Sydney Christmas Guide › Sydney Christmas Activities 2026
Captain Cook Cruises takes New Year's Eve onto the water, cruising inside the Sydney Harbour exclusion zone for front-row views of the fireworks. Some packages take in both the 9pm and midnight fireworks, and you'll see the Harbour Bridge finale from the water.
Each cruise does dinner its own way, from multi-course seated dinners to roaming canapé stations, paired with a premium beverage package. Live bands and deck entertainment supply the music for dancing.
Prices run from $1,599 per person for the Starship Sydney NYE Party up to $2,450 per person for The Jackson Ultimate NYE Experience. The Sydney 2000 Club Deck and Ocean Deck need a minimum of two, and the Sky Deck is sold out. Cruises run in sheltered waters rain or shine, with indoor seating and big viewing windows. BYO alcohol isn't allowed, and seated menus include vegetarian and gluten-free choices.
Questions
What happens if the weather is bad?
Cruises operate in sheltered waters regardless of rain, with indoor seating and expansive viewing windows.
Can you bring your own alcohol?
No. The vessels are licensed premises, and BYO alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Can dietary requirements be catered for?
Seated menus include vegetarian and gluten-free choices, but degustation menus can't take special substitutions or modifications.
Are assistance animals allowed?
Yes. Accredited assistance animals wearing a recognised harness or coat are welcome, as long as you tell the operator when you book.