nautical – Captain Frank: Life, Fun & All Things Nautical

THE PERKS OF CRUISING SYDNEY HARBOUR IN WINTER

Winter might not be the first season that comes to mind when you think about cruising on Sydney Harbour, but it offers a unique and enchanting experience that’s hard to beat. From the awe-inspiring sight of marine wildlife to the serene beauty of clear, crisp skies, winter brings a special charm to the harbour.

Here are five irresistible reasons why a winter cruise on Sydney Harbour should be at the top of your to-do list this season.

Clear Skies & Stunning Photography

Winter in Sydney often brings clear, crisp days, perfect for photography enthusiasts. The iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and city skyline look even more striking against the blue winter sky. The clarity of the air enhances visibility, allowing for sharp and vibrant photos. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, a winter cruise offers countless opportunities to capture breathtaking shots. If you’re an early riser, the most stunning sunrises can be found in the cooler months.

Peaceful & Less Crowded

With fewer tourists around, winter cruises tend to be less crowded compared to the busy summer months, and with less boats out on the harbour, the water is generally calmer. This means you can enjoy a more intimate and peaceful experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family outing, or a solo adventure, the tranquillity of a winter cruise provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Seasonal Specials & Discounts

Winter is a great time to take advantage of special offers and discounts on Sydney Harbour cruises. With off-peak pricing and some exclusive winter packages available, it’s an affordable time to explore the harbour. Ask our team for Winter boat hire rates.

Wildlife Extravaganza

Winter is prime time for marine wildlife in Sydney. From May to November, it’s whale-watching season, as humpback whales migrate along the coast, offering an awe-inspiring spectacle. Imagine the thrill of spotting a whale breaching or a playful pod swimming by – an experience that is both educational and exhilarating. Sometimes whales and dolphins can be witnessed in the harbour swimming alongside cruising boats.

Cosy Comfort & Unique Ambience

Winter cruises often feature cozy indoor spaces where you can relax and stay warm while still enjoying the stunning views. With a good boat layout, you will have a great mix of indoor and outdoor areas to view the cityscape. Picture yourself sipping on a hot drink, wrapped in a blanket, as you glide past Sydney’s landmarks – a unique winter experience.

Winter on Sydney Harbour offers a unique blend of natural beauty, tranquillity, and special experiences that are not to be missed. From the thrill of whale watching to the charm of cozy winter cruising, there are plenty of reasons to set sail this season. So, bundle up, grab your camera, and embark on a winter adventure on Sydney Harbour!

Contact our team for specific details on cruise options and availability.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #winter #wintercruising #allthingsnautical

VIVID SYDNEY: A HEAVENLY EXPERIENCE

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 canapés 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 24^th May through to Saturday 15^th 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.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #vivid #vividsydney #vividsydneycruise #allthingsnautical

5 MINUTES WITH CAPTAIN ALEX

Meet Captain Alex!! Captain Alex is a senior skipper on our team, and we asked him to share his experiences and thoughts on Sydney Harbour. Here’s what we discovered in 5 minutes:

What do you love most about being a skipper on Sydney Harbour?

I love spending my days on the water in Sydney Harbour. It is an amazing city and harbour to work on. Every day I get to go and do the activities I love most and helping customers get the best experience on the harbour is a great pleasure.

Have you always wanted to work in the boating industry? How did your passion and love for boats come about?

I started working for Sydney Ferries when I was in high school selling ferry tickets. Working my way up the ladder and learning about boats, intrigued me so much that I had to keep working at the ferries. After high school, I became a deckhand and worked my way up to becoming a skipper. Most of this passion came from my family as both my father and siblings all worked at the ferries with me; this played a role in pushing my skills to become a skipper.

Which vessel from the Sea Sydney Harbour (SSH) fleet is your favourite and why?

From the SSH fleet, I would have to say Fleetwing II is my favourite. This is one of our larger vessels that is a favourite for our charter clients too.

Fleetwing II is also the first vessel I worked on as a skipper at SSH so I feel I have an attachment to the vessel. However, Kirralee and Heaven are both amazing vessels to cruise Sydney Harbour on – Heaven is the sister vessel to Fleetwing II and has similar features, while Kirralee is our resort-style catamaran and is great for Summer cruises.

