Is the location accessible by car or only by boat?

This experience is exclusively accessible by boat to maintain its privacy and unique ambiance.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?

Yes, the chef can accommodate most dietary needs with advance notice.

What times of year is the cruise available?

Trips operate year-round, weather permitting, with seasonal menu variations.

How large are the tour groups?

Groups are intentionally kept small, generally fewer than 12 guests, for intimacy.

Is alcohol included in the dining experience?

Select beverages are included; additional drinks can be purchased onboard.

What safety measures are in place on the boat?

The vessel meets all Australian maritime safety standards with life jackets and trained crew.

Riverside Dining & Boat Cruise in Mooney Mooney | Boat Tour | Food Tour

Pearls & Plates offers a one-of-a-kind riverside dining journey anchored in the heart of Mooney Mooney, New South Wales. This exclusive adventure pairs a scenic boat cruise with a curated six-course feast by acclaimed chef Guy Jeffreys, delivering a rare taste of Australia's aquaculture legacy and riverine beauty. Guests embark aboard a private vessel that glides gently past working pearl leases, a unique feature of this region's rich oyster farming industry. The elusive nature of the location—accessible only by boat—adds an intimate and privileged dimension to the experience. Mooney Mooney itself lies within the Greater Sydney region, famed for its diverse waterways and lush river valleys.

The cruise meanders alongside pristine riverbanks where native eucalyptus trees rise alongside intricate mangrove systems, creating a habitat for local birdlife and aquatic species. The menus showcase rare local delicacies, including fresh oysters and pearl-inspired dishes, reflecting the culinary ingenuity of the area and its marine resources. Visitors gain insight into the sustainable practices behind pearl farming and its pivotal role in the local economy, blending education with indulgence.

What sets Pearls & Plates apart is this seamless fusion of natural exploration, culinary artistry, and cultural heritage—rarely found in typical sightseeing cruises. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it a standout day trip or special occasion option for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The allure of Mooney Mooney’s waterway gems combined with the exceptional dining experience makes Pearls & Plates a must-do for those seeking a fresh take on outdoor adventure with an edible twist. This carefully crafted outing balances gorgeous views, fine dining, and meaningful connection to place, elevating the standard river cruise to a memorable celebration of Australia's shellfish heritage.

About Broken Bay Pearl Farm

Broken Bay Pearl Farm is a family-run aquaculture operation located at Mooney Mooney on the Hawkesbury River in New South Wales. The farm specialises in Australian Akoya pearl cultivation and oyster production, offering a range of public experiences that reveal the full lifecycle of pearl farming. Visitors can join short demonstrations and extended tours including 30-minute pearl grading sessions, two-hour Shell to Showroom cruises, half-day Oyster & Pearl Lovers adventures, and guided farm cruises that pass working pearl leases.

Tours and experiences include hands-on components such as oyster shucking, pearl grading, and sensory oyster tastings at the on-site Shellar Door. Pearls of Australia and Liddon Pearls collaborate on select events; Pearls & Plates features a six-course riverside meal by chef Guy Jeffreys at a boat-accessible location. A complimentary 30-minute Pearl Jewellery Consultation with Pearls of Australia is also available for shoppers seeking expert guidance.

Broken Bay Pearl Farm maintains public access to its pearl grading room and educational programs that explain seeding, growth and harvest stages for Australian pearls. The operation emphasises sustainable aquaculture practices and showcases local seafood traditions on the Hawkesbury River. Experiences are suitable for visitors interested in marine farming, culinary oyster tasting, or learning about pearl craftsmanship. By combining guided interpretation, scenic river cruising, and exclusive access to working leases, Broken Bay Pearl Farm provides a factual, educational and memorable introduction to Australian pearl farming. The site operates tours from Shellar Door at Mooney Mooney and offers pre-order oysters for pickup by arrangement with farm staff.