yacht overnight stay sydney

An Overnight Yacht Stay in Sydney

Sydney is full of beautiful hotels, many with stunning harbour views, luxurious amenities and excellent service, perfect for a romantic night away. But for the ultimate stay with your loved one, there is another option – an overnight yacht stay on Sydney Harbour. You’ll be closer to the water than any of the hotels, have complete privacy (no other guests bothering you next door) and enjoy a romantic dinner and breakfast aboard a luxury yacht. 

The Best Place to Stay in Sydney

Sydney by Sail offers the unique experience to sleep on a yacht in Sydney Harbour. We were lucky enough to experience this and indulge in a little luxury sailing. There are three different packages to spend a night on the harbour, which vary in duration, inclusions and the yacht you stay on. Whichever you choose, you will be treated to a private sail on the harbour, dinner, overnight stay and breakfast. Details on each can be found at the end of this article . 

Checking-in 

Departing from Darling Harbour, you’ll be given a tour of your home for the night. Our was the impressive Elan Impression 45.1 yacht. Featuring a beautiful deck with a table and seating area, kitchen/lounge area, 3 bedrooms (although there would only be two of us sleeping aboard) and two bathrooms. 

Setting Sail

Then it’s off for a sail around Sydney Harbour. As you head off from Darling Harbour, you’ll see some of the city’s unique buildings including the W Hotel and Crown Sydney as you pass Barangaroo before sailing towards the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. Despite having lived in Australia for more than 6 years, it never gets old seeing these two structures – especially from the water. 

You then have some time to sail around the harbour. As it’s just you and your skipper, you can choose where to go, whether you want to stop in a bay for a swim or even have a go at steering the yacht. 

You are likely to sail past Taronga Zoo, Point Piper – where you can admire some of Sydney’s most expensive properties, Shark Island, Watsons Bay and towards Manly and the Sydney Heads leading out to the Pacific Ocean. 

Dropping Anchor 

Then it’s time to head back under the bridge and drop anchor for the night. This may depend on weather and wind direction, our spot was Balls Head Bay, with views of Berry Island Reserve and across to Balmain. 

Goodbye Skipper 

At this point, you get a final run-through of the yacht and how it operates (not in terms of sailing – just how to turn lights on and off and make sure you don’t run out of battery or water). Then the skipper departs and you’re left alone for the night. It’s pretty exciting being left in charge of a luxurious yacht for the evening – it definitely gave us a glimpse of the life of the rich and famous. You can take another swim, relax on the deck with a drink of your choice, or whatever takes your fancy on your romantic overnight yacht stay. 

When booking your Sydney overnight sailing experience, you’ll be asked to choose what you would like to eat for dinner and breakfast. This is all then provided for you in the fridge onboard the yacht. Dinner options include seafood platters, antipasto or cheeseboards, and various salads. 

We couldn’t have asked for better weather for our overnight boat stay on Sydney Harbour and we enjoyed our dinner on the deck as the sun set. But even if it rains you can cosy up in the lounge below deck. 

Sleeping on a Yacht 

Our room was at the front of the boat, with windows above and to the side. It’s an incredible feeling falling asleep (and waking up) to the sound of the water just outside. Balls Head Bay is very secluded, with minimal passing traffic, so the wasn’t much movement on the boat and it was very easy to fall asleep aboard the yacht. 

We woke as the sun rose to a glorious sunny morning and tranquil still harbour. 

Breakfast 

As the yachts are equipped with kitchens you have the option of cooking your breakfast onboard, but we opted for a very Aussie breakfast of smashed avo, tomato and mint on sourdough, accompanied by fruit, yoghurt and a muffin. A cafetière and ground coffee is also provided along with fresh orange juice, which we of course chose to enjoy on the deck. 

You have time for a quick swim, or whatever else you fancy before the skipper returns to take you back to shore. 

Romantic Sydney Harbour overnight yacht stay

While you definitely don’t need a reason to book this experience, an overnight boat stay is great for celebrating a special occasion. Our skipper told us that many proposals have taken place on board the yachts and I can absolutely see why – it’s the perfect place to propose. For us, it was the first proper opportunity for a night away after the birth of our son – so even more special falling asleep knowing I would not be woken to the sound of a crying baby – mine or anyone else’s! 

Romance B&B Packages 

There are three options to choose from:

Includes a 2 hour harbour sail and overnight stay aboard yacht Hunter 36. Dinner and breakfast are included. $1295 AUD per couple 

Includes a 3 hour harbour sail and overnight stay aboard yacht Dufour 382 or Elan Impression 45.1. Dinner and breakfast are included. $1500 AUD per couple

Includes a 6 hour harbour sail and overnight stay yacht Elan Impression 45.1. or Dufour 412. Lunch, Dinner and breakfast are included. $2400 AUD per couple.

Thanks to Sydney by Sail for hosting A Lovely Planet. 

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Our Romantic Overnight Sydney Harbour Yacht Stay

If you are looking to do something special for your partner, a romantic Sydney Harbour Yacht stay is pretty hard to beat. As far as memorable experiences in Sydney go, this has to be at the top of the list!

Spending the night on Sydney Harbour

We recently had our first real sailing experience when Sydney By Sail invited us to check out their Platinum Romance B&B package . The timing could not have been better as our 15th wedding anniversary was coming up, and I could not think of a more romantic way to spend it.

Sydney Harbour is universally considered one of the most beautiful locations of the world. Spending the night and enjoying a harbour sunset and sunrise is something we will remember forever!

Jumping on board

Sydney By Sail is conveniently located at the Australian Maritime Museum Wharf, just a couple of minutes’ walk from the light rail and Darling Harbour parking garages.

They have several yachts, and today we are on the Elan Impression 45.1, their newest; it’s an impressive vessel with three double beds and two bathrooms! Plenty of room to bring your family or friends, but today it’s all for us!

This 3-hour harbour sail was to be our first sailing experience in a yacht, and when we awoke that morning to favourable weather, we were thrilled. It had been raining solidly for more than a week, and we expected that poor weather might see our romantic getaway postponed.

Skipper Mike welcomed us on board and gave us a quick safety briefing and then a tour of the yacht. It’s surprising how much space there is below the deck.

We were amazed at how spacious the kitchen and dining space was. The door in the bow was the main bedroom and a separate toilet and shower. At the stern another bathroom and two bedrooms (small double size).

