Sydney CABARET Dinner Cruise

Planning a night out in Sydney and want to combine spectacular scenery with good food and a touch of entertainment? The Sydney CABARET Dinner Cruise promises all that, wrapped into a three-hour experience aboard the city’s only paddlewheeler. Since 1987, this cruise has been a favorite for those looking to enjoy Sydney Harbour with a splash of local glamour and an exclusive cabaret show.

Our review highlights three things we love about this experience: the stunning night views of Sydney’s skyline, the restaurant-quality three-course dinner, and the exclusively performed “Voyage of Love” cabaret. One thing to consider is that alcohol and beverages other than water are available for purchase onboard, which might add to the overall cost. This experience is perfect for travelers eager to enjoy a relaxed yet lively evening that blends sightseeing with entertainment — especially couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion.

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Key Points

Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking vistas of Sydney Harbour and the illuminated city skyline.
Exclusive Cabaret: The “Voyage of Love” show is a highlight, performed only on this vessel.
Quality Dining: A well-presented 3-course meal offers restaurant-level quality.
Value for Money: Combining dinner, a show, and sightseeing makes it a solid deal for the price.
Convenient Location: Starting at the heart of Sydney, near public transport, it’s easy to access.
Limited Alcohol Included: Drinks are available for purchase, so bring some cash or cards for extras.

An In-Depth Look at the Sydney CABARET Dinner Cruise

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The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Once you arrive at 32 The Promenade in Sydney, you’ll be greeted warmly by hosts dressed in glamorous costumes, setting the tone for a lively evening. The cruise begins at 7:30 pm and lasts approximately three hours — a good length to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

Boarding and Welcome: You’ll step aboard Sydney’s only paddlewheeler, which immediately provides a different perspective of the Harbour. The vessel’s vintage charm and steady movement make for an enjoyable cruise, especially with the city lights glimmering around you.

Dinner Service: Your night starts with a seated, served 3-course dinner. The menu is designed to match the upscale experience, with restaurant-quality dishes that feature tasty flavors and good portion sizes. Some reviewers have mentioned the food as “good tasty food” with the added bonus of a good wine selection, making it a well-rounded culinary experience.

The “Voyage of Love” Cabaret: After dinner, the spotlight shifts to the stage for the 1-hour cabaret show. The performance is exclusively performed on this vessel and features talented entertainers, likely including the glamorous Follies dancers who welcome guests at the start. Reviewers describe the show as “super” and “must-see,” highlighting its lively, fun atmosphere that keeps everyone entertained.

Views and Atmosphere: Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy stunning night-time views of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and Sydney skyline. The lighting creates a magical backdrop for photos and simply soaking in the moment. The boat’s open-air deck and windows ensure you won’t miss a single scene.

The Dining Experience: Quality Over Quantity

The three-course meal is designed to be both satisfying and elegant. While specific menu details aren’t provided, reviewers have appreciated the restaurant-quality dining, emphasizing good food and wine. Coffee/tea and soft drinks can be purchased onboard, but alcohol is also available for purchase, which allows for a celebratory drink or two during the cruise.

The meal’s value lies in the combination of good quality, excellent presentation, and the chance to enjoy it while taking in spectacular views. It’s a perfect setting for a romantic date or a memorable celebration with friends.

The Cabaret Show: A Night of Entertainment

The highlight for many is the “Voyage of Love” cabaret, which is performed solely on this vessel. Reviewers have described it as “super” and “a must-see show,” indicating an engaging, lively performance that adds a unique touch to the cruise. Expect talented performers, glamorous costumes, and a show that keeps the energy high from start to finish.

Why Reviewers Love This Cruise

One reviewer summed it up nicely: “Good tasty food, good wine selection, and a super show to watch.” They also appreciated the courteous and friendly waiting staff, which enhances the overall experience. The combination of a good meal, captivating entertainment, and iconic Sydney views makes this cruise a well-rounded outing.

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Considerations and Practical Details

Price: At around $118 per person, the cruise offers good value considering the all-in-one experience of dining, sightseeing, and entertainment.
Duration: The three-hour duration is manageable for most travelers and leaves enough time for a relaxed evening.
Accessibility: The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to access without needing private transport.
Group Size: The cruise accommodates up to 300 travelers, so you’ll likely be with a lively, social crowd but still enjoy a comfortable experience.
Booking and Cancellation: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the cruise, offering peace of mind when planning your evening.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for those looking to combine scenic views with a bit of entertainment in one smooth package. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special night, small groups wanting a lively night out, or visitors wanting a different perspective of Sydney Harbour after sunset. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good food, enjoy a show, and want to see Sydney illuminated from the water.

Final Thoughts

The Sydney CABARET Dinner Cruise delivers an enjoyable evening with a strong mix of visual beauty, quality dining, and lively entertainment. It offers good value, especially given the exclusivity of the “Voyage of Love” show and the scenic backdrop of Sydney Harbour at night. The experience strikes a balance between relaxed sightseeing and lively performance, making it suitable for a range of travelers.

While drinks are extra and the menu details are not overly elaborate, the overall experience is satisfying and memorable. If you’re seeking a fun, scenic, and slightly glamorous night out that captures the essence of Sydney’s nighttime beauty, this cruise should be on your list.

FAQ

Is the dinner served onboard or at a specific time?
The dinner is served once you are aboard, typically at the start of the cruise, with a seated, served 3-course meal included in the experience.

Can I bring my own drinks onboard?
No, outside alcohol and beverages are not mentioned as allowed. Drinks are available for purchase onboard, including alcohol, soda, and coffee/tea.

What is the dress code?
While not explicitly mentioned, elegant or smart-casual attire is generally appropriate for this kind of dinner cruise.

How long does the entire experience last?
The cruise lasts approximately three hours, from boarding at 7:30 pm until disembarkation.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s suitable for those who enjoy dining, scenic views, and entertainment.

What should I expect from the cabaret show?
The “Voyage of Love” is performed exclusively on this vessel, offering a lively, engaging 1-hour performance by talented entertainers, making it a highlight of the cruise.

In summary, the Sydney CABARET Dinner Cruise provides a well-rounded evening combining Sydney’s iconic harbor scenery with a delicious meal and captivating entertainment. It’s a fantastic way to experience the city at night and enjoy a memorable night with minimal hassle, making it highly recommended for those looking to add a special touch to their Sydney visit.