Your Annual Guide of the Best Events Around Sydney Harbour in 2023 (and a bit of 2024)
We know it’s February already, and we’re only now publishing our annual event guide. But can you blame us? Everyone is making the most of the summer, taking advantage of this beautiful Sydney weather, and keeping us busy by hiring boats. We couldn’t be happier! So, before I jump back into getting you and your friends sorted with your private or ticketed boat hire, I want to quickly take you through our favourite events happening on Sydney Harbour this year (and a bit into next).
Sydney truly has everything from that perfect friends day out to NYE fireworks to whale watching. No matter what you’re into, something on the water is guaranteed to scratch that itch.
Each month in Sydney brings on something new, and you definitely could jump out on the water every weekend, but let’s be realistic. A few days will ensure your year is set up with stories to brag to your friends about for some time.
So for the art enthusiast looking for the best Vivid views on a cruise to the romantic looking to make a magical night on the water with a proposal, we’ll break down what dates you should circle on your calendar for the rest of 2023 on Sydney Harbour (and a bit into 2024).
Valentine’s Day – 14th February 2023
Valentine’s day is a great occasion to look at hiring one of our smaller boats for that romantic getaway. Boats like Cutting Loose or Blue Moon are perfect for that romantic occasion on the Harbour.
A romantic lunch or dinner cruise is another great way to take in Sydney Harbour. These cruises typically last a few hours and cover everything for you on the boat. So jump on board and relax while you take in the spectacular view, food and drinks while taking in the sights of the Harbour with your loved one.
Sail GP – 18th-19th February 2023
Sail GP is coming to Sydney, Australia, in February 2023, and it promises to be an incredible event. This high-octane sailing competition will feature the world’s best sailors competing in the fastest F50 catamaran sailboats on the planet. The event will take place over two days, featuring a series of races that will test the skill and endurance of each team. Spectators can expect to see thrilling action as these boats reach speeds of up to 50 knots, making for an unforgettable experience.
The event will also feature a range of activities for spectators, including live music, food stalls, and interactive experiences. There will also be plenty of opportunities to meet the teams and get up close and personal with the boats. With its stunning harbour backdrop, Sail GP Sydney is sure to be an unforgettable experience for all involved. So take advantage of this unique opportunity to witness some of the world’s best sailors in action!
Mardi Gras – 17th February – 5th March 2023
Are you looking for a unique way to experience Mardi Gras in Sydney? Look no further than boat hire! With a boat hire, you can enjoy the festivities from the comfort of your own vessel. In addition, you can customize your experience with catering, drinks, and your own DJ to ensure the boat is rocking.
Boat hire is an ideal way to make your Mardi Gras experience one to remember. With a boat hire, you can create an unforgettable party that will be remembered for years to come. So don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity – book your boat hire today!
Easter Long Weekend – 7th-10th April 2023
April is a busy month with the holidays, so if you’re aiming to get a boat on the water, it’s time to book now. As with most long weekends, Sydney likes to book out quickly, and Easter is no different.
If you’re spending the weekend in Sydney, there is no better place than to enjoy your long weekend with a boat hire. Make it a small family affair with some of our catamarans for hire, or head out on a private yacht charter. It’ll make for a day on the water everyone will be talking about until next Easter.
Mothers Day Cruise 14th May 2023
Show mum she really matters with a high tea cruise or a delicious catered boat hire. Let mum kick back and relax, and with our catered food and drinks packages, you can too as we’ll take care of everything.
We offer some beautiful boats like Suellen that can put together spectacular food and drink packages from one of the best restaurants in Woolloomooloo. It’s so good you’ll be asking the captain if they can extend your cruise.
Vivid Festival of Lights – 26th May – 17th Jun 2023
The Vivid Festival of Lights in Sydney, Australia, is an event that should not be missed! It has grown to be one of Sydney’s premier outdoor events attracting millions of visitors to the CBD and surrounds. Every year, the city of Sydney is illuminated with a stunning display of lights, drone shows and projections that transform the city into a vibrant and colourful wonderland. From 26 May to 17 June 2023, the festival takes place and features a variety of events, and one of the best ways to take it in is via a Vivid boat cruise around Sydney Harbour.
A Vivid cruise is a great way to experience the festival from a unique perspective. You can take in all the sights and sounds of the festival from the comfort and small crowds of a boat as you cruise around Sydney Harbour. So whether you’re looking for an art filled evening or just want to have some fun with friends, this event will leave you with lasting memories.
Whale Watching Season – May – November
Sydney is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching! Every year, thousands of humpback whales migrate along the east coast of Australia, and Sydney Harbour is one of their favourite spots. From May to November, you can take a whale-watching boat tour out and spot these majestic creatures as they make their way up and down the coast.