What is your most memorable experience at Sea Sydney Harbour?

In 2022 I had the pleasure of bringing the newest vessel to our fleet Heaven up from Victoria with our great team of skippers and crew. This was a new experience, spending a week at sea going along the Australian coastline. We saw so many amazing things and it pushed my skills as a skipper, as we encountered a large storm along the way.

Where is your favourite swimming spot on Sydney Harbour?

I love taking guests to Taylor’s Bay in Sydney Harbour. This is up around the North Shore area and is a great option to take guests for a swim in Summer. It does not get overcrowded with charter vessels, making it peaceful and enjoyable for all guests and crew members. Taylor’s Bay is also a good bay in Winter, as it does not get too cold or windy and the water stays quite calm.

SEA SYDNEY HARBOUR

Sea Sydney Harbour operates 7 days a week offering private charters and harbour tours. We are happy to create customised packages and accommodate to customer requests for charter dates, times and boarding/disembarking locations on Sydney Harbour.

Create lasting memories and experience the joy of Sydney Harbour. Visit www.seasydneyharbour.com.au for further information. For enquiries or to book your private charter email the team at info@seasydneyharbour.com.au.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #kirralee #fleetwingII #heaven #captain #allthingsnautical

SET SAIL FOR THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS PARTY

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 – all while enjoying good company.

Let’s 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 – 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 – it’s an adventure that combines stunning visuals, exceptional service, and a unique atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on the year that’s 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!

Visit www.seasydneyharbour.com.au/christmas-parties for further information. For enquiries or to book your Christmas Party on Sydney Harbour email the team at info@seasydneyharbour.com.au.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #christmas #christmasparty #eventplanning #boat #catamaran #privateboathire #floatingvenue #allthingsnautical

LET’S EXPLORE VIVID SYDNEY

Vivid lights are our favourite part of the Winter festival! The light show spreads across the city – 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. It’s 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!

There is also the option to upgrade your booking to a Cruise & Dine Package, which includes a delicious dinner at Jounieh Walsh Bay.

Vivid Sydney 2023 runs from Friday 26^th May through to Saturday 17^th June 2023. Secure your ticket on board and experience Vivid Sydney from the water – this is not a boat you want to miss!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #vivid #vividsydney #vividsydneycruises #allthingsnautical

BOAT PARTY PLANNING TIPS

Having a party on a boat on Sydney Harbour is the ultimate way to have fun and take in the amazing sites. Let your planning process also be fun and stress-free, by following these simple planning tips!

TOP PLANNING TIPS

The Sea Sydney Harbour team spend their days planning and organising events on boats. Discover their top planning tips to follow…

1. Have an initial idea on guest numbers – All vessels have a maximum capacity that they must work within. Having a clear idea of your guest numbers is important for a boat party in your early planning stages, to ensure that you book the most suitable vessel for your group size. Where possible, leaving a little bit of leeway in case guest numbers change is a good idea, but remember when you confirm a booking you are locking in that specific vessel.

2. Keep it simple – Being on a boat is an activity in itself. Your group will be entertained for hours mingling and enjoying food and drinks, and will love the time on board. Don’t feel the need to fill up the schedule with lots of extra activities – one or two is fine but allow time for your group to just enjoy each other’s company and being on a boat on Sydney Harbour.

3. Try not to worry about the weather – Bring your positive vibes on the day and you will have a good time. While we definitely hope the sun is shining, rain or shine, you WILL have fun with your family and friends!

4. Decide on a boarding location that is convenient for you – Consider how you and your guests will be getting to the wharf on the day e.g. public transport or driving, and select a location accordingly. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your cruise is set to commence to avoid any delays. While generally boarding and disembarking does take place at the same location, if you have alternate plans after your cruise, a different location can be an option.

5. Plan adequate food for all – If you choose to BYO food and drinks, ensure there is a substantial amount for all. The simplest idea for food is pre-prepared platters or BBQ items, as this keeps preparation to a minimum when on board. If choosing to bring food for the BBQ, our friendly crew will cook this for you. All BBQ utensils and cleaning products are available onboard, so you just need to bring your food and drinks for the day.

6. Don’t forget your drinking water – A must for all boat charters, but something that is often forgotten. Don’t forget this!

