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Cruise Through Sydney - Discover, Dine & Relax
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.
From happy customers
Nadia
AustraliaJun, 2025
The booking process was straightforward and the tickets were easy to locate after the purchase. The staff were lovely and the boat was clean. The route around the harbour ensured we saw everything.
Vivid Sydney Canapés Cruise with Complimentary Drink
Simonetta
AustraliaMay, 2025
We loved the whole experience.
The staff were friendly and professional.
Once on the deck, the views of the surroundings of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge were spectacular.
The meal was fresh and delicious.
Can recommend!
Multi-Course Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Troy
CanadaDec, 2023
The tour was amazing, food was excellent, staff were very friendly, entertainment was Great. I'd highly recommend it!
3-Course Long Lunch Cruise in Sydney
Glenn
Sep, 2022
great way to spend a relaxing day on the harbour. it was our last day and a great way to finish. beautiful food, drinks a bit ex-ey but not too bad, really good 2 piece guitarists, and the glorious harbour.
didnt realist it was a Captain Cook Cruise but when i did it gave me an immediate level of comfot as i didnt know what i was getting
3-Course Long Lunch Cruise in Sydney
Debbie
AustraliaJan, 2024
We loved the sunset cruise & the staff were amazing!
The whole experience & boat was even better than expected! Thankyou- we will return
Captain Cook Cocktail Harbour Bar Cruise
Quinn
Jul, 2019
Didn't factor in the sea sickness and totally forgot to take my pills. Thankfully there was a lot of other stuff to focus on
Captain Cook Cocktail Harbour Bar Cruise
Susanna
AustraliaSep, 2024
Every thing went smoothly and we loved taking visitors on a cruise to experience Sydney. They can take pictures of the Harbour bridge, Opera House and the surrounding buildings. Lunch was very good.
Premium Multi-Course Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Tania
AustraliaNov, 2023
We had a wonderfull relaxing Sydney Harbour Cruise. The staff were very attentive and the two course meal was most divine and served with a glass of wine. Booking was made easy and will definitely go again.
Premium Multi-Course Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour