Is the cruise suitable for children?

Yes, children aged 4 and above are welcome onboard and pay the same fare as adults.

Can I bring food and drinks?

Guests are encouraged to bring their own food; a licensed bar is available for beverages on board.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If ocean conditions are rough, the cruise will remain within the safety of Sydney Harbour, maintaining the viewing experience.

How accessible is the vessel?

The boat features wheelchair accessibility and a disabled-access toilet for greater comfort.

Where exactly does the cruise depart from?

Departure is from Darling Harbour - Aquarium Wharf at 11:00am.

How long is the cruise?

The total duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours, including viewing inside the harbour and offshore sections.

Experience the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race: Boxing Day Cruise on Ocean Dreaming 2 from Darling Harbour | Boat Tour | Events

On every Boxing Day, Sydney Harbour transforms into an epicenter of sailing excitement as the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race commences, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in this maritime spectacle is aboard the Ocean Dreaming 2, operated by Fantasea Cruising, departing directly from Darling Harbour. This 11:00am cruise offers an unrivaled vantage point to witness the race’s exhilarating start alongside fellow sailors and fans.

Sydney Harbour, located in Australia's New South Wales, is a naturally stunning harbor known for iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Its deep, sheltered waters make it a prime location for ocean racing, and the Sydney to Hobart Race is one of the most challenging yacht races globally, setting off every December 26th. This cruise brings you front and center to this thrilling event, starting out near Watsons Bay before following the leading yachts as they head south toward Hobart.

What sets this cruise apart is the access to three levels of outdoor viewing decks, perfect for spotting the sleek racing yachts slicing through the water. The vessel is equipped with comfortable cushioned seating, a climate-controlled cabin, and wheelchair accessibility, allowing everyone to enjoy the race in comfort. Toilets are available on board, with disabled-access facilities, making it convenient for all day guests.

Beyond the spectacle of the race start, guests get a unique chance to cheer on their favorite boats and even catch a last wave goodbye to friends and family active on the yachts. Weather permitting, the cruise follows the fleet offshore, providing an immersive ocean adventure. In rough conditions, the cruise remains within the calm harbor, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience no matter what.

To keep spirits high, the boat offers a licensed bar onboard — bring your own lunch to fully settle in for this unforgettable day. The cruise embodies a special local tradition, combining competitive sailing, community spirit, and stunning views of Sydney's harbor and coastline.

For travelers staying in Sydney, this outing perfectly complements other outdoor exploration or sightseeing plans, tying memorable adventure to world-class natural and urban scenery. Whether you're a seasoned sailor, a race supporter, or simply seeking a front-row seat to one of the world’s most famous yacht races, the Boxing Day Cruise aboard Ocean Dreaming 2 is a standout maritime experience not to be missed.

About Fantasea Cruising

Fantasea Cruising operates passenger ferry and sightseeing services from multiple Sydney ports, offering a variety of harbour and coastal experiences.

Based in Sydney, New South Wales, the company runs scheduled services and special event cruises that include whale watching, sightseeing, Taronga Zoo transfers, Palm Beach shuttles and major holiday fireworks departures. Fleet vessels named in public schedules include Ocean Dreaming 2, Ocean Surfer, Ocean Wave, Ocean Tracker, Ocean Adventurer, Fantasea Joy, Fantasea Escapade and Fantasea 8 Seasons, which serve departures from Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, Manly, Double Bay and Palm Beach.

Popular event departures cover New Year’s Eve fireworks cruises, Australia Day celebrations including ferrython and harbour parade options, and Boxing Day cruises to witness the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race start. Whale watching options include express and longer discovery adventures departing from Circular Quay, Darling Harbour and Palm Beach Ferry Wharf. Sightseeing services include Darling Harbour and Circular Quay departures, Sydney Harbour and Fish Market cruises, and Taronga Zoo direct transfers with combined sightseeing options. Ticketing options range from single segment tickets to multi-day Palm Beach Hopper passes, including 24 and 48 hour passes. Fantasea Cruising is positioned as a local operator focused on consistent schedules, accessible departure points, and event-focused services across Sydney Harbour and nearby coastal waters. Customers can choose daytime sightseeing, twilight harbour cruises, and specialised wildlife excursions that suit families, couples and solo travellers. Departure ports and vessel amenities vary by trip; licensed bars are available on selected New Year’s Eve and fireworks sailings regularly.