On the water · SIGHTSEEING BOAT TOURS IN SYDNEY
This is the shortlist you would send a friend: 6 sightseeing boat tours in Sydney that repay the fare, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the thing to know before you commit.
Use a 1 or 2-day Captain Cook pass to explore Sydney Harbour by boat. Start at Circular Quay Wharf 6, listen to smartphone commentary, and hop off at five stops including Manly, Watsons Bay, Taronga Zoo, Darling Harbour and Circular Quay. Attractions and meals cost extra.
“Not all destinations are available on each ferry route. Great staff!”
Cover Sydney’s essential sights in 5 hours 45 minutes, from The Rocks and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair to Bondi Beach, then board a two-hour lunch cruise from Circular Quay. A maximum of 14 people ride in the Mercedes minibus, while the boat carries up to 80. Guides may include Graham, Nigel, Paul, Tyler, Vic, or Karyn.
“The bus driver named Graham seemed to be fixated on prostitution, and was very misogynistic in his conversation. He didn't respond at all to my reminding him over and over that females are not the only ones involved in prostitution and honestly I found it very inappropriate. It made for an uncomfortable and unpleasant bus ride as he went around and asked everyone about prostitution in their countries and women and sex and just really he needs to be reeducated. Or fired.”
You’ll board a private luxury vessel at Darling Harbour for a two-hour Sydney Harbour cruise for up to six people. Your captain guides you past Barangaroo, the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Woolloomooloo, Garden Island, Kirribilli House, and Athol Bay. Sparkling wine, water, and a grazing platter are included.
“great time on the water seeing the harbor. We got AWESOME photos which is what you really want out of this trip. It is 2 hours with no bathroom so plan accordingly”
Board a 10.5 metre catamaran at Man O War Steps beside the Sydney Opera House for a one-hour harbour loop. You will pass the Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison, Luna Park, Barangaroo, and Darling Harbour while enjoying Aussie snacks and one soft drink, juice, or water. Skipper Frank has received warm praise for his friendly service.
“Great Crew. The drinks and the appetizers were great. We had perfect weather and it was a beautiful skyline. Plenty of opportunities to take great pictures of the harbor, the famous bring and opera house. The Captain of the boat also shareRead more”
Join Sea Sydney Harbour aboard Kirralee for a relaxed one-hour catamaran cruise from Man O’War Steps. With up to 26 passengers, you’ll see the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Barangaroo, and Darling Harbour from indoor and outdoor decks while enjoying an Aussie grazing platter and water or soft drink. BYO alcohol is welcome with no corkage fee.
“Perfect, the staff were lovely and picky bits delicious.”
Board a modern luxury catamaran at King Street Wharf 5 for a 1.5-hour Sydney Harbour cruise. Enjoy unlimited sweet and savory scones, premium teas, and coffee while English commentary covers Gadigal history, the First Fleet, the Gold Rush, Barangaroo, and famous harbour landmarks.
“the trip around beautiful Sydney harbour was lovely..the commentary was informative with a bit of humour sometimes but when we were outside a little hard to hear..the time on board flew so we definitely enjoyed it..we had plenty of savoury or sweet scones with tea or coffee to enjoy..some hot chocolate for the kids would of been good tho..you could venture from inside or out which was good too ..also the crew were friendly”
Fifty countries, one thing in common: the best view is from the deck.
