Discover the Best Ways to Experience Sydney Harbour

Spending a few hours at the harbour in Sydney tops visitors' lists of things to do because it is home to the most stunning natural harbour in the world. Most of the time, people tend to follow the safe-zone of their chosen Sydney guidebooks without actually knowing what else is available.

There are numerous ways to explore Sydney Harbour, but today I'm going to share my favourites, including kayaking tours that visit the harbour's tiniest coves, sailing aboard tall ships, and thrilling jet boat rides for thrill seekers.

Book a dining cruise on the harbour

Sydney Harbour is best experienced on one of the day cruises that take you down a popular cruise route showcasing the best of Sydney’s star attractions. Believe it or not, you come face to face with the might and grandeur of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House and other gorgeous sights — brilliant backdrops for some insta-worthy pictures. These dining cruises also offer freshly prepared food that you can tuck into while taking in the sights and sounds of Sydney. So why not choose these day cruises in Sydney especially if you have a chock-a-block itinerary and you don’t want to miss out on an authentic harbour experience.

Get on board a Ferry

One of the best ways to explore the harbour in Sydney is by ferry, which is a mainstay of the city's public transportation system. The ferry is a good substitute for the expensive tour packages if you’re on a budget. It offers breathtaking views of the city from all directions. With multiple ferry services operating in each direction, these trips give you plenty of time to take in the views from the islands to the lighthouses.

Sail a Tall ship

Probably the most aesthetically pleasing method of harbour exploration. Embark on a voyage on one of the real tall ships and go back in time. For a truly distinctive Sydney adventure, you can even climb a mast. Assist the crew in raising the sails, then watch as the breeze fills the sails. Get a whiff of the wood and tar. Holding onto the rope, you can hear the ship's rigging creak and feel the deck beneath you. Recreate the voyages of the past.

Go Kayaking

Feel more alive as you paddle the kayak out onto the water. Spending some time on the water is definitely one of the best experiences you can have in Sydney and is much more fun. Sydney has plenty of secluded locations where you can do some epic fun paddleboarding. If you are a newbie to kayaking, there are craft hire shops that teach you the basic techniques.

Get above the sea

Not a fan of water but still want to explore the harbour? Put some distance between you and the sea as you stroll across the bridge. If you've got more time, there are other harbour spanning bridges in Sydney like the Anzac Bridge, Pyrmont Bridge, or the Gladesville Bridge, which offer sweeping panoramas.

Go Diving into the waters

Australia has some of the world's most famous diving spots, stealing the show, but many people overlook the diving opportunities Sydney has to offer. As a matter of fact, Sydney Harbour has around 600 aquatic species that have been recorded, which is more than the number of species recorded in the Mediterranean Sea. Also it's a perfect place to learn to dive as the shore dives are relatively shallow.

Thanks to its picturesque landscape, heritage sites, and many historical icons, Sydney Harbour is a rich source of exploration and discovery for everyone alike. Whether you're a history buff, or someone looking for a family friendly trip, or an adrenaline pumping adventurer, Sydney Harbour has something to offer.

I am a traveller, an artist who love to explore various places, art and food.