7 amazing things to do around Sydney Harbour
Visitors from across Australia and around the world are always struck by Sydney’s beauty. A visit to Sydney isn't complete without a spectacular harbour cruise past the iconic Opera House and under the Harbour Bridge. A photo opportunity is waiting around every corner, making Sydney a photographer's delight.
1) Visit the world's most spectacular harbour
Sydney is a vibrant, multicultural city, with an enviable lifestyle centred around its spectacular harbour. Adored the world over, ‘on the list’ for international travellers, loved by the locals and gasp-worthy for all who visit. Here are 10 reasons why Sydney Harbour can stake its claim as the best harbour in the world. From ancient history, settlement history modern life and modern art. Sydney Harbour is the apex of them all.
The Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge are Australian icons and twin jewels against the backdrop of this bustling metropolis. You can enjoy the stunning views and conquer the icon with a Sydney Harbour Bridge climb. Whether you’re a tourist or a first-time traveller, Sydney Opera House has something for everyone. Pick a tour or watch a live performance, Sydney Opera House’s magnificent beauty never fails to mesmerise.
2) Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
The easiest way to explore the harbour is aboard a sightseeing cruise. Dotted along the 240km of shoreline, you’ll discover craggy cliffs, secluded beaches, hidden coves, significant historical sites and an abundance of natural bushland. The harbour and its unique blend of aboriginal, colonial and naval heritage is yours to explore.
Make sure you allow plenty of time to visit the many waterside attractions that wrap around the bustling foreshore. When you are ready to dine, the harbour city has you covered.
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Sydney Sightseeing
Discover the most beautiful Harbour in the world in style with our range of premium sightseeing cruises. Sit back in comfort and pass the world-famous icons of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, stunning blue bays, hidden beaches, island national parks, towe…
3) Hop-on Hop-off ferry pass
Discover Sydney Harbour’s sites at your own pace by picking up a hop-on hop-off ferry pass. It’s a fun and flexible way to get around the harbour by water and experience popular destinations including Taronga Zoo, Manly, Watsons Bay, and the Sydney Opera House.
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Hop on Hop off Explorer
When in Sydney travel like the locals do, on the harbour highway with the official Sydney Harbour Explorer. Up to 6 destinations, one easy to follow ferry timetable, expert local assistance and the flexibility to hop-on and hop-off as you like.
4) Iconic Sydney Harbour Events
Get ready to party like a local at one of the many harbour celebrations. From Australia Day in late January right through to our world-famous New Year’s Eve celebrations, there’s a packed program of events — tall ship races, fireworks, sailing regattas, Vivid light festival, concerts and more for you to enjoy.
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An elegant canvas for your next event, this vessel will immerse you in the beauty of the world's most magnificent harbour with spectacular views from all three levels of sophisticated spaces and expansive decks.
5) Sydney whale-watching cruises
Witness majestic whales at play on a Sydney Harbour whale-watching cruise. You’ll get up close and personal during whale watching season (June to October) and learn more about these gentle sea creatures.
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Whale Watching
Sydney is the envy of Australia with a whale watching season that lasts over five months of the year. Over 20,000 Humpback whales make the 3,500km journey from sub-Antarctic waters to the Great Barrier Reef every year.
6) Captain Cook Cruises Dining Experiences
For over 50 years, Captain Cook Cruises has been at the forefront of quality on-water dining experiences on Sydney Harbour. Our award-winning range of dinner cruises, high teas and lunch cruises on Sydney Harbour are all prepared freshly onboard by our international chefs.
Looking to explore some of the best food and wine experiences Australia has to offer? Here are our top picks of epic culinary adventures.
Your trip to Sydney would not be complete without a Harbour Bar and Restaurant dining cruise with the city lights as your table backdrop. Be served gourmet food paired with amazing Australian wines and decadent desserts from the chef on board, for a night to remember.
All menus feature the freshest Australian produce, sourced locally and prepared simply.
7) Vivid Sydney
Sydney is transformed into a magical wonderland with stunning light and sound displays adorning its historical precincts. Vivid Sydney, the annual celebration of creativity, innovation, and technology is one of Sydney’s premier events attracting visitors from across Australia and the world.
From Darling Harbour, and Taronga Zoo to the Sydney Opera House and Barangaroo, the biggest Sydney attractions are bathed in a technicolor display. This year’s theme centre around Dreaming and invites visitors to dream big.
Vivid Sydney 2025 will take place from 23 May to 14 June 2025.
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Official Vivid Sydney 2025 cruises
Vivid Sydney is the largest festival of lights and creativity in the Southern Hemisphere with mesmerising art displays and 3D projections. Discover a spectacular line-up of official Vivid Sydney 2025 on-water cruise and dining experiences. Visit multiple prec…
Current Special Discounts and Deals
Start planning your next brilliant holiday to Sydney, by checking out the special discounts and deals with Captain Cook Cruises Sydney.
Explore Sydney Harbour
The Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, are Australian icons and twin jewels against the backdrop of this bustling metropolis. You'll love every minute of your time exploring this spectacular harbour.