Showboat Christmas Day Lunch Cruises

  • Departure LocationKing Street Wharf - 5
  • Boards12:00
  • Departs12:30
  • Returns15:00

Christmas Day on Sydney Harbour feels different when you’re cruising on the Showboat paddlewheeler with a grand festive lunch and great Sydney Harbour views. It’s a three-hour cruise curated for those who want Christmas to feel special without spending the day cooking up a feast at home.

The Xmas buffet lunch is the highlight: roast meats, traditional sides and tasty desserts, along with all the holiday favourites. Drinks are available for purchase on board, but you have the option of choosing the Showboat ‘with drinks’ package to enjoy a free-flowing service of drinks for the duration of your cruise.

Families settle in, couples head to the open verandahs for photos and children stay glued to the cathedral windows when the Harbour Bridge swings into view. From the cruise, the Opera House and the city skyline all feel a little grander on Christmas Day, almost like the city is part of the celebration.

In the words of Hayley G: “We booked [Showboat] for our Christmas Day lunch. It was completely outstanding from start to, unfortunately, finish! Didn’t want it to end! Will definitely be returning soon! Thank you to all involved.”

So, if the plan is a Christmas filled with good food, good company and a venue that never disappoints, then ho ho ho—the Showboat Christmas Day cruises in Sydney are the ultimate festive celebration!

Planning a festive celebration before the big day? Explore our Christmas party cruises and book ahead!

Christmas Day Cruise Packages

Showboat Christmas Day Lunch Cruise
$175pp

Enjoy a joyful Christmas on the harbour with a hearty holiday buffet and iconic Sydney views everyone will love.

Showboat Christmas Day Lunch Cruise With Drinks
$200pp

Make it a Christmas to remember with the family. Festive buffet lunch, flowing drinks and stunning harbour views in every direction.
Additional Information
Menu
FAQs
How long is the Showboat Christmas Day lunch cruise?

It runs for approximately 3 hours on Sydney Harbour.

What is included in the Christmas lunch?

Guests can enjoy a festive buffet with all the holiday-favourite dishes and desserts.

Are drinks included in the package?

There are two Showboat Christmas Day lunch packages: one with drinks and one without drinks. The ‘drinks’ package comes with unlimited wines, beers, juices and soft drinks. You can also buy extra drinks from the bar on board.

Are seats reserved or open seating?

All guests get reserved seats with full restaurant-style table service.

Can children join the Christmas Day lunch cruise?

Yes, families and children are welcome on board.

What landmarks can you see during the cruise?

The cruise passes the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, Fort Denison and other key harbour attractions.

Do I need to pay extra for desserts or drinks?

Dessert is included in all the packages. And if you’re not choosing the ‘drinks’ package, you’ll have to pay extra for the drinks!

Is the vessel air-conditioned?

Yes, the Showboat has air-conditioned indoor dining with access to wrap-around outdoor verandahs.

Guest Reviews
  • 25 December 2025
    My family has been doing the Christmas cruise for many years now and have always enjoyed it. The atmosphere is always festive, the staff are friendly and efficient, the food is always great and there is a good selection of drinks to choose from. The new band that played this year had people up and dancing. Highly recommend this cruise.
    - David R
  • 25 December 2025
    Amazing experience for Xmas Day lunch. Had an awesome time and will recommend to anyone. Thank you so much to Warrior and the team for making our Xmas Day so special
    - Neil M
  • 25 December 2025
    We had a wonderful time on Christmas Day. Thank you
    - Michael W