Sydney does a lot of its best eating on the water, and the harbour makes a pretty unbeatable dining room for the whole family. From finger sandwiches on the top deck to a proper BBQ buffet with a side of whale watching, there is a cruise out there for every appetite and every age. Here is what is actually running out of Circular Quay and The Rocks, and which ones the kids will genuinely love.
Sydney Harbour High Tea Cruise
The Sydney Harbour High Tea Cruise is a proper treat for the family, sailing past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge while everyone tucks into a spread of finger sandwiches, mini quiches, scones and petit fours. The grown ups get a glass of sparkling wine on arrival, and the top deck delivers 360 degree views for the best photos. Child rates apply from ages 4 to 15. Allow 1.5 hours.
Sydney Harbour Discovery Cruise with Lunch
The Sydney Harbour Discovery Cruise with Lunch is the easy going option, a relaxed cruise past Darling Harbour, the Opera House and the Royal Botanical Gardens with a buffet lunch, cake and coffee included. It suits fussy eaters too, with gluten free, halal and vegan options available if you flag it ahead of time. Children under 15 must be with an adult. Child fares apply from 5 to 14, infants 0 to 4 free. Allow just over 2 hours.
Sydney Harbour Tall Ship Lunch Cruise
The Sydney Harbour Tall Ship Lunch Cruise gives the kids something properly memorable, an 1850s style timber tall ship where the crew will happily show them the ropes, literally, if they want to help set sail. A canape style lunch is served as you cruise past Taronga Zoo and Luna Park, and there is a Family option for 2 adults and 2 kids built right into the booking. Child rates apply from 4 to 14. Allow 2 hours.
Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with BBQ Lunch
The Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with BBQ Lunch turns lunch into an adventure, heading out through Sydney Heads for a proper BBQ buffet while keeping watch for migrating whales. There is a whale sighting guarantee too, so if the kids miss out this time you are entitled to another cruise free of charge in the same season. Runs late May to mid November. Allow 4 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Which Sydney food cruise is best for young kids?
The Sydney Harbour Discovery Cruise with Lunch is the most relaxed option at just over 2 hours, with a buffet lunch and simple menu that suits fussy eaters.
Is the Tall Ship Lunch Cruise good for kids who love boats?
Absolutely, kids can get hands on and help the crew set the sails, making it one of the more interactive food and drink cruises on the harbour.
Do we need to book in advance for whale watching season?
Yes, the Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with BBQ Lunch only runs late May to mid November, so it is worth booking ahead once whale season kicks off.
Is the High Tea Cruise suitable for the whole family?
Yes, child rates apply from age 4, and while the sparkling wine is for the grown ups, the sweet and savoury high tea spread is a hit with kids too.
What if we have dietary requirements?
The Sydney Harbour Discovery Cruise with Lunch caters for gluten free, halal and vegan diets if you let them know at least 48 hours ahead of your booking.
Local tip: grab the top deck seats early on any of these cruises, that is where the best harbour views and photo opportunities are, and the kids will want front row seats when the Opera House comes into view.
Book your Sydney Harbour food and drink cruise above and turn lunch into the best part of the day. Easy.