With its natural curves, iconic skyline and ever-changing light, Sydney Harbour is the city's most gorgeous open-air amphitheatre. It’s no wonder that water activities in Sydney take centre stage here – from adrenaline-fueled jet boating and kayaking at sunrise to leisurely lunch cruises and twilight sailing, each experience plays out like a scene in a spectacular show.
Sure, you could sit ashore and say, “What a nice harbour!”. OR, You could scream on a jet boat until your sunnies fly off, fine dine on a luxury cruise, adventurously fall off a paddleboard, eat breakfast on a kayak, climb the mast like Jack Sparrow—the list is never ending. Let’s now explore in detail the most sought-after water experiences on Sydney Harbour:
Sydney Harbour Cruising
Harbour cruises in Sydney are the perfect way to experience the city from the waters. Nothing beats the serene feeling of cruising past the symphonic sails of the Opera House, the steel-arched Harbour Bridge, the sarcastic moon face of Luna Park, the historic Fort Denison and many others. You could choose a sightseeing, lunch, sunset or a dinner cruise—each offering its own unique charm.
During the annual whale migration (May–Nov), you could choose a whale watching cruise to witness the Humpback Whales in action. Start from the harbour and sail into the ocean—immerse yourself in the playfulness of these mighty creatures.
Jet Boating
Picture a cinematic high-speed chase and a sightseeing tour— yes, welcome to jet boating in Sydney. Feel your stomach drop (in a good way) as the boat makes sudden turns, heart-pounding stops and dramatic splashes that leave no dry survivors.
If you’re in for an adrenaline-pumped adventure and the stunning sights of the harbour, then a jet boat ride is the ultimate choice. You could also share the experience with your families or friends to make it more memorable.
Kayaking
What if you could eat breakfast on a kayak, under the Harbour Bridge with views bathed in serene morning hues? Unbelievable right? That’s kayaking in Sydney for you!
While the bustling harbour has its own energy, a solo kayak excursion in the morning is a tranquil way to explore it. It is equally suitable for first-time and experienced kayakers. Pro tip: Wear comfortable clothes and dress like you’ll definitely get wet.
Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Ready to navigate the gentle waters of the harbour like a Buddhist monk on a floating yoga mat? Check out SUP—where calm and adventure meet! Activate stealth mode on the paddleboard, test your balance and use every muscle in your body. It’s literally a workout for your abs, as well as for your mind. Forget expensive therapy sessions—an SUP session is all you need for stress release.
Sailing and Mast Climbing
If you’ve seen Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean, sailing in style and thought, “That should be me!”, here’s your chance (don’t worry, the sea monsters and supernatural beings are excluded). Aboard a Tall Ship cruise on Sydney Harbour, you get to climb the tall mast, hoist the sails and steer the ship. This is a dream come true for wannabe sailors wishing to say “Aye aye” for no reason.
So, there you have it—the show of a lifetime, staged entirely on the waters of Sydney Harbour. These water activities each offer a unique thrill, making them some of the most adventurous things to do in Sydney. Whether you came for the thrill, the stillness or the skyline, don’t just be a spectator in the amphitheatre, choose your activity and conquer the stage. The stage is set, the curtains open and the only thing missing is the lead—you!
Sure, you could sit ashore and say, “What a nice harbour!”. OR, You could scream on a jet boat until your sunnies fly off, fine dine on a luxury cruise, adventurously fall off a paddleboard, eat breakfast on a kayak, climb the mast like Jack Sparrow—the list is never ending. Let’s now explore in detail the most sought-after water experiences on Sydney Harbour:
Sydney Harbour Cruising
Harbour cruises in Sydney are the perfect way to experience the city from the waters. Nothing beats the serene feeling of cruising past the symphonic sails of the Opera House, the steel-arched Harbour Bridge, the sarcastic moon face of Luna Park, the historic Fort Denison and many others. You could choose a sightseeing, lunch, sunset or a dinner cruise—each offering its own unique charm.
During the annual whale migration (May–Nov), you could choose a whale watching cruise to witness the Humpback Whales in action. Start from the harbour and sail into the ocean—immerse yourself in the playfulness of these mighty creatures.
Jet Boating
Picture a cinematic high-speed chase and a sightseeing tour— yes, welcome to jet boating in Sydney. Feel your stomach drop (in a good way) as the boat makes sudden turns, heart-pounding stops and dramatic splashes that leave no dry survivors.
If you’re in for an adrenaline-pumped adventure and the stunning sights of the harbour, then a jet boat ride is the ultimate choice. You could also share the experience with your families or friends to make it more memorable.
Kayaking
What if you could eat breakfast on a kayak, under the Harbour Bridge with views bathed in serene morning hues? Unbelievable right? That’s kayaking in Sydney for you!
While the bustling harbour has its own energy, a solo kayak excursion in the morning is a tranquil way to explore it. It is equally suitable for first-time and experienced kayakers. Pro tip: Wear comfortable clothes and dress like you’ll definitely get wet.
Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Ready to navigate the gentle waters of the harbour like a Buddhist monk on a floating yoga mat? Check out SUP—where calm and adventure meet! Activate stealth mode on the paddleboard, test your balance and use every muscle in your body. It’s literally a workout for your abs, as well as for your mind. Forget expensive therapy sessions—an SUP session is all you need for stress release.
Sailing and Mast Climbing
If you’ve seen Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean, sailing in style and thought, “That should be me!”, here’s your chance (don’t worry, the sea monsters and supernatural beings are excluded). Aboard a Tall Ship cruise on Sydney Harbour, you get to climb the tall mast, hoist the sails and steer the ship. This is a dream come true for wannabe sailors wishing to say “Aye aye” for no reason.
So, there you have it—the show of a lifetime, staged entirely on the waters of Sydney Harbour. These water activities each offer a unique thrill, making them some of the most adventurous things to do in Sydney. Whether you came for the thrill, the stillness or the skyline, don’t just be a spectator in the amphitheatre, choose your activity and conquer the stage. The stage is set, the curtains open and the only thing missing is the lead—you!
