English
English
- About Sydney Harbour
- Sightseeing Cruises
- Lunch Cruises
- Whale-Watching Cruises
- New Year's Eve Cruises
- Dinner Cruises
- Jet Boat Rides
- Vivid Sydney Cruises
- Scenic World Tickets
- Sydney Opera House Tours
- Sydney to Blue Mountain Tours
- Skydive Sydney Tickets
- Taronga Zoo Tickets
- Sydney Tower Eye Tickets
- SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Tickets
- Big Bus Sydney Hop-On Hop-Off Tickets
- Featherdale Wildlife Park Tickets
- WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo Tickets
- Captain Cook Cruises Sydney
- Madame Tussauds Tickets
- Mogo Wildlife Park Tickets
- Australian National Maritime Museum Tickets
- Australian Reptile Park Tickets
- Sydney Zoo Tickets
Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruises
Select your experience
- Best for families and tourists who want a convenient way to see Sydney’s must-see landmarks, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
- Book this if you want a flexible way to explore Sydney from the water. You can choose a fast-paced ride or a leisurely cruise with live commentary.
- What’s unique: You’ll pass by sights like the Sydney Opera House and Fort Denison while enjoying a fast ride or a serene experience.
- Icing on the cake: Upgrade to the premium experience to enjoy a house beverage and an Australian cheese and charcuterie board.
- Best for families and tourists who want a convenient way to see Sydney’s must-see landmarks, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
- Book this if you want a flexible way to explore Sydney from the water. You can choose a fast-paced ride or a leisurely cruise with live commentary.
- What’s unique: You’ll pass by sights like the Sydney Opera House and Fort Denison while enjoying a fast ride or a serene experience.
- Icing on the cake: Upgrade to the premium experience to enjoy a house beverage and an Australian cheese and charcuterie board.
Inclusions
- 1 to 2.5-hour sightseeing cruise
- Live commentary
- Tea or coffee
- Australian cheese and charcuterie board with 1 house beverage (menu here) (if option selected)
- Audio guide or printed commentary (click here) (based on option selected)
- 1 round-trip loop of the Hop-On Hop-Off Harbour Explorer (if option selected)
- Small-group cruise (if option selected)
Exclusions
- Other food and drinks (available for purchase onboard for Classic or Premium cruises)
- Tip: While everyone gets the classic bridge and opera house shot, look for details like hidden coves, working harbor areas, or sailboats gliding by.
- The Express and Premium sightseeing cruises are wheelchair accessible.
- Assistance dogs and pets are allowed, provided they are restrained in a suitable box, basket, or other container at all times whilst onboard
- The experience is not accessible for people with back and neck problems, serious medical conditions, injuries, and pregnant women.
- Each adult ticket for the Express Sightseeing Cruise includes a complimentary child ticket.
- Enjoy onboard licensed bars offering food and drink purchases during the Small-Group and Premium cruises.
- The Express Sightseeing Cruise ticket is valid for a single round-trip on the Hop-On Hop-Off Harbour Explorer, starting and ending at Circular Quay. Disembarking at any stop will mark the ticket as complete, and reboarding will require the purchase of an additional ferry fare.
- These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.5
2.0K ratings
1.5K
351
63
21
120
What our guests say
Suriatie
Nov 2024Verified booking
The process of getting the boarding pass is smooth. No long que. The crew is very nice. The boat design is convenient, we can enjoy fresh air and have the best view from the upper deck.
Jason
Nov 2024Verified booking
Easy to book and an excellent cruise around the harbour. Many varied landmarks, some obvious, some less so all with a great commentary. Friendly staff. Great all round!
Cassandra
Oct 2024Verified booking
Saw all the icon sights of Sydney with a few extra ones we were unaware of thrown in. Commentary was informative and the photos opportunities were wonderful. Booking was easy online, and checking in was simple once we found where we needed to go. (Directions were perhaps not as clear as they could be)
Gerald
Oct 2024Verified booking
Very posh boat. Drink and appies were very nice. Good view of the harbour. The music was awful though. Lounge lizard music is dead. Play the real artists.
Troy
Sep 2024Verified booking
Great views and information about the harbor. However, the highlight of the event was our tour guide, Ruby. She was really great!
Gary
Sep 2024Verified booking
Just cruisey way to see the harbour and the ticketening was easy, could have had a commonatry to give us a idea about where and what see where seeing but then again the music was very good
Gill
Aug 2024Verified booking
Really easy to get the ticket online. Really enjoyable afternoon. Great trip all round the harbour and really informative. Loved the happy hour drinks too. Cheapest in Sydney!!
