
Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Non-refundable booking. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.1/5
Based on 15 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise worth booking?
Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise is a 4-hour experience in Sydney, Australia, from $110 per person. It scores 51 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.1/5 rating across 15 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 51 / 100
- Rating
- 4.1/5 (15)
- Duration
- 4 hours
- From
- $110 per person
Experience the Ferrython and Australia Day parades on Sydney Harbour aboard the MV Vagabond Spirit! Hop aboard our flagship, the MV Vagabond Spirit and join us as we celebrate our wonderful nation! Enjoy 3.5 hours of cr
What you get
- Tea and coffee
- Seafood and carvery buffet lunch
- 3.5-hour lunch cruise
About this experience
Experience the Ferrython and Australia Day parades on Sydney Harbour aboard the MV Vagabond Spirit! Hop aboard our flagship, the MV Vagabond Spirit and join us as we celebrate our wonderful nation! Enjoy 3.5 hours of cruising on Sydney Harbour, accompanied by delicious food, fantastic service and all the excitement of the day's harbour events. Get up close to all the action whilst you dig into a delicious seated three course lunch and enjoy live harbour commentary from your captain. Enjoy a refreshment from the bar and find a place on one of our outdoor decks as the annual Ferrython kicks off in sensational colour, competing for first place under Sydney Harbour Bridge. Cover your ears as the sound of the 21-gun 'Salute to Australia' fires away, experience the awe-inspiring Tug and Yacht Ballet surounded by boats of all shapes and sizes dressed in flags, banners, inflatable kangaroos and every colour under the sun making up what is the famous Australia Day Harbour Parade.
What's included
Included
- Tea and coffee
- Seafood and carvery buffet lunch
- 3.5-hour lunch cruise
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
What you'll see and do
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Australia Day Flag Hoisting, tall ship race, Navy Salute
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Sydney
Directions: Please refer to your boarding pass for accurate details. Please arrive 15 mins prior to the cruise departure time. Unfortunately, we cannot wait for late arrivals and if you miss the boat there will be no refunds or transfers permitted.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Directions: Please refer to your boarding pass for accurate details. Please arrive 15 mins prior to the cruise departure time. Unfortunately, we cannot wait for late arrivals and if you miss the boat there will be no refunds or transfers permitted.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Vagabond Cruises
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 15 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Food and drink
5 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Organization
3 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
15 verified traveler reviews for Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Cruise cancelled on Australia Day via some emails while standing on wharf, no refund, no apology to date. Very very bad
The Australia Day Cruise did not arrive. Over 100 people standing on wharf some got emails saying operational delays updates soon. Passed the point of missing harbour events, some people received email saying finally cruise cancelled full refund in two hours. This did not happen. Vagabond office did not open on Tuesday on time. They finally answered their phone @10am, no apology, no explanation, advised me they would ring me back re my refund. Terrible customer service. I will never book them again. Things happen but it was the total lack fo communication, no apology, no one from the office came to the wharf on Australia Day. No refund to date no offer of a compensation. Appalling business practice.
Response from the operator: Hi there, We’re very sorry for the disruption and frustration caused on Australia Day. The cruise was cancelled due to an unexpected mechanical issue identified shortly before departure, and for safety reasons, we were unable to proceed. We acknowledge how disappointing this was, particularly given the significance of the day, and we sincerely apologise for the distress caused while guests were waiting on the wharf. Updates were sent by email as the situation unfolded, and all guests on the affected cruise were issued a full refund. Depending on the payment method, banks can take several business days to reflect the funds in individual accounts. As the cancellation occurred on a public holiday, our office was closed on the day; however, customer enquiries were attended to as soon as possible once we reopened. We regret that this experience fell short of expectations and appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. Kind regards, Vagabond Cruises
via Tripadvisor
Boat Never Arrived
Vessel never arrived. Aprox 100 people waited (in the hot sun) on Walsh Bay Pier 2 for more than one hour only to be advised the boat had mechanical difficulties and cruise was therefore cancelled. Departure was scheduled for 11:15 email message received 11:50. My party arrived at 10:30. We had international guests with us. Poor look for Australia.
Response from the operator: Hi there, We’re very sorry for the disappointment and inconvenience caused on Australia Day, particularly for you and your international guests. We fully understand how frustrating and upsetting it would have been to be waiting on the wharf in the heat for such a significant occasion. The cruise was unfortunately cancelled due to an unexpected mechanical issue identified shortly before departure, and for safety reasons we were unable to proceed. Updates were sent by email as soon as we were able to confirm the situation, and all guests on the affected cruise were issued a full refund. Depending on the payment method, banks can take several business days to reflect the funds. We sincerely regret the experience and the impact it had on your Australia Day plans, and we appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. Kind regards, Vagabond Cruises
via Tripadvisor
FANTASTIC AUSTRALIA DAY CRUISE WITH VAGABOND ENJOYED BY OUR PROBUS
Thank you Vagabond for our Australia Day ferrython cruise. Having arranged many cruises with Vagabond over the past ten years, I was not surprised when everyone of our group of 55 really enjoyed the day. Boarding was a breeze and the staff were amazing serving our lunch quickly and courteously. The food was varied and delicious including oysters and prawns and seconds were available. The ferrython was fun and timing organised so we could watch on deck before serving our sweets. From the time I made our booking the staff were courteous and accommodating to our needs. We thank Ritu for looking after all our needs enabling our group to enjoy a day to remember. Can’t wait til our next Vagabond cruise. Well done, Vagabond!
Response from the operator: Dear Helen, Thank you so much for your kind words and continued support over the years! 😊 We're thrilled to hear that your group had such a fantastic Australia Day Ferrython cruise. It’s always a pleasure hosting you, and we’re glad you enjoyed the food, service, and overall experience. We can’t wait to welcome you back for your next Vagabond cruise! 🚢✨ Best regards, The Vagabond Events Team
via Tripadvisor
Australia Day on the Harbour
Pending just now Thumbnail Australia Day on the HarbourIt was a wonderful day the staff very friendly and helpful the boat was clean and easy to get around food was fresh and delicious and beautifully presented and there was plenty for everyone to have seconds if required The booking process was very easy to manage and booking staff were knowledgeable and answered any question It was a pleasure dealing with this company Invoice Number : #259549359 Travelling Party: Seniors Value for Money Transparency
Response from the operator: Hi there, Thank you so much for your lovely review — and our apologies for the delayed reply! We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed your Australia Day cruise with us. From the friendly service and fresh food to a smooth booking process, it’s wonderful to know the experience ticked all the boxes for you and your group. We really appreciate you choosing to cruise with us, and we’d love to welcome you back again soon! Warm regards, Michel & the Vagabond Team
via Tripadvisor
Forgoten passengers
Viator has informed us to fo to the Ives Steps Hickdob Road Pier 1 at, when in actual fact the cruise departed from King Stree Wharf.
Response from the operator: Hi Niki, we're sorry to hear there was an issue with the boarding information provided on Viator, we are currently investigating what went wrong. That being said, our team sent you a confirmation on the 23rd Dec, detailing King Street Wharf 3 as your departure location. This was also on the Viator product listing for this cruise. Again, we are not sure what went wrong here but we are committed to figuring it out and ensuring it does not occur again. We'd love to hear from you to understand where the inaccurate information was displayed. Please contact our office on 02 9660 0388 to discuss at your convenience. Sincerely, Michel Vagabond Cruises
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Non-refundable
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue
- Price range
- $110 to $140
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 5
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 51
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Sydney.
How much does Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise cost?
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Prices start at $110 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Sydney usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise take?
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Plan for about 4 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Sydney is not rushed.
Is Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 51 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.1/5 across 15 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable food & drink in Sydney, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise?
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No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.
Is Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise?
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Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Sydney can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Sydney and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Sydney Harbour Australia Day Lunch and Ferrython Cruise start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Sydney within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Sydney?
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On Outty we rank every Sydney experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include WILD Wombat and Kangaroo Day Tour, All Inclusive, Depart Syd: Blue Mountains Best All Inclusive with Local Guide, Blue Mountain Small Group Tour All Inclusive. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Sydney?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Sydney?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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