Let’s get sailing

Under sunny blue skies, we made our way out of Darling Harbour, past Barangaroo and under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We have made this trip dozens of times on a ferry and several harbour cruises, but this is our first time on a vessel this small and it’s a completely unique feeling.

Approaching the Sydney Opera House, it was time to put the sail up and shut down the motor as we coasted past Farm Cove and made our way towards Shark Island.

We are sailing on a Wednesday, a popular day for recreational sailing on the harbour, and there is plenty of activity on the water. We enjoy watching the yacht’s race around their course just off Clark Island; Mike explained what looked like chaos to us – i.e. they are not really going to crash lol, it just looks like it!

We sailed past Bradley’s Head and Sydney Harbour National Park, making our way across the heads, stopping short of Manly Cove because the winds had picked up and we may not have made good time back to our evening stopover.

The million-dollar question we had before heading out today was, would either of us feel seasick. Thankfully, after some pretty horrible floods and rain in the week before, we had been gifted a very calm day with enough wind for the sails but not enough to make us queasy.

Sadly, the harbour was not it’s usual sparkling blue but a muddy tone because of the floods.

It took about 30 minutes to gain our sea legs and confidence to make our way to the bow, where we took the opportunity to laze about on the front of the deck to enjoy the view. You can however choose to relax in the seating at the stern with the drinks supply and chat with your skipper while he works.

By the time we were heading to our secluded bay to drop anchor, the sun was setting.

What’s including in your Yacht sleepover?

The Platinum Romance Package includes a 3-hour sail, snacks, dinner and delicious dessert treats. You can choose a continental breakfast or supplies to cook your own bacon and egg spread for the morning.

There is a range of platters, including an antipasto, cold cuts or seafood plate. A range of salads complements these; we went with a seared tuna and a falafel. For dessert, there was chocolate coated strawberries, brownies, macaroons and some Lindt chocolate.

They stock the fridge with juice and water. It’s BYO alcohol, so be sure to pack some Champagne for sunset and perhaps a nice red to drink before bed.

An impressive sound system allowed us to stream our favourite music from our devices; the only side effect was a flat battery just before dark, so don’t forget your charger.

If you tend to sleep late, set your alarm for sunrise and pop up on deck to enjoy it. If you are not ready to embrace the day, you can always pop back under the deck for another snooze!

What to pack for your sleepover

You don’t need to pack much for your overnight stay, pretty much everything was thought of right down to some late-night chocolates in the bedroom! I recommend a shawl or jacket for after sunset.

I would suggest you bring:

• Appropriate footwear – leave the heels at home – white sole shoes are best, but we took ours off as soon as we boarded.
• Swimmers in the warmer months – if you are brave enough to take a dip in the harbour.
• Plenty of your favourite beverages – I would have liked some sparkling water included.
• a book or deck of cards
• a spare battery pack for your phone – you will want to snap a lot of pics
• Earplugs if you find it hard to sleep with gentle water lapping the side of the boat

Anything we would change?

For us, the only thing we would have changed was better on deck lighting at night. It was such a lovely evening, and we were keen to play cards after dinner, but the only lighting was at floor level.

We mentioned this to the crew on pick up the next day, and they had not realised, having only recently taken delivery of the boat, so I expect they will add some lanterns or address this soon.

So do we recommend this overnight Sydney Harbour Yacht Stay?

You bet we do! While Sydney Harbour offers quite a few romantic getaway options, I think this has to be one of the more unique and one I would highly recommend to anyone looking to commemorate a special occasion, a marriage proposal or just a wonderful escape.

If one night just isn’t enough, learn more about Yacht Share with Sydney by Sail and enjoy a minimum of 33 days a year with a 10% share in a luxury yacht .

If you fancy spending a little more time by the water after your Sydney Harbour Yacht Stay? Check out these ideas:

• These bars offer superb views
• Hotels with a Harbour view
• Stretch your legs on these Sydney waterfront walks

We were guests of Sydney By Sail on the romance experience, but all opinions are our own.

1 thought on “Our Romantic Overnight Sydney Harbour Yacht Stay”

Love it Paula, I can totally imagine doing this to celebrate a special anniversary.

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• Yacht Charters
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Sunset Sail & Overnight Stay Onboard

Stay overnight in sydney harbour on a luxury yacht.

There’s no better way to enjoy the beautiful Sydney Harbour, Pittwater and surrounding locations than from aboard your own personal yacht. Come aboard and we will take you and your friends for a sunset sail, then leave you onboard to relax and enjoy the evening under the stars.

CUTTING LOOSE

Classic 61ft ketch yacht.

Experience life on a luxury vintage sailing yacht, that has a special place in Australian sailing history, having circumnavigated the world twice and boasted many notable owners. Experience the unique charm of her pristine furnishings and nautical features, as you unwind on her expansive decks and retreat to the gorgeous master cabin.

About the boat

• Two-hour sunset cruise and overnight stay for to 2 guests (5.30pm-7.30pm).
• Up to 16 additional guests can join the cruise for a fee.
• Amenities onboard include fridge, freezer, oven, stove top, shower, speaker system and toilet.
• Powerboat tender to and from the yacht, from a variety of city wharves
• $3,900 per night for 2 hour sunset sail and overnight stay for up to 2 people.
• Includes bottle of French Laurent Perrier Champagne, dinner and breakfast hamper
• Additional guests may join you for sunset sail at cost of $100 per person (maximum 16 guests in total for cruise)

Southwinds has an impressive English design pedigree and past. Designed by Robert Clark in 1948, her original plans are now in the Museum in Greenwich and her specifications registered with Lloyds.

Constructed with beautiful Huon Pine and launched in 1950, she would have been one of the fastest and largest yachts in Sydney Harbour at that time.  She has competed in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race, coming dead last!

The deck area comprises a massive top deck with dining table and seating, and plenty space for guests to relax and enjoy the scenic wonders of Sydney.

Beautiful Catalina 31 ft Yacht

Enjoy an overnight experience on our gorgeous, Cutting Loose. A 31ft Catalina designed for comfort, making for a perfect romantic get away on Sydney Harbour. This package includes pickup of your choosing, a luxury dinner, champagne, full breakfast and all linen.

