WHY CHOOSE A CATAMARAN ?

Celebrating on Sydney Harbour is the ultimate party venue for locals and visitors to Sydney, but with an array of boats floating around the harbour, how do you know which boat you should hire? 

The team at Sea Sydney Harbour (SSH) are experts in the industry and we specialise in catamaran hire because we believe this type of vessel is the ideal way to explore and celebrate on the harbour.

Here are our top reasons, why your boat of choice should be a catamaran when hiring a vessel for your next harbour cruise.

WHY A CATAMARAN ?

1. Great layouts and a large amount of space – Catamarans are wider than monohulls, and ultimately this allows them to offer much more deck space for you and your guests to enjoy. While catamarans are often associated with cruising in the warmer months, they have a great mix of indoor and outdoor areas and can be enjoyed in all weather conditions. The layout onboard is functional and allows guests to mingle easily and enjoy the water comfortably.

2. Safe and stable – As catamarans have two hulls, the stability of the vessel is great. The vessel will cut through the water smoothly and there is no severe rocking from side to side. It’s like having two feet on the ground instead of one – you have much more balance! If you’re someone that fears swell or is prone to motion sickness, a catamaran will allow you the best opportunity to enjoy your cruise.

3. Views all round – Catamarans give you the best 360-degree views you can ask for! With Sydney Harbour being one of the best in the world, whether you are a local or visitor to the city, you don’t want to be on a boat and not enjoy the views of the famous Sydney landmarks and cityscape. With spacious saloon areas, and large clear windows these vessels are ideal for general sightseeing, but even better for special events such as viewing the Sydney NYE fireworks or Vivid Sydney from the water.

4. Cruising in shallow water is easy – Hiring a vessel in Summer and hoping to go for a swim? Catamarans have a very shallow draft, which means your skipper can manoeuvre the vessel through shallow waters, where other vessels may not be able to go. The vessel can anchor in quiet coves and get close to beaches, so if you are planning to take a dip in the harbour, this can be done in shallow bays and waters.

5. Those holiday feels – Ever find yourself daydreaming of Summer in Europe, cruising the Greek Islands, Croatia, or any other beautiful island? We know we do! The catamaran – with those front nets to feel the splash of the fresh water on your legs – is the iconic symbol of a holiday experience on the water, and cruising on a catamaran in Sydney Harbour, is the closest experience to those holiday feels that you can get, without leaving your local city.


Are you convinced yet?!? These are just a few reasons why your boat of choice should be a catamaran when you want to get out on Sydney Harbour next. If you have questions or want further information on catamaran options, the Sea Sydney Harbour team is always happy to help.

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

SYDNEY HARBOUR COVES – OUR TOP PICKS

When hiring a boat on Sydney Harbour, spending some time at anchor in a harbour cove, is a common pass-time. Whether this is to take a dip in the water, cook a BBQ on board, or simply enjoy some amazing views from a unique perspective, there is an array of spots to choose from.

Our team are local experts on the harbour, and they frequently visit coves and locations that they know guests on board will love. Who better to ask for their top picks?!?

ATHOL BAY

A very popular location situated on the north of the harbour near the infamous Taronga Zoo. This bay is sheltered from the Summer winds, so provides charter guests with a comfortable, smooth spot to anchor. Located not too far from a secluded beach, those that a confident swimmers or excellent paddle boarders, can make their way to the sand bank by water, or simply enjoy a swim near to the vessel. Better yet, if you are out on the water at sunset, this location provides spectacular views of the sun setting on Sydney Harbour, with the iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House as the amazing backdrop.



TAYLOR’S BAY

A beautiful, secluded, quiet bay, you can’t go wrong with a stop here! Also located on the northern side of the harbour, this bay whispers serenity. It’s perfect to stop at when on a day cruise with friends, family or even for a romantic adventure, and if you want to take a dip in the harbour you can do so. It’s also an amazing place to anchor should you wish to stay overnight on the harbour, and sleep in a peaceful environment.  


MILK BEACH

A very popular swimming destination, and one that guests often request to visit! Due to its location, cruising here can be impacted by the swirl and weather conditions on the day, but if you do get the opportunity to visit, Milk Beach is a great all-rounder! It has beautiful views of the city and your experience here will certainly be memorable, with the opportunity to snap some Instaworthy shots. It’s also great for a swim and vessels can often anchor quite close to the beach.


ROSE BAY

In addition to having a nice, soothing name to the bay, this location is popular for its stunning views of the whole harbour. You can get great postcard shots from this bay, and you won’t miss viewing any of the Sydney landmarks. Located on the east side of Sydney, this location is also popular for boarding and disembarking vessels from the local wharf.