MARTIN
Jul 2024Verified booking
Amazing weather, comfortable seats and great commentary with good overview of the sights of the bay with a great sebse of humour. Calming music and relaxing environment.
Jeffrey
Jun 2024Verified booking
The Cruise was a fantastic experiance, the Staff were very lovley and the guide on the speaker was excellant, will definitely use them again.
Alexandra
Mar 2024Verified booking
The interesting and very friendly story telling. It was fun to listen to. And the tour was great, there was a lot to see and to learn.
Andrew
Feb 2024Verified booking
The onboard commentary was excellent, learned all sorts of interesting facts we would not have heard about by just going on one of the regular ferries that leave Circular Quay. Well worth the fare. Thanks to all the staff on board and on the dock. We would definitely recommend your tour.
Sue
Feb 2024Verified booking
Informative. Easy to get tickets. Tour needs to be a bit longer to go up around middle head and north harbour. Guide very friendly and helpful with information. Would recommend to others when visiting Sydney.
Gregory
Jan 2024Verified booking
Loved this boat tour. Our favorite part was the staff. The crew was so very friendly and the tour guide was great. We really enjoyed his narration of the surrounding sights and historical information on Sydney as a whole. Excellent experience!
Karen
Jan 2024Verified booking
We enjoyed the choice of viewing areas, commentary and highlights of the harbours despite the rainy day. Expected a little more of the 'included snacks'
Saad
Dec 2024Verified booking
Has Awesome time with family it would be great if some snakcs and juices were available on bord
Uwe
Dec 2024Verified booking
getting a good overlook of Sydney Harbour
Selina
Nov 2024Verified booking
Absolutely great x friendly staff
Maureen
Oct 2024Verified booking
Speed getting on board. Helpful staff. Beautiful views
Barbara
Oct 2024Verified booking
It was all really great. Fantastic staff food, drinks etc
ali
Oct 2024Verified booking
It was amzing, my daughter loved it.
Reta
Sep 2024Verified booking
It was easy to book. The ship was lovely and clean and spacious Sydney harbour was at its magnificent best
Dorothy
Jun 2024Verified booking
Expected to travel a little faster and see a bit more however still enjoyable !
Yongwoon
Jun 2024Verified booking
It was the amazing one. Also really lovely and good travel. Thanks.
Amira
Dec 2024Verified booking
Stephanie
Nov 2024Verified booking
- Best for groups, families, or solo travelers who want a relaxed and enjoyable way to sightsee while savoring a fresh buffet lunch.
- Book this if you want a 2-hour cruise around Sydney Harbour with a meal and great views of Circular Quay, the Opera House, and more.
- What’s unique: The buffet features Aussie-inspired mains, and an array of salads, sides, and desserts, with gluten-free and vegetarian choices available.
- Icing on the cake: The live commentary from the skipper enriches your experience by sharing interesting facts and stories about Sydney.
- Best for groups, families, or solo travelers who want a relaxed and enjoyable way to sightsee while savoring a fresh buffet lunch.
- Book this if you want a 2-hour cruise around Sydney Harbour with a meal and great views of Circular Quay, the Opera House, and more.
- What’s unique: The buffet features Aussie-inspired mains, and an array of salads, sides, and desserts, with gluten-free and vegetarian choices available.
- Icing on the cake: The live commentary from the skipper enriches your experience by sharing interesting facts and stories about Sydney.
Inclusions
- 2-hour sightseeing cruise
- Buffet lunch (see menu here)
- Live commentary
- Tea, coffee & water
Exclusions
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tip: Spot Luna Park, one of the oldest amusement parks adds a touch of fun and color to the harbor skyline.
- All children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- The lunch menu is tailored to suit vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free guests.
- The experience is not accessible for people with back and neck problems, serious medical conditions, injuries, and pregnant women.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.2
23 ratings
12
6
3
2
0
What our guests say
Allan
Dec 2024Verified booking
Everything was very good and the meal was a wonderful surprise. My only disappointment was the commentary which I couldn't clearly hear from where I was sitting.
Patricia
Nov 2024Verified booking
Loved the ease of registration & boarding. The staff very helpful & friendly Lovely food Buffet was only upstairs & staff helped my son carry food down for me as I can't do stairs Explanation of the Shore sites excellent
Dawn
Nov 2024Verified booking
We loved the cruise so much, my sister who I care for had never been to Sydney so it was so great to show her the harbour with all it has to offer. The food was first class and the commentary very imformative.
