I booked a Vivid Sydney cruise with Sensational Sydney Cruises because their boat has a maximum capacity of 16 guests. I liked that we would not be crowded like the big party boats. The boat pulled up at the dock, and there were no steps or ramp from the dock to the boat. I had to jump down onto the little diving deck and then climb a ladder to get onto the main part of the boat. We went out to see the lights. Do to "security" issues, we were not allowed to go into Darling Harbour or Circular Quay. I really wanted to see the cool show at Darling Harbour. I could not see anything. I would have been better off taking the regular ferry and gotten off at Darling Harbour. There were other boats allowed into the Harbour, but not the one I was on. So basically, we went in a circle twice. When we came back to the dock, the water was quite choppy. The boat docked in such a way that you had to jump up a pretty long distance up to the dock and over the water. My companion has a bad knee and could not make the jump.They had to bring the boat closer to the dock and then drag my companion off the boat. It was an embarrassment. For $250 for two people, I expected more. The people on the boat were very nice, but there is no way they can honestly call this a luxury cruise. Beware if you have any physical issues at all. This is not the boat for you.
This excursion is a delightful addition to anyone's Sydney experience. The captain and crew member were extremely knowledgeable and kind. I learned many tidbits about the rich and famous along with various sites I should see. I would highly recommend this tour... short, sweet, and informative!
An amazing cruise, good sized boat for our group of 23 and a perfect way to experience Vivid from the harbour! It was great for both the adults and children. We will definitely be making this an annual outing!
Thank you!
We are Sydney-siders and thoroughly enjoyed the recent trip on "our own" spectacular harbour. The scenery is hard to beat and we were very well looked after by skipper Shane and by Howard who was very knowledgeable about the history and goings-on of the harbour - they both cook a mean BBQ as well! Being a smaller boat, it definitely wasn't the cheesy experience that some operators offer. We've been on the harbour quite a few times now but really learnt a lot/thoroughly enjoyed this trip. Highly recommended - other Sydney siders would enjoy this but tourists would even more so!
We were one of only two couples on the Ambiance. Our Captain Shane and Margie our host made our time quite unforgettable. The weather was good throughout and we were treated to a veritable feast of views from the boat with an informative running commentary by Margie, whose knowledge was immense. We anchored in a small bay and were treated to a superb lunch on the boat BBQ, with an opportunity to swim or kayak as well. We'd certainly recommend this cruise!
