The good thing about being a freelance writer is that sometimes, on rare occasions I score some free swag!

Through a client of mine, Rhythmboat Cruises, I was offered some complimentary tickets to go on a Vivid Sydney Cruise on Saturday night. We headed out to King Street Wharf and boarded the quaint, 2-deck, blue vessel which would be our home for the next couple of hours.

After trying (and failing miserably) to see the Vivid installations on public holiday Monday last year, I was a little apprehensive. The crowds were so overwhelming 12 months ago due to enormity of the sprawling event, I wasn’t sure I could face the bumping of shoulders, the frazzled mums, stressed dads and the wailing, overtired and over sugared kids. The problem was I really REALLY wanted to see the event! I quickly found I had no need to worry though, as the Rhythmboat vessel was my oasis of calm on the harbour. Not over crowded, friendly crew members and the best part was that we scored a great table on the top deck.

We drank wine, ate from a fresh hot and cold buffet (my tip is the chicken curry!) and got to see many of the outstanding, creative and ingenious art and light installations with an uninterrupted and up-close view from the harbour. All without the sore feet, anxiety and crowds. Once we got moving, some people came up to the top deck, taking snapshots, exchanging offers of taking group photos and having a chat while a DJ played hits on the lower deck for those who wanted to ramp up their Saturday night!

So, if you want see Vivid (and everyone should!) but dread the crowds, get yourself on a cruise and say Duffy sent you!

 

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