Blinded by the lights: How to enjoy Sydney's Vivid festival from the water

There can be few better places to enjoy Sydney's Vivid Festival light displays than from a boat on Sydney Harbour. 

Captain Cook Cruises has released a program of Vivid Sydney cruises taking in the key precincts of Darling Harbour, The Rocks and Circular Quay including Sydney Harbour Bridge and the sails of the Sydney Opera House.

Running from August 6-28, Vivid Sydney returns to light up the winter nights. 

Experiencing Vivid Sydney from the water can add an extra dimension, with a kaleidoscope of light reflecting on the water in every direction. 

Two of the hottest new releases for 2021 are onboard Sydney's new 'Harbour Bar & Restaurant'.

Cruisers can experience sitting in one of the comfy new lounges as they laze back and enjoy a range of cocktails and live music with the lights of Vivid as a backdrop. 

Guests can add a little luxe and a lot of bubbles when you upgrade to the Vivid Mumm Harbour Bar, including 1.5 hours of bottomless Mumm Champagne and a seafood platter to share. 

The Vivid Harbour Bar prices range from $39 for cruise only, up to $99 per person including Champagne and seafood.

Vivid Sydney's dinner cruises are back as well with family-friendly, 1.5-hour dinners departing at the earlier time of 5pm. Options range from $59 for a two-course menu, up to $199 for a deluxe four-course degustation menu with paired wines.

The 7pm dinner departures give passengers three hours on the water with viewing windows providing spectacular viewing from every table while guests enjoy a superb dining experience. Prices range from $99 for a three-course menu, up to $259 for a deluxe six-course degustation menu with paired wines. 

For those short on time, one-hour Vivid Light cruises depart up to three times nightly between 5.45pm and 8.15pm. Prices start from $29 per person and are a great option for family and social groups.

 “Captain Cook Cruises has been proud to partner with Destination NSW to provide on-water experiences for Vivid Sydney since its inception in 2009,” said Captain Cook Cruises' general manager Nick Lester. 

“There is nothing better than seeing the world's best harbour and its iconic landmarks illuminated at night from the water.” 

All Captain Cook Cruises on-water Vivid Sydney experiences depart from Darling Harbour, King St Wharf 1. 

Vivid Sydney is an award-winning Destination NSW initiative, in conjunction with the Love Sydney campaign. 

For information and bookings call (02) 9206 1111 or visit captaincook.com.au