• Two hour cruise around the Harbour
• Overnight stay with all linens and towels
• Complimentary dinner, breakfast, and wine with options to upgrade to French Champagne, Seafood & Red roses
• Pick-up from a variety of city wharves from 3pm, dropoff from 10am
• Package starts at $1075 per couple per night

Cutting Loose is a gorgeous Catalina 31 yacht – perfect for up to 7 people and great for couples (max 2 guests overnight). She has a large cockpit area with comfortable lounge seating & a pop up table for laying out food and onboard BBQ. Down below it has a full galley, bathroom with shower, double cabin with full headroom and esky for storing drinks and food.

If you have any questions about your overnight charter request, please email us or phone our in-house charters team on 02 9977 4000

Manly Sailing Ground Floor Manly Yacht Club East Esplanade Manly NSW 2095

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Frequently asked questions, offshore cruising options.

If you wish to expore further, most of these boats listed can cruise offshore to the sheltered waters of Pittwater and the Hawkesbury River. often the only extra cost incurred is extra fuel costs. Sydney Harbour Escapes specialises in organising stays for celebrites aboard our deluxe superyachts. Security can be organised and many optional services. Most of the vessels above vessels offer the capacity for extended stay charters. Often there is a discount for more than 24 hours. Ask for your specialised quote if this is not advertised.

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Overnight Stay

You have exclusive use of the catamaran

5pm pick up – two-hour scenic trip – 9am drop off

$2550 for up to four guests

BYO food, drinks and ice - the rest we have onboard - $100

Wharf fees apply - $50 per visit

LUXURY BOAT ACCOMMODATION

Sydney Harbour Luxe Charters provides exclusive luxury boat accommodation on Sydney harbour. A night on the picturesque Sydney Harbour is an essential experience for all traveling from near or far. Sydney Harbour Luxe Charters offers a wide variety of vessels that boast luxurious overnight accommodation. Why stay in a Sydney harbourside hotel when you have the option of staying on board Sydney Harbour itself!

For your on water accommodation, our high-end vessels are professionally crewed with 24/7 room service.There is no other way to experience the harbour in a more luxurious way. Our vessels boast staterooms that include king sized beds complete with en suites leaving you and your special guests in complete privacy & complete luxury on board Sydney Harbour.

Room Service 0 %

King size bed with ensuite 0 %, flexible stay times 0 %, privacy 0 %.

THE LENGTH OF STAY IS UP TO YOU!

Just like a hotel, with on water luxury boat accommodation there is no limit to how many nights you can stay on board and we are able to create an itinerary to suit your individual requirements.Our personalized charter itineraries will give you the flexibility to visit specific destinations and to enjoy your personal interests which may include; diving, snorkeling, photography, fishing or just relaxing on board our world class vessels. You will have complete exclusivity of your chosen vessel and premium privacy.

Live-aboard charters are perfect to mark any special occasions, birthday, anniversary or even a wedding. If you’re looking to give your international guests the full Sydney Harbour experience look no further than our luxury boat accommodation. Our premium service along with our premium boats for hire will ensure that all your needs are met whilst staying on board, with full time crew & personal chefs.

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Overnight Boat Hire Pittwater

Arrange an exciting star filled night in a tranquil bay, through overnight boat hire Pittwater.  Enjoy a romantic evening with a loved one, a family adventure, or a special night with friends, with an overnight boat stay.

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With well equipped vessels you can escape the stress of the city and reconnect to nature, whilst not forgoing the comforts. The rear deck and saloon area is open-plan style and wonderful for outdoor entertaining and also provides plenty of seating with shelter from the sun, wind, rain and cooler evenings. On the front deck, the trampolines are perfect for laying back and soaking up the sun’s rays. The vessel features exceptional cabin space with 2 double cabins, 2 singles berths, convertible saloon table and a full-size bathroom. The very functional galley is loaded with a large fridge and freezer, a small oven and gas stove making meal preparation hassle free.

For an overnight boat hire Pittwater sail and stay charter, the vessel will pick you from Church Point wharf (other locations are available), then take your guests on 2 hour skippered twilight cruise. Afterward, the skipper will then securely moor the boat at a nice bay for you to enjoy the evening in privacy.

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Seawind 1260 – Sail and Stay

• $1250 per night
• Min 5 nights
• Max 6 people
• Linen and towels are provided
• BYO pillows
• Boat available from Royal Motor yacht Club, Newport or travel with skipper from Sydney

Tashtego - classic timber yacht

• 2 guests from $550
• Check in 3-4 pm. Check out 930am
• Yacht located near Palm Beach ferry wharf

Seawind 1000 – Sail and Stay

• 2 guests from $1,000
• 4 guests from $1,100
• Check in 5 pm. Check out 9am
• 2 hour skippered twilight cruise
• Linen and towels
• Basic Consumables

Pittwater offers a huge array of beach choices for mooring your overnight boat. Waking up in the morning to stunning national park scenery. There is nothing better than a swim off the boat into a sandy Pittwater beach. After breakfast, the skipper will then take you back to the wharf.

Or for something a little different check out our Back to Nature Eco Cruise .

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• Overnight Charters Sydney

Overnight Boat Charters Sydney

Sydney Harbour Specialists can help you organise a unique and beautiful experience with an overnight liveaboard charter on Sydney Harbour.

We have a great range of boats from sailing yachts to super yachts with professional crew.

Below are just some of our recommended boats for Overnight Charters in Sydney:

38ft Sailing Yacht

AU$1595 (17.5 hours)

41ft Luxury Catamaran

From AU$2,500 (16 hours)

62ft Luxury Cruiser

From AU$9,500 (24 hours)

82ft Warren Yacht

From AU$13,000

87ft Sports Yacht

From AU$17,000 (24 hours)

100ft Azimut Yacht

From AU$15,800 (24 hours)

87ft Warren Yacht

From AU$20,000 (24 hours)

92ft Super Yacht

101ft Motor Yacht

From AU$22,000 (24 hours)

103ft Majesty Super Yacht

From AU$28,000 (24 hours)

110ft Luxury Motor Yacht

120ft Warren Yacht

120ft Super Yacht

From AU$28,000 (24hours)

121ft Italian Tecnomar Superyacht

122ft Majesty Super Yacht

From AU$30,000 (24 hours)

Contact us today for a chat about your overnight experience. We are happy to help and advise you on all the details regarding a Private Cruise on Sydney Harbour.

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An Overnight Boat Hire in Sydney

Sydney, while being famous for various attractions, is quite well-known for its waterfront. Therefore, hiring boats to cruise Sydney Harbour or the multiple rivers is a typical adventure for both locals and tourists.