Paul
Oct 2024Verified booking
Easy to book online. Lunch was excellent. Very relaxing & guide was informative. Coffee station was excellent. Loved seeing the dolphins!
Sharon
Sep 2024Verified booking
Food was good but dessert was poor. Guide talked way too much about real estate prices. He never shut up so we could not talk to our guests .
Barry
Sep 2024Verified booking
Ticketing experience was very good. Overall the cruise was good. Good food. Perhaps could have had free cold water available.
Richard
May 2024Verified booking
Ticketing was easy. Ron was a great tour guide. Staff were friendly and made you feel like a VIP. Captain was great and very friendly. The ride was very gentle. Food was good value for money.
Mr
May 2024Verified booking
Very informative boat ride around the harbour. Great way to see a lot in a short time. Good value and a must do. 👍👍
MaryAnne
Oct 2024Verified booking
Scenery ,beautiful food,magnificent service! Just Lovely
Matthew
Sep 2024Verified booking
Meal good, pace of the trip and the views selected were great. The guide especially good.
Alison
Sep 2024Verified booking
The experience was made all the better because of Ron the tour guide's knowledgable and entertaining banter.
Declan
Dec 2024Verified booking
Taurai
Nov 2024Verified booking
Gordon
Oct 2024Verified booking
Maria
Oct 2024Verified booking
Ben
Sep 2024Verified booking
Geoffrey
Sep 2024Verified booking
Robert
Sep 2024Verified booking
Dianne
Sep 2024Verified booking
XIAO
Jul 2024Verified booking
Annemarie
May 2024Verified booking
- Best for history buffs and adventurers wanting to experience Sydney Harbour the way sailors did in the 1850s aboard an authentic tall ship.
- Book this if you want a hands-on, historical sailing experience where you can help hoist the sails and feel like part of the crew.
- What’s unique: You’ll be aboard an 1850s-style tall ship, complete with wooden masts and sails, with sights like the Harbour Bridge and Fort Denison.
- Icing on the cake: Get involved in the action by taking part in sailing activities, or simply relax and buy a drink from the bar as you cruise.
- Best for history buffs and adventurers wanting to experience Sydney Harbour the way sailors did in the 1850s aboard an authentic tall ship.
- Book this if you want a hands-on, historical sailing experience where you can help hoist the sails and feel like part of the crew.
- What’s unique: You’ll be aboard an 1850s-style tall ship, complete with wooden masts and sails, with sights like the Harbour Bridge and Fort Denison.
- Icing on the cake: Get involved in the action by taking part in sailing activities, or simply relax and buy a drink from the bar as you cruise.
Inclusions
- 90-minute Tall Ship Sydney Harbour cruise
Exclusions
- Drinks (available to purchase onboard)
- Tip: If you're interested in spotting marine life, such as dolphins, whales, or sea birds, be sure to bring a pair of binoculars.
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
- For everyone's safety and enjoyment, please ensure your child can navigate the deck's features, including ropes and obstacles. Children should also be mindful of other passengers' experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Best for travelers who want the freedom to explore Sydney’s top attractions, like Taronga Zoo, Manly, and Shark Island, at their own pace.
- Book this if you want a hassle-free, flexible way to see the best of Sydney Harbour, with multiple stops so you can hop on and off as you please.
- What’s unique: This Captain Cook cruise gives you access to waterfront destinations without being locked into a set schedule with a 1 or 2-day pass.
- Icing on the cake: Opt for a combo pass with Taronga Zoo entry, allowing you to cruise to the zoo and see Sydney’s wildlife, with one package.
- Best for travelers who want the freedom to explore Sydney’s top attractions, like Taronga Zoo, Manly, and Shark Island, at their own pace.
- Book this if you want a hassle-free, flexible way to see the best of Sydney Harbour, with multiple stops so you can hop on and off as you please.
- What’s unique: This Captain Cook cruise gives you access to waterfront destinations without being locked into a set schedule with a 1 or 2-day pass.
- Icing on the cake: Opt for a combo pass with Taronga Zoo entry, allowing you to cruise to the zoo and see Sydney’s wildlife, with one package.
Inclusions
- 1 or 2-day hop-on hop-off unlimited cruise (based on option selected)
- Access to 2 routes (Mon to Fri & Sat to Sun with public holidays)
- Access to indoor and outdoor decks
- Smartphone commentary in English, French, Italian, German, Japanese, Korean, Chinese & Hindi
- Free Wi-Fi onboard
- Entry to Taronga Zoo (based on option selected)
- Return ferry trip from Circular Quay or Darling Harbour (based on option selected)
Please click here for detailed route maps and boarding points, and here for the timetable.
