FAQs
Can we play music on board?
Yes. A DJ can be included in your package, you can bring your own, or you can plug into our on- board speakers using an aux cord and a phone or mp3.
Can we swim off the boat?
The Seven Star and Aqua Bay are all equipped with swimming platforms so swimming is encouraged! Only daytime swimming is permitted while at anchor and we recommend that guests provide their own towels. Please advise your Event Manager prior to your charter if you plan on swimming.
What happens in the event of rain or strong winds? Will I get seasick?
Rain, hail and wind are unfortunately out of our control and all charters go ahead no matter the weather conditions. If there are any concerns for passenger safety your cruise may be postponed. Sydney Harbour has relatively calm waters, however if you are worried about getting seasick, we recommend taking a ginger tablet before boarding.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please contact your Event Manager for a copy of our Terms and Conditions.
Can I smoke on the boat?
Yes, smoking is permitted in the designated outdoor areas of all charter and luxury vessels.
What payments do you require and how can I make a payment?
Deposit amounts vary per vessel and are required within 7 days of tentatively holding a cruise date. Final balance payments are required 2 weeks prior to your cruise date and 4 weeks for NYE. Payments can be made by credit card with a 2.5% surcharge, direct deposit, cash, cheque or bank deposit.
Where can I board the boat? What time do I arrive to the wharf prior to departure?
Our preferred wharves for ease of access and safety for guests are Star City Casino, King Street Darling Harbour, Eastern Pontoon or Taronga Zoo. We recommend arriving 20-30 minutes prior to your cruise start time to ensure no one misses the boat!
Can I wear heels on board?
All types of shoes are permitted on board Aussie Magic, My Way and Bella Vista. There is a strict no shoe policy on Seven Star and Aqua Bay. Disposable slippers are provided on request.
What is the minimum cruise time?
Bella Vista, My Way and Aussie Magic require a minimum 4 hours hire every month of the year. If you would like a 1, 2 or 3 hour transfer please contact one of our dedicated Event Managers for a tailored quotation.
Seven Star and Aqua Bay require a minimum 4 hour hire during November – March and a minimum 3 hour hire during April – October.
How early can we arrive to setup the boat and what set-up will I get on the night?
A minimum bump-in of 1 ½ hours is provided, the option for longer bump in periods is by request only. Your Event Manager will work with you to create a floorplan suited to your event.
Am I able to advertise or create a public invitation for my cruise?
All Publicly distributed advertising (posters, flyers, pamphlets, social media promotions etc.) must be sent to your Event Manager for prior approval.
Is security required for my cruise?
All Occasion Cruises’ licenced security are required for underage cruises, school and university socials, 18th and 21st birthdays. The number of guards required is subject to guest numbers and varies between vessels.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, all standard menus can cater for vegetarian, gluten free and halal dietary requirements. Kosher can be catered for at additional cost.
Do you have a surcharge on public holidays?
All cruises on public holidays are required to be all-inclusive of food and beverage packages and incur a 25% surcharge on the total cruise cost.
Event Questions
Attire:
What is the dress code? While there is no strict dress code we recommend smart-casual. Don’t forget to bring a jacket!
Can I wear heels? Yes
Facilities:
Are there toilets on the boat? Yes there are multiple bathrooms on all charter and luxury vessels. There is a disabled bathroom on My Way only.
Does the boat have wheelchair access? Yes, Bella Vista, My Way and Aussie Magic can accommodate manual wheelchairs only.
Does the boat have multiple levels? This changes depending on the vessel, please contact your Event Manager for more information.
Is there a smoking area? Smoking is permitted in all outdoor areas
Activities:
Will there be sweeps on Melbourne Cup? No there are no sweeps on board.
Where does the cruise go (what sights will I see)? Our general cruise route does 1-2 loops of Sydney Harbour, cruising past significant landmarks including: Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, Clarke Island, Rose Bay, Shark Island, Taronga Zoo, Fort Denison, Kirribilli House, Luna Park, Cockatoo Island and Barangaroo Park.
Will there be a dance floor? Not a formal dancefloor but definitely plenty of room to dance!
Will there be entertainment onboard? Yes, a professional DJ.
Ticketing:
How do I get my ticket? Your ticket will be emailed to your nominated email address a week prior to the cruise once full payment is received.
Do I need to bring my ticket on the day? Yes, please print the boarding pass emailed to you and present on boarding.
Payments:
How can I make a payment? By credit card (2.5% surcharge for all cards) or direct deposit.
When is the final payment due? 2 weeks prior to your cruise date. 4 weeks prior for NYE.
General:
What time do I arrive at the Wharf? 15-20 minutes earlier than the cruise pickup time.
Will it be assigned seating? This changes depending on the vessel, please contact your Event Manager for more information.
Will there be non- alcoholic beverages included in the drinks package? Yes – soft drinks, juice, tea and coffee.
How long is the cruise? This changes depending on the package, please contact your Event Manager for more information.
How can I make a booking? Call (02) 9809 5499 or email [email protected].
Can you cater for dietary requirements? Yes, vegetarian and gluten free.
Are children allowed on board? Yes. Children under 5 are free.
Do have high chairs for infants? Yes, on request prior to the cruise.
Will there be swimming off the boat? Unfortunately swimming is not permitted during ticketed charters.