7. Limit decorations and extra items – All vessels are well-maintained and where décor is used the look is modern and sophisticated. We understand that some events are planned with a specific theme in mind, however, limiting decorations and items being brought on board will make the boarding and disembarking process quicker and easier. Remember that planning an event on a boat is different to land venues, and bump-in time or pre-access cannot always be offered, so it is a good idea to keep it simple. At the end of your cruise, items brought on board will also need to be taken off or disposed of, so keep this in mind.

8. Communicate accurate details to your guests – To avoid stress and lots of phone calls on the day, ensure all your guests have accurate details, including cruise date and time, exact boarding location (with a link if possible), and advise them if you want them to bring anything with them on the day.

Use these simple tips to help you have a smooth, stress-free planning process in the lead up to your cruise celebration. The Sea Sydney Harbour team is always happy to help and assist with your planning too.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #eventplanning #partyplanning #boat #catamaran #privateboathire #floatingvenue #allthingsnautical

AN A-Z DESCRIPTION OF SEA SYDNEY HARBOUR

26 LINES THAT DESCRIBE SEA SYDNEY HARBOUR AT IT’S BEST

A ll round A team
B eautiful vessels with views
C aptain Frank – our main man
D edicated team
E nigma X – our growing star
F leetwing II – affordable luxury
G roup celebrations
H arbour tours for visitors and locals
I nnovative approach
J oy of being on Sydney Harbour
K irralee – our first born
L ove what we do
M emories are created
N evaeh – like heaven on the water
O pportunity to experience Sydney Harbour
P rivate charters
Q uality cruising experiences
R ange of water experiences
S ydney Harbour – our home and place of operation
T alented and passionate team
U nique cruising experiences
V ivid Sydney harbour cruises
W ell-maintained vessels
X ceptional and professional team
Y es, we customise your event
Z est for boats and the water!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #boat #catamaran #floatingvenue #allthingsnautical

VIVID SYDNEY IS BACK !

The speculation and travel plans have been happening for some months now, but it’s only recently been confirmed that Vivid Sydney is set to return for 2019! For it’s 11^th year running Vivid Sydney is set to dazzle our beautiful city!

Vivid Sydney is an annual festival of lights, music and ideas. The vibrant outdoor festival attracts millions of visitors to Sydney, with the iconic Sydney Opera House being a key focal point of the festival. The array of light installations around Sydney are amazing, and the water is certainly a great place to experience the festival and fun vibes.

This year Sea Sydney Harbour is excited to announce THE LAUNCH of a NEW INTIMATE HARBOUR CATAMARAN CRUISE on board vessel Fleetwing II.

THE VESSEL

Fleetwing II is a luxury 16 metre motor catamaran cruiser that can accommodate for up to 46 guests. Consisting of four deck areas, with upper and lower deck spaces, a large internal cabin and easily accessible bow area, the vessel can be enjoyed in comfort in all weather conditions. The vessel has a modern and sophisticated vibe, with an on board bar and plenty of room to enjoy the harbour views and Vivid lights.

AN INTIMATE VIVID SYDNEY CRUISE

See the spectacular sights and sounds and enjoy the scenic views of Sydney’s enlightened buildings and landmarks. Enjoy the water, see the lights and landmarks and skip the crowds with a harbour cruise departing on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings throughout the festival period.

What’s included?

A 90 minute cruise aboard Fleetwing II with an experienced skipper and crew (maximum passenger numbers of 46)
Delicious canapés + 1 complimentary beverage per person (further drinks can be purchased on board)
Convenient pick up and drop off location at Towns Place Wharf

This intimate cruising experience is perfect to bring along the whole family, or to enjoy with friends or colleagues, as you take in the breathtaking views of Sydney and the spectacular Vivid Sydney light display.

DON’T MISS THE BOAT !

As the festival continues to grow each year there are more and more sites to see from the water and harbour cruises are becoming a popular way to see the lights. No more walking through the crowded streets – jump on a boat and experience the fun from the water!

Vivid Sydney 2019 runs from Friday 24^th May through to Saturday 15^th June 2019. Secure your ticket on board and be sure not to miss the boat!

