Your ultimate event guide this holiday season
From Christmas and Boxing Day to New Year and Australia Day 2026, welcome the busiest time of the year by participating in some of the most exciting events in Australia
Australia transforms into a vibrant playground of joy, excitement, and celebrations from December through January. From the glittering lights of Christmas to the excitement of Boxing Day and the countdowns of New Year’s Eve, Australia’s events calendar is full of exciting things to do. And the best part? These on-water events offer incredible views, perfect for your holiday photos.
So, if you’re still looking for things to do during the school holidays and the summer break, we’ve got the best events for you.
1. Christmas Dinner Cruise onboard Captain Cook Cruises in Perth
The city of Perth comes alive during Christmas – from beachside barbecues to carolling sessions, it’s a wonderful time of the year. So why not make it count and join a Christmas-themed buffet dinner on board a scenic Swan River Cruise? Enjoy the city pass by as you dig into a menu fit for Gods; it includes Exmouth tiger prawns, honey and orange glazed leg of ham, baked barramundi, 5 cheese arancini, fruit mince pies, Christmas pavlova and more.
How to book: Captain Cook Christmas Dinner Cruise
2. Christmas Day Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Escape the kitchen chaos and join Captain Cook Cruises for a lavish Christmas Day Lunch. Choose from three stunning decks, each offering a premium 3, 4, or 6-course menu bursting with festive flavours. Savour succulent roasted turkey, beef tenderloin, and decadent Christmas pudding, all while cruising past iconic landmarks bathed in the warm glow of the afternoon sun.
How to book: Christmas Day Lunch on the Harbour
3. 7-Night Christmas Cruise along the Murray River
Swap the festive cheer of the harbour for the serene beauty of the outback with the Murray Princess' 7-Night Christmas Cruise! Trade bustling crowds for the gentle rhythm of the Murray River, where towering red gum and sandstone cliffs create a breathtaking backdrop. Departing on 22 December, explore historic ports, indulge in delicious Christmas feasts onboard, and unwind under a sky ablaze with stars.
How to book: Murray Princess Christmas Cruise
4. Boxing Day: Sydney to Hobart Yacht race cruise
After the revelry of Christmas, slow down with a relaxing afternoon onboard Sydney 2000 to witness an Aussie institution – the famed Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Choose from three dining decks and a spacious open-air deck to enjoy the on-water excitement.
How to book: Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Lunch Cruise
5. New Years Eve on Rottnest Island
If you're looking to get away, why not bring in the new year on Rottnest Island? Spend the day exploring the island before an afternoon of fun with the whole family. And then enjoy the NYE Fireworks at 8 pm at Thompson Bay.
How to book: SeaLink Rottnest Island Ferry
6. New Years Eve Island Party on K'gari (Fraser Island)
Surrounded by nature & World Heritage-listed beauty, kick off 2026 with an unforgettable New Years Eve party in island paradise at Kingfisher Bay Resort or K'gari Beach Resort. With both resorts providing the tunes to dance the night away to - a DJ in the atrium from 6:30pm at Kingfisher Bay Resort and live music from 8pm in front of McKenzies at K'gari Beach Resort.
How to book: Explore Kingfisher Bay Resort packages or K'gari Beach Resort packages
7. NYE Party on Sydney Harbour
Nothing beats the breathtaking beauty of the World’s most beautiful harbour. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the ever-changing skyline, here’s a view that never gets old. Bring in the New Year onboard Starship Aqua that guarantees front-row seats to the 9 pm and midnight fireworks on Sydney Harbour. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you don’t want to miss.
How to book: Starship Aqua New Year's Eve
8. New Year's Eve Swan River cruise
Bring in 2026 with Captain Cook Cruises’ special buffet dinner onboard a scenic river cruise. This cruise provides an intimate dining experience and an escape from the bustling city. It’s perfect for those who prefer a quieter, more relaxed celebration.
How to book: Captain Cook Cruises New Year's Eve Cruise
9. 4-Night NYE Cruise on the Murray Princess
Ring in the New Year in style aboard the Murray Princess. This 4-night cruise departs on December 29th, offering a unique blend of luxury and adventure. Cruise the stunning Murray River, explore the Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Reserve among other onshore activities, and experience a spectacular New Year’s Eve dinner and celebrations.
How to book: 4-Night NYE Cruise
10. Australia Day on Sydney Harbour
Why not extend the celebration through January and book yourself an Australia Day Cruise onboard Starship Sydney? Enjoy the fireworks and water show from the comfortable and spacious outdoor and indoor decks with sparkling wine and canapes.
How to book: Australia Day Fireworks Cruise
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