Sydney shines during the holiday season, offering a mix of stunning scenery, lively celebrations, and unique ways to enjoy Christmas. From cruising past iconic landmarks on Christmas Day to lively parties with festive decor, Sydney turns its remarkable harbor into a Christmas wonderland. What sets these experiences apart is their combination of delicious food, spectacular views, and the opportunity to create memorable moments with friends and family. We particularly love the Christmas Day Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour, which combines a scenic cruise with a festive buffet, and the Christmas in July Lunch Cruise for its cozy vibe and live jazz music. Whether you’re after a traditional Christmas feast on the water or a lively party with a DJ, Sydney’s holiday tours have something for all.
Sydney’s Christmas Tours & Experiences are prized for their stunning harbor views, delicious cuisine, and festive atmosphere. The city’s natural beauty provides an incredible backdrop, whether you’re celebrating on a boat or at a party. Keep reading to find out which experience best suits your holiday plans.
1. Christmas Day Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour
At number 1 we have the Christmas Day Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour, which offers a relaxed yet festive way to celebrate the holiday. For around $105.26 per person, you’ll board the elegant MV Vagabond Spirit and enjoy a 3-hour cruise filled with holiday cheer. The included buffet features seafood, traditional roasts, salads, and Christmas pudding, making it a true feast. The outdoor viewing decks make it easy to snap photos of the city skyline, Opera House, and Harbour Bridge, all decked out in holiday splendor.
What makes this tour stand out is the all-inclusive festive buffet paired with scenic views and the chance to toast the season with drinks from a licensed bar (extra charge). The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, perfect for families or couples wanting a special meal without the hassle of hosting. The captain and crew bring a friendly touch, and there’s even a chance Santa might pay a visit.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers great value for a festive, all-in seafood and roast buffet cruise. It’s ideal for those who want a traditional Christmas meal with iconic Sydney views in a relaxed setting.
2. Christmas Day Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Number 2 on our list is the Christmas Day Dinner Cruise, which provides a memorable way to spend the evening. For $105.22, you get a 3-hour cruise featuring a buffet dinner of seafood, roast meats, and desserts. The cruise allows you to enjoy the glittering Sydney skyline, the Harbour Bridge, and the Opera House illuminated by holiday lights.
This experience is especially suited for those looking for a festive celebration with a bit more elegance. The cruise includes stops at Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge, offering plenty of photo opportunities. The evening is filled with Christmas music, and the lively atmosphere makes it a perfect gift or group outing.
Guests love the mix of stunning views and hearty food, with one review saying, “So much fun and a great way to spend Christmas! I didn’t have any family or friends while I was in Australia for work but quickly made friends on this cruise!” The inclusion of free harbour sights makes this cruise a good value for the price.
Bottom Line: For an elegant Christmas dinner with fantastic harbor views, this cruise is a memorable choice, especially for groups wanting a festive, social night out.
3. Sydney: Christmas in July Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Number 3 features the Christmas in July Lunch Cruise, which for just $66 offers a cozy, fun twist on holiday celebrations. Held in the middle of winter, it’s perfect for those missing the cold weather. The cruise features live jazz and Christmas carols, making it an upbeat, festive experience.
The boat offers spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, while you indulge in a seafood and carvery buffet. The highlight is the lively atmosphere, with guests encouraged to wear ugly Christmas sweaters for a friendly competition with prizes. The themed cruise pairs holiday music with iconic sights, creating a relaxed, fun vibe.
One reviewer called it “a magical themed-cruise,” appreciating the live music and decorations. The inclusive buffet and entertainment make it good value, especially for those wanting a less formal, more playful holiday experience.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy live music, themed parties, and a relaxed atmosphere, this Christmas in July cruise is a great choice.
$66 per person
4. Christmas Party Cruises Sydney Harbour
Number 4 is the Christmas Party Cruises, offering a lively, festive atmosphere with a party DJ, seafood, and a carvery buffet. Priced at $59 per person, this 3-hour cruise is perfect for groups who want to celebrate with music, dancing, and holiday cheer.
This experience is all about fun: Xmas decor, lucky door prizes, and a busy dance floor. The fully licensed bar and desserts add to the party vibe, making it a popular choice for office parties or groups of friends. The cruise provides stunning views of the harbor, with plenty of opportunities to take photos during the evening.
While there are no reviews listed, the focus on festive decor and entertainment makes this ideal for those wanting a more lively, party-oriented experience.
Bottom Line: For an energetic, dance-filled Christmas celebration on the water, this cruise offers excellent value and a lively setting.
$59 per person
5. Christmas Day Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise
The Christmas Day Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise is a more upscale option, priced at $168.67 for about 2.5 hours. It offers a gourmet à la carte menu inspired by local ingredients, plus Christmas cocktails and beverages (included). You’ll be greeted with a welcome cocktail and can enjoy a Christmas-themed entrée, dinner, and dessert.
This cruise emphasizes a relaxed, indulgent experience. Guests can capture photos at the Santa station, take advantage of the free-flowing drinks, and enjoy the spectacular harbor scenery. The focus is on quality food and festive decor, making it an ideal choice for couples or those celebrating a special occasion.
While there are no reviews yet, the focus on regional cuisine and elegant atmosphere suggests a refined holiday experience.
Bottom Line: For a luxurious, food-focused Christmas cruise, this option provides a sophisticated celebration on Sydney Harbour.
$168.67 per person
6. Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise
The Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise offers a festive 3-hour experience for $87.71. While reviews are not available, the tour features a buffet meal with traditional roasts, fresh salads, and tempting desserts, along with live entertainment and stunning harbor views.
This cruise is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Christmas Eve with a combination of good food, lively atmosphere, and fantastic scenery. The indoor and outdoor decks give panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, and the festive decorations help set the holiday mood.
Ideal for those wanting a relaxed yet celebratory evening, this cruise emphasizes a classic Christmas dinner in a beautiful setting.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for Christmas Eve, balancing good food and scenic views in a festive environment.
$87.71 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas Experience
When selecting among these Sydney Christmas tours, consider your budget, preferred atmosphere, and interests. If you want a traditional holiday feast, the Christmas Day Lunch Cruise offers excellent value and scenic beauty. For a lively party with dancing, the Christmas Party Cruises are perfect. If you’re seeking a more elegant, gourmet experience, the Christmas Day Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise might be your best fit.
Booking early is always wise, especially in the busy holiday season, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
To sum it up, Sydney offers a diverse array of Christmas Tours and Experiences, from scenic daytime cruises to festive parties and elegant dinners. For families, the lunchtime cruises and in-July celebrations are great options, while couples and groups seeking a lively night out may prefer the party cruise or Christmas Eve dinner. No matter your style, these experiences promise a memorable holiday on one of the world’s most beautiful harbors. Consider what atmosphere suits you best and book early to secure your spot.