choice:
Say Goodbye to Boring Backdrops
Who needs a dull office setting when youâve got the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge as your view? A boat on Sydney Harbour gives your team the chance to soak up some of the most iconic scenery in the world. Bonus: Itâs impossible to fall asleep during a brainstorming session when dolphins might swim by, a seal might be sun baking, or a golden sun might be setting.
Collaboration Happens Naturally
Something magical
happens when youâre out on the waterâpeople relax! Without the usual office
vibes, colleagues can chat, laugh, and connect more genuinely. Whether itâs
brainstorming on the deck or teaming up for a fun onboard activity, teamwork
feels effortless when the setting is this good.
Treat Your Team to a Little Luxury ďťż
Letâs be realâwho doesnât love feeling a bit fancy? A boat cruise on Sydney Harbour is a surefire way to make your team feel valued and appreciated. Add some delicious food, great music, and maybe a cheeky swim stop, and youâve got an unforgettable day out.
Networking, but Make It Fun
Forget awkward
small talk by the coffee machine. On a private charter, networking is all about
sipping drinks, enjoying the sunshine, and sharing a laugh. Itâs the perfect
way to bring different teams or departments together and create connections
that stick.
Hassle-Free Planning
Organising team
events can be a headache, but a charter makes it easy. Everythingâfrom catering
to itinerariesâis taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying the day with your
team. Just hop onboard and let the crew handle the rest!
Ready to Get Cruising?
A Sydney Harbour
charter isnât just another team-building activityâitâs an experience your team
will be talking about for months. So why settle for ordinary when you can treat
your team to something extraordinary?
As the vibrant city of Sydney comes alive with the dazzling lights and colourful displays of the annual Vivid Sydney Festival, there’s no better way to experience this spectacle than from the tranquil waters of the harbour. Sea Sydney Harbour is thrilled to offer you an opportunity to witness the magic of Vivid in unparalleled comfort and style with our Intimate Vivid Sydney Cruise on Heaven.
Picture yourself
aboard our luxurious catamaran, gently gliding through the shimmering waters of
Sydney Harbour as the city skyline transforms into a mesmerising canvas of
light and colour. Our 90-minute cruise promises an intimate and unforgettable
experience, catering to a maximum of 40 guests, ensuring that you can capture and
savour every moment without the hustle and bustle of large crowds.
Escape the Crowds
One of the most
appealing aspects of our Vivid Cruise is the opportunity to avoid the typical
crowds associated with experiencing Vivid Sydney from land. Instead of jostling
for a vantage point amidst throngs of spectators, you’ll have front-row seats
to the spectacle from the comfort of our spacious catamaran. Imagine the
serenity of soaking in the breathtaking views with your loved ones, free from
the distractions of large crowds.
Gourmet Delights
But the magic of
our Vivid Cruise doesn’t stop there. To complement the enchanting sights, we
offer a tasty selection of canapĂŠs and a beverage of your choice, ensuring that
your senses are fully indulged throughout the journey. Whether you prefer a
glass of wine, a beer, or a non-alcoholic option, our attentive staff will be
on hand to cater to your every need.
Intimate Experience
Moreover, our intimate setting allows for a more personalised experience, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion with friends, enjoying a romantic evening with a loved one, or simply seeking a unique way to explore Vivid. Our friendly crew will be delighted to provide insights and stories from the harbour, enriching your experience even further.
Immerse Yourself in Wonder
As the lights of Vivid dance across the water, casting a magical glow over the harbour, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of wonder and delight. From iconic landmarks adorned with intricate light installations to whimsical projections illuminating the night sky, each moment promises to captivate and enchant.
So why settle for a conventional Vivid experience when you can elevate it to new heights with our Intimate Vivid Sydney Cruise on Heaven? Join us for an evening of unparalleled beauty as we embark on a journey through Sydney’s most enchanting light festival.
Vivid Sydney 2024 runs from Friday 24th May through to Saturday 15th June 2024. Book your tickets now and don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to see Vivid in a whole new light.
This post has been written by the Sea Sydney Harbour team to provide information on Vivid Sydney and special event harbour cruises.
Are you ready to embark on a nautical adventure like no other? Hosting a party on a boat offers a unique and exciting opportunity to create unforgettable memories against the backdrop of shimmering waters and endless horizons. And what better way to elevate the experience than with a fantastic dress-up theme?
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or anniversary, or simply seizing the day for a social gathering, here are some of the best dress-up theme party ideas to make your boat bash a tidal wave of fun.
Retro Era
Step back in time to the glamorous era of the 1950s or 1920s with a
retro-themed cruise party. Encourage guests to dress in period-appropriate
attire such as flapper dresses, fedoras, poodle skirts, and bow ties. Set the
scene with vintage decorations, old-fashioned cocktails, and a live band
playing swing or jazz music for added nostalgia.
Pirate Party
Ahoy, matey! Channel your inner swashbuckler and transform your boat
into a pirate ship for the day. Encourage your guests to don eye patches,
bandanas, tricorn hats, and billowy shirts. Complete the look with accessories
like swords, parrots, and gold doubloons. Set the mood with pirate-themed
decorations, such as skull and crossbones flags and treasure chests.
Tropical Luau
Bring the warmth of the tropics aboard with a vibrant luau theme. Deck
out your boat with leis, and inflatable palm trees to create a festive island
atmosphere. Guests can dress in grass skirts, Hawaiian shirts, and flower
crowns while sipping on fruity cocktails. Don’t forget to play some upbeat
island tunes to get everyone hula dancing the night away.
Under the Sea Soiree
Dive into an enchanting underwater world with an under-the-sea theme party. Encourage guests to dress as mermaids, sea creatures, or scuba divers. Serve seafood-inspired appetizers and cocktails garnished with edible pearls for a whimsical touch and transform your boat into a magical oceanic paradise with shimmering blue decorations.
Hollywood Glamour Night
Roll out the red carpet and bring the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the high seas. Invite guests to dress like their favourite movie stars from the past or present, whether it’s Marilyn Monroe, James Bond, or Audrey Hepburn. Decorate the boat with sparkling lights, velvet ropes, and a makeshift movie marquee. Host a themed trivia game or encourage some red-carpet performances to keep the excitement going throughout the night.
No matter which theme you choose, remember that the key to a successful dress-up party on a boat is creativity, enthusiasm, and a sense of adventure. With the right theme and decorations, you can turn an ordinary boat ride into an extraordinary experience that will leave your guests talking for years to come.
So, hoist the sails, set your course, and get ready to sail into a sea of unforgettable memories. It’s time to get the party started!
Contact our team for further information on private vessel hire.
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and creating unforgettable memories with friends, family, and colleagues. While traditional parties and gatherings are wonderful, why not elevate your Christmas festivities this year by taking to the waters of Sydney Harbour? Imagine sipping a glass of wine under the stars, surrounded by breathtaking views of Sydney’s iconic landmarks â all while enjoying good company.
Letâs explore why hiring a boat on Sydney Harbour for your Christmas party is a decision you won’t regret.
WHY HIRING A BOAT ON SYDNEY HARBOUR IS A MUST
1. Spectacular scenic backdrop – Sydney Harbour is renowned for its unparalleled beauty, and there’s no better way to appreciate it than from the deck of a boat. Your Christmas party will be framed by the glittering city skyline, the iconic Sydney Opera House, and the majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge. This natural and architectural beauty creates an enchanting atmosphere that instantly elevates your event to a whole new level.
2. A unique, unforgettable experience – Break away from the norm and give your guests an unforgettable experience. A Christmas party on a boat is a departure from the traditional indoor setting, offering an opportunity for your guests to socialise, dance, and celebrate in an open-air environment. The gentle lapping of waves, the cool breeze, and the twinkling lights of the city create a magical ambience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
3. Customisable venues and sizes – Whether you’re hosting a small family gathering or a larger corporate bash, boats on Sydney Harbour come in a range of sizes and styles. You have the flexibility to choose a vessel that perfectly matches your party’s size and theme. Many boats offer multiple decks, indoor and outdoor spaces, bars and even a space to dance.
4. Stress-free planning – When you hire a boat for your Christmas party, you’re not just renting a venue â you’re enlisting a team of experts to help you plan and execute your event flawlessly. Within the Sea Sydney Harbour team, we have experienced event coordinators who can assist with details from catering to entertainment and logistics. This allows you to relax and enjoy the party while leaving the details in capable hands.