Sydney is lovely to view during the day, but it comes even more alive during the night. So instead of staying in a hotel, you will have a better experience on an overnight boat hire in Sydney . It can be a romantic evening with your better half or a memorable night out with the family.

If you are worried about your privacy, you don't need to. Boat hire companies are quite accommodating to customers. While you can take self-driven boats, the skippered yachts are common for overnight cruises too.

The skipper takes you on a timed twilight cruise depending on your itinerary. They will then moor the boat at a bay on the harbour or a safe marina berth.

They either exit or stay in a separate cabin in case you have hired the luxury option. You can stay on the boat and enjoy a relaxing time with fantastic views or take your time around exploring.

It is easy to find the type of boat and experience you require when choosing an overnight cruise in Sydney Harbour . The boat hire companies offer multiple options so almost everyone can fund something fit for their needs.

Amenities on an overnight boat hire in Sydney

If you choose a more extended stay cruise, it will come with some essential amenities to make a night stay completely comfortable. However, different options can be selected, which feature additional amenities.

For example, a bottle of champagne, sailing, breakfast, etc. apart from the night stay, the general facilities include a skipper, cleaning, service, etc.

Sights to enjoy during a cruise

Depending on your chosen journey, you will experience multiple views during your route. The fun thing about the harbour is that it is hardly ever dull. You will find unusual itineraries during different months of the year, and each one is wonderful on its own.

Some familiar sights include the Sydney Harbour Bridge, opera house, fort Denison, botanical gardens, Cockatoo Island, Barangaroo, and Luna Park. You can choose to begin the boat ride at sunset, which adds a new dimension to the views.

Why choose an overnight Boat?

The city can be a bit crowded during the day. It is crowded during the night too since it is such a tourist attraction and the waterfront is familiar ground for locals as well. But things are calmer at night, and the views are all lit up.

Also, this makes experiencing even more mesmerising. If you happen to take an overnight cruise on New Year's Eve, then it will be an unforgettable experience as the city becomes a fantastic stage to welcome the New Year.

If you have never taken an overnight cruise in Sydney , you should give it a try. Even if you are familiar with the views during the day, the night will show you a new side.

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• Accommodation

The 10 Best Boutique Boat Stays in Sydney

There are a million reasons to love Sydney, and the harbour has to be number one. It’s awe-inspiring and beautiful, and locals lap up any opportunity to be close to it. If you’ve been living in the harbour city for a while, chances are you’ve sailed it, strolled around it, soared over it, and maybe even climbed the bridge that stretches across it. But have you ever had a sleepover in it? The next time you’re planning a holiday, mid-week treat, or weekend getaway, consider cruising, and then staying overnight.

We’ve done the research for you – these are the best boutique boat stays in Sydney.

To slip away for Christmas, board True North’s adventure cruise ship. The Blue Water Classic is a four-day trip, during which you’ll watch the Sydney-Hobart yacht race, visit Taronga Zoo, sail along the Northern Beaches, and spend time in the Hawkesbury. There are a slew of optional activities, including restaurant dinners and a scenic heli tour.

The Blue Water Classic runs from December 25-29, 2018, and hosts up to 36 guests.

Top tip: Willing to splash  serious  cash?  Water Limousines’  overnight boat charters are ultra-luxe and cater up to six people. The price includes beverages and breakfast and dinner prepared by an executive chef, plus the services of a personal coordinator.

Sydney Tall Ships

To sail back in time on an old-world tall ship, climb aboard – and up the mast! – of the Soren Larsen. After travelling to far-flung places, she’s now based in The Rocks, and she’s a beauty. The ‘Cruise and Snooze’ package involves a wine and canapés evening sail with live music, a buffet breakfast, and a guided (and fascinating) convict tour of Goat Island.

Campbell’s Cove, Circular Quay

Able Hawkesbury River Houseboats

Just an hour’s drive from Sydney, the Hawkesbury River is the perfect weekend getaway. If you’re going with a group, look into the Five Star Spa houseboat. There’s a 10-person spa – so you can soak while you boat – as well as five bedrooms, a kitchenette, outdoor dining setup, BBQ, speakers, TV and a deck dotted with sun lounges. The company can also provide catering.

3008 River Road, Wisemans Ferry

Sailaway Sydney

To let the gentle waves of the harbour rock you to sleep, book Sailaway. The yacht – which was featured in AirBnb’s “feel like you’re living in a movie” campaign – will collect you from Lavender Bay Wharf and cruise around the harbour (if you like) before mooring for the night. The boat sleeps six people. Just pack a picnic breakfast and dinner.

Lavender Bay Ferry Wharf, Port Jackson NSW, Australia

Champagne Sailing

If you’ve always envisioning yourself sailing the harbour, sipping champagne without a care in the world, this company can make that a reality. Champagne Sailing’s Romantic Overnight Package is designed for couples, and includes breakfast, dinner, chocolates and a bottle of wine. The captain will dock the yacht in a secluded bay, and leave you for the night before coming back at 10am the next day. 

Manly, Rose Bay, and Woolloomooloo Wharf

All Occasion Cruises

All aboard AOC’s 70-foot European cruiser: the Aqua Bay. The epitome of luxury, the yacht hosts overnight stays, and has three cabins, BBQ facilities, a swimming platform, and WiFi in case you need to stay connected to the outside world. While you sail around Sydney, you can soak up the sun on the deck, or stop to snorkel, fish, or paddleboard. 

King Street Wharf 9 or Star City Casino Wharf

Taylor Made Escapes

Picture this: you cruise up to Palm Beach, and then hop onto a private yacht. You spend the afternoon sunning on-deck, fishing, and diving off the boat to swim and snorkel. Come dinnertime, the gourmet seafood platter you requested is served. Then you retreat to your bedroom, and are dropped off the next morning. If that isn’t idyllic, we don’t know what is! 

1151 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach

The harbour is home to hundreds of bays and coves, and Sailcorp will tailor your cruise to the secret spots you haven’t seen yet, while taking in the iconic sights of the city. Its ‘Sail and Stay’ package includes a two-hour harbour cruise and continental breakfast for up to six people. You’re welcome to BYO dinner and drinks, otherwise the team can call on a chef.

The Lavender Bay Boatshed, 23A King George St, McMahons Point

Sydney Dreamboats

For a double date to remember, book an overnight charter with the aptly-named Sydney Dreamboats. The company offers luxe, all-inclusive stays on its sleek cruisers. It starts with a two-hour sail of the harbour, during which you can nibble on chocolate, strawberries and a seafood platter, listen to music, or play DVDs on the onboard entertainment system.

The pick-up and drop-off point can be any ferry wharf in Sydney Harbour

Want to sail off into the sunset with that special someone? East Sail specialises in romantic rides. Hop onto a boat at Rushcutters Bay, and they’ll whisk you on a twilight cruise around the harbour before mooring in Taylors Bay. Your skipper will leave you to enjoy gourmet goodies from the Sydney Picnic Company (think brie and chocolate brownies), plus a seafood, vegetarian or meat-based main meal. Bliss. 

D’Albora Marinas, 1B New Beach Road, Darling Point

By Sitchu Team

Posted 4 Mar 18

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• Bareboat Charter
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• ROMANTIC SAILING GETAWAYS
• Learn To Sail
• Romantic Overnight Stay
• Price: $450.00 pr/ night
• Length 34ft / 10.36m
• Guest Capacity 2

• ROMANTIC SAILING GETAWAYS /

A romantic overnight stay on one of our yachts at Lavender Bay is a unique experience and a perfect romantic getaway. This package suitable for a couple looking to do something unique and romantic or for a family. Lavender Bay’s location evokes feelings of romance itself. It is nestled in at the base of Wendy’s Secret Garden and directly opposite Luna Park. The night lights, the gentle sway of the harbour and the lush green surroundings all combine to make the ideal overnight package.

Included in your overnight stay is a private tender run to one of our Bavaria 34s. The Bavarias are manufactured in Germany to a very high standard. Each yacht has a minimum of two cabins, and two comfortable marine bathrooms. A spacious lounge on the lower deck is an ideal place to relax at the end of an evening to share a nightcap. The galley is also very well equipped. All the amenities you require for an overnight stay are on board. A fridge, an icebox, a cooktop and a little oven. You can prepare something special on your overnight stay.

Up above, the cockpit is the ideal place to relax on your overnight stay and enjoy the views. A fold out table for your nibbles and glass of wine makes for a perfect evening. The glitter of lights from Luna Park and the city lights across the harbour combine to create a relaxing atmosphere on your romantic overnight stay. It is private, secluded yet you have access to the whole city, and most of all romantic.

The cabins on the Bavarias are well appointed and a romantic overnight stay will also be comfortable. Fall asleep to the sway of the Harbour before waking up to the gentle sway of the Harbour. Spend some time out in the cockpit and watch the Harbour come to life. At approximately 9am, a private tender will pick you up again and bring you to shore capping off a memorable and unique romantic overnight stay.

Package Inclusions

Rate: $450 per night

• Overnight stay on a Bavaria 34
• Moored at Lavender Bay
• Check-in between 3-5pm
• 9am checkout

*Public Holiday surcharges apply.

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Sailcorp Yacht Charter

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Gold Overnight Yacht Stay with Gourmet Meals

4.8 ( 121 reviews)

Indulge in a private yacht experience without the headache of maintenance with Sydney by Sail. Their Romantic Overnight Gold B&B package gives you and your loved one a chance to explore the Harbour on a private two-hour sail across the Harbour before lazing around on your yacht with dinner, bedding and breakfast all provided for you. Led by a professional skipper who will leave you in the evening and pick you up in the morning, you can enjoy the finer points of a night out on the water with your loved one or just spend the time as a luxury getaway.

Key details

What's included.

• 2 hour private sail
• Spend the evening together, then head back to land next morning
• Professional skipper with the option to helm the ship yourselves
• Gourmet dinner and breakfast provided
• Departure at approx 5pm (earlier during winter), return at 10:00am the next day
• This experience is subject to Sydney by Sail's cancellation policy

Important information

• Departure time is approximately at 5pm so please arrive around 4:30pm. You will be returning back at 10am the next day
• You will explore the harbour aboard one of the Hunter 36ft yachts and indulge in a 2-hour sail with an experienced skipper
• You will be taken to a secluded bay on Sydney harbour and there the skipper will drop anchor
• Food platters are included in the package but with each yacht equipped with a stove, oven, and cooking utensils, feel free to bring your own food and snacks and make the most of it!

General FAQ

• Convert your booking into website credit free of charge with 72 hours notice before your booking
• Cancellation fees may apply for bookings cancelled or rescheduled with less than 48 hours notice before your booking
• In cases of bad weather, Urban Swan may reschedule your booking or provide you with a full refund
• Free exchanges on all voucher purchases
• 3 year validity on all experiences and vouchers
• Redeem your voucher at any time by contacting the live chat or by completing this form
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Vivid Sailing Cruise and Romantic Overnight Yacht Stay

Sydney, New South Wales

Embrace the wonder of Sydney Vivid as you sail the harbour on a luxury yacht with a private skipper, then anchor in a sheltered bay for an overnight stay.

DESCRIPTION

Experience the true essence of romance on this exclusive Vivid Sydney 2023 sailing cruise and overnight stay aboard a luxurious yacht. With Sydney Harbour as your setting, embark on an unforgettable journey from Darling Harbour, where you will be warmly welcomed by your friendly skipper for the evening. For the first two hours, revel in the stunning projections of Vivid as you sail around the harbour, taking in the breathtaking views of Sydney’s most iconic sights transformed by the spectacular light and sound show.

After the sail, head to a secluded bay where your skipper will anchor the yacht and leave you to indulge in a sumptuous gourmet dinner and romantic overnight stay on board. Admire the twinkling stars against the dark canvas of the sky before drifting off into a peaceful slumber on the tranquil waters of Sydney Harbour. Wake up the next morning to a picturesque Sydney sunrise feeling refreshed and recharged, ready to devour a delicious hot or cold breakfast to top off an already incredible experience.

You can choose to set off at either 5:00 pm or 6:00 pm and your skipper will return to pick you up and bring you back to the wharf by 10:00 am the next day, marking the end of a truly unforgettable experience. This exclusive Vivid Sydney 2023 sailing cruise and overnight stay is available only from 26th May to 17th June, so don’t miss this chance to witness the most romantic and stunning festival of light in the world from the best spot in town.

