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.

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WINTER WARMERS: HEARTY SOUPS TO WARM YOUR INSIDES

With winter upon us, here are Captain Frank’s favourite winter warming recipes – hearty soups that are simple to make and will leave you wanting more.

 

PUMPKIN AND CHORIZO SOUP

“You just can’t have pumpkin soup without the addition of chorizo!! And lots of it!!” – Captain Frank

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Individual soup servings. Image – Sea Sydney Harbour

Serves: 4         Prep: 20 mins          Cooking Time: 40 mins 

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 chorizos, finely diced
  • 2 small brown onions, coarsely diced
  • 900g Kent pumpkin, skin removed, seeded, cut into 2.5cm chunks
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled, coarsely diced
  • 3 gloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 dried bay leaf
  • ¾ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¾ tsp ground cumin seeds
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 6 cups water
  • ¼ cup thickened cream
  • 2 tbsp pepitas (pumpkin seeds), toasted
  1. Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and chorizo and cook, stirring for 2-3 minutes or until crisp on the outside. Transfer the chorizo on a plate and set aside.
  2. Add the onions then pumpkin and carrot to the same pan and cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes or until the onions and pumpkin begin to soften. Add the garlic, bay leaf, smoked paprika and cumin and cook, stirring for 5 minutes, or until the pumpkin begins to caramelise.
  3. Add the vinegar and cover with the water. Bring to boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender. Add the cream and bring back to a simmer. Remove from the heat and allow to cool. Discard the bay leaf.
  4. Working in batches, blend the soup in a blender until smooth. Pour batches back into the saucepan to reheat. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  5. Ladle into four bowls. Top with cooked chorizo and pepitas.
  6. Optional: Drizzle with extra virgin oil and serve with bread.

Alteration on recipe by Curtis Stone

 

PEA AND BROCCOLI SOUP WITH CHEESY CROUTONS

“This is a great vegetarian option and the cheesy croutons are the perfect addition to the dish.” – Captain Frank

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Tasty and colourful. Image – Sea Sydney Harbour

Serves: 4         Prep: 15 mins           Cooking Time: 20 mins

  • 1 tbs olive oil
  • 1 brown onion, finely chopped
  • 1 leek, coarsely chopped
  • 1 potato, peeled, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 4 cups (1L) chicken or vegetable stock
  • 1 small head broccoli, coarsely chopped
  • 2 cups (240g) frozen peas
  • 20g butter
  • 4 thick slices bread
  • 2 slices tasty cheddar
  • Coarsely chopped chives
  1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, leek, potato and garlic. Cook, stirring for 5 minutes or until the onion softens. Add the stock and bring to boil. Add the broccoli and peas. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 10 minutes or until broccoli is very tender.
  2. Transfer the broccoli mixture to the jug of a blender and blend until smooth. Return to the saucepan over low heat and heat through.
  3. Preheat a sandwich press or large frying pan over high heat. Spread the butter evenly over 1 side of each bread slice. Sandwich the cheddar, butter side out, between bread slices. Cook in sandwich press for 2 minutes or in frying pan for 2 minutes each side, or until cheddar melts and the bread is golden brown. Cut into 2cm wide croutons.
  4. Divide the soup among serving bowls. Top with the croutons and sprinkle with chives to serve.

Recipe by Curtis Stone

 

 

Do you have a tasty winter warmer recipe that you would love to share? Share your winter recipe creations on Instagram.

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LOTS OF LIGHT AND LOVE FOR VIVID SYDNEY

Vivid Sydney is a spectacular array of light, music and ideas. The festival is an annual event and there is always something new and fun to explore. If you’re a lover of art, music, live performances or just a fan of Sydney in general, you will love the Vivid Sydney festival! Captain Frank sure does!

Falling in love with Vivid Sydney is not a hard thing to do. Here are some of Captain Frank’s top reasons why he enjoys the Vivid Sydney Festival each year.

  • You could go every year and still be amazed at the spectacular display. It is always different.
  • The festival makes Sydney feel alive and fun, and despite the pre-winter evening chill thousands of people flock to the big city.

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Circular Quay on show during the Sydney Vivid Festival. Image – www.paxtyvisuals.com

 

  • At no other time of the year does Sydney look so beautiful!
  • The city comes together inspired by creativity, ideas, lights and fun.

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Vivid Festival crowds near Sydney Opera House. Image – www.theguardian.com

 

  • The atmosphere across the city is absolutely amazing!!!

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Dance all night during the Sydney Vivid Festival. Image – Sea Sydney Harbour

 

This year take up a prime location and see Vivid Sydney from aboard a cruise on Sydney Harbour. Considering the popularity and love of the festival, there is no doubt that the crowds on land will be large with festival crowds expected to grow. What better position to view the city light display then aboard a cruise on Sydney Harbour!

Planning to attend the festival this year? Share your pictures capturing the beautiful art and lights across Sydney on Instagram

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