You can join a tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.
Mon to Fri
- First cruise: 7:35am from Circular Quay - Wharf 6
- Last cruise: 6:40pm from Circular Quay - Wharf 6
- Frequency: approx every 60 mins
- Popular stops: Taronga Zoo, Shark Island, Darling Harbour
Sat, Sun & public holidays
- First cruise: 9:35am from Darling Harbour - King St Wharf 1
- Last cruise: 5:05pm from Darling Harbour - King St Wharf 1
- Frequency: approx every 30-60 mins
- Popular stops: Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay
- Keep in mind smoking is not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
- The entry decks are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Your guide dogs are welcome onboard.
- Pets are allowed on board provided they are restrained in a suitable box, basket, or another container at all times whilst onboard.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.5
3.1K ratings
2.3K
421
65
69
200
What our guests say
Huyen-Chau
Nov 2024Verified booking
The cruise schedule was not provided until we exchanged our tickets at the dock, so we didn't know that the cruise only had 2 scheduled time for 1 of the hop locations early in the morning. We didn't go early and so we were not able to stop at that location.
Blythe
Oct 2024Verified booking
Loved all of it. Great experience, wonderful guide, well organised and just lots of fun. The highlight of our trip to Sydney.
Roy
Oct 2024Verified booking
I recently did the Sydney Harbour Hop-On Hop-Off Cruise with a visit to Taronga Zoo, and despite some rain, it was an enjoyable and memorable experience. The cruise itself was a fantastic way to explore Sydney’s iconic harbor, offering beautiful views of landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The flexibility of the hop-on, hop-off system allowed us to explore at our own pace, and it was convenient to stop at different locations along the harbor. Unfortunately, the weather was a bit rainy during the day, which limited the time we could spend outside on the boat. But even with the rain, the views from inside were still spectacular. Taronga Zoo was the highlight of the trip, especially getting to see Australia’s unique wildlife. The zoo is beautifully designed, with incredible views of the harbor as a backdrop. Overall, while the rain put a slight damper on the experience, the hop-on hop-off cruise and visit to Taronga Zoo were still fantastic. It’s a perfect way to see Sydney’s famous harbor and spend time with nature at the zoo. I would recommend this to anyone visiting Sydney.
Melanie
Aug 2024Verified booking
booked at last minute on a sunny winter day - I visited Manly Beach and Watson's Bay - lots of room on board and all sailings were on time - a great way to see the harbour. Visiting from Scotland!
Clinton
Nov 2024Verified booking
The helpful and efficient service
Zlatko
Mar 2024Verified booking
The boat kept the times, everything went smoothly, Fantastic views from the boat.
RAHUL
Jan 2024Verified booking
Its good we was enjoyed our cruise trip, i will recommendation
Amy
Nov 2024Verified booking
Vivian
Nov 2024Verified booking
Angeline
Sep 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Why go on a Sydney Harbour sightseeing cruise?
Spot Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and more!
Go on the quintessential Sydney experience and see some of the most iconic spots in Sydney! Get the perfect view of the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour bridge, the Rocks, Jervis Bay and more, all from the comfort of your luxurious cruise!
Find the perfect Sydney Harbour sightseeing cruise for you!
Cruise name
Ideal for
Inclusions
Food & beverages
Booking link
Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise - Express
Families, couples
Sightseeing + Live commentary + Free WiFi + Indoor and outdoor seating
No
Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise - Classic
Families
Sightseeing + Live commentary + Snacks + Beverages + Activities for kids
Yes
Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise - Premium
Solo traveller, couples
Sightseeing + Live commentary + Welcome beverage + Aussie cheese and charcuterie + Reserved lounge seating + Air-conditioned super cruiser
Yes
Tall Ship Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
Families, couples, solo travelers
Sightseeing + Live commentary + 1850s cruiser + viewing decks
No
Sydney Harbour Hop on Hop off Cruise
Families, couples, solo travelers
Sightseeing + Recorded smartphone commentary + 1 or 2-day unlimited hop-on hop-off + Free Wi-Fi + Entry to Taronga Zoo
No
Sightseeing Cruise on Sydney Harbour with Buffet Lunch
Families, couples, solo travelers
Sightseeing + Live commentary + Refreshments + Buffet lunch + Open-air viewing decks
Yes
What you'll see on a Sydney Harbour sightseeing cruise
See all photos
Know before you go on a sightseeing cruise in Sydney
Timings
Getting there
Safety guidelines
What to carry
- Timings: While there isn't a fixed time for all cruises, remember that most Sydney Harbour cruises start around 9am, or earlier in the day.
