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Contents
Sydney Harbour cruise timetable
Sydney Harbour cruises draw visitors from around the world, offering options to suit every style. Here’s a quick look at what’s available and the cruise schedule.
Lunch cruises
Dinner cruises
Sightseeing cruises
Whale-watching cruises
Lunch cruises on Sydney Harbour are a favorite choice, offering the chance to sail past the city’s most iconic landmarks while enjoying delicious cuisine.
- General timings: Departures typically start at 12pm and run until 5pm.
- Average duration: 2–4 hours.
For a dinner experience with a difference, step aboard a Sydney Harbour cruise. Many offer curated menus with 2–6 courses and a wide selection of drinks.
- General timings: Departures typically start between 5pm to 7pm and run until 10pm.
- Average duration: 2-3 hours
Take in Sydney’s iconic landmarks from the water while learning about the city’s history. For more flexibility, opt for a Hop-on Hop-off cruise, valid for 1–2 days with multiple stops along the harbour.
- General timings: Departures run from morning to evening, usually between 9am to 7pm.
- Average duration: 1 hr 20 mins - 2 hr 30 mins
Enjoy Sydney’s Vivid Festival from the water with stunning light installations, 3D projections, and lively displays, without the crowds!
- General timings: Departures typically start between 9:30am and 12:45pm, returning by 12pm–4pm.
- Average duration: 2-4 hours
Best time to go on a Sydney Harbour cruise
Peak season vs Low season
Sydney Harbour cruises are most popular in summer (December–February), when the weather is warm and ideal for being on the water. Spring (September–November) is another great time, with mild conditions as summer approaches.
March and early April can still be pleasant, but late April often brings cooler, wetter days. From May through August, expect cold, windy, and damp conditions on the harbour.
Weekdays vs Weekends
Sydney Harbour cruises operate every day, but weekends tend to be busier. For a more relaxed experience, consider a weekday cruise, especially during the summer peak. Morning and afternoon cruises such as sightseeing or whale-watching are ideal for families, though sun protection is recommended. Evening cruises are especially pleasant in summer, so it’s best to book a few days in advance to secure your seats.
Plan your cruiseFrequently asked questions about Sydney cruise schedules
What is the duration of a Sydney Harbour cruise?
Sydney Harbour cruises can last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the activities on board. While sightseeing cruises last from 30-90 minutes, cruises that offer meals, whale sightings or luxury cruises may last much longer from 1.5 hours up to 5 hours There are Hop-on Hop-off cruises as well that you can get a pass for a day or two.
What Sydney Harbour cruise should I pick if I’m short on time?
For a quick but scenic experience, opt for a sightseeing cruise, which usually lasts around 1.5 hours and covers landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Another short option is a whale-watching cruise, typically lasting 2–4 hours, perfect for spotting humpback whales while enjoying harbour views.
Do I have to get a meal on board a Sydney Harbour cruise?
No, there are many cruises that are only for sightseeing. You can choose these if you have plans to eat elsewhere.
What happens if we can’t spot a whale during a whale-watching cruise?
If you can’t spot a whale on your whale-watching cruise, you can rebook another cruise free of charge within the season. Be sure to confirm this policy when booking.
What should I look out for when choosing my cruise?
There are many parameters when choosing a cruise that suits your needs. If you want to avoid the crowds, you should book a weekday cruise. It is best to get morning or afternoon cruises for families. For special events cruises, make sure that you book them early because they get sold out very quickly. Also, getting a cruise with the meal included is a great way to get a unique experience and save money! Take a look at this guide to booking a Sydney Harbour cruise to pick the best cruise for you.
How early should I arrive before my cruise?
It's recommended to arrive 15–20 minutes before departure for sightseeing and lunch cruises. For dinner cruises, plan to arrive 30 minutes early to ensure timely boarding .