If you’re visiting Sydney, one of the world’s three most beautiful harbors, be sure to hop on a ferry. When people think of Sydney, many picture the sophisticated urban harbor scenery. The views from the ferry offer a continuous stream of photogenic sights, including Sydney’s cityscape and various tourist attractions.
Before your trip, you probably want to check where you can board the ferry and which courses are recommended. This time, we’ll provide you with plenty of information about Sydney's ferries.
1. Circular Quay Ferry Terminal Guide
Sydney's ferries are not only popular with tourists but also serve as an important means of transportation for locals. The ferry terminal (wharf) at Sydney’s “Circular Quay,” the city’s main maritime gateway, is very convenient. Multiple routes connect here, and you can get a close view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, making it the perfect place to start sightseeing.
There are five ferry docks, from Wharf 2 to Wharf 6, each serving different routes and destinations. For example, if you're heading to Taronga Zoo, you can board at Wharf 2. For Manly Beach, you can depart from either Wharf 2 or 3, while ferries to Darling Harbour leave from Wharf 5 or 6.
Name: Circular Quay Ferry Wharf
Address: Circular Quay Ferry Wharf, Sydney, NSW 2000
Official/related website URL: https://transportnsw.info/routes/ferry
2. Recommended Destinations! Efficiently Explore Sydney’s Many Bays by Ferry
Sydney is divided by large bays and rivers, making ferries a more convenient option for reaching many areas, even if they are connected by land. For example, Taronga Zoo, mentioned below, takes about 30 minutes by road from Circular Quay, but only around 12 minutes by ferry. Some ferries even go as far inland as Parramatta.
◆ Taronga Zoo: A Must-Visit by Ferry
Sydney’s ferries take you to various destinations, but the top recommendation is Taronga Zoo, with ferries departing from Wharf 2. It’s a popular tourist spot where you can observe animals like koalas and kangaroos. The animals are kept in conditions close to their natural habitats, so you can watch them move freely.
In addition to meeting the animals, Taronga Zoo is also known for its stunning views of Sydney Harbour. Be sure to ride the Sky Safari cable car to enjoy the panoramic scenery. While traveling by car requires a 30-minute detour around the harbor, the ferry crosses straight over the water, getting you there in just 12 minutes.
◆ Also Recommended!
For those short on time, there are efficient routes that you can take! The ferry route between Pyrmont Bay and Darling Harbour takes around 30 minutes, departing from Wharf 5. Sydney Harbour is popular for lunch and dinner cruises, but you can also enjoy it fully with regular ferries, so consider planning accordingly based on your schedule.
3. What Are the Best Scenic Points to View from Sydney’s Ferries?
The ferry departing from Wharf 2, heading to Taronga Zoo, passes close by one of Sydney's symbols, the Opera House, allowing you to see the entire structure clearly. The view from the ferry offers a fresh perspective, allowing you to appreciate the architectural beauty even more compared to viewing it from the ground.
The deck of the ferry is also a recommended photo spot where you're sure to capture stunning pictures. On certain routes, the ferry passes directly under the Harbour Bridge. If you take a ride during summer, the sea breeze feels incredibly refreshing. If you board at sunset, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the setting sun. There are various ways to enjoy the ferry ride.
Sydney Harbour is filled with various cruise ships coming and going. Gazing at the modern harbor scenery with its towering skyscrapers from the ferry offers a unique, out-of-the-ordinary experience.
4. How to Purchase Ferry Tickets
Ferry tickets can be purchased at ticket counters. There are two ways to buy: through a manned counter or via an automatic ticket machine. Purchasing at the counter will be in English, it’s not too difficult, so feel free to give it a try.
The tickets are divided into "My Ferry1" and "My Ferry2" depending on the zones, which are color-coded on the route map. You can choose between a one-way (single) or a round-trip (return) ticket for each. There are also multiple-use tickets like "Travel Ten" and multi-type tickets that can be used for trains and buses, so it’s a good idea to select a ticket that fits your travel plans.
You can also use Sydney's transportation card, the Opal Card, which allows you to board ferries by tapping in at the gates, just like with trains. It’s very convenient.
5. Important Notes for Using Ferries in Sydney
On holidays or during peak travel seasons, long lines may form at the ferry terminals. Routes going to popular destinations like Taronga Zoo and Manly Beach can get quite crowded. So, if you're visiting, be sure to pass through the gates early and wait for the ferry’s arrival. During peak hours, ferries come frequently, so there’s no need to rush too much.
If the ticket counter for Wharf 2, heading to Taronga Zoo, is crowded, you can purchase tickets at the counters of other wharves. Once you arrive at your destination, be sure to check the return ferry schedule. It’s also a good idea to be aware of the last ferry time to avoid any worries.
◎ Lastly: Enjoy Sydney Ferries as a Fun Attraction!
Sydney's ferries are not just a means of transportation, but are also popular for being enjoyed as a cruising attraction. There are special boats for whale watching, where you can encounter whales and seabirds, and sunset dinner cruises, where you can enjoy seafood or steak while soaking in the elegant atmosphere. Choose a plan that suits you and enjoy cruising in Sydney to the fullest!