• Two-hour private Vivid sailing cruise
• Unaccompanied overnight stay on a luxury yacht
• Gourmet dinner and breakfast
• Hot tea, coffee and hot chocolate
• This experience includes an overnight yacht stay
• Begins with a two-hour sail session starting at 5:00 pm, 5:30 pm or 6:00 pm depending on how focused you are on seeing Vivid
• You will return back to the wharf at 10:00 am the next morning
• Available only during Vivid Sydney 26 May – 17 June 2023

Departure Location

• This experience departs from Festival Pontoon in Darling Harbour in front of the National Maritime Museum
• Darling Harbour is accessible via public transport or discounted parking is available to customers for overnight parking ($15.50)

Additional Information

• Please contact the experience provider for the full menu
• In extreme weather conditions the tour may be cancelled if safety is a concern; you will be contacted by the provider and rescheduled

Terms And Conditions

• Once the experience is booked for the number of passengers you pay for, any changes will not be refundable
• Name changes are accepted, but the number of attendees cannot change
• If choosing the family rate, the children will enjoy one salad box each for dinner

Cancellation Policy

• Change your booking up to 72 hours before the start time of your experience
• Changes are not permitted within 72 hours of your experience
• Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience

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LUXURY YACHT & OVERNIGHT EXPERIENCES

Experience a dream romantic evening with a private sunset cruise or experience the ultimate in luxury with an overnight stay on a superyacht. Browse our range of overnight luxury yacht hire experiences below, or get in touch with us to arrange a custom overnight experience or charter.

Overnight Harbour Cruise for 2

Create an unforgettable memory on this 2D1N excursion aboard a luxury sports cruiser.

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Your Overnight Boat Stay on Sydney Harbour

Are you looking for the best accommodation in Sydney for your wedding or a special event? Look no further than an overnight boat charter on Sydney Harbour, Sydney’s most premier accommodation. Relax, unwind, and wake up to the best views the spectacular city of Sydney has to offer. An overnight stay onboard one of Boat Hire Sydney‘s luxury super yachts offers a tranquil and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Overnight charters are a unique and special holiday alternative.

From a romantic evening and breakfast in bed to an adventurous night out with friends - without the taxi journey home. An overnight boat stay in Sydney can be anything you want it to be.  

What type of groups can we accommodate? 

At Boat Hire Sydney our vessels can accommodate to a variety of groups, housing overnight stays of 2 to 18 people with a wide selection of luxurious super yachts to choose from based on your needs. We can accommodate couples wanting a romantic getaway or larger extended families with children and grandparents in tow. Similar to a hotel, our luxury on board accommodation has no limit regarding how many nights you can stay on board. We can also create an itinerary to suit your individual requirements.

Planning your overnight charter itinerary 

The itineraries available for an overnight boat stay are limitless, and that’s where we come in. Whether you’re looking for a romantic overnight yacht stay or a three day escape along the harbour, BHS has the planning expertise you’re looking for. We guarantee smooth sailing from the first point of contact! 

Which boats are best suited to overnight boat charters? 

At Boat Hire Sydney we offer a wide range of boats from budget motor boats to luxurious Super yachts. Many of the boats in our fleet offer the option of sleeping on board the vessel. That said, there are those that are more suited for overnight journeys than others.

Our high-end overnight vessels are professionally crewed with 24/7 room service. Our rooms include king-sized beds with ensuite, leaving you and your guests in complete privacy and luxury while on the beautiful Sydney Harbour. Full time personal chefs can also be included. Contact the team at Boat Hire Sydney for advice on the ideal boat for your overnight charter. 

Will you have privacy on your overnight charter? 

For the period that you and your guests spending cruising around Sydney Harbour our chartered cruises always include a skipper and crew. Once the evening comes to a close the skipper will secure your boat at a marina (selected prior to your departure) and will leave you to enjoy a private evening. On some boats the skipper is able to stay onboard according to your preferences and budget. 

What should you pack for your overnight boat stay? 

What you should pack for your overnight boat charter depends a lot on the occasion and also the duration of your stay. 

A few items we recommend are: 

• Sunscreen 
• Swimming costume 
• Wine! 
• Pyjamas 
• A good book 
• Your favourite music 
• Playing cards 
• Travel size toiletries 
• Seasickness tablets 
• Soft luggage - as it’s easier to fit in the cabinets 

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• International

March 26, 2024 - Baltimore Key Bridge collapses after ship collision

By Helen Regan , Kathleen Magramo , Antoinette Radford, Alisha Ebrahimji , Maureen Chowdhury , Rachel Ramirez , Elise Hammond , Aditi Sangal , Tori B. Powell , Piper Hudspeth Blackburn and Kathleen Magramo , CNN

Our live coverage of the Baltimore bridge collapse has moved here .

Crew member on DALI said everyone on board was safe hours after bridge collapse, official says

From CNN’s Amy Simonson

A crew member on the DALI cargo ship sent a message hours after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed Tuesday saying everybody on board was safe, according to Apostleship of the Sea director Andy Middleton.

Middleton, who spent time with the captain of the DALI Monday, told CNN’s Laura Coates he reached out to a crew member after hearing about the incident Tuesday morning. 

He said there were 22 members aboard the ship from India who were setting sail earlier Tuesday morning and were heading toward Sri Lanka.

“I was able to reach out to a crew member very early this morning around 5:30 (a.m. ET) or 6 (a.m. ET) and get a message to them asking if they were OK,” he said. “That crew member responded within just a few minutes advising that the crew was safe, and everybody that [was] on board was safe.”

Middleton was told by the ship's captain Monday that the vessel was going to take a longer route to avoid risks along the Yemen coast.

“When I was out with the captain yesterday, we were talking while we were driving, and he advised that they were sailing down and around the tip of South Africa in order to avoid the incidents that are going on off the Yemen coast, and it was a safer way to go,” he said.

Middleton said the  Apostleship of the Sea  is a ministry to seafarers with members that spend time in the port and on the vessels as a friendly face to the seafarers that visit the Port of Baltimore, “taking care of their needs to make sure that they're reminded of their God-given human dignity when they're here in Baltimore.”

Search operation ends in "heartbreaking conclusion," Maryland governor says. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

Six people, who were believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning. The collapse came after a 984-foot cargo ship hit the bridge's pillar.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore told reporters Tuesday evening it's a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day."

Late Tuesday, it was discovered that two of the construction workers who went missing after the bridge collapsed were from Guatemala , the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said late Tuesday.

