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- Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off Tours
Cruise Through Sydney - Discover, Dine & Relax
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Big Bus: Sydney Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Hop-on Hop-off Harbour Cruise
See Sydney's sights on land by bus, upgrade for a cruise & a night tour!
- Elevate your Sydney trip with this 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off pass, enjoying unlimited hops to see your favorite sights as many times as you like.
- Gain access to the Red and Blue routes and see 20+ sights near all Sydney must-see city sights and the eastern suburbs of Bondi.
- Upgrade for a 1-day hop-on hop-off cruise featuring Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, plus a night tour to catch the city's sights after dark.
- With pre-recorded commentary available in 8 languages, enjoy the best stories and views of the city aboard the open-top double-decker.
- Some of the popular stops include the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Darling Harbour.
See Sydney's sights on land by bus, upgrade for a cruise & a night tour!
- Elevate your Sydney trip with this 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off pass, enjoying unlimited hops to see your favorite sights as many times as you like.
- Gain access to the Red and Blue routes and see 20+ sights near all Sydney must-see city sights and the eastern suburbs of Bondi.
- Upgrade for a 1-day hop-on hop-off cruise featuring Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, plus a night tour to catch the city's sights after dark.
- With pre-recorded commentary available in 8 languages, enjoy the best stories and views of the city aboard the open-top double-decker.
- Some of the popular stops include the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Darling Harbour.
Inclusions
- 24/48-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off bus tour
- Access to Red & Blue routes
- 1-day hop-on hop-off harbour cruise with smartphone commentary (based on option selected)
- 1.5-hour Sydney night tour with live English-speaking guides (based on option selected)
- Pre-recorded commentary in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Mandarin, Korean, Chinese & Japanese (on the bus)
- Free earphones (on the bus)
- Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking
Exclusions
- Hop-on hop-off service for night tour
For the hop-on hop-off tour and cruise, you can join a tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.
For the night tour, hop-on hop-off service is not available.
Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Red Route
The Red (City Tour) route loops through downtown, and you'll encounter a mix of historical landmarks, grand civic buildings, leafy parks, and vibrant shopping districts. Featured highlights include Macquarie Place Park, a peaceful heritage oasis beside historic Bridge Street, and the elegant façade of St Mary’s Cathedral, located near the Hyde Park Barracks Museum.
Popular stops: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Rocks & Botanical Gardens
Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Blue Route
The Blue (Bondi Tour) features scenic coastal vistas, trendy neighborhoods, and the vibrant buzz of Sydney’s beach culture, illuminating the city’s outdoor lifestyle and sun-soaked charm. You'll pass by the Intersection on Oxford Street, renowned for fashion boutiques and stylish cafes, before the route heads towards the golden sands and surf at Bondi Beach itself.
Popular stops: Bondi Beach, Rose Bay & Double Bay
Hop-on Hop-off Cruise Tour
- First cruise: 7:35am from Circular Quay - Wharf 6 (9:15am during weekends & public holidays)
- Last cruise: 6:40pm from Circular Quay - Wharf 6 (5:05pm during weekends & public holidays)
- Frequency: every 15-60 mins
- Popular stops: Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Shark Island
Night Tour
- Departure: 7pm & 7:30pm from Stop #1 (Phillip Street, Circular Quay)
- Frequency: Twice every evening
- Duration: 1.5 hours
Click here to see the night tour map.
What's not allowed
- Keep in mind that smoking is not allowed on the cruise.
Accessibility
- The cruises and lower decks of the buses are wheelchair accessible.
- Ramps are available onboard and around the boarding areas for easy access.
- Mobility scooters and large wheelchairs are not allowed on the buses.
- Just a heads up, each bus can only accommodate 1 wheelchair at a time. If there is already a passenger in a wheelchair, please wait for the next one.
- Your guide dogs are welcome on the cruise.
Additional information
- Make sure to check in with Big Bus first to receive your voucher for the hop-on hop-off cruise.
- The night tour does not include hop-on hop-off service.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
All photos
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
Elizabeth
Australiaott, 2026
+ 2 more
Great experience on tall ship Sydney Harbour, interactive with raising sails. Amazing staff on a wonderful historic sailing ship. Had a wonderful trip in such a picturesque city harbour.
Sydney Harbour 1850s Tall Ship Sightseeing Cruise
Haley
set, 2026
+ 1 more
What an amazing trip. The commentary was super knowledage, clear and understandable. Answered all my questions. Food was also delicious. All staff on board the vessel gave 100% customer service. I will be back for another trip.
Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Brekkie/ BBQ Lunch
Makoto
Japanset, 2026
+ 2 more
The cruise was relaxing a lot and comfortable with sparkling wine and great cheeze board we can keep enjoying during the cruise.
good weather helps us gteatly as well.
much more than expectation.
Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
Dale
Australiaago, 2026
Great cruise, food was awesome and great sights of Sydney. Would definatly recommend to anyone looking for a nice day out on the harbour.
Sydney Harbour 3-Course A La Carte Lunch Cruise
Jo
Australialug, 2026
This cruise was terrific. We had booked ahead, as we are on holidays from interstate and time was important. When we arrived we were warned it might be rough, and given advice on how to avoid being ill. The actual cruise was rough...but fun, with caring and attentive crew. It was unfortunate we didn't see any whales...a great excuse for another Sydney holiday...but a great afternoon all the same.
Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Marine Biologist Commentary
Emma
Australiagiu, 2026
Very exciting journey with family, the staff is very experienced, knowledgeable and drove to the area where the whale was nearby. Safety and life jacket demonstration was conducted when boarding. The boat was spacious, smooth, and very comfortable.
Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Marine Biologist Commentary
Vanessa
Australiagiu, 2026
This was a great value and fun cruise. It included enjoyable food, an open bar and a cruise that toured the brilliant lights of Vivid for 2 hours. I have shared this experience with EVERYBODy that I have spoken to about it and highly recommended it. My husband and I really enjoyed it.
Vivid Sydney Buffet Dinner Cruise with Open Bar
Yongjia
Australiamag, 2026
It took time for my family and I to find out where the cruise located. We were offered a complimentary drink. We couldn't find a seat in higher floor due to they were occupied by people who checked in early. Overall my family and I have a good time.
Vivid Sydney Sightseeing Cruise