Top 3 Vantage Points for the Best shots of Sydney Harbour

The world’s largest natural harbour is waiting to seduce your lens…

Flaunting a gorgeous shoreline of 240kms dotted with dreamy beaches, gardens, natural bushes and islands – Sydney Harbour a unique aquatic playground! Swim along its beaches, stroll across the gardens, cruise on its sparkling waters… or simply, stand and stare! With a timeless aura, the harbour seems to speak a language of its own…

So, feast your eyes… For, Sydney Harbour glitters with fancy yachts and a sparkling waterfront with iconic landmarks like the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and plenty more!

All you need is a bright sunny day and your camera. And, you’re ready to capture Port Jackson in all her glory.

This article offers a sneak peek at the top vantage points promising the best shots of the Sydney Harbour. Read on if you want to update your Instagram with some classic clicks.

#1. Deck of a Harbour Cruiseboat

The outer decks of vessels hosting Sydney Harbour lunch cruises assure unrivalled shots of the harbourscape!

Imagine capturing close-ups of the impressive ‘Coathanger’ – onboard a fabulous glassboat, paddlewheeler, catamaran or a tall ship! And that too, accompanied by a delectable lunch and bottomless drinks! The food served is fresh and prepared by proficient chefs onboard. The euphoria of enjoying panoramic views of the awe-inspiring Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, alongside a ‘drink and dine’ experience is unforgettable.

Some cruises promise marvellous deck views while others offer 360° panoramic harbour views thanks to floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The views are constantly changing – much to the delight of a photographer! And, for classic night photography of the harbourfront, choose among the finest dinner cruises in Sydney.

Drink in hand, go click-happy while strolling on the deck. It’s a golden chance to lock your special moments with dear ones, thanks to the several photo ops on the cruise.

Cool candids, group selfies or close-up shots of iconic Sydney attractions – your choices are endless!

#2. Circular Quay

Circular Quay is a focal point of the spectacular Port Jackson – connecting the city with ferries, buses and trains. Say hello to the two exquisite marvels of the harbour from this touchpoint: the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House!

The sparkling foreshore delights every lensman. After all, it’s a wonderland with a beautiful ambiance and views to die for!

The sight of ferryboats docking and departing is common here. So is the occasional spectacle of departing cruise ships! Excited tourists throng the walkway, bustling either to board a cruise or proceed towards the Harbour Bridge. The Quay is also teeming with cafes and restaurants with stunning views of the Sydney Harbour.

Simply choose a safe spot. Park your tripod. And point your camera at your chosen subject. The sun-kissed harbour never disappoints shutterbugs. The best part is – the access is completely free!

Reminds me of Russel Crowe’s statement – "The best things about Sydney are free: the sunshine's free, and the harbour's free, and the beach is free."

#3. Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair

Another thrilling vantage point is Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair. The rock-cut sandstone viewpoint here was a favourite haunt of Elizabeth Macquarie (wife of Governor Lachlan Macquarie)!

This bench-shaped seat was carved out by convicts as early as 1810!

Lady Macquarie loved spending leisurely hours, sitting on this bench – gazing at the ships arriving or departing for England. It is believed that in those times, Lady Macquarie’s Chair offered uninterrupted views of the Harbour that extended to the Blue Mountains!

Presently, Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair amazes every photographer with splendid views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. It is only a 20-minute walk from Circular Quay.

Capture some incredible landscape portraits here, under azure horizons of a Sydney afternoon.

Be it sea level shots, panoramic frames or shots from lofty heights — Sydney Harbour continues to be a photographer’s fantasy. And since she is effortlessly photogenic, every picture is worth a thousand words!