Whale-watching tours are a great way to get up close and personal with these gentle giants. You’ll be able to see them breaching, slapping their tails, and even spy-hopping (when they poke their heads out of the water). It’s the best way to experience these beautiful mammals and their calves as they migrate. We’ve also got answers to all your whale questions with our guide to whale watching in Sydney here.
End of Financial Year – 1st July 2023
Are you looking for a unique way to thank your team for another year of hard work? Give them the celebration they’re hoping for with an event boat hire on Sydney Harbour. Take in the stunning views, iconic landmarks, vibrant atmosphere, and even gather the team for that company group picture (the marketing team will love this one!). If you want to include a team-building exercise, try your hand at a clay laser shooting competition and see who’s the real hot shot in the office. We have boats of all sizes and all-inclusive or BYO packages to cater for any type of experience for your next corporate boat party.
International Boat Show – 3rd-6th August 2023
If you’re like me and love being on a boat, why not jump on board many different ones in one day? The International Boat Show makes its way to Sydney from the 3rd-6th of August. This event will feature all the latest boats available for sale (or to hire through us). From yachts to wakeboard boats, you’ll be able to see and walk through them all.
This show takes place around Darling Harbour. You can buy tickets online or at the gate. For more information on exhibitions, you can also see at the event, check out the International Boat Show’s website here.
Father’s Day – 3rd September 2023
Take dad out on the water to say thank you. With our BYO boats, you can bring along his favourite BBQ meal and even get the captain to fry up some food on the barbie. He’ll love it as you cruise around the Harbour on a relaxing day.
Melbourne Cup – 7th November 2023
While the office or local pub is fun, a Melbourne cup boat party is better! So get your best fancy dress ready, and hold on to your hats as you set sail for this annual racing event.
An afternoon cruise is a perfect way to start your Melbourne cup festivities. Jump on board a boat in the afternoon and let the food and drinks flow while you count down to watch the race that stops the nation. Some of our boats come equipped with TV, so you don’t even need to miss any of the action.
Christmas Party Season – November – December
Corporate work parties are just the extra bit special when on the water. With the beautiful weather stating in Sydney during this time, there’s no better way to bring up the office moral than your Christmas work boat party.
Our event boats can cater for groups of up to 600 people, so no matter how many are in your office, we’ve got you covered. Boat parties are the office social group’s dream with their all-inclusive packages. You pick a food and drink option, and we’ll look after the rest. Many boats have space for a dance floor, DJs, full bars or can cater to a sit-down meal. Everyone will give a little extra cheer after that office speech when they have the Sydney Harbour landmarks in the background. So ask us about your Christmas corporate work party with us today.
Sydney to Hobart Boxing Day Race – 26th December 2023
This Sydney to Hobart race start is one you need to experience live. People from all over Sydney line the Harbour to watch this iconic race. It’s incredible to see these big 100 ft maxis fly through the Harbour, out the heads, and off to sea on their way to Hobart.
One of the best vantage points is near Watson’s bay lighthouse, or if you want to really be part of the action, jump on board one of our boats to see the speed of these boats from the water. Get all the Sydney to Hobart sail team race information here.
New Year’s Eve Sydney Harbor Cruise – 31st December – 1st January 2024
When the clock strikes midnight, there is no better place to be than on a boat to watch the Sydney Fireworks on New Year’s eve. You need to experience this incredible water view at least once in your lifetime.
Depending on your group size and what you’re looking for, we have private NYE boats for hire that come either catered or as BYO for you food and drink options. Looking for something with more of a group vibe? We have ticketed NYE boat cruises that offer the best venue on NYE. They come with all-inclusive food and drinks, music, and a bumping dance floor all night long. Reserve your private NYE boat hire or join a ticketed NYE boat cruise today.
Plan a new year’s day boat party if you’ve already locked into a friend’s party with a fantastic rooftop view of the fireworks show. A jump in the Harbour is the best way to get your New Year started right.
Australia Day – 26th January 2024
This public holiday in the peak of summer is a wonderful time to head out on the water and take in the sights of Sydney. You and your friends can join the thousands of people who take to the water and find a great spot to park and relax with music cranking, VB in hand and a prawn on the barbie.
There’s Always an Occasion to Head out on Sydney Harbour!
With so much happening in Sydney, it’s hard to pick a favourite but this is where we come in. Our experienced team can help you pick the perfect boat for your group to make sure you make the most of your day on the water.
Who are we and what do we offer?
- Local Sydney business with a dedicated and experienced staff member to help you plan your day
- An array of great private skippered boat & yachts for hire for groups of any size and budget
- A variety of Sydney Harbour tours on offer including whale watching, Vivid and much more
- Easy & stress-free booking process
And best of all, you pay the same price for your activities/hire as booking direct, but have the ease of having us do the running around for you. Sounds good, right?