Sydney is famous for its spectacular waterfront views, iconic landmarks, and lively atmosphere. It’s no surprise that the city also offers some of the best buffet experiences with remarkable settings and delicious food. Whether you’re after a scenic cruise, a themed entertainment night, or an elegant dinner, Sydney’s buffets deliver a memorable meal with a view. We especially love the Sydney Harbour Buffet Lunch Cruise with Scenic Views, which combines fresh cuisine with stunning perspectives of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Many tours here feature live entertainment, gourmet buffets, and spectacular scenery, making them ideal for celebrating special moments or simply enjoying a leisurely meal. The variety ensures there’s something for all—romantic sunsets, lively music nights, or family-friendly daytime cruises. Keep reading to find out which of Sydney’s best buffet experiences suits your style, budget, and schedule.
1. Sydney: Harbour Cruise with Buffet Lunch
At number one, the Sydney: Harbour Cruise with Buffet Lunch offers a fantastic way to combine sightseeing with good food. For $49 per person, you get a 135-minute cruise on Sydney Harbour that includes a buffet lunch and live commentary. This tour is especially popular because it hits all the highlights—passing the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, and other icons—while you indulge in a variety of hot and cold dishes served onboard.
What makes this experience stand out is the blend of spectacular water views and an easygoing atmosphere. The ship’s large windows and outdoor decks allow you’d-be-photos capturing the city’s most famous landmarks from different angles. The buffet includes an assortment of fresh, tasty options that cater to diverse tastes; and the live commentary enhances the experience by sharing stories about Sydney’s history and development.
This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging way to see the city while enjoying a satisfying meal. It’s especially good for families or groups who appreciate convenience and a scenic backdrop. Keep in mind, the price is very reasonable for the value and experience provided.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded option combining scenery, storytelling, and good food—highly recommended for first-time visitors wanting a classic harbor experience.
2. Sydney Harbour Buffet Lunch Cruise with Scenic Views
At number two, the Sydney Harbour Buffet Lunch Cruise with Scenic Views is a newer but highly-rated experience, with a perfect 5.0 rating from one reviewer. Priced at around $64, this cruise lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes and offers an up-close view of the Sydney Harbour landmarks from three different decks.
What sets this tour apart is its gourmet buffet, featuring a delicious spread of salads, hot dishes, and desserts—all freshly prepared. The cruise glides beneath the Harbour Bridge and past the Opera House, giving passengers plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. The small group size and panoramic decks mean you’ll get unobstructed views of the skyline and water.
The focus here is on quality dining combined with scenic cruising, making it ideal for couples or small groups wanting a more intimate experience. The only downside? With just one review, it’s newer, so some travellers might prefer the more established options. Still, the positive feedback suggests this cruise delivers excellent value for those seeking an elegant, less crowded experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a refined yet relaxed cruise with stunning vistas and a gourmet buffet, this is a great choice.
$64.09 per person
3. Sydney: 3 Hour Abba Tribute Show Harbour Cruise with Buffet
Number three on our list is the 3 Hour Abba Tribute Show Harbour Cruise with Buffet. This lively, music-filled cruise offers dining combined with entertainment, where you enjoy a buffet lunch or dinner while singing along to hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia.”
The cruise lasts about three hours, giving ample time to dance, enjoy the music, and take in the stunning Sydney Harbour scenery. The live performance by the Fabba Girls adds authenticity and fun, making it especially appealing to fans of pop and musical nostalgia. The buffet itself features a selection of hot and cold dishes, satisfying hungry music lovers.
This experience is suited for those who want a combination of good food and lively entertainment—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just a fun night out. The price is reasonable at $52 per person, though reviews are not available yet, so it’s best for travelers who enjoy themed cruises and energetic shows.
Bottom Line: A perfect pick for music lovers and those seeking an entertaining night with a full buffet and water views.
$52 per person
4. Sydney: Elvis Tribute Show Harbour Cruise with Buffet
Number four introduces the Elvis Tribute Show Harbour Cruise with Buffet. For $52, this 3-hour cruise combines classic rock ‘n’ roll with a scenic water journey. The cruise features a lively Elvis impersonator who belts out hits from the ’50s through the ’70s, while you enjoy a buffet lunch or dinner.
What makes this tour unique is the retro vibe—dancing, singing, and a lively dance floor—set against Sydney’s iconic skyline. You can dance to Elvis classics and retro DJ hits, and the 360° water views make it more than just a concert. The buffet offers hot and cold options, satisfying both casual eaters and serious fans of the King.
Ideal for music fans or those who want a fun, energetic experience, the cruise’s lively atmosphere is contagious. The main drawback? No reviews are listed yet, so it may be a gamble, but the concept of a themed water cruise with good food and entertainment is hard to beat.
Bottom Line: A lively, music-filled cruise for fans of Elvis and retro fun, blending great views with a party vibe.
$52 per person
5. Sydney: Harbour Dinner Cruise with Buffet
Number five is the Sydney: Harbour Dinner Cruise with Buffet. For $49 per person, this 2-hour evening cruise offers a buffet dinner as the sun sets over the harbour. It’s a relaxed way to see the illuminated skyline, including the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, from the comfort of your ship.
The buffet includes a good selection of hot and cold dishes, making it suitable for a romantic dinner or a laid-back outing with friends. The cruise’s highlight is the sunset views, which are stunning and perfect for photography. The gentle pace allows you to unwind and enjoy the scenery, with plenty of opportunities to take pictures from different angles.
This cruise is great for travelers wanting an easy, scenic dinner with time to enjoy the city lights. It might not appeal if you want a longer or more lively night, but it offers excellent value for a short, scenic meal.
Bottom Line: An affordable, scenic way to enjoy dinner with iconic views, perfect for a romantic evening or a relaxing start to your night.
$49 per person
6. Sydney: Rock N Retro Hits Cruise with Buffet & DJ
The Rock N Retro Hits Cruise with Buffet & DJ is a 3-hour dance party on Sydney Harbour. For $52, you can dance to the best hits of the 70s, 80s, and 90s while enjoying a gourmet buffet that includes desserts and drinks from the bar.
What makes this cruise stand out is its theme—dress in your favorite retro outfit and relive the decades with a live DJ spinning classic tunes. The mid or upper decks provide excellent harbor views as you boogie, making it a lively and fun option for party-seekers or groups celebrating a special occasion.
It’s best suited for travelers looking for a night of dancing, nostalgia, and good food. The price is very reasonable, but the reviews are not yet available. Still, the concept of a themed party cruise makes it a unique addition.
Bottom Line: A lively, music-driven cruise for those wanting to dance and eat while taking in Sydney’s beautiful water scenery.
$52 per person
7. Sydney Harbour Discovery Dinner Cruise Scenic Sights and Buffet
Number seven offers the Sydney Harbour Discovery Dinner Cruise with Scenic Sights and Buffet. Starting at around $50.60, this 2-hour cruise provides a relaxed evening with a buffet dinner while passing iconic sights such as the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and Royal Botanic Gardens.
The cruise’s main appeal is the sunset and night views—perfect for capturing stunning photos. The buffet includes a variety of freshly prepared dishes, making it a solid choice for a peaceful, scenic dinner. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to unwind after a busy day.
While reviews are not available, the itinerary preview suggests a leisurely pace, emphasizing scenic views and a calm atmosphere. It’s a good option for those who prefer a laid-back experience without the noise of a party cruise.
Bottom Line: A quiet, scenic cruise with good food and spectacular sunset views—great for a relaxing evening on Sydney Harbour.
$50.60 per person
8. Sydney Harbour Glass Boat Lunch Cruise with Buffet
Finally, the Sydney Harbour Glass Boat Lunch Cruise with Buffet is a premium experience at about $74.21 per person. This cruise features a deluxe glass-bottom boat that offers panoramic views of the city’s landmarks through floor-to-ceiling windows, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
The cruise lasts around 1 hour 45 minutes and includes a multi-cuisine buffet lunch with an emphasis on freshness and variety. The Sky Deck provides an excellent vantage point for photos, making it ideal for celebrations or special occasions.
This experience stands out because it combines luxury, stunning visuals, and culinary excellence—perfect for travelers wanting a more upscale option. The main drawback could be the higher price point, but the quality of the boat and food justifies it.
Bottom Line: An elegant, panoramic way to enjoy Sydney Harbour, ideal for special celebrations or for those who appreciate comfort and style.
$74.21 per person
How to Choose the Best Buffet Experience in Sydney
When selecting your perfect Sydney buffet cruise or experience, consider your budget, preferred atmosphere, and how much time you want to spend on the water. For a classic sightseeing and dining combo, Sydney: Harbour Cruise with Buffet Lunch offers great value. If you’re after a scenic, refined meal, the Sydney Harbour Buffet Lunch Cruise with Scenic Views is ideal. For entertainment, the themed cruises—like the Abba tribute or the Elvis tribute—offer a lively night out with music and dancing.
If you want a more relaxed dinner, the Harbour Dinner Cruise with Buffet provides a peaceful sunset experience. For those seeking a touch of luxury, the Glass Boat Lunch combines comfort with panoramic views.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons like summer or major holidays, to secure your preferred date and time. Consider your interests—food, scenery, entertainment—and match them to the cruise style that excites you most.
Final Thoughts
Sydney offers a rich mix of buffet cruises and waterfront dining experiences that cater to a wide range of preferences. From scenic daytime cruises with delicious buffet spreads to lively themed entertainment nights, there’s no shortage of ways to indulge and see the city from a different angle.
For travelers interested in a classic harbor experience, the Harbour Cruise with Buffet Lunch is hard to beat for its blend of scenery and value. If you’re looking for a fun, energetic night, the Elvis or Abba tribute cruises provide memorable entertainment with plenty of food.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance ensures you get the best spot—then sit back, enjoy the views, and indulge in Sydney’s finest buffet offerings.