Our tour group recently took a beautiful ferry ride via Rose Bay back into Sydney cove. Circular Quay from Watson's Bay by ferry is one of Australia's great ferry trips. An unscheduled storm cloud had us all scrambling for cover but today the 125th anniversary of the Royal Australian Navy featuring a fleet review of 30 ships from 19 countries right here in Sydney harbour meant we didn't really mind getting a tad wet. Our first ferry stop Rose Bay was once the home to Sydney's first international airport with amphibious aircraft taking the 30 stop kangaroo route from London to Sydney in 12 days commencing in 1938 and continuing right up to the 1950s. Passing the HMAS Sydney memorial Mast, Shark beach, Taronga Zoo, Garden Island (Royal Australian Navy) and the Prime Minister's house while also admiring some of the most expensive suburbs in the southern hemisphere, it was easy to see why this is such a well patronised ferry ride. Standing between Wharf 3 and 4 the RAAF roulettes then had us in awe at their 15 min display of raw energy and choreographed acrobatics. read more

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While staying in Sydney's CBD, we found walking to the points of interest I had bookmarked to be safe and easy, as everything seemed to be within walking distance of our hotel. For places such as the Taronga Zoo or beaches (Manly and Bondi), which were farther away or across Sydney Harbour, we chose to use public water transport, AKA the Sydney Ferry System. We purchased single-ride tickets since we only used the system 4 times ( round-trip tickets) instead of getting an OPAL card, which you can recharge or top up for multiple trips. Anyway, we couldn't have been more impressed by the efficiency, high capacity, and accessibility of the ferry system, which services 38 wharves across Sydney Harbour. The Sydney Ferry Fleet is comprised of six different classes of vessels, ranging from modern, high-speed double-hulled catamarans for inner harbour suburban routes to larger freshwater-class vessels for handling larger or rougher swells. The cost of each ride varies by destination and as tourists, we found this ferry system economical, fast, and allowed us to get different views of the iconic landmarks in and around the Sydney Harbour and glimpses of the suburbs. read more

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I took the ferry to the zoo on Saturday, but come to find out, the ferry was the best part of that visit! If you want amazing views of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, definitely ride the ferry! These vessels seem very safe and sturdy. Payment is easy and the ferries are regular, plus go several routes (not just to the zoo). Overwhelmingly recommend! read more

Getting on a ferry in Sydney should be on your list of things to do. We took the ferry from Circular Quay to Many Wharf and it was just stunning. The views are to die for and the ride is nice. Buying a single ride card from the kiosks was extremely easy. You also have the option to just tap with your phone or card if you want to go that way. I scrapbook so getting the little one time slip was the way to go for me. The ferries have great timing, with the people who work here being very efficient and skilled at their jobs. Also, the ferries were very clean (I thought this would be less so because humans are humans but I was nicely surprised by the cleanliness). There was also a lot of room to choose whether to sit indoors or outdoors. read more

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Great way to get around on the waterway and see the sights for a much better price than the tours. You can pick up a multitude of Ferries by the Opera House and take them all over the Sydney harbor. Go up top for great unobstructed views. You will not get the tour guid talk but you get the views. read more

Sydney Ferries - Water Taxis Near Me - Sydney, NSW

There were many ferries that crossed the harbor & went to many beaches and islands. The ferries moved quickly, were immaculate and felt very safe. There was indoor & outdoor seating, clean restrooms & helpful staff. We tapped credit cards before embarking & at one point someone came around to be sure we paid. There is an honor system, if we didn't pay the fine would be $400. read more

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What's not to love? Easy, inexpensive, convenient, and an absolutely beautiful ride. You can simply use your credit card to tap for your fare and you don't even need to purchase an Opal card. It is a beautiful and fast ride from Darling Harbour over to the Opera House/Rocks area. I really appreciated the efficiency and the gorgeous ride. read more

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Sydney has an excellent public transportation system. Besides buses, there are also trains, light rail and ferries. I recently rode on a ferry three times-- two for pure pleasure and one for getting from point A to point B. Sydney Harbour and surrounds is magnificent, so naturally it abounds with water-based tourist applications including ferries. I also discovered that if I use the right app, I can use the trains, ferries, and buses to go just about anywhere in the CBD (Central Business District and many outlying areas. One recent trip took me from Pyrmont Bay across the Harbour and up the Parramatta River to the city of Parramatta. It was a beautiful cruise for me, stopping to pick up and deposit passengers at various wharves along the way. A highlight was seeing pelicans in their natural state. Another sightseeing trip circled the Harbour and a third was to take the ferry to get close to a train station. All the ferries were extremely clean and comfortable. In fact, all mass transit I used was