5 Top Scenic Ferry Trips in Sydney

Sunrise over Circular Quay

The ultimate way to explore the stunning Sydney Harbour? On a ferry trip, of course! Jump aboard these boats for an affordable way to explore happening neighbourhoods, coastal walks and hidden coves all around the harbour and beyond.

The ultimate way to explore stunning Sydney Harbour? On a ferry trip. Jump aboard and explore beaches, happening neighbourhoods, coastal walks and hidden coves.

Sydney Harbour is regarded as one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world – for good reason. This dreamy aquatic playground covers more than 240km of shoreline, with some 100 inner-city beaches and dozens of ocean pools to splash about in, not to mention swathes of native bush and postcard-perfect gardens. There are also plenty of landmarks, including Luna Park, Taronga Zoo Sydney, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The best way to reach them all? Via ferry. The main ferry hub is Circular Quay, with routes fanning out from here west up the Parramatta River, north to Manly and far east to Watsons Bay. Head out on a watery adventure and explore some of the city’s prettiest beachside suburbs, harbour islands and major attractions on these legendary ferry routes.

Hot tip: In most cases, you need an all-purpose public transport Opal card to ride on a ferry. These days, you can even tap on with a contactless credit or debit card. 

1) Circular Quay to Manly

There are few more legendary, or scenic, ferry trips than the route from Circular Quay to Manly – it has been wowing commuters for decades. You set off gazing at the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, then glide east toward the Heads before veering north past Sydney Harbour National Park to dock in Manly. And when you arrive, you’re greeted with breezy restaurants and bars on the wharf, and multiple beaches within easy reach. Whether you’re a Sydneysider or a visitor, this trip never fails to impress.

TIP: It’s hard to beat a drink in the sun at Hugo's Manly Restaurant, smack bang on the wharf. Watch the ferries come and go and gaze over a swathe of sand.

Manly ferries depart every half hour from Circular Quay, Mon-Fri 5.30-12.20am; Sat & Sun 6.20-12.20am.

2) Circular Quay to Watsons Bay

Hugo's Manly, Northern Beaches

Jump aboard this ferry and you’ll glide past some of the most salubrious suburbs in Sydney, from Darling Point and Double Bay to Rose Bay, with its seaplanes coming and going. Watsons Bay was once a fishing village, but today it’s a popular hangout for young and old alike – come here to splash about in the harbour, feast on fish-and-chips in the lively beer garden at the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, picnic in the waterside park or take on the South Head Heritage Trail walk.

TIP: Just steps from the wharf you’ll find Doyles on the Beach, an acclaimed seafood restaurant where you can sit down to a fancy meal – think tiered seafood platters – or grab takeaway fish-and-chips to enjoy on the sand.

Watsons Bay ferries depart from Circular Quay, Mon-Fri 6.05am-11.45pm; Sat & Sun 7.45am-11.45pm.

3) Circular Quay to Cockatoo Island/Wareamah

Aerial over Watsons Bay

The largest island in Sydney Harbour, Cockatoo Island/Wareamah has a long and storied history. It was an Aboriginal fishing spot for centuries, then after colonial settlement became a convict gaol from 1839 – 1869. Today, it’s home to a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Convict Site, alongside a waterfront campground, licensed cafes, a historic dockyard, holiday houses and apartments. Guided and self-guided tours are available, and there are exciting seasonal events.

TIP: You can BYO tent to pitch in the campground. Or opt for a little luxury with a premium tent furnished with creature comforts. The biggest luxury? Unbeatable views of Sydney Harbour. If you’re brave, book one of the guided ghost tours.

Cockatoo Island ferries depart from Circular Quay, Mon-Fri 6.15am-11.45pm; Sat 6.45am-11.45pm; Sun 8.45am-8.45pm.

4) Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo

Cockatoo Island with views back to Sydney CBD

Your day of fun at Taronga Zoo can kick off before you even arrive. Ferries from Circular Quay dock at the lower entrance to the zoo, on Athol Wharf Road – it’s a quick but scenic trip, and an equally speedy walk to get tickets. As an added bonus, the ferry wharf is also the starting point for coastal walks including the Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay Walk and the shorter trail to Bradleys Head.

TIP: Did you know that you can stay overnight at Taronga Zoo? The harbourside sanctuary offers both a luxe Wildlife Retreat as well as glamping experience Roar and Snore. Both give you exclusive access to the zoo after hours.

Taronga Zoo ferries depart from Circular Quay, Mon-Fri 6.48am-6.45pm; Sat & Sun 8:52am-6:42pm.

5) Circular Quay to Lane Cove

Taronga Zoo, Mosman

The Lane Cove River, or Turrumburra, flows from Sydney Harbour and past the historic neighbourhoods of Balmain, Woolwich and Hunters Hill. Captain Cook Cruises run the service on the public system with their rocket ferry offering a smooth, fast journey with views of some of Sydney’s most beautiful, leafy suburbs.

TIP: Stop at Balmain East for a sunny brunch by the heritage sandstone walls of The Fenwick or set up for a picnic at any of the spectacular parks you’ll see at each wharf.

Ferries depart from Circular Quay, Mon-Sun 7.30am-7.00pm.