5. Build stronger connections – Being on a boat in a private, more intimate setting encourages mingling and interaction among guests. It’s an opportunity for people to connect and socialise in a way that might not be possible in a larger, traditional venue. Boat parties cater to all ages -kids can enjoy the excitement of being on a boat, while adults can relish the scenic views and festive ambience.
6. Escape the hustle and bustle – Sydney can get quite busy during the holiday season, but when you’re out on the water, you can escape the crowded streets and enjoy a serene and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a tranquil oasis away from the holiday rush.
This holiday season, step away from the ordinary and embark on a nautical journey that will leave a lasting imprint on your guests’ hearts. Hiring a boat on Sydney Harbour for your Christmas party is more than just an event â it’s an adventure that combines stunning visuals, exceptional service, and a unique atmosphere. Itâs the perfect opportunity to reflect on the year thatâs passed and set intentions for the one ahead.
The charm of the harbour, combined with the luxury and convenience of a boat charter, promises a Christmas celebration that will be cherished for years to come. So, why wait? Set sail for an unforgettable experience and make this Christmas truly special!
Vivid lights are our favourite part of the Winter festival! The light show spreads across the city â from the Sydney Opera House area to Darling Harbour and beyond, across the Sydney Harbour Bridge and to the North Sydney areas, and it even spreads over to Taronga Zoo. On a clear night, the lights can be seen from over 6km away from high areas in Sydney.
Image: @tikaandhini
After 10 years of lighting up the city, Vivid Sydney was confirmed to be the biggest festival of lights in the world with 2.4 million people attending in 2019 and each year thereafter, increasing further.
6 INTERESTING BEHIND THE SCENES VIVID FACTS
Inspiration for the creation of this festival struck, after one of the creators, Anthony Bastic, saw beautiful, illuminated buildings in London.
It takes 5.2km of network cable to light up the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the city.
It takes 6 weeks to set up for the festival, with the Sydney Harbour Bridge display solely taking 3 weeks to set up. Planning and creating the artworks takes 11+ months.
Each year Destination NSW receive over 200 artist applications.
Approximately 800 volunteers are engaged to make this event possible.
Since 2019, the festival has been 100% green power.
TOP WAYS TO EXPLORE THE VIVID LIGHTS
Walk & Explore – If you are a keen walker and explorer, you can walk along the 8.5km Vivid Light Walk, following the light displays through Circular Quay, The Rocks, Walsh Bay, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour. Get up close and personal with the sculptures, take photos and interact with the artworks. If you need a break, you can always stop at one of the many restaurants or bars along the way.
Cruise & Relax – If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere to see the lights, with fewer crowds and physical activity, then viewing the Vivid lights from a boat is a great option. The view from the water is glamourous, as the water glistens, and the building lights shine and sparkle. Itâs a great way to see the Vivid lights without the busyness of the city, and cruising on a smaller vessel allows you to cruise close to the shoreline, offering some picturesque Instagram-able shots of the Vivid displays.
Sea Sydney Harbour offers cruising experiences for a range of budgets including ticketed and private hire options. Cruises run throughout the festival on Kirralee, Heaven and Fleetwing II. All experiences are great for corporate and team gatherings, or to simply share a sparkling night out with your family and friends. Start or end your night out with a Vivid Sydney Harbour Cruise!
Vivid Sydney 2023 runs from Friday 26th May through to Saturday 17th June 2023. Secure your ticket on board and experience Vivid Sydney from the water â this is not a boat you want to miss!
Planning a Henâs Party for your bestie and that beautiful bride-to-be? Already booked a boat cruise âď¸âď¸âď¸ and now planning for some fun games while on board?
The Sea Sydney Harbour team have created a list of fun-filled, boat-suitable, games to play with your group â itâs all about stress-free and easy planning and you can use our templates, or make these games as funny or as naughty as you like!
WOULD SHE RATHER
It’s time to see how well you know the bride!
This game is for all on board to play. Create a quiz sheet prior to the day and list 10-15 different preferences, with two similar choices noted e.g coffee vs tea. The party guests must then answer what they think the bride would prefer. After the game is played, the sheets are checked with the bride and the highest score wins!
Letâs find out more about the guests and the bride-to-be, with this fun and revealing card game. Questions are asked around the group and guests respond with HAVE or HAVE NOT. Itâs funny, embarrassing and revealing and an ideal game for groups, as itâs a great icebreaker!
Purchase the game online here, or you can make your own version.
