Sydney Harbour Cruise Hop-on Hop-off Tours

4.5(3,104 ratings)
Multiple route options
Multiple route options
Frequent departures
Frequent departures
Scenic views
Scenic views
























Cruise ship near Sydney Opera House on Hop-On-Hop-Off Sydney Harbour Cruise.
Cruise ship sailing under Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia.
Family on a Seine River cruise in Paris with Eiffel Tower in the background.
Ships docked at Circular Quay, Sydney with the Sydney Opera House in the background.
Watson's Bay ferry with Sydney Harbour Bridge in background.
Manly Wharf, Sydney
Sydney's Darling Harbour with ferris wheel and waterfront buildings.
Cruise ship near Sydney Opera House on Hop-On-Hop-Off Sydney Harbour Cruise.
Cruise ship sailing under Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia.
Family on a Seine River cruise in Paris with Eiffel Tower in the background.
Ships docked at Circular Quay, Sydney with the Sydney Opera House in the background.
Watson's Bay ferry with Sydney Harbour Bridge in background.
Manly Wharf, Sydney
Sydney's Darling Harbour with ferris wheel and waterfront buildings.
Cruise ship near Sydney Opera House on Hop-On-Hop-Off Sydney Harbour Cruise.
Cruise ship sailing under Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia.
Family on a Seine River cruise in Paris with Eiffel Tower in the background.
Ships docked at Circular Quay, Sydney with the Sydney Opera House in the background.
Watson's Bay ferry with Sydney Harbour Bridge in background.
Manly Wharf, Sydney
Sydney's Darling Harbour with ferris wheel and waterfront buildings.
4.5(3,104)

Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off Cruise

from
AU$42
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
Routes
Timeline
Map

1

Circular Quay Wharf 6

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2 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Sydney Opera House
3 min walk
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Sydney Harbour Bridge
4 min walk

2

Taronga Zoo Wharf

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1 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Taronga Zoo
4 min walk

3

Shark Island Wharf

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1 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Shark Island

4

Clifton Gardens Wharf

5

Watsons Bay

6

Manly, Wharf 3

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1 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Corso
3 min walk
  • Best for travelers who want the freedom to explore Sydney’s top attractions, like Taronga Zoo, Manly, and Shark Island, at their own pace.
  • Book this if you want a hassle-free, flexible way to see the best of Sydney Harbour, with multiple stops so you can hop on and off as you please.
  • What’s unique: This Captain Cook cruise gives you access to waterfront destinations without being locked into a set schedule with a 1 or 2-day pass.
  • Icing on the cake: Opt for a combo pass with Taronga Zoo entry, allowing you to cruise to the zoo and see Sydney’s wildlife, with one package.
  • Best for travelers who want the freedom to explore Sydney’s top attractions, like Taronga Zoo, Manly, and Shark Island, at their own pace.
  • Book this if you want a hassle-free, flexible way to see the best of Sydney Harbour, with multiple stops so you can hop on and off as you please.
  • What’s unique: This Captain Cook cruise gives you access to waterfront destinations without being locked into a set schedule with a 1 or 2-day pass.
  • Icing on the cake: Opt for a combo pass with Taronga Zoo entry, allowing you to cruise to the zoo and see Sydney’s wildlife, with one package.

Inclusions

  • 1 or 2-day hop-on hop-off unlimited cruise (based on option selected)
  • Access to 2 routes (Mon to Fri & Sat to Sun with public holidays)
  • Access to indoor and outdoor decks
  • Smartphone commentary in English, French, Italian, German, Japanese, Korean, Chinese & Hindi
  • Free Wi-Fi onboard
  • Entry to Taronga Zoo (based on option selected)
  • Return ferry trip from Circular Quay or Darling Harbour (based on option selected)

Please click here for detailed route maps and boarding points, and here for the timetable.

You can join a tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.

Mon to Fri

  • First cruise: 7:35am from Circular Quay - Wharf 6
  • Last cruise: 6:40pm from Circular Quay - Wharf 6
  • Frequency: approx every 60 mins
  • Popular stops: Taronga Zoo, Shark Island, Darling Harbour

Sat, Sun & public holidays

  • First cruise: 9:35am from Darling Harbour - King St Wharf 1
  • Last cruise: 5:05pm from Darling Harbour - King St Wharf 1
  • Frequency: approx every 30-60 mins
  • Popular stops: Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay
  • Keep in mind smoking is not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
  • The entry decks are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • Your guide dogs are welcome onboard.
  • Pets are allowed on board provided they are restrained in a suitable box, basket, or another container at all times whilst onboard.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off cruise

Trade traffic jams for ocean swells! Sydney’s hop-on hop-off harbour cruise takes you to top spots like Shark Island and Taronga Zoo, minus the stress. Glide past the city’s iconic skyline with a salty breeze in your hair and a crowd-free view in sight. Who needs roads when you’ve got waves?

Why choose Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off cruise?

All aboard for Sydney’s best sights

Forget traffic jams and bus stops as this tour gives you access to Sydney’s most scenic waterfront locations. Stop at Circular Quay, Shark Island, and Watsons Bay – all right at the dock – no uphill hikes or long walks, just step off the boat, and you’re there.

Extra perks? Yes, please!

Don’t make it just a ride; make it a package deal. Opt for Taronga Zoo entry tickets, wave at the giraffes, chill with koalas, and still have time to catch the next boat. Also, the zoo has its own stop, so how’s that for convenience?

