Experience The Magic Of Lights On Vivid Sydney Cruises

Running from 22 May to 13 June 2026, Vivid Sydney is one of the world's largest festivals of light, music, ideas and food, drawing millions of visitors to Sydney. Festival Director Brett Sheehy AO calls Vivid Sydney 2026 as “a festival of a lifetime”. And the place to see the Vivid Lights? From the water, aboard Vivid Sydney cruises!

What's It Like On A Magistic Vivid Cruise?

The ‘Magistic Two’ is a luxury catamaran with three spacious outer decks and wide panoramic windows. As the cruise moves across Sydney Harbour, you will see major Vivid Light installations along the waterfront and skyline, and glimpses of some land-based installations as well. Here are a few notable mentions:

  • ‘Opera Mundi’ by renowned French artist Yann Nguema transforming the Opera House sails
  • ‘Molecule of Light’, a 23-metre laser installation
  • ‘Obstacle’, a 45-metre pulsing LED corridor along Wulugul Walk, Barangaroo
  • ‘Our Connected City’, where anyone can design a 30-second light show that illuminates the Sydney Harbour skyline
  • ‘Vivid Light On Sydney Harbour’: Boats and ferries light up Sydney Harbour, creating a colourful flotilla that moves in sync with the city’s illuminated skyline, with Magistic being part of it.

The Magistic Two has three departures, and every cruise runs approx. 1.5 hours, and includes a complimentary drink on arrival. You can also bring your own snacks/food for a smooth cruising experience.

Magistic Vivid Early Cruise — 5:30 PM

On this departure, you'll be out on the water for the official 6pm ‘Lights On’ moment, watching the harbour shift from golden-hour glow into full Vivid spectacle in real time. Great for families and anyone who wants the full Vivid experience without the late-night rush.

Magistic Vivid Lights Cruise — 7:45 PM

This is the most popular and prime-time cruise, with the harbour at its liveliest and the illuminated skyline in full swing. This is ideal for groups and people wanting the peak-time photos of the light exhibits.

Magistic Vivid Late Cruise — 9:45 PM

By 9:45pm, the harbour crowds will have thinned considerably, the installations will be glowing at full intensity and the whole experience takes on a quieter vibe. It is perfect for late-night visitors, corporate teams and post-dinner plans!

So, choose your preferred Magistic cruise and secure your spot on the water before the festival nights fill up.

Opera House illuminated with Vivid Sydney lights from the Magistic Vivid Sydney cruise
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Early Bird Sale: Save $33

Magistic Vivid EARLY Cruise - 5:30 PM

Inclusions
  • Approx. 1.5hr Early Vivid Lights spectator cruise on Sydney Harbour
  • Cruise on the multi-million-dollar ‘Magistic Two’ catamaran
  • Spacious outer decks and wide windows for best views of Vivid Lights
  • 1 complimentary drink on arrival - House beer, wine or soft drink
  • BYO snacks allowed
  • Drinks available for purchase on board
  • BYO drinks strictly prohibited
Departure Location King Street Wharf - 2
Boards 17:15
Departs 17:30
Returns 19:10
Price From $39$72
Book Now
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Early Bird Sale: Save $33

Magistic Vivid LIGHTS Cruise – 7:45PM

Inclusions
  • Approx. 1.5hr Vivid Lights spectator cruise on Sydney Harbour
  • Cruise on the luxury catamaran ‘Magistic Two’
  • Three spacious outer decks for best views of Vivid Lights
  • 1 complimentary drink on arrival - House beer, wine or soft drink
  • BYO snacks allowed
  • Drinks available for purchase on board
  • BYO drinks strictly prohibited
Departure Location King Street Wharf - 2
Boards 19:30
Departs 19:45
Returns 21:10
Price From $39$72
Book Now
Stunning view of Sydney Harbour as seen from the Magistic Vivid Sydney Cruise
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Early Bird Sale: Save $30

Magistic Vivid LATE Cruise - 9:45 PM

Inclusions
  • Approx. 1.5hr Late Vivid Lights spectator cruise on Sydney Harbour
  • Cruise on the luxury catamaran ‘Magistic Two’
  • Views of Vivid Light displays on the Opera House, Harbour Bridge etc.
  • 1 complimentary drink on arrival - House beer, wine or soft drink
  • Free seating on all three levels
  • BYO snacks allowed
  • Additional drinks available for purchase on board
Departure Location King Street Wharf - 2
Boards 21:30
Departs 21:45
Returns 23:15
Price From $39$69
Book Now

Guest Reviews

  • 12 June 2025
    “Great vivid Cruise for 2025 Staff also very Friendly.”
    Simon S
    Vivid Lights Magistic EARLY Harbour Cruise
    5
  • 10 June 2025
    “It was great to see Sydney from the water sparkling at night. The Vivid lights were an added bonus.”
    Janet H
    Vivid Lights Magistic EARLY Harbour Cruise
    5
  • 28 May 2025
    “An absolutely fabulous experience! (We were in Sydney to see the entire Vivid Lights installations) You have excellent staff, gorgeous vessel, stunning route, great vantage points. We spent entire trip on deck. Surprised that the ship did a second loop around the route; so delightful!! The only negative was someone smoking several cigarettes. I am very sensitive to cigarette smoke, even outside. As so many guests are outside, it would be great if you were a totally smoke-free cruise.”
    Vikki L
    Vivid Lights Magistic LATE Harbour Cruise
    5
Plan Your Next Event With Magistic Cruises

Charter the ‘Magistic Two’ or hire a private deck to celebrate your special occasions. Tailored cruise packages available!

Magistic Good Cruise's Interior Dining