- Average duration: Sydney Harbour cruises last 60 to 120 minutes, on average.
- Crowds: To avoid Sydney Harbour cruise crowds, set sail during the shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November) or even winter (June-August) for the least crowded experience, though dress warmly!
- Weather: For pleasant weather, we'd recommend going in the months of March to May (shoulder season) and September to November (spring).
- Train: Arrive at Circular Quay Station, directly connected to the wharf area.
- Ferry: Multiple ferries service Circular Quay. Wharves 2, 3, 4, or 6 are most common for whale watching cruises.
- Light Rail: Circular Quay is a stop on the light rail network.
- Walking: Easily accessible on foot from the city center (15-30 minutes).
- Train: Town Hall Station is a short walk (10 minutes) from Darling Harbour. Wynyard Station is also an option with a slightly longer walk (15 minutes).
- Ferry: Wharves 4 or 5 at Darling Harbour service ferries.
- Walking: Not as central as Circular Quay, but accessible on foot from the city center (20-30 minutes).
- Follow the crew's lead: They're there for your safety! Listen to instructions about moving around the boat, especially in rough seas.
- Life jacket: These will be provided, and wearing them might be mandatory. Know where yours is and how to use it.
- Be seated safely: Save the railing poses for calmer adventures. The crew will tell you when to sit and hold on tight.
- Be sun smart: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The sun's reflection off the water is intense, and staying hydrated is key!
- Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from the sun, especially if you'll be spending time on the open deck.
- Camera/Phone: Capture the scenic views and memorable moments with a camera or your smartphone.
- Comfortable shoes: If you plan to explore the deck or hop off at different stops during a HOHO cruise, wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Weather-appropriate clothing: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Bring layers or a light jacket if it's expected to be cool, and wear breathable clothing if it's hot.
- Cash/Credit card: Bring some cash or a credit card for purchasing snacks, drinks, or souvenirs onboard.
- Identification: Carry a form of identification, especially if you plan to consume alcohol or if it's required for ticket verification.
Frequently asked questions about Sydney Harbour sightseeing cruises
What can I see on a Sydney Harbour sightseeing cruise?
You’ll spot iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour bridge, and hidden gems like secluded coves and Kutti beach. On some cruises, you could even see some dolphins and whales!
What are the different types of Sydney Harbour sightseeing cruises available?
You can go on a Sydney Harbour Hop on-Hop off cruise, which will let you choose between 1 or 2 day cruises, on which you can get on and off whenever you want! Choose the Tall ship cruise if you want an 1850s vibe, and the classic sightseeing cruise if you just want to revel in the sights of the glorious Harbour. The express cruise is for fast cruising, and will finish in just 80 minutes, while the premium cruise will treat you like royalty, with charcuterie boards and lounging areas.
Is the cruise safe for children?
Sydney Harbour cruises are a great option for families. Most cruises have plenty of space for children to move around, and life jackets are always provided for every family member on board.
Which is the best cruise for me?
If it’s your first time in Sydney, we’d recommend going for the classic or premium sightseeing cruise, as you’ll get to enjoy a scrumptious meal while savoring the views of Sydney Harbour and its surroundings.
How long is the cruise?
You’ll be able to choose from a variety of timings for your express cruises that last 1-1.5 hours, Standard 1-2 hour cruises, or splurge on a premium cruise to spend 2-3 hours exploring the harbor, learning the history of Sydney, and spotting hidden beaches.
Where can I board the cruise?
Most cruises depart from Circular Quay or Darling Harbour. Your specific boarding location will be provided on the ticket upon booking.
What are the peak times or dates that require early booking?
Weekends, holidays, school breaks (summer months - November to January) and special events like Vivid Sydney or New Year's Eve fill up fast! Make sure to book your cruise tickets in advance (2 weeks to a month) to secure your spot.
Are there any discounts for children and senior citizens?
Avail a special family bonus on your Express sightseeing cruise. Get one child’s ticket free with every paying adult! For other sightseeing cruises, children below the age of 12 years get a special discount.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
All Sydney Harbour cruises, except the Tall Ship cruise, are completely wheelchair accessible, with features like ramps, accessible restrooms, and wide aisles to facilitate moving around easily.