HELP WRITE THE BRIDE’S VOWS
Sometimes an outside observer has some great insights! What should the bride say on her special day?
Prior to the day, bridesmaids can create a vow template for the group or you can use ours. Party guests must come up with the missing words to the vows making them fun and exciting (or naughty), bringing laughter into the group. There is no limit to how creative the group can get filling in the blanks.
The maid of honour and the bridesmaids come up with a series of two truths mixed with a lie. Make this all about the bride and the couple, such as how the bride and groom met, the brideâs initial thoughts of the groom, plans for the future, etc⌠Get as personal as the bride-to-be will let you get!
Present the statements to the group, who must then choose which is the lie. This game is exciting with laughter and fun for everyone.
‘FIND SOMEONE WHO’ BINGO
Great for larger groups on the boat, or if youâre hosting a Henâs Party on land and venue hopping.
This game gets all the ladies involved and is great to get your group mingling amongst each other, or with others at the same venue. It can be played in small groups or individually, with the aim to be the first to âfind someone whoâ ticks each of the boxes on the BINGO card. The person or group that crosses off all their card first is the winner!
You can use the BINGO card that we have created, or add and change details on the card, tailored to your group and/or venue.
This game involves the group naming as many cocktails as possible â a great game for people that like to work under pressure and love to enjoy a good cocktail. The bride to be can start the game off, and the next personâs cocktail name must start with the last letter of the cocktail named prior. When you canât come up with a cocktail name, youâre eliminated from the game and the last lady standing wins! The winner can then create their favourite cocktail for the group.
Have fun playing these games with your Hen’s Party guests, and be sure to enjoy the planning time with the bride squad too. Some games noted may require some bridesmaid preparation prior to the day and prizes are a great idea to have for the winners.
Don’t forget to secure your unique harbour venue and set sail before the veil. Reach out to the Sea Sydney Harbour team or click here to find out more information on our Hen’s Package options â email info@seasydneyharbour.com.au or phone +61 452 188 739.
Christmas is the time for celebrations, fun, good food and drinks, and great company – whether it be on the water or on land. Bonding with your family and friends over Christmas treats and activities is a loved pass-time and one of Captain Frank’s favourite things about Christmas. For those that love food and fun activities, there is no better time of the year!
Want to enjoy some special treats and foodie fun this holiday season? Here are some ideas to explore for making and baking and some of the Captain’s favourites…
CHRISTMAS TREATS & FUN
Shortbread â Everyone loves a good homemade shortbread cookie, and these can be baked in all shapes and sizes, including Christmas trees, stars, Santa, reindeers, etc. This is a fun activity for all involved so gather your friends and family together and cook away. Donât forget to decorate the cookies, using Christmas coloured icing (or nautical coloured). A true Christmas classic!
Fruit Mince Pies â For a long-lasting Christmas treat, a fruit mince pie will do the trick. This tasty treat is a classic and homemade pies are a favourite. With a mix of fruit, nuts and spices the fruit mince pie is mixed together and left to rest until the pastry cups are cooked and ready to go.
Rum Balls â One for the adults, a classic rum ball puts a twist on all Christmas party occasions. The secret of a rum ball is that they donât actually contain too much rum, however, this is your personal preference, and you can add more or less according to your liking. Decorate as you please and enjoy them for yourself or give them as a gift. You can never go wrong with an indulgent rum ball, and rum is the liquor of choice for many sailors and sea captains!
Gingerbread Houses â Get the family together and entertain the kids with some gingerbread house creations. Having a gingerbread house bake-off is a great Christmas Day pass-time to keep everyone busy. With house kits available in a number of stores and supermarkets, itâs a fun activity for all ages to do. Add on some extras to the decorations (perhaps some nautical fun) and work to create the best house of all!
The Trifle â One of the longest-running classic desserts around, dating all the way back to the 1500âs; the trifle is the most classic and timeless dessert. Families for generations have passed down their trifle recipes so this dessert often contains family secrets, making each version unique and different. This dish is layered with everyoneâs favourites including jelly, custard, cream, jam sponge scrolls and fresh fruit, and the layers piled up look amazing in those beautiful glass dishes.
Pick just one or two treat options, or if you and the kids are on holidays, why not try all these fun treat ideas!?! Share them in person with your family and friends and share your creations with Captain Frank and the team on Instagram.