NEILSEN BAY

An area located not too far away from Rose Bay, if you have your heart set on spending time swimming and having water fun, this location is ideal. Neilsen Park has shark nets in the water, so if you have guests in your group that are concerned about the harbour’s wildlife, you can ease their worries. It’s also a nice location generally and not too overcrowded with vessels on the water.



Do you have a favourite place to cruise to on Sydney Harbour? Share this with Captain Frank and the team when you are next on board!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #harbourcoves #boat #catamaran #privateboathire #floatingvenue #toppicks #allthingsnautical

SYDNEY BARS – OUR TOP PICKS

With Sydney lockout laws set to change in early 2020, the city is set for a party vibe return and there is some fun to be had both on and off the water.

Our team has picked their favourite bars in Sydney to have a drink or two. Why not check out one of these venues before or after your harbour cruise? You never know, ask nicely and your friendly Sea Sydney Harbour crew might join you at the after-party!

OUR TOP BAR PICKS

Manly Wharf Hotel, Manly – What better way to soak up the sunshine and enjoy views of Sydney Harbour, than at the iconic Manly Wharf Hotel. This venue has something for everyone – three different bars as well as a large sports bar for the sport fans out there, and an extensive food and drinks menu. Opening from 11:30am each day, and closing around midnight, there’s plenty of time for fun, before or after a harbour cruise!

Opera Bar, Sydney – If you want to extend your uninterrupted views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House – go no further, Opera Bar will deliver! Open from 10am (its wine o’clock somewhere), Opera Bar is an all-rounder should you need a venue for breakfast with incredible views, somewhere to begin a night out in Sydney, or somewhere to continue your laughs with friends. You will find good food and a buzzing atmosphere at Opera Bar.


The Glenmore Hotel, The Rocks – Did someone say ROOFTOP?!? Boasting 180-degree views of Sydney Harbour, this rooftop is one of the best in Sydney. Thanks to a retractable roof, this desirable section of The Glenmore can be enjoyed rain, hail or shine. In the event that the rooftop is at maximum capacity upon your visit, the venue has three levels to choose from, with the second level playing host to a beautiful cocktail lounge and three formal dining areas, and the ground level offering a public bar for casual drinks and food. Our team love the vibe of this rooftop bar!


Gallon, Pyrmont – A hidden little gem – from the street Gallon looks like your average bar or cafe, but inside you will find two trendy courtyard areas and two separate bar areas to enjoy. With a mix of tasty food and beverage selections, it’s a favourite for locals and also one to keep up your sleeve for your next night out. Just a short stroll from two local Pyrmont wharf locations makes it an ideal venue to continue drinks with friends after your time on the water.


Cricketers Arms Hotel, Balmain – Located just outside the city, and an 8-minute stroll from Balmain Wharf, this pub makes a great beginning or end to your day. On the street level is the venue’s traditional pub, or head downstairs to a beautiful Italian Restaurant. Alternatively, you also have Balmain Burger Co. conveniently located within The Cricketers Arms. A diverse offering all in the one location, and uncrowded wharves for boarding and disembarking your Sea Sydney Harbour vessel!


YOU’VE HEARD OURS… LET’S HEAR YOURS…

Do you have a favourite or local bar that you would love to share with Captain Frank and the team? We would love to hear about them in the comments or share your party pictures capturing your Sydney fun on Instagram.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneybars #partyvenues #afterpartyideas #partyideas #toppicks #allthingsnautical

PARTY THEME IDEAS: SIMPLE AND FUN

Hosting a celebration on a boat calls for some great party theme ideas that are easy but definitely filled with costume fun! Captain Frank loves a great party theme and he loves to see new ideas on board the boats!

Theme ideas can definitely lift the fun of a party, however being an outdoor venue away from home you want something that your group will get on board with, but nothing too out there that it makes your guests feel uncomfortable.

The team put their heads together, and these were some of their top picks. Be sure to adapt them to make them your own!

  1. Hello Sailor It might be said that the nautical theme when on a boat is overdone, but it certainly never gets outdated.

Nautical themed Birthday aboard The Kirralee. Image – Sea Sydney Harbour

 

  1. When I Grow Up – Totally dependent on individual interests, this theme allows costume ideas to be as wild and creative as imaginations will run. The list of costume genres is endless, with ideas ranging from actors/actresses to politicians to sports stars, just to name a few.
  1. Summer Beach Fun – Out on the water where the potential for clothing to come off (due to swimming) is high, so why not make the appropriate attire part of your theme? A beachy theme sets the mood for a relaxed fun-filled party.
  1. Moustache Party – A small addition to your everyday outfit, this little touch of fun will be sure to add some laughs to your day. Which moustache suits your personality???

