Sydney Harbour and Ferries

Nothing compares to the serenity of a beautiful bright sunny day on Sydney’s magnificent harbour.  Sailboats can be seen bobbing happily across the waves, going nowhere in particular at a leisurely pace.  Or waiting patiently at their moorings in sheltered bays and marinas, rehearsing a synchronised dance directed by the wind and the tides.  Eye-catching groups of energetic “optimist” dinghies dart to and fro in formation, like a flock of birds wheeling and swooping in unison, as they navigate their course.

Cutting their way across the waves in a tireless circuit from wharf to wharf, amidst the frivolity of the sailing boats, weave the sober green and yellow workforce of the harbour  –  Sydney Ferries.

Sydney Harbour and Ferries
Circular Quay - Sydney
Circular Quay – Sydney

Did you know you can take a round trip on the ferries?

Not only are the ferries an enjoyable and practical way to cross the harbour, but you can also board a ferry and enjoy the views of the harbour on a round-trip journey.  A budget “harbour cruise”, if you will.  And why not?  The scenery certainly doesn’t improve with the cost of a more expensive ticket!

Sydney Ferries and Harbour Bridge
Sydney ferries and the Harbour Bridge

Round trip ferry tour suggestions

A popular ride is Circular Quay to Manly and back, which is about an hour round trip, on F1 Ferry Route.

Circular Quay to Mossman Bay and back is about a 40 min round trip, on F6 Ferry Route.

Views of the city of Sydney
Views of Sydney city from on board a ferry

If you have time to enjoy a longer trip, try the Cross Harbour Ferry Route F4.  This route from Pyrmont Bay to Watson Bay is about a 2 hour round trip if you start and end at the beginning of the route.  However, you can just hop on in the middle at Circular Quay and enjoy the trip from there.

If you’re feeling a bit more energetic, you could catch the ferry to Milsons Point, then walk up to Milsons Point railway station and do the Sydney Harbour Bridge Walk.

Lunch with a view

If you want a lovely view of Sydney’s iconic landmarks while you eat your lunch, pick something up from one of the many takeaway food shops around Circular Quay, and enjoy the sun and fresh air sitting on an outside seat.  (There is a chance of sea spray and wind when you sit outside, so if you need to come back looking pristine, stay inside! )

Sydney Opera House
Cruise past the iconic Sydney Opera House – perfect photo opportunity!

By the way, the Sydney Opera House is on the UNESCO world heritage list!  I’m pretty happy that I have a UNESCO site right here in my home city.

More information

To travel on the ferries and all other public transport in Sydney you need an Opal Card. Opal allows you to travel on all public transport in Sydney for $15.40 per day for an Adult.  Discounted rates of $7.70 for a Child and $2.50 apply for a Pensioner Monday to Saturday.  Sunday is a bonus because the travel cap is $2.60 for the day.   See you on the harbour next Sunday!

Sydney Ferries network map.

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Sydney Harbour and the Ferries

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