Here's what you should know to get up to speed:

• The victims: Eight people were on the bridge  when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and was later  discharged , fire official and the medical center said.
• The incident: Video shows the moment the entire bridge structure falls into the water, as the ship hits one of the bridge's pillars. CNN analysis shows that the  ships lights flickered  and it veered off course before it hit the bridge. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said the crew on the ship were able to issue a "mayday" before colliding into the bridge, which allowed the authorities to stop incoming traffic from going onto the bridge.
• Response efforts: Earlier, dive teams from various state and local agencies were brought in to assist in search-and-rescue operations, according to Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr.. The mission started with 50 personnel and continued to grow before the Coast Guard announced Tuesday evening that it was suspending its active search-and-rescue operation and transitioning to a "different phase."
• The investigation: Authorities are still working to establish exactly how the crash occurred. The National Transportation Safety Board will look into  how the bridge was built  and investigate the structure itself. It will "take time to dig through" whether the bridge had ever been  flagged for any safety deficiencies , NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said.
• Rebuilding the bridge: US Sen. Chris Van Hollen said the path to rebuilding the bridge will be "long and expensive." Senior White House adviser Tom Perez told reporters Tuesday “it’s too early” to tell how long it will take to rebuild the bridge. President Joe Biden said Tuesday he wants the federal government to bear the full cost of rebuilding the collapsed bridge, noting that it will not wait for the company who owns the container ship DALI to shoulder the costs. Funding could come from the Federal Highway Administration as well as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but it may require additional funding from Congress.

2 of the missing construction workers from bridge collapse were from Guatemala, foreign ministry says

From CNN’s Allison Gordon, Flora Charner and Amy Simonson

Two of the construction workers missing from the bridge collapse in Baltimore were from Guatemala, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement late Tuesday.

Those missing included a 26-year-old originally from San Luis, Petén. The other is a 35-year-old from Camotán, Chiquimula, the statement said.

The ministry said both were part of a work team “repairing the asphalt on the bridge at the time of the accident.”

The statement did not name the two people missing, but it said the country’s consul general in Maryland “went to the area where the families of those affected are located,” where he hopes to be able to meet with the brothers of both missing people.

The consulate   also issued a statement Tuesday saying its consul general in Maryland "remains in contact with local authorities," and also confirmed that two of those missing "were of Guatemalan origin.”

Six people, who were believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning when a cargo ship hit the bridge's pillar.

State and federal officials have not released information about the identities of any of the six missing workers.

Underwater mapping of bridge collapse area to begin Wednesday, Baltimore fire chief says

From CNN's Jennifer Henderson

Search operations near the Key Bridge collapse have shut down for the night due to dangerous conditions, but the process of underwater mapping with many local, state and federal dive teams will begin Wednesday, Baltimore City Fire Chief James Wallace told CNN’s Anderson Cooper Tuesday night.

Wallace said the portion of the Patapsco River is “tidal influenced, so it goes through tide cycles just like the open waters of the Chesapeake Bay does.”

The water depths in the area under the bridge vary from 40 feet to more than 60 feet, Wallace said. The deeper the divers go, the colder the temperatures they encounter, and the visibility is zero, he added.

 Wallace said when crews arrived Tuesday morning, the surface water temperatures of the Patapsco River were about 47 degrees with an air temperature of 44-45 degrees.

Here's what you should know about the historic Francis Scott Key Bridge

The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday after a massive container ship lost power and crashed into the iconic Baltimore bridge, sending people and vehicles into the frigid Patapsco River.

Six people, believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead and the Coast Guard has ended its active search and rescue mission.

Here's what you should know about the historic bridge:

• How old?: The Francis Scott Key Bridge, also referred to as just the Key Bridge, opened to traffic in March 1977 and is the final link in the Baltimore Beltway, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA.) It crosses over the 50-foot-deep Patapsco River, where former US attorney Francis Scott Key found inspiration to write the lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner, the MDTA says.
• How long?: The bridge was 1.6 miles long when standing, MDTA reports.
• Traffic volume: More than 30,000 people commuted daily on the bridge, according to Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.
• How much did it cost?: The bridge cost $60.3 million to build, MDTA says. Since its collapse, President Joe Biden said he’s committed to helping rebuild the bridge as soon as possible.
• About the port: Baltimore ranks as the ninth biggest US port for international cargo. It handled a record 52.3 million tons, valued at $80.8 billion, in 2023. According to the Maryland state government, the port supports 15,330 direct jobs and 139,180 jobs in related services.
• About the ship: The bridge collapsed after a container vessel called Dali collided with one of its supports. Dali is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk . The ship is about 984 feet long , according to MarineTraffic data. That’s the length of almost three football fields.

Baltimore woman says bridge collapse was "like a piece of family dissolved"

From CNN's Kit Maher

For longtime Baltimore resident, Ceely, who opted not to share her last name, seeing footage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse  Tuesday was deeply personal.

“I was very heavy-hearted,” Ceely told CNN. “Very tearful, thinking about the families whose loved ones may be in the water and just remembering when the bridge was constructed, and it was just like a piece of family dissolved.”

Ceely was at a prayer group Tuesday morning when she saw the news. She recalled being afraid when she first crossed the bridge while in Ford Maverick in 1975, but grew to like it because it saved time on the road.

“It was a main artery just like a blood line. It was a main artery to the other side of town. It was awesome. It beat going through the city all the time,” she said.

Elder Rashad A. Singletary , a senior pastor who led Tuesday night’s vigil at Mt. Olive Baptist Church told CNN that many church members watched the bridge's construction.

"It’s a part of the community. A lot of our individuals in our congregation drive that bridge to go to work, and so now it’s really a life changing moment,” he said.

"Heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day," Maryland governor says as Coast Guard ended search operation

From CNN's Aditi Sangal

More than 18 hours after the collapse of the Baltimore bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said it was a heartbreaking conclusion after the Coast Guard ended the search-and-rescue operation for the six people who were on the bridge when it collapsed.

It's a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day," he said.

"We put every single asset possible — air, land and sea" to find the missing people, he told reporters on Tuesday evening. "While even though we're moving on now to a recovery mission, we're still fully committed to making sure that we're going to use every single asset to now bring a sense of closure to the families," the governor added.

6 people presumed dead after Baltimore bridge collapse, Coast Guard says. Here's what we know

As the sun sets in Baltimore, six people are presumed dead after a major bridge collapsed overnight Tuesday, according to the Coast Guard. The Francis Scott Key Bridge came down around 1:30 a.m. ET after a cargo ship collided with it.

