Set Sail for Adventure: Sydney’s Best Family Cruises and Boat Trips

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when you see Sydney from the water. The familiar sights of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge take on a new grandeur, the city skyline sparkles, and a feeling of pure adventure takes over. For kids, a trip on the harbour is more than just a ride—it’s a voyage on the high seas!

Swapping busy streets for the gentle waves is one of the best ways to explore our city. It’s a chance to slow down, feel the sea breeze, and create memories against the world’s most beautiful backdrop. From thrilling speedboat rides to majestic tall ship adventures, there’s a water experience perfect for every family.

Ready to cast off? Here are six of the best bookable cruises for an unforgettable family day out on Sydney Harbour.

This is the quintessential Sydney sightseeing cruise, perfectly designed for families. For 90 minutes, you’ll glide past all the major landmarks, secret beaches, and stunning waterfront homes. With live commentary, spacious outdoor decks, and comfortable indoor seating, it’s a fantastic and easy way to learn about the city.

Why You’ll Love It:  It strikes the perfect balance between being informative and entertaining. The duration is ideal for holding kids' attention, and the freedom to move between the indoor cabin and the sun deck means everyone stays happy, rain or shine.

• Location:  Departs from Wharf 6, Circular Quay, Sydney NSW 2000

• Dates:  Operates daily with multiple departures.

• Ticket Information:  Adult from $45, Child (4-15) from $29. Family packages are available. Book online for special deals.

• Family Tips:  If your little one is sensitive to motion, stay on the lower deck in the centre of the boat where the ride is most stable. Pack some snacks, or purchase them from the onboard bar.

Step back in time and sail like a pirate! An adventure on a traditional square rigger tall ship is a truly unique way to experience the harbour. Kids’ imaginations will run wild as they help hoist the sails, try steering the ship's wheel, and explore the historic vessel.

Why You’ll Love It:  It’s an interactive history lesson and a thrilling cruise in one. The majestic sight of the sails unfurling against the backdrop of the Harbour Bridge is unforgettable. It’s a hands-on adventure that feels worlds away from a standard tour.

• Location:  Departs from Campbell's Cove Jetty, The Rocks, Sydney NSW 2000

• Dates:  Operates daily.

• Ticket Information:  Adult from $59, Child (4-14) from $39.

• Family Tips:  This is an authentic sailing experience, so wear flat, comfortable shoes. The crew is fantastic with kids and actively encourages them to get involved, so don’t be shy!

For a truly awe-inspiring family adventure, head out to sea on a whale watching cruise during migration season (May to November). Witnessing the majestic humpback whales as they breach and play is a breathtaking experience that will stay with your family forever.

Why You’ll Love It:  It’s a real-life nature documentary. Fantasea offers a large, modern catamaran providing a stable ride and great viewing from multiple decks. The excitement of scanning the horizon and being the first to shout "There she blows!" is unbeatable.

• Location:  Departs from Wharf 8, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW 2000

• Dates:  Operates daily during the season (May - November).

• Ticket Information:  Adult from $99, Child (4-15) from $55. Family passes offer significant savings. Includes a whale sighting guarantee.

• Family Tips:  Choose a larger vessel like this one if you're concerned about sea-sickness. Take preventative motion sickness medication if needed and stay outside in the fresh air, keeping your eyes on the horizon.

For the thrill-seeking family with kids aged 5 and up, this is the ultimate harbour experience! The famous red shark boats perform heart-stopping 270-degree spins, power slides, and nose-dives, all while blasting a high-energy soundtrack. It's 30 minutes of pure adrenaline and laughter.

Why You’ll Love It:  It’s a rollercoaster on water! You’ll still see all the famous sights, but at exhilarating high speed. The hilarious commentary from the driver and the shared squeals of delight make for an incredibly fun and bonding experience.

• Location:  Departs from Circular Quay East, Pontoon 2, Sydney NSW 2000

• Dates:  Regular departures daily.

• Ticket Information:  Prices are approximately $95 for adults and $65 for children (under 16). Family packages available.

• Family Tips:  You will get wet! Waterproof ponchos are provided, but dress accordingly. Secure all hats and sunglasses. Minimum height requirement is 120cm.

Combine a direct, scenic ferry ride with entry to one of Sydney's best attractions. The My Fast Ferry service offers a quick and comfortable journey to Taronga's wharf. This package bundles your transport and zoo tickets for a seamless day out.

Why You’ll Love It:  It’s the most convenient way to do the zoo. No need to worry about separate Opal fares or zoo queues. The package includes the Sky Safari cable car, giving you incredible views as you ascend from the wharf to the top entrance.

• Location:  Departs from Wharf 2 & 6 Circular Quay, and Pier 26 Darling Harbour.

• Dates:  Regular services run daily.

• Ticket Information:  Combined Ferry, Sky Safari & Zoo Entry from $65 Adult, $45 Child (4-15).

• Family Tips:  By booking the package, you can often skip the main ticket lines at the zoo. Sit on the top deck of the ferry for the best open-air views on your way there.

For a truly special occasion or for families who want to go at their own pace, a private boat tour is the ultimate indulgence. Sydney Harbour Boat Tours offers personalised trips on their comfortable, smaller vessel, allowing you to create your perfect itinerary, from swimming at secluded beaches to simply sightseeing.

Why You’ll Love It:  It’s your own private adventure. You can ask the skipper to linger longer at sights your kids love, find the calmest spots for a picnic on the water, and avoid all the crowds. It makes the huge harbour feel like your personal playground.

• Location:  Departs from Rose Bay Public Wharf, Rose Bay NSW 2029 (other locations by arrangement).

• Dates:  Available for booking daily, subject to availability.

• Ticket Information:  Prices are based on hourly charter rates, typically starting from around $250 per hour for the boat (up to 6 passengers).

• Family Tips:  Bring your own snacks and drinks. Chat with the skipper beforehand to plan a route that suits your kids' ages and interests. They know all the secret spots!