A selection of moustache shapes to choose from for this party theme. Image – www.theologyofgames.com

 

  1. Fire & Ice – A powerful theme but simple to implement (and perhaps originally taken from a popular TV show). For those that are more outgoing with their costume ideas, there is nothing that says this party theme can’t be taken literally.

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Fire & Ice theme as featured on popular TV show Revenge. Image – www.pagecovers.com

 

  1. Polka Dot Cutesy – Much more subtle than most other themes, guests are encouraged to wear a polka dot garment. Makes for a cute photo opportunity! Alternatively you can opt for a different pattern or specific colour choice.

Pick one of these party themes or create your own theme… the important thing is that you have fun fun fun!!!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #party #partythemeideas #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!

wine glasses
Pour mum a glass of wine in these quality personalised wine glasses. Image –  http://www.thenewenglandtradingcompany.com

 

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.

vivid
Take mum out for the evening and experience the Vivid Sydney light display on a boat. Image – Sea Sydney Harbour

 

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!

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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!

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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

TRENDY NAUTICAL VENUES IN SYDNEY

The Summer holiday season is upon us Sydney siders, so there is no better time to be out and about exploring the beautiful city that we live in. The city is full of amazing key landmarks that are bustling with tourists who are visiting Australia and soaking up some Australian sun, but we’ve discovered some trendy nautical places that are a little lower key and that will allow you to spend your day or night having fun in a relaxed environment. This said, if you do want the full nautical experience you could always hire a catamaran and host an exclusive party on Sydney Harbour 😛

Here are Captain Frank’s and the team’s top picks of trendy nautical themed places in Sydney (not necessarily in order):

Nautica – Talk about making us feel like we are relaxing on a Greek Island! The styling of this café/bar is absolutely amazing! Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner this place is ideal for a relaxed beverage or morning coffee, and they do also serve food for all meals of the day. Located in Watson’s Bay just behind Robertson Park, Watsons Bay Beach promenade is just a short stroll away if you do fancy a swim or wish to jump on a ferry to move to your next location for the day.

Perfect location for a morning coffee. Image - http://www.nauticacafebarresto.com.au/
The perfect location to start the day with a morning coffee. Image – http://www.nauticacafebarresto.com.au

 

Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel – While at Watson’s Bay, a perfectly relaxed atmosphere can be found at Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, where there is an amazing beer garden with spectacular views. Whether you are looking for a place to have a meal, a drink or even a coffee or freshly squeezed juice, if you are in Watsons Bay you simply cannot go past this trendy venue. Looking for a place to stay overnight too? I’ve heard the rooms are fabulous, so why not spoil yourself, your friend or partner and book a room for the night. One of my favourite things about this place – the anchor signage on the bathroom doors that spell out MR and MRS!! Truly nautical and on trend… Love it!!

Recently refurbished, the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel is stunning. Image - http://watsonsbayhotel.com.au/
Recently refurbished, the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel is stunning. Image – http://watsonsbayhotel.com.au

 

The Ivanhoe Hotel – The other side of town is home to a much-loved local pub set in the heart of Manly on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. The magnificent façade has a Hamptons-inspired coastal beach vibe, while cleverly maintaining the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere of Manly and a local pub. With the beach within walking distance, it is the perfect location to relax on a hot Summer’s day. Multi-level, with indoor and outdoor spaces, you are guaranteed to find a spot to relax and have a refreshing drink, and you won’t even feel like you left the beach. Both the food and drinks are amazing and the pub is open long hours so you can pop in at any time of the day.

Life rings hanging along the wall of the Ivanhoe Hotel. Image – Sea Sydney Harbour
Life rings hanging along the wall of the Ivanhoe Hotel. Image – Sea Sydney Harbour

 

The Island Bar – Located on Cockatoo Island and open only in the Summer months, the blue, yellow and white décor of this bar definitely fits in with the nautical theme. The bar is constructed from recycled shipping containers, giving it a funky industrial look and keeping with the history of Cockatoo Island as a shipbuilding yard and Commonwealth naval base. With deck chairs available for relaxing in the sun, this is a perfect choice for some daytime drinks and a bite to eat. While on the island why not take a brief tour and uncover some of the history of Sydney Harbour, or if you are up for the experience you can even camp overnight on the island. Alternatively if you hire #thekirralee for an exclusive charter, you can request the skipper stop over at the island while you and your guests can head to the bar.

