Sydney Harbour is one of the world’s most photographed waterways, and for good reason. With the Sydney Opera House gleaming on one side and the Harbour Bridge arching over sparkling blue waters on the other, it is a view that never disappoints. One of the most popular ways to take it all in is by stepping aboard a Magistic Lunch Cruise. But with so many options for dining and sightseeing in the city, is it really worth spending your afternoon on the water? Let’s break down the experience, cost, and overall value.
The Cruise Experience
Magistic Cruises, operating since 2001, has built its reputation on stylish yet value-for-money lunch cruises in Sydney. The Magistic Two, a modern catamaran, serves as the flagship vessel for the lunch cruise. It boasts air-conditioned interiors, panoramic windows, and three large outer decks, so whether you prefer the comfort of indoor seating or the fresh air outdoors, there is no shortage of vantage points for photos and sightseeing.
The cruise departs daily from King Street Wharf around 12:30 PM and returns at approximately 2:00 PM, offering about 1 hour and 45 minutes of relaxed sailing. For those who prefer a longer indulgence, there are also extended “long-lunch” options lasting up to three hours. Unlike ferries or hop-on tours, the Magistic experience feels unhurried—designed for you to sit back, enjoy your meal, and let Sydney’s skyline glide past.
Food and Dining
Central to the experience is the multi-cuisine buffet served on board. The menu has broad appeal, covering fresh salads such as couscous, beetroot with feta, and apple chicory, alongside hearty hot mains like Mediterranean fish bake, butter chicken, beef wedges, roasted vegetables, and pasta basilico. For dessert, classics such as tiramisu round off the meal.
The food may not reach fine-dining levels of creativity, but it is fresh, plentiful, and diverse enough to please most palates. Dietary markers—vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free—are clearly displayed, which helps guests make choices easily, although it’s worth noting that special substitutions or modifications are not offered. For those with strict allergies, this limitation may feel restrictive.
Still, for a buffet that is prepared on the water and served in a restaurant-style setting, it holds up well and is often praised in guest reviews for both variety and taste.
Cost and Options
One of the most attractive aspects of the Magistic Lunch Cruise is its range of pricing options.
- Standard buffet cruise: from AUD 95 per adult, with children’s tickets typically starting around AUD 60.
- With beverage package: from AUD 125–155, including beer, wine, sparkling, and soft drinks.
- Extended long-lunch: usually AUD 110–135, giving guests more time on the harbour.
Online bookings frequently include discounts or promotional offers, such as savings of up to AUD 25 per ticket or 10% off for groups of 10 or more. Optional upgrades—such as window seating or alfresco decks—can add a little extra cost but also enhance the experience.
Compared to dining in a harbour-side restaurant, the cruise offers a similar price point, but with the bonus of ever-changing views and sightseeing built in.
Value for Money
So, is it worth the spend? Guests often highlight the combination of convenience and atmosphere: instead of planning a separate lunch and sightseeing activity, the cruise neatly blends the two. One reviewer praised the “good views, large range of vegetarian meal choices, and value for money,” while another noted the friendly service and affordable wine list.
That said, not every review is glowing. Some older comments mention issues such as the buffet not being replenished quickly enough or limited flexibility for specific diets. These criticisms suggest that while the cruise is excellent for the general traveller, it may not suit those looking for luxury dining or tailored culinary experiences.
On balance, however, the consensus is clear: for the price, you receive a well-executed meal, a comfortable ride, and unbeatable views of Sydney’s landmarks in under two hours.
Final Verdict
At a cost starting around AUD 95, the Magistic Lunch Cruise delivers far more than just a meal. It’s a sightseeing tour, a dining experience, and a relaxing midday escape—all rolled into one. The vessel itself is spacious and modern, the buffet is varied enough to please most tastes, and the harbour views are nothing short of spectacular.
For travellers with limited time in Sydney, it is an ideal way to experience the city’s essence efficiently. Locals, too, often book it for special occasions or to entertain visiting friends and family. Unless you are seeking Michelin-star dining or highly customised menus, the Magistic Lunch Cruise represents one of the best ways to blend leisure, food, and sightseeing in Sydney.
The bottom line: Yes, a Sydney lunch cruise with Magistic is absolutely worth it—for the value, the views, and the experience it delivers.
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