This post has been written by the Sea Sydney Harbour team to provide information on Vivid Sydney and special event harbour cruises.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #vivid #vividsydney #allthingsnautical

NAUTICAL GIFTS FOR MUM

Here’s a little secret… Captain Frank is a bit of a mummy’s boy (there’s nothing wrong with that), so with Mother’s Day just around the corner, it’s time to celebrate Mum like never before!

We’ve been shopping to find some of the best gift ideas for mum… Of course they all have a little nautical inspiration, and had to get the tick of approval by Captain Frank. So why not indulge mum in a little nautical love!!

We’ve selected some top picks and ideas to make mum’s day!!

1. Personalised Nautical Wine Glasses – We all know how hard mum works, so at the end of the day that glass of wine seems well-deserved. With these personalised Nautical Wine Glasses, mum can sip her favourite chilled wine in a coastal-inspired engraved wine glass. Personalise a set of 4 glasses with some engraving and mum will feel like she is sailing an endless ocean next time she sits down to indulge in her favourite wine. Don’t forget to include her favourite bottle for that added special touch!

2. Sea of Love Message in a Bottle – Remembering it’s the thought that counts shower mum in a sea of loving words! Send your personal special message in a bottle to create something unique and sentimental for mum. This unique gift is truly from the heart and your personal message can be printed, rolled into a scroll and placed inside a bottle of sand. It will truly emulate a feeling of a “bottle washed ashore” and will be a gift mum will cherish for a lifetime.

3. Experience Vivid on Sydney Harbour – For the mum who loves an experience, it’s all about spending quality time with family and friends – a harbour cruise to take in the Sydney sights and the lights of Vivid Sydney could be just the perfect gift idea! Select a night to visit the Vivid Sydney festival, which commences late May and runs to mid June, and enjoy the water together with the beautiful light display. Share an intimate cruising experience with mum aboard a beautiful catamaran and make your night even more special by stopping off for n indulgent dinner before boarding the vessel.

4. Nautical Fashion – For the mum who loves to be in style, consider a nautical fashion piece for her wardrobe or a beautiful accessory. Whether it be that sassy pair of shoes, a trendy nautical inspired jacket or something a bit more subtle with those timeless navy blue and white stripes, mum will sure be on trend when she heads out for the day. Start by browsing the catalogues of some her favourite fashion brands and no doubt you will soon come across a nautical inspired piece. It’s a staple item for those mums that love to be in style!

Untitled — Mum will be sure to be on trend with a timeless nautical piece to add to her wardrobe. Image – *https://sparkleshinylove.com/cozy-nautical-sweater/*

5. Summer Accessories – Does your mum love to be outdoors and get in the water? Spruce up her outdoor accessories and sporting equipment with some summer coastal inspiration and stock her up with those things that you know she uses and loves! Compile a beach towel and bag, some sunnies, a paddle or two and why not go big and purchase her that paddle board or kayak that you know she’s been eyeing for some time? It’ll be a great new hobby for her and will keep her fit, healthy and happy – who knows she may even let you borrow her new toy sometime!

We hope that some of these nautical inspired gift ideas float your boat and appeal to you mum!

Wishing all mums a very HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #mothersday #allthingsnautical

JUMP (OR PADDLE) ON BOARD!

It’s the latest craze to hit the beaches, it’s cool and core-friendly – so we’ve decided it’s definitely time to jump (or paddle) on board! Our Captain’s been practising… and he’s not quite there yet, but I’m sure he will get the hang of it soon!

Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) boarding is an excellent way to bond with friends and family, while keeping active, fit and building core strength. Suitable for all fitness levels, it’s a fun water activity that is making waves – literally!

Sea Sydney Harbour has recently added two inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Boards to its portfolio and we’re so excited for the Summer season and fun activities to begin! These can be added to any daytime private charter booking for some additional fun, and fun is definitely what you will have!

hobie-10-2-coaster-paddleboard — One of the new Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Boards. *Image – Sea Sydney Harbour*

Jump in the water for a swim, and enjoy the use of paddle boards, pool noodles and the fun of beach balls bouncing around! What better way to spend your Summer Sydney days!

Perhaps you will be able give Captain Frank a pointer or two?!? Check out Sea Sydney Harbour and find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydneyharbour #paddleboards #SUP #allthingsnautical