Sydney · SAILING
26 reviewed
These 15 sailing tours cover the clearest choices for a Sydney day — compare route, duration, price and the detail that changes the experience.
Whale watching from Darling Harbour on a custom catamaran, two decks, onboard photographer, and a 30-minute run to open ocean.
“Service staff very patience and polite. Treat safety seriously.”
1-hour Sydney Harbour sunset catamaran (max 30) from Circular Quay. BYOB, snacks, and 360 views of the Opera House and Bridge.
“The sunset experience on the water was amazing. It was a perfect day to sip on wine (we brought) and nibble on the snacks they provided. They were on time and very nice!!”
Luxury small-group sail on Sydney Harbour with lunch, beer and wine, plus snorkeling time at Store Beach. 40-foot yacht, 5 hours.
“Excellent day sailing around Sydney Harbour. Our skipper David was very knowledgeable and experienced. Well worth the cost”
90-minute premium catamaran cruise on VIVID Sydney, capped at 70 passengers, with a complimentary drink and prime views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
“Despite difficulty locating the cruise vessel and much confusion on the dock with hundreds of people trying to find different boats, this was a worthwhile activity and I would recommend it. It was a small catamaran with about 50 passengers so we could move around freely. The lady in charge was outstanding - friendly and knowledgeable. (She even lent me a jacket because I looked cold!) I do recommend the company have someone on the dock with a clear sign and also give the name of the vessel when a booking is made.”
A small-group 90-minute Vivid Sydney catamaran cruise from Walsh Bay, with antipasto and BYO drinks for close, crowd-free light shows.
“This was a great tour, 90mins was perfect and captain very personable and talked to all thhe passengers”
54-foot catamaran cruise from Nelson Bay to spot migrating humpback whales and dolphins, with tea and coffee included, 3 hours.
“It was a beautiful day to be out on the water. Whales were a little illusive today but we did see two. The commentary was great and very informative. Overall was a great experience. Thank you”
A 2-hour small-group yacht cruise from Circular Quay with morning tea, views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi.
“We thoroughly enjoyed the Sydney Harbour Cruise despite the bit of rain. Our tour guide was very informative and entertaining. We’d recommend better signage and clarity in the meeting point and pickup.”
A 90-minute Vivid Sydney catamaran cruise from Walsh Bay with canapes and a drink, prime views of the Bridge and Opera House lights.
“My friends and I have a memorable experience, one we won’t forget. The staff were friendly and welcoming. Would definitely recommend the experience to anyone.”
Private catamaran hire on Sydney Harbour with skipper, flexible pickup, Harbour Bridge and Opera House views, and BYO BBQ options.
“We had the best time ! I highly recommend to have this amazing. Experience. They even let my kids have a go at driving the boat .”
A small-group 3-hour Sydney Harbour sail with Opera House and Bridge views, hands-on sailing help, and a relaxed vibe from King Street Wharf.
“Do not expect 3 hrs of sailing, despite the description. We motored the first 45 and the last 30 minutes. Bring your own food, as none is provided.”
Hands-on 2.5-hour sailing from Manly with small-group coaching, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House views, and a chance to set sails.
“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.”
Port Stephens dolphin watching and sailing on a catamaran, choose wet or dry nets, hear Karen and Frank's tips, tea or coffee.
“Great excursion and very friendly staff!! The dolphins were great and being on the wet and dry nets was fun for the kids”
Small-group whale watching by sail from Rose Bay, quiet Tasman Sea sailing, Sydney Harbour views, humpback migration May to November.
“Fantastic experience, the crew went out of their way to make sure we were comfortable, & saw Whales.”
Hands-on sailing on Sydney Harbour from Manly. Small group, 24-foot keelboat, safety gear and instruction, choose 1.5 or 2.5 hours.
“Outstanding! We had a wonderful time sailing from Manly Bay. Our sailing crew was amazing and allowed us to help as little or as much as we wanted. We loved it and would highly recommend this!”
See Vivid Sydney from the Heaven catamaran. 90 minutes on the water with canapés, a drink, and prime views of the harbour lights.
“boat cruise & staff was fantastic.. Enjoyed every minute.... Supplied complimentary drinks and snacks..”
