Hosting a corporate event out on the Sydney Harbour is an absolutely fantastic thing to do, both for your company and your staff or clients. The glistening water, fresh air, Opera House and Harbour Bridge aren’t exactly bad to look at, in fact, the city’s Harbour is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. So, it’s safe to say that it makes a pretty good setting to up the ante of any corporate event. Whether you’re planning a big pitch, client meeting, training day or staff party, a Sydney Harbour Cruise is the place to do it. If you’re sold on planning your seabound occasion, but you’re not quite sure where to start, follow these top tips…
Look at the budget
The best thing about corporate cruising is that it’s a bit of a tighter expense than booking a run of the mill venue. That’s to say that it’s a package deal as opposed to booking a function room, catering, staff and all the rest of it. Instead, you’re going to secure a next-level view, space, catering, staff service and all tech that you might need for presentations or training exercises. This means that once you’ve got your allocated budget sorted you can hit the ground running and start looking for vessels!
Nail down your numbers
Boats naturally have a finite amount of space and therefore a specific number of people they can have onboard at any time. Therefore, it’s very important to have your exact numbers (give or take one or two just to be safe) determined nice and early on. This is particularly essential if you’re pitching for new business or hosting a meeting with a big client – there’s nothing more embarrassing than a capacity confusion when you’re just about to hop aboard.
Think about extras
As noted above, one of the very best things about Harbour cruises is that they offer up a tonne of extras that take all the work out of planning your corporate event. Be sure to check out your options for catering, drinks service and presentation equipment. Perhaps you’re planning some elaborate training exercises that require some extra gear? Your cruise provider (if they’re a good one) might even be able to help you out with this! Even if you want to introduce a theme to the day (hello, under the sea party!) you could get a little party décor assistance.
Choose your cruising time
The time that you choose to set sail can make a big difference to the nature and feel of your event. Morning time is best when you want your team sharp for training or if you’re using your vessel for transporting people to and from other venues. For presentations and lunch meetings, early afternoon is best. Looking for the perfect party setting or looking to blow your important clients away? Early evening cruises are ideal for watching the sunset on the Harbour – something quite special, really.
Pick a convenient spot
Your pick up and drop off spot is more important than you might initially think! You’ll need to choose a location that’s situated either close to your office, or that’s easy for you and your staff or clients to access. Planning on keeping the merriment going after your event? Pick a spot that’s close to restaurants or bars.
Ready to get planning your corporate cruise on Sydney Harbour?
