Boxing Day Lunch Cruise – MV Spirit

Review of the Boxing Day Lunch Cruise on MV Spirit in Sydney

If you’re looking for a way to unwind after the Christmas chaos and want to enjoy Sydney Harbour in style, the Boxing Day lunch cruise aboard MV Spirit offers a relaxing yet lively experience. This cruise, priced at around $91.48 per person, combines breathtaking scenery, a hearty buffet, and the thrill of watching the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race from a prime vantage point.

What we particularly appreciate about this cruise is its comfortable, allocated seating, so you’re guaranteed a good view without fighting for space. The live commentary from the captain adds a layer of insight that makes the experience more engaging, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the race or the harbour’s landmarks. The delicious seafood and carvery buffet makes the meal part of a memorable outing, and the outdoor and indoor decks ensure you can choose your preferred viewing environment, rain or shine.

A potential consideration could be the lack of included drinks, as alcohol must be purchased separately at the bar. Also, the tour is limited to a maximum of 240 travelers, which means it can get busy during peak season, but the spacious decks help keep the experience comfortable. This cruise is well-suited for those wanting a laid-back, scenic, and foodie-friendly outing during the busy holiday period.

Key Points

• Beautiful Sydney Harbour views from both outdoor and indoor decks
• Guaranteed comfortable seating with allocated spots
• Live race commentary enhances the experience
• Buffet lunch includes seafood and carvery meats
• Drinks available for purchase at the fully licensed bar
• Perfect for relaxing after Christmas preparations or celebrating Boxing Day in style

Why the MV Spirit Boxing Day Cruise Is a Great Sydney Experience

Sydney Harbour is one of the world’s most photogenic spots, and this cruise offers a fantastic way to see its iconic sights without the hustle of land-based sightseeing. We loved how the spacious observation decks allowed for uninterrupted viewing of landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Luna Park, all while enjoying a delicious meal. The ship’s live commentary kept us informed about the progress of the race and the history of Sydney Harbour, making the journey educational as well as scenic.

The $91.48 price point may seem modest for what’s included — a buffet, comfortable seating, and prime views — but it does require some planning, especially since most bookings are made about 101 days in advance. The buffet menu impressed many reviewers, with fresh seafood and hearty carvery meats that cater to a variety of tastes. We found the fully licensed bar convenient, though drinks are extra, so budget accordingly if you’re planning to toast the occasion.

The Itinerary and Experience

The cruise departs from Sydney Pier 2 at Walsh Bay, offering a convenient starting point near public transportation. From there, the boat cruises around Sydney Harbour, taking in all the main sights. You can expect to see the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and the enchanting Luna Park, all from a unique vantage point. The cruise also passes by Fort Denison, and the Harbour Islands, giving a sense of the city’s maritime history.

This cruise’s highlight is undoubtedly the view of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, which is in full swing during Boxing Day. The live commentary from the captain helps you understand what’s happening, adding context to the race’s excitement. Multiple reviews mention that the views are stunning and the race commentary makes the experience more engaging, especially for those unfamiliar with yachting.

Food & Drink

The buffet lunch is a major selling point. Guests rave about the fresh seafood and carvery options, which make for a satisfying meal amid spectacular scenery. Unlike some other tours, drinks are not included in the price, but there’s a fully licensed bar onboard, so you can purchase wine, beer, or soft drinks as you watch the world’s longest sailing race unfold before you.

Comfort & Convenience

The allocated seating guarantees a good spot for viewing, which can be a real advantage in busy holiday periods. Whether you prefer to sit indoors or on the outdoor decks, the spacious observation areas make for a comfortable experience, even if the weather isn’t perfect. The mobile ticket system simplifies the booking process, and the tour’s 3-hour duration strikes a nice balance between enjoying the sights and not overextending your day.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is that alcoholic drinks are extra, so if you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience, this might require some extra budgeting. Also, as with many popular tours, the booking window is quite far in advance — around 101 days — so last-minute plans might be tricky, especially during peak holiday season.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a relaxing way to enjoy Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day. If you’re a yacht race enthusiast, the live commentary and vantage point are perfect for catching all the action. It’s also perfect for those who want to combine spectacular views, good food, and a laid-back atmosphere without the hassle of land-based sightseeing.

Travelers who value comfort and convenience will appreciate the guaranteed seating and onboard amenities. However, if you’re after an all-inclusive experience with drinks included, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for additional costs.

The Sum Up

The Boxing Day Lunch Cruise on MV Spirit offers a fantastic way to soak in Sydney Harbour’s beauty while enjoying a hearty buffet and witnessing the iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. The combination of comfortable seating, stunning vistas, and engaging commentary makes it a worthwhile experience, especially during the holiday season when a relaxing, scenic outing feels just right.

It’s especially suited for those who want a memorable meal with a view, along with the excitement of one of the world’s most famous yacht races. The lack of included drinks might be a minor downside for some, but the ship’s bar is well-stocked, and the overall value of the experience is strong, considering the views, food, and accessibility.

For anyone visiting Sydney during the holiday period and wanting to celebrate Boxing Day in style, this cruise provides a well-rounded, enjoyable activity that blends sightseeing, gourmet food, and the thrill of racing yachts — all from the comfort of your seat.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate as the tour is designed to be accessible and comfortable. It’s a 3-hour cruise with minimal physical activity involved.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
No, but drinks are not included in the ticket price. A fully licensed bar is available onboard for purchasing wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The cruise departs from Sydney Pier 2 at 13 Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay. It’s near public transportation, making it easy to access.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 101 days in advance, which is recommended to secure a spot during busy periods like Boxing Day.

What should I expect during the buffet lunch?
Guests can look forward to freshly prepared seafood and hearty carvery meats, with ample options to suit different tastes.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours prior to the experience. Refunds are not available for cancellations less than 24 hours before the cruise.

This experience offers a satisfying blend of scenic beauty, engaging race action, and delicious food. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Sydney local, it’s a great way to enjoy Boxing Day on one of the most beautiful harbors in the world.