Views that’ll ruin you forever

Sydney’s skyline from the water? Chef’s kiss. Drift past the Opera House, glide under the Harbour Bridge, and catch Shark Island looking all kinds of pretty. Bus windows? Please. This is front-row seating to Sydney’s best.

Big on adventure, light on the wallet

Why blow your budget on taxis and ferries when this pass gives you unlimited rides at a fraction of the cost? And it’s way more fun than squeezing into public transport with a backpack and a sweaty stranger.

Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off cruise routes, stops, and maps

Hop-on hop-off cruise route

The Captain Cook Cruise Sydney route is a win for families, couples, and anyone chasing Sydney’s iconic landmarks. Start at Circular Quay or Darling Harbour for Opera House selfies and Royal Botanic Garden strolls. Swing by Taronga Zoo to meet the locals – yes, koalas count – then hit Watsons Bay for the city’s famed fish and chips with a million-dollar view. Sun, sand, and serious chill vibes await on the Sydney boat tour route.

Overview:

Weekdays (Monday to Friday) 

  • First stop: Circular Quay Wharf 6
  • Timings: 7:35am to 6:45pm
  • Frequency: Every 60 minutes
  • Number of stops: 6

Weekends (Saturday, Sunday & Public holidays)

  • First stop: Darling Harbour - King St Wharf 1
  • Timings: 9:35am to 5:05pm
  • Frequency: Every 30 to 60 minutes
  • Number of stops: 6
Sydney in 1 day
Sydney in 2 days

The 1-day Captain Cook Cruise Sydney tour makes it easy to hit the city's highlights without the stress. From iconic landmarks to waterfront dining, here’s how to make the most of Sydney in a single day.

  • Kick off your day at Circular Quay with a coffee and epic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Snap those postcard-perfect pics before heading to your next stop.
  • Head to Taronga Zoo Wharf and hop off for a wildlife adventure. Get up close with kangaroos, koalas, and giraffes, all while soaking in stunning harbour views.
  • Jump back and cruise to Watsons Bay for fish and chips at Doyle’s, a Sydney institution. End your day in Manly with a beach stroll or a quick surf session. The sunset over the ocean? Chef’s kiss.

Two days in Sydney? Now you’re talking. Cover everything from wildlife encounters to beachside bites and picture-perfect views at your own pace on the Sydney boat tour.

Day 1

  • Kick off the day at Circular Quay with a coffee and unbeatable views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Walk over to the Museum of Contemporary Art for a quick dose of culture.
  • Stop at Taronga Zoo Wharf and meet Sydney’s wildest locals, from curious kangaroos to sleepy koalas. The cable car ride over the zoo offers Insta-worthy harbour views.
  • Grab a table at Dunbar House for a relaxed lunch with stunning harbour views. The avocado toast and fresh salads are top-notch.
  • Stop at Shark Island Wharf for some sun and sea! This tiny island offers postcard-perfect views and calm waters for a quick dip or a lazy sunbathing.
  • Finish strong at Manly with a swim at Manly Beach or take a coastal walk to Shelly Beach.

Day 2

  • Start at Clifton Gardens Wharf and begin your day with a swim at the beach or a walk along the scenic foreshore. The calm waters are perfect for a relaxed morning.
  • Hop off at Shark Island Wharf and enjoy panoramic harbour views and a quiet beach. It’s a perfect spot for sunbathing and snapping photos.
  • Hop off at the Watsons Bay Wharf and walk to Hornby Lighthouse for incredible cliffside views. Keep an eye out for dolphins.
  • Stop at Taronga Zoo Wharf, but skip the animals this time and head straight for the Sky Safari cable car for sweeping views over the harbour.
  • Wrap up with a twilight cruise back to Circular Quay. Watching the Opera House glow at night? The perfect Sydney send-off.

Tips to make the most of your Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off cruise

  • Kick off your day with the first boat to maximize your exploration time. The morning light also offers prime photo ops of the Sydney Opera House.
  • Take advantage of the onboard commentary to uncover fascinating stories and facts about Sydney's landmarks. It's like having a personal tour guide with you.
  • At Clifton Gardens Wharf, discover Ripples Chowder Bay, a waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and historic charm. It's a beloved spot among locals.
  • Save the Sydney Harbour cruise schedule on your phone so you can time your stops without stressing about missing the next ride. Boats run frequently, but it helps to plan ahead.
  • If you’re prone to seasickness, grab some ginger chews or motion sickness bands before setting sail. Calm waters don’t always mean a smooth ride!
  • Sydney’s sun is no joke. A wide-brim hat and sunglasses will protect you from the glare off the water while keeping you looking effortlessly cool.
  • Sydney Harbour cruise have limited storage space, so carry only essentials – a small bag with sunscreen, water, and a camera is perfect.
  • Harbour spray happens! A waterproof case or ziplock bag will keep your phone and valuables safe from unexpected splashes.

Frequently asked questions about Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off cruise

How long does the hop-on hop-off Sydney cruise take?

A full loop of the hop-on hop-off cruise takes about 90 minutes without getting off. You can hop on and off at any stop throughout the day.

What are the operating hours?

The cruises generally operate between 9am and 5pm. Specific times may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.

Where can I board the cruise?

Major hop-on hop-off Sydney cruise boarding points include Circular Quay and Darling Harbour. Your ticket will list the available stops and boarding instructions.

What’s included in the Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off cruise ticket price?

Tickets include unlimited hop-on, hop-off access for the day, live commentary, and access to all major stops on the route.

Are there combo tickets with other Sydney attractions?

Yes, you can purchase combo tickets that include access to attractions like Taronga Zoo.