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Celebrate art atop the sparkling harbour on a Vivid Sydney cruise

From the 24th of May to the 15th of June this year, Sydney will host the annual celebration of art, innovation and creativity called Vivid Sydney. Famous landmarks illuminated by spectacular art and light installations, the entire city of Sydney is a sight to behold. And one of the most unique ways to indulge in this celebration has to be taking a memorable Vivid Sydney cruise along the harbor.

Read on to learn more about what this festival of art and lights holds in store for you on a Sydney Harbour cruise.

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Mesmerizing art installations

Vivid Sydney celebrates art through brilliant art installations and 3D projections. Famous artworks, intricate patterns and various light installations are cast on Sydney's most iconic landmarks near the harbor, including the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour. Hundreds of drones zoom around in the skies to make massive and sophisticated 3D projections as well!

Guide to finding your perfect Vivid Sydney cruise match

Vivid Sydney cruises are usually of two kinds: sightseeing and dinner cruises. A Vivid Sydney sightseeing cruise takes you along various light installations along the harbor. If you simply wish to sightsee, a Vivid Sydney sightseeing cruise is your budget pick. A Vivid Sydney dinner cruise shows you the same sights, but provides an elevated experience with dinner and beverages, perfect for couples or hungry families or those looking to end a long day of sightseeing.

Most Vivid Sydney cruises last 90 minutes or 1.5 hours, making them suitable for all types of travelers. There are also 2-hour and 3-hour cruise options available, but this is usually included with dinner. If you have the time and budget, we suggest you pick a longer duration cruise to soak in the beautiful scenery for a longer period.

The prices for Vivid Sydney dinner cruises don’t vary a lot from sightseeing cruises. The prices start from AU$49 and can go up to AU$89 for dinner cruises, depending on the inclusions in your experience. If you spend a few more bucks, you can not only get a meal but also choose to spend more time on the cruise to better enjoy the festival.

Different Vivid Sydney cruises have a variety of inclusions in the tickets, including complimentary snacks and drinks and live music over the weekends. You can also find cruise options that allow you to upgrade your seating, select the meal course you want, or purchase additional drinks.

Vivid Sydney cruises usually occur aboard Catamarans and comfy cruise liners. This means that you get both indoor and outdoor seating options along with specific viewing decks to enjoy the views.

There is also a unique Tall Ship Vivid Sydney cruise that takes you back to the golden era of sailing. Climb aboard a restored Southern Swan or Soren Larsen and add a touch of antiquity to your modern day celebration of the Vivid Sydney festival.

The Vivid Sydney festival will last from 24th May to 15th June in 2024. If you wish to enjoy Sydney Harbour in other ways, choose from a variety of other cruise options, including sightseeing cruises, lunch cruises, dinner cruises, and whale-watching cruises.

Vivid Sydney cruise boarding points

With the most spectacular water-front displays happening at Darling Harbour, most Vivid Sydney cruises start right opposite to it at King Street Wharf. There are multiple wharfs here that Vivid Sydney cruises depart from. You can usually find the wharf number for your particular cruise on your voucher.

The other most prominent boarding point for Vivid cruises is Campbells Cove.

Frequently asked questions about Vivid Sydney cruises

What are the festival dates for Vivid Sydney 2024?

Vivid Sydney will be held from 24th May to 15th June or 2024.

What are the Vivid Sydney cruise options available?

Vivid Sydney cruises are usually available either as a sightseeing cruise or a dinner cruise.

Is it worth going on a Vivid Sydney cruise?

Vivid Sydney is a festival of light and art installations, which reflect off the water to lend you spectacular panoramic views that you would rather be unable to experience on land. The best installations of the city are also along the harbor at Sydney Opera House and Darling Harbour. Moreover, you can avoid the really crowded viewpoints by picking a cruise as a boat can’t carry more than a certain amount of people.

How many people will be there on a Vivid Sydney cruise?

If you wish to avoid crowds, a Vivid Sydney cruise is your best pick during the festival as most cruises usually take less than 60-100 guests.

What cuisine is served on a Vivid Sydney dinner cruise?

You can usually find traditional Australian dishes on your dinner cruise, the most popular snack amongst them being canapes. They are usually paired with a complimentary drink and you can also usually purchase more from a selection of beverages.