8 Must-Try Christmas Experiences & Tours In Sydney

Sydney transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmas, thanks to its stunning harbor, iconic landmarks, and lively holiday spirit. What sets Sydney apart is its unique combination of outdoor celebrations and scenic views—there’s no better place to enjoy a Christmas cruise or waterfront feast. We especially love the Christmas Day Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour, with its combination of delicious food and breathtaking scenery, and the Christmas in July Lunch Cruise, which offers a cozy winter-themed celebration in the middle of July. Plus, many tours include live music, festive decor, and opportunities for photos with iconic sights like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

If you’re keen on celebrating Christmas on the water or enjoying a lively party atmosphere, Sydney has a variety of options. Whether it’s a luxurious lunch cruise, an energetic dinner, or a casual daytime cruise with family and friends, you’ll find something memorable. Keep reading for our detailed reviews and help deciding which experience suits your holiday plans best.

1. Christmas Day Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour

At number one, the Christmas Day Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour stands out for offering a traditional holiday feast aboard an elegant vessel. Priced at around $105.26 per person, this 3-hour cruise provides an impressive buffet featuring seafood, roasts, salads, and Christmas pudding. The all-inclusive meal, plus freshly brewed coffee and tea, makes it excellent value for a special day on the water. Guests can enjoy the scenic views from the outdoor decks, perfect for taking family photos against the iconic skyline.

What makes this cruise particularly appealing is its festive atmosphere combined with comfort and style. The MV Vagabond Spirit, a modern catamaran, ensures smooth sailing and plenty of space to relax. The inclusion of a fully licensed bar means you can toast the holiday with a drink (extra charge). The highlight? A surprise visit from Santa might just make your Christmas extra special.

Guests rave about the delicious food and stunning harbour views, mking this cruise a top pick for travelers seeking a traditional yet scenic Christmas celebration. The cruise is suitable for families, couples, or groups looking for a memorable midday feast.

Bottom Line: This cruise offers a refined holiday experience with excellent food, beautiful scenery, and a festive spirit—perfect for those who want a classic Christmas lunch with a sea view.

2. Christmas Day Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour

At number two, the Christmas Day Dinner Cruise delivers a lively, festive atmosphere with a buffet dinner inspired by classic holiday flavors. For roughly $105.22 per person, guests enjoy a 3-hour cruise that includes seafood, roast meats, salads, and desserts. Dancing to Christmas music adds to the celebratory vibe, making it a lively way to mark the holiday.

This cruise is perfect if you prefer a more relaxed, evening experience where you can enjoy magnificent views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the illuminated city skyline. The itinerary includes stops at Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge—each offering excellent photo opportunities. The full, multi-course buffet is a highlight, with options that cater to various tastes and dietary needs.

A standout review mentions, “So much fun and a great way to spend Christmas! I quickly made friends on this cruise, and the food was outstanding.” This cruise suits groups of friends, families, or couples who want to celebrate with good food and lively entertainment. The only caveat: drinks are extra, so budget accordingly.

Bottom Line: An energetic, fun-filled way to celebrate Christmas evening with gorgeous views and a packed buffet. Great for those looking to combine dining, dancing, and sightseeing.

3. Sydney: Christmas in July Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour

Number three on our list is the Christmas in July Lunch Cruise, which scores a perfect 5/5 from recent reviews. This 3-hour cruise offers a unique twist—celebrating Christmas during the cooler months with live jazz, carols, and the fun of an ugly sweater competition. It’s a cozy way to experience holiday cheer on the water.

The cruise features a seafood and carvery buffet, including Christmas pudding, served in a lively, festive atmosphere. Christmas decor and crackers add to the holiday mood, while the live music creates a cheerful background. The quirky holiday tradition is complemented by a fun costume contest, with prizes for the most ridiculous sweaters.

The spectacular views of Sydney Harbour from the ship’s exterior decks make this cruise a visual delight. It’s ideal for those who love music, festive fun, and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. If you enjoy jazz and holiday cheer, this cruise hits the right notes.

Bottom Line: Perfect for December travelers wanting a cozy, music-filled Christmas celebration with a lively, friendly vibe.

4. Lunch Christmas Party! Nov & Dec!

Number four is a more casual option: Lunch Christmas Party! Nov & Dec!. Priced at $69, this 3-hour cruise is designed for small or large groups who want to enjoy a lively daytime celebration. It features a seafood and 3-course meal, with drinks available for purchase and a lively atmosphere created by a live DJ.

The cruise offers panoramic 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour and is suitable for friends, families, or coworkers. The festive decorations and relaxed vibe make it a good choice for people who prefer informal fun over formal dining. The live entertainment from the cruise director keeps everyone in holiday spirits, making it a popular option for celebrating with colleagues or friends.

With mixed reviews, some find it a good, affordable way to enjoy the harbor, though it’s less about gourmet dining and more about the party atmosphere. It’s flexible and ideal if you want a fun, no-fuss holiday cruise.

Bottom Line: Best suited for groups seeking a lively, casual Christmas lunch with music, drinks, and great views—less formal but full of holiday cheer.

5. Christmas Day Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise

Number five, the Christmas Day Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise, offers a luxurious, slightly more intimate celebration. At $168.67 per person, it includes an afternoon of generous à la carte meals inspired by regional cuisines, along with Christmas cocktails. The 2.5-hour cruise is perfect for travelers wanting a refined experience.

Guests are greeted with a welcome cocktail, and the cruise features a Santa station with a photo booth—great for capturing holiday memories. The onboard menu includes a Christmas-themed entrée, dinner, and dessert, with a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks included. The decorations are festive, and the atmosphere intimate.

While reviews are limited, the focus on quality food, holiday spirit, and photo opportunities make this a good choice for couples or small groups celebrating Christmas in style. It’s a bit pricier, but the generous food and beverage options justify the cost.

Bottom Line: An elegant, relaxed way to enjoy Christmas with regional inspired cuisine and memorable photos, ideal for those who prefer fine dining at sea.

6. Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise

Number six is the Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise, which offers a 3-hour experience with a freshly prepared buffet of roasts, salads, and desserts. Priced at $87.71, it’s a good option for travelers who want to start celebrating the holiday early. This cruise features beautiful harbour views and live entertainment, making it a cozy yet lively way to kick off Christmas.

Guests can enjoy the outdoor and indoor decks with panoramic views of the Sydney skyline, perfect for evening photos. The buffet’s variety and the festive ambiance create a warm holiday atmosphere. While reviews are limited, the combination of good food and scenic views makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting an early Christmas celebration.

Ideal for those arriving in Sydney just before Christmas or looking for a relaxed dinner with friends or family, this cruise offers good value for the experience.

Bottom Line: A relaxing, scenic way to enjoy Christmas Eve with a hearty buffet and live music—less formal, more about the mood.

7. Christmas in July Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour

Number seven on our list is the Christmas in July Lunch Cruise, rated 0/5 but still a popular choice. For just $59.02, this 3-hour cruise offers live entertainment, a full Christmas buffet, and fun activities like winning prizes for the most ridiculous Christmas sweaters. It’s perfect for travelers who want holiday fun at an affordable price.

The cruise features a roast turkey and seafood buffet, with desserts and holiday drinks. The ship’s exterior decks provide excellent views of Sydney’s skyline and Harbour Bridge. The decor, Christmas crackers, and an ugly sweater contest make it a festive, playful experience. The cruise’s focus on fun and casual atmosphere makes it suitable for families, friends, or groups of coworkers.

Guests appreciate the combination of good food at a low price and lively entertainment, making this a solid budget-friendly option for Christmas celebrations.

Bottom Line: An inexpensive, cheerful way to celebrate Christmas in July, especially good for groups wanting fun and socializing.

8. Christmas Party Cruises Sydney Harbour

Number eight, Christmas Party Cruises, offers a 3-hour festive cruise featuring seafood, a carvery buffet, a DJ, and stunning views. Although reviews are limited, the combination of a lively party atmosphere and scenic sailing makes it appealing.

This cruise is ideal for those who want to dance and socialize, with a professional DJ spinning holiday tunes. The onboard dessert, coffee, and tea, along with Christmas decor and lucky door prizes, create a lively holiday vibe. The price is about $59 per person, making it accessible for many.

Best suited for party-goers, groups celebrating together, or those wanting a fun, energetic take on Christmas festivities. If you’re after a relaxed, quiet experience, this might not be your best choice.

Bottom Line: A lively, music-filled cruise perfect for celebrating with friends and enjoying the party atmosphere with scenic views.

How to Choose Your Perfect Sydney Christmas Experience

When deciding which Sydney Christmas tour to book, consider your budget, interests, and who you’re traveling with. If you want a classic, scenic lunchtime feast, the Christmas Day Lunch Cruise offers a refined experience. For a lively evening celebration with dancing and entertainment, the Christmas Day Dinner Cruise is ideal. Budget travelers might prefer the Christmas in July Lunch Cruise, which combines fun and affordability.

Consider whether you want a formal dining experience, a casual party, or a family-friendly event. Think about your schedule—some cruises are perfect for Christmas Day, others for the days leading up or during July. Booking early is advisable, especially for peak holiday times, to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

Sydney offers a wide variety of festive water-based experiences that bring holiday cheer in unique ways. Whether you opt for a gourmet Christmas lunch with iconic harbor views or a lively party cruise, there’s an option for every type of traveler. For a classic celebration, the Christmas Day Lunch Cruise balances delicious food and stunning scenery. Those wanting a more relaxed vibe might prefer the Christmas in July Lunch Cruise, with its lively jazz and fun contests.

Remember, many of these tours fill quickly during the holidays, so booking early will ensure you enjoy your Sydney Christmas the way you want. Whether you’re looking for a special family outing, a romantic dinner, or a lively party with friends, Sydney’s holiday cruises deliver memorable moments on the water.