How I Gave My German Friend an Unforgettable Day in Sydney
It’s been two years since I graduated from Humboldt University of Berlin. When I first arrived in Germany, I was a lost soul—just a kid wandering unfamiliar streets, searching for meaning and belonging. For a while, I was completely alone in a foreign country. That changed when I met my new roommate, Finn. He helped me cope with homesickness and gave me the courage to explore the world around me.
So, when Finn messaged me last month saying he’d be visiting Australia with his family, I was over the moon. The only downside? They were only in Sydney for two days, and Finn had just one day free to spend with me before heading to Tasmania. I knew I had to make that single day count—after everything he did for me, he deserved nothing less than the best experience I could offer. From axe throwing to one of the finest Dinner Cruises Sydney Harbour has to offer, I planned a day full of surprises.
Kick-Axe Throwing
After spending his first day with family, Finn dedicated the next day to us. We got an early start and headed straight to an axe-throwing venue in Alexandria. We arrived just as it opened at 100 am—there was no time to waste! Knowing that Finn is an adrenaline enthusiast and not someone who enjoys slow museum strolls, I figured axe throwing would hit the mark.
And it did. We turned it into a friendly competition and went several rounds. The venue had a bar menu too, and since this was a rare reunion, we let ourselves enjoy a few drinks. To our surprise (and amusement), even our slightly tipsy throws managed to land on target more often than not!
Jet Boat Ride
Next on the list was a high-octane jet boat ride. The alcohol might have had our heads spinning, but this ride cranked the thrill factor up several notches. The wild spins, sudden halts, and splashes of water all added to the excitement. At one point, Finn even flew off the boat—don’t worry, it was part of the ride! Everyone on board had a good laugh, and Finn loved every second of it.
Horse Riding at Twilight
With no time for a proper lunch—our stomachs only half-filled with beer and snacks—we rushed to Centennial Park for a horse-riding session. As evening approached, we found ourselves riding horses like medieval knights in the glow of twilight. It was a calm change of pace from our earlier adventures, but still just as memorable. We both felt grateful for the experience—it had been on our bucket list for a while.
Dinner Cruises Sydney Harbour
Finn assumed horse riding was our final stop, but I had one last surprise up my sleeve. Since he came to see Sydney, I figured the best way to show it off was with one of the most scenic Dinner Cruises Sydney Harbour could offer. His face lit up in awe when we boarded a luxury catamaran. The crew treated us with incredible warmth and hospitality, and we indulged in a lavish buffet while sailing past the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and more.
This part of the day was the calmest and most meaningful. Amidst the glittering lights and soothing breeze, we finally had time to sit down and talk—really talk. We reminisced about our university days in Berlin, caught up on life, and reflected on how far we’d come. At one point, we even wondered if all the adrenaline-filled activities were necessary, when all we truly needed was time to talk like old times.
Still, we had no regrets. It was a jam-packed day, but one we wouldn’t trade for anything. Finn spent the night at my place, and we capped it off with a horror-thriller movie—just like the old days. The next morning, I dropped him and his family at the airport.
It may have only been a single day, but those fleeting hours in Sydney reminded me of the lasting power of true friendship.
For more details: https://www.australiancruisegr....oup.com.au/sydney/di
