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Sydney Harbour Cruises: Catamarans, speedboats & more

Whether you are big on adventure or just want to relax, a Sydney Harbour cruise is available for all occasions. Sturdily built and packed with amenities, Sydney Harbour cruise boats are designed to give you a safe and comfortable experience. Scroll down to explore the different boat types available for Sydney Harbour cruises and find the perfect option for your experience.

Sydney Harbour cruise

The right vessel for your Sydney Harbour cruise

With a variety of options available for Sydney Harbour cruises, each cruise vessel is specially designed to cater to the needs of your cruise. Here are some boats used for various types of cruises.

Sightseeing cruises

Boats used: Catamarans, luxury cruisers

​Sightseeing cruises usually last 1.5–2.5 hours. Catamarans and cruisers cover multiple spots quickly, while Tall Ships sail at a slower pace, giving you more time to enjoy Sydney’s iconic landmarks and capture stunning photos of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and sparkling harbour views.

Lunch & dinner cruises

Boats used: Luxury cruise liners

​Lunch and dinner cruises need stability, amenities and power, making super cruisers, luxury cruisers and other first-class vessels perfect.

Whale-watching cruises

Boats used: Cruisers, catamarans, custom whale-watching vessel

​Whale-watching cruises need sturdy vessels with good viewing areas, both indoor and outdoor. Therefore, cruisers and catamarans are good choices. Custom vessels are useful for providing a safe environment for whales and dolphins.

Ferries or HOHO cruises

Boats used: Catamaran

Catamarans are great for HOHO cruises or as ferry vehicles because of their stability. They travel fast, have capacities of 40-60 people and are great for those who are sensitive to the rolling motion of most boats, making them the perfect transportation vehicle.

Luxury cruises

Boats used: Luxury cruiser

Luxury cruisers are filled with amenities like a galley, stage, dance floor, bar, private balconies, open-air decks and much more. These boats are spacious, remain sturdy atop waters and have multiple decks for views from various vantage points.

Sydney Harbour cruise boat types explained

Catamaran

  • Ideal for: Small groups, sightseeing, whale-watching
  • Av. cruise speed: 12 knots

Twin-hull boats cruising at around 12 knots, accommodating 20–70 guests. Their stability makes them perfect for first-time cruisers or anyone seeking a smooth, comfortable ride while enjoying harbour views.

Luxury catamaran

  • Ideal for: Sightseeing, big groups, parties
  • Av. cruise speed: 12 knots

Offering the stability of a catamaran with amenities like restrooms, Wi-Fi, and wheelchair access, they’re ideal for parties and meals on board thanks to their smooth, stable design.

Cruiser

  • Ideal for: Sightseeing, whale-watching
  • Av. cruise speed: 14 knots

Smaller than a full-fledged yacht, these boats accommodate 20–30 guests, offering spacious seating and lounging for sightseeing. They require skill to operate but are low-maintenance in saltwater.

Rocket ferry

  • Ideal for: Whale-watching, sightseeing, transfers
  • Av. cruise speed: 12 knots

Stable, high-speed vessels with indoor seating and open-air viewing areas, accommodating around 148 guests and equipped with amenities like toilets.

Whale-watching cruiser

  • Ideal for: Sightseeing, whale-watching
  • Av. cruise speed: 14 knots

Modified cruisers with reduced noise and speed to avoid disturbing marine life, featuring large enclosed windows and open decks for optimal wildlife viewing.

Tall ship

Ideal for: Parties, lunch and dinner cruises
Av. cruise speed: 6 knots

  • Tall ships are traditionally rigged sailing vessels that may accommodate 100-120 people and give you a taste of yesteryear nautical adventures.
  • They are usually older vessels that have been restored and re-rigged using modern technology and materials.

Frequently asked questions about Sydney Harbour cruise boats

​Dinner cruises can be set up on many different kinds of boats: First-class vessel, AC super-cruiser Sydney 2000, Tall ships, Luxury cruise liners, etc. are a few examples. The boat you will get to cruise on will be mentioned in your voucher.