Cockatoo-Island-Bar-1
The bright yellow deck chairs set out in the sunshine. Image – http://www.theislandbar.com.au

 

Hello Sailor – After a trip from the East, to the North and to the middle of Sydney Harbour, we come back to a central location in the CBD – Darlinghurst. Hello Sailor is a great themed bar for the night time drinking session as it is open from 6pm-3am. It is a small bar that attracts a young crowd and trying the cocktails at this bar is a must! The atmosphere is fun and trendy and the nautical theme is far from subtle, with life rings, boat wheels, rope and oars spread across the venue – exactly what one would expect from a place called ‘Hello Sailor’ I guess. If you did wish to host a function at this venue, it would be best to call and make a booking as the bar does get very busy on some nights.

The busy atmosphere at Hello Sailor. Image – http://concreteplayground.com
The busy atmosphere at Hello Sailor. Image – http://concreteplayground.com

 

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #nauticalfun #allthingsnautical

THE MOST POPULAR SAYING THIS CHRISTMAS – “I’M ON A BOAT”

With the Christmas season fast approaching its time to start thinking about planning your office Christmas Party. Unwrap something new and fun this year and hire a catamaran to cruise around Sydney Harbour. Beside’s for meeting the Captain himself, here’s some top reasons why the phrase “I’m on a boat” will become the most popular saying in your office this Christmas!

Exclusive Venue – No more sharing restaurant space or a function centre with another party. This celebration is for your group only to celebrate all your hard work throughout the year and the holiday period. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! 

Amazing Atmosphere – Being in a new environment away from anywhere that has previously been associated with work meetings of functions brings about a different attitude. Make your Christmas Party an occasion to truly be enjoyed by all. Your colleagues will feel like they can let loose a little and will have waves of fun. 

Santa Claus
Cruise and dance along with Santa Clause this Christmas.  Image – http://salmachowdhury.com/?tag=christmas

 

Customised Experience – Whether you are keen for a day or night cruise, a party cruise or a more relaxed cruise that includes a dip in the water, the experience is up to you. Your experienced Captain can certainly make some suggestions, but you can customise your boating experience to suit your specific group.

Unique – How many people do you know who hire a catamaran exclusively for their Christmas Party? Everyone will love it and the views are breathtaking!

Opera House
The views on Sydney Harbour are breathtaking. Image – Sea Sydney Harbour

 

BYO – No bar tabs and no specific catering services must be used! Do you need me to repeat that? No bar tabs and no specific catering services must be used! While Sea Sydney Harbour does have some catering and entertainment options that you can select from, it is purely to make your planning easier. BYO for all food and drinks is allowed!

On trend – There is nothing cooler this Summer than being on a boat and screaming “I’m on a boat” with your friends and work colleagues. #nothingmoretosay

I’m on a Boat! Image – http://rathausartprojects.com/blog/2009/12/04

 

Move over “Merry Christmas” because this year its “I’m on a boat”. The Summer holiday period is set to be a good one! Trust me, you don’t want to miss this!

Share your pictures capturing the fun on Sydney Harbour on Instagram.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #christmas #allthingsnautical

SHARE THE LOVE BY SHARING THE FOOD: EASY FINGER FOOD FOR ON A BOAT

When it comes to entertaining on a boat you may think your food options are limited, however let me assure you that your choices are many.

Sharing your food is another way to share the love – I mean they often say a way to a man’s heart (or Captain’s heart) is through his stomach – so why not opt for platters and finger food to satisfy hunger and love in one go?

We’ve trialed some simple savoury recipes and tested them for preparation time and hunger satisfaction. See what Captain Frank’s favourite finger food option was and why not make use of this recipe next time your planning a celebration!?!

 

MINI QUICHE LORRAINE

Great finger food that can be served hot or cold. Create your own flavour by mixing up the toppings you use – ideas include ham and cheese (as below), spinach and feta or sun-dried tomato and olive.

Mini Quiches 1
Great finger food that can be served hot or cold. Image http://www.stuckonyou.com.au

Makes: 32         Prep: 15 mins          Cooking Time: 20 mins

  • 4 eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 4 slices ham, diced
  • 1 ½ cups cheese, grated
  • 4 sheets short crust pastry
  • 2 tsps. dried parsley
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees Celsius
  2. Cut each pastry sheet into 8 rounds using a scone cutter.
  3. Lightly spray the patty tin. Place pastry in patty tin.
  4. Place cheese, chopped onion and ham in the pastry shell.
  5. Beat egg and milk. Add salt, pepper and parsley.
  6. Pour mixture over the pastry shells and topping.
  7. Sprinkle with extra cheese
  8. Place tray in oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is set.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #fingerfood #recipe #allthingsnautical