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’, a city-wide light installation that synchronises illuminated landmarks, ferries and boats across Sydney Harbour, creating a coordinated display through colour, music and technology.
  • ‘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 two departures, and each 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.

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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Watch The ‘Lights On’ Moment

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 $55$72
Book Now
Aerial view of Sydney Harbour during Vivid Sydney
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Prime-Time Views Of Vivid Lights

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 $55$72
Book Now

Guest Reviews

  • 28 May 2026
    “Enjoyed the relaxing ride to see Vivid 2026 Highly recommend.”
    Mandy S
    Magistic Vivid LIGHTS Cruise - 7:45PM
    5
  • 28 May 2026
    “Very enjoyable cruise to see Vivid”
    Susan N
    Magistic Vivid LIGHTS Cruise - 7:45PM
    5
  • 24 May 2026
    “Great experience for less money. It was worth it.”
    Romina T
    Magistic Vivid EARLY Cruise - 5:30 PM
    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