Sydney: Relaxing High Tea Cruise on Sydney Harbour

Setting sail from Circular Quay, this High Tea cruise offers a refined way to soak up Sydney’s stunning waterfront. For just $69 per person, you’ll spend about an hour and a half gliding around Sydney Harbour, enjoying delicious sweet and savory treats, fine sparkling wine, and top-notch views of some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a charming blend of sightseeing and indulgence—perfect for celebrating a birthday, hen party, or simply treating yourself to a more relaxed way to explore the city.

What makes this experience stand out is how it balances scenic cruising with gourmet food. We love how you’ll get close-up views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge—two of the city’s most recognizable symbols—while nibbling on prawns, pastries, and classic scones. Plus, the included sparkling wine and tea selection elevate the mood, making it a truly enjoyable afternoon for both locals and visitors.

One thing to consider: the cruise departs at 2 PM, so if you’re looking for an early morning or sunset experience, you might want to explore other options. Also, this cruise is more about the relaxing, social atmosphere than a deep dive into Sydney’s history, so it’s best suited for those seeking a leisurely, scenic indulgence rather than an educational tour.

This cruise is ideal for small groups, couples, solo travelers, or anyone celebrating a special occasion who wants to enjoy Sydney’s best sights without the hustle of city walking or the expense of a fancy restaurant. It truly offers a unique way to see the harbor in style.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Close-up sights of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Fort Denison.
• Quality Food & Drink: A generous selection of sweet and savory treats complemented by sparkling wine.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: A leisurely 1.5-hour cruise perfect for unwinding and socializing.
• Authentic Experience: A revival of a traditional British high tea with an Australian twist.
• Great for Celebrations: Ideal for birthdays, hen parties, baby showers, or just a special day out.
• Accessible & Convenient: Meeting point at Circular Quay Wharf 6, with check-in 15 minutes early.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail from Circular Quay

Starting at Circular Quay Wharf 6, the meeting point couldn’t be more central. It’s a quick stroll from Sydney’s bustling city center, making it easy for most travelers to reach. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth check-in process, where you’ll collect your boarding pass and get ready to board the vessel. The cruise departs promptly at 2:00 PM, making it a perfect afternoon activity—especially if you want to combine it with a morning walk or sightseeing in the city.

The Vessel and Onboard Atmosphere

While the specific boat isn’t described in detail, reviews mention that it’s clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The group size is generally small-to-medium, creating an intimate environment where you won’t feel lost in a crowd. The ship’s interior provides a cozy, elegant setting—ideal for relaxing with your tea and treats while enjoying the panoramic views.

Itinerary and Sightseeing Highlights

The cruise’s main feature is the scenic route around Sydney Harbour, which offers continuous views of landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Fort Denison. The cruise also makes stops and circles back, allowing everyone a chance to admire the views from different angles.

The highlight is how close you can get to these icons, with many reviewers noting how “the views from the window table were simply wow”. The cruise’s route provides a gentle, slow-moving overview of the harbor’s most photogenic spots, perfect for snapping pictures or just soaking it all in.

Food and Drink

The high tea menu is thoughtfully curated, offering a blend of sweet and savory items. We love the inclusion of Queensland prawns on blini with dill crème fraiche, finger sandwiches with options like chicken & avocado, turkey & brie, and smoked salmon, plus mini quiches and savory pastries. The classic scones with strawberry preserve and vanilla cream add a traditional touch.

For those with a sweet tooth, mini tartlets, petite fours, and macarons round out the offerings. The sparkling wine is described as crisp and refreshing, perfect for enhancing the celebratory feeling. A broad selection of fine teas is available, so you can find your favorite brew to pair with the treats.

From reviewers, the quality of the food is consistently praised, with some mentioning they ate way too much, and the staff being attentive and friendly. The experience feels more like a special occasion than a quick snack, making the price of $69 seem quite reasonable considering the views and service.

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Additional Details and Practical Tips

• Drinks: The included sparkling wine and teas are part of the package. Additional drinks can be purchased onboard if you want more variety or stronger drinks.
• Duration: The cruise lasts 1.5 hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity without feeling rushed.
• Booking & Cancellation: It’s straightforward to book, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance—ideal for flexible travelers.
• Accessibility: The main point of departure, Circular Quay, is centrally located, and the check-in process is straightforward.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Many guests comment on the friendly staff and beautiful views. Karla from Australia shared, “Excellent service, excellent food… and the ship was clean and comfortable,” while Lindsey from the U.S. appreciated how she enjoyed the experience solo, noting the view from her window table was ‘wow’.

Others highlight the cruise as a great value, especially considering the quality of the food and drinks and the unique vantage point it provides. Some mention that you can stay on the boat after the cruise for as long as you like, adding to the relaxed, unhurried nature of the experience.

Who will love this cruise?

This experience suits anyone wanting a relaxed yet scenic afternoon. It’s ideal for celebrations, romantic dates, or solo travelers wanting a peaceful break with excellent views. If you’re looking for an informal but refined way to see Sydney’s highlights, this cruise fits the bill. However, if you prefer a more active or historical tour, you might want to look elsewhere.

If you’re after a low-key, enjoyable way to see Sydney Harbour, this high tea cruise offers a wonderful combination of spectacular scenery, delicious food, and relaxed luxury. The quality menu paired with friendly service makes it feel like a special treat without the hefty price tag. It’s perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with a cozy, social atmosphere—a true highlight for many travelers seeking a memorable afternoon.

It’s also a flexible experience: your ticket includes the cruise, the high tea, a glass of sparkling wine, and tea, making it a good value. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the views and staff, which are key ingredients for a successful experience.

Final Thoughts

This Sydney High Tea Cruise on Sydney Harbour makes for a charming, memorable outing. It’s particularly well-suited for those who love beautiful scenery, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want a break from busy sightseeing, you’ll find this cruise offers a refined yet laid-back way to enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful harbors.

If luxury, scenery, and good company appeal to you, this cruise should be high on your list. It’s a great way to recharge, indulge, and see Sydney from a fresh perspective without breaking the bank.

Is the cruise suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers enjoying the experience, noting the friendly staff and the chance to relax while taking in the views.

What time does it depart?
The cruise departs at 2:00 PM, so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early at Circular Quay Wharf 6 for check-in.

Are drinks included?
Yes, your ticket includes a glass of sparkling wine and a selection of teas. You can purchase extra drinks at the bar if you wish.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity.

What’s on the menu?
Expect Queensland prawns on blini, finger sandwiches, mini quiches, scones with jam and cream, and petite sweets. The menu offers a good variety of both savory and sweet options.

Is there any special dress code?
The experience is casual but elegant—think smart casual attire suitable for a refined afternoon outing.

Can I stay onboard after the cruise?
Many guests have noted they could stay on the boat as long as they liked after the cruise, which adds to the relaxed, unhurried vibe.

Is the cruise accessible?
The cruise departs from Circular Quay, a central and accessible location, though specific accessibility details aren’t provided.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

This high tea cruise on Sydney Harbour is a delightful way to combine sightseeing, relaxation, and indulgence. The stunning vistas, coupled with delicious food and attentive service, make it a memorable experience suited for celebratory moments or leisurely afternoons. It’s not just about the scenery—guests consistently praise the quality of the treats and the friendly staff.

For travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed way to enjoy Sydney’s iconic harbor, this cruise offers genuine value and a refined escape. It’s perfect if you want to see the city from the water without the hustle and enjoy some delicious Australian-style high tea. Whether celebrating a special day or simply looking to unwind, this experience promises a charming slice of Sydney life—slow, scenic, and tasty.

You can check availability for your dates here: