Sailing Trips in Sydney: The 6 We Would Pay For

1.Discovery Whale Watching Tour by Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 · 402 reviews · 2h 30m · from $63Our pick

From Aquarium Wharf in Darling Harbour, you’ll board Fantasea Avalon for a 150-minute whale watch. The catamaran reaches open water in about 30 minutes, leaving more time to search for humpbacks. Expect indoor and outdoor viewing, live English commentary, free tea, coffee, and water, plus optional whale photos from the onboard photographer.

“we did the afternoon whale watching cruise it was thought was so two of our four people backed out preferring to go milder seas it was hard to see any whales because it was so choppy we managed to find one who put on a bit of a display for us sadly all I managed to catch on my phone was four splashes the whales were just too fast for me couldn't hear the commentary over the booming seas The boat was adequate and seemed stable enough even in the larger waves so we could go quite a way out to find the whale activity”

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2.Sydney Harbour: Sunset Catamaran Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 261 reviews · 1 hour · from $41Best value

Set out from Man O’War Steps beside the Opera House for a relaxed 1-hour catamaran cruise around Sydney Harbour. With up to 30 passengers, indoor and outdoor seating, a snack platter, and one soft drink or water, you’ll see the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Darling Harbour in changing evening light. Crew members such as Phil, Emily, and Yolanda help with photos and keep the mood easygoing.

“The two crew on the boat were really friendly and helpful, making this magical experience even better. We had perfect weather for our trip which added to the views, but honestly we enjoyed it so much it would probably be great on a not so sunny day too. The food platter was a nice touch, as were the complimentary soft drinks and being allowed to bring your own alcoholic ones too. The cruise seemed to last for ages and in no way felt rushed, all in all one of the best things I’ve done in Sydney and extremely good value for money! Highly recommend.”

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3.Luxury Sailing Cruise on Sydney Harbour with Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 171 reviews · from $251Top rated

Join Captain David, and sometimes Emily or Natalie, for a five-hour small-group sail from Darling Harbour. See the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Watsons Bay, and Sydney Heads, then anchor near Store Beach for swimming, snorkeling, lunch, beer, and wine. The yacht carries up to eight people.

“A very calm , relaxing experience, weather permitting obviously. But great hospitality and great local information”

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4.Premium Catamaran Vivid Cruise with Welcome Drink

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 104 reviews · 1h 30m · from $63

Spend 90 minutes aboard Whitehaven, a 55-foot catamaran limited to 70 passengers, viewing Vivid Sydney lights, the Opera House, and Harbour Bridge from the water. You get a complimentary arrival drink, indoor and outdoor seating, and access to a licensed bar. Hot canapes and snacks cost extra. Sam has hosted some sailings.

“Easy to find the ship - the landing stages are numbered - you just go to the number you are given. Warm welcome to the ship. Free drink and reasonably priced drinks to purchase. Good views of the harbour. We sat downstairs so not much interaction but enjoyed the experience!”

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5.Sydney Harbour: 2-Hour Morning Yacht Cruise with Morning Tea

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 42 reviews · 2 hours · from $102

Meet at Circular Quay for a two-hour morning yacht cruise with an English-speaking captain and host. You will pass the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Fort Denison, bays, coves, and Bondi Beach while enjoying coffee, tea, juice, water, and light refreshments. Small groups may give you a more personal ride.

“The guide was friendly and very knowledgeable as was the captain. Very enjoyable!”

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6.From Manly: Sydney Harbour Hands-On 2.5 Hour Yacht Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 30 reviews · 2h 30m · from $119

Join Manly Sailing for a 2.5-hour yacht cruise limited to four people. Guides such as Will and Gregan explain sailing in plain English, then let you help set the sails and steer when conditions allow. Expect harbour beaches, waterfront homes, and views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, subject to weather.

“As we had no prior sailing experience, our guide Will walked us through the basics of how sailing works. Gradually, we were able to take part in operating the boat ourselves, which was a lot of fun. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would highly recommend it to anyone with little or no sailing experience.”

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