The Coast Guard said it has ended its active search-and-rescue operation for the missing construction workers who were on the bridge when it collapsed.

• What we know: Eight people were on the bridge when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and has been discharged . The Coast Guard has been searching for six other people. But, around 7:30 p.m. ET, the Coast Guard said it has transitioned to a “different phase” of operation, now it did “not believe we are going to find any of these individuals alive,” Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said.
• About the ship: The bridge collapsed after a container vessel called Dali collided with one of its supports. The vessel is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk . The US Embassy in Singapore has been in contact with the country’s Maritime and Port Authority, a State Department spokesperson said.
• The investigation: The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the collapse. A team of 24 experts will dig into nautical operations, vessel operations, safety history records, owners, operators, company policy and any safety management systems or programs, said NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy. A voyage data recorder will be critical to the investigation, she added. 
• Vehicles on the bridge: Officials are also working to verify the numbers of how many cars and people were on the bridge, Homendy said. Gov. Wes Moore said the quick work of authorities in closing the bridge had saved lives . Radio traffic captured how authorities stopped traffic and worked to clear the bridge seconds before the impact . Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr. said there is a “ distinct possibility ” more vehicles were on the bridge, but authorities have not found any evidence to support that.
• Looking ahead: NTSB will look into how the bridge was built and investigate the structure itself, including if it was flagged for any safety deficiencies , Homendy said. The federal government has also directed its resources to help with search and rescue, to reopen the port and rebuild the bridge, Vice President Kamala Harris said . Earlier, President Joe Biden said t he federal government will pay to fix the bridge.
• The economy: Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned the collapse will have a serious impact on supply chains . Until the channel is reopened, ships will likely already be changing course for other East Coast ports. Ocean carriers are already being diverted from the Port of Baltimore, where the bridge collapsed, to the Port of Virginia to “keep trade moving."

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This Gazan family has just started their new life here after their visas were cancelled en route to Australia

Nine-year-old Eleen Eissa was so excited to play with her newly donated Barbie doll that she immediately unpacked it after receiving it.

It's one of the first toys she's been given after she and her family fled from Gaza to Australia on temporary visas a week ago. 

As Eleen sat quietly next to her six-year-old brother Yusef on the floor of the family's new home in Melbourne, she brushed her doll's hair with a smile. 

Yusef doesn't speak much English but says he loves the pizza here, as he played Minecraft on the family's newly donated laptop.

Their parents and grandparents watched on, reminiscing the difficult past five months since the start of the latest conflict.

"We displaced so many times, I can't even remember how many," said Rami, Eleen's father.

The family's journey to Australia wasn't easy.

As they made their way to board flights in Istanbul, Turkey — after making their way to the Rafah border and a brief stay in Cairo, Egypt — Rami said they were "surprised" to learn his and his wife's tourist visas were cancelled, while his three children's and parents' visas were unaffected.

He said he was not told the reason why. 

The Department of Home Affairs told the ABC some visas were cancelled while additional checks were undertaken.

They said visas had been cancelled in cases where individuals had left Gaza without explanation, or where there had been another significant change in their circumstances.

Rami's father, Atef Eissa, boarded the flight to Australia, and the rest of the family were stranded for three days before their visas were reinstated.

Atef arrived in Australia almost two weeks ago, joining his wife who had arrived earlier that month.

Rami said their journey was particularly rough on their children, who just wanted a space to play.

'Families want to stand on their own two feet'

Palestinian Australian Relief Appeal (PARA) along with other community organisations said they worked with the Australian government to expedite their visas.

Manal Shehab from the community volunteer group Sisters 4 Sisters Support Services — a partner of PARA's — said volunteers at PARA worked "overnight without any sleep" to provide support for the family.

Organisations including PARA and Sisters for Sisters, which have been assisting with the resettlement of newly arrived Gazans, are calling for the government to provide more support.

"Right now, families want to stand on their own two feet," Manal said.

"The tourist visa they're on now doesn't allow them to work, and a lot of them do [want to] work and want to make an income.

"I feel like the government has to stand up, just like it did with the Ukrainian people [who arrived in Australia]."

Since February 2022, nearly 11,400 Ukrainian visa holders have arrived in Australia.

The Department of Home Affairs said they can access standard visa pathways, including the skilled, family, student and visitor visa programs.

Ukrainian nationals who have arrived on a temporary visa and are unable to access standard visa pathways or cannot return to Ukraine, may also apply for bridging and protection visas.

'At any moment we can die' 

Back in Gaza, Israel says it has killed and arrested hundreds of Hamas fighters who were using Al-Shifa Hospital as a base.

Hamas and medical staff deny fighters were present and say civilians, doctors and nurses have been rounded up.

The death toll in Gaza has reached 32,226 to date, according to health officials.

It comes as the United Nations Security Council calls for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and the immediate, unconditional release of all hostages.

Rami said they were "lucky" to get out of Gaza.

"At any time, at any moment, we can die, just like that," he said.

Eleen's mother, Yasmine, who's left her entire family behind in Gaza, said she often had to calm her children down during the bombing.

"I talked to them [my kids] and tell them not to be afraid," she said.

"But my three-year-old son would look at the rockets in the sky and not be afraid [because] he didn't understand and thought it was a game or a toy."

Rami, who was working as a journalist at his father Atef's media company, said the war also destroyed their livelihoods and they needed to start all over again.

He added that all they have left of their home are the memories stored on their phones.

"It was very hard and very difficult because … we [still] don't know anything about [the condition of our houses] right now," he said.

Leaving with nothing but the clothes on their back, the family has relied heavily on donations from community support services and not-for-profit organisations. 

"I miss Gaza yeah. But when I [was] in Gaza, I [was] so sad," Eleen said.

"I like [Australia] so much I'm so excited that I'm here. I'm happy."

Their first Ramadan in Australia 

The family is looking forward to spending their first Ramadan in Australia with their local communities, who they say have been "very welcoming".

Being able to have basics like food and water is a blessing, they said, and despite the hardship they've faced, they're thankful to have survived.

"We are fasting right now and it's very hard because of time difference," Rami said.

"It's very difficult for us and [the days are] longer here in Australia," he added, referring to the sun setting later in Australia.

Atef said they hope to return to Gaza when the war is over.

"We are peaceful people, we are professionals, we are educated," he said.

"We just need our routine daily life.

"We are in a safe place and thankful to Australia, but we hope the war is over very soon so we can go back and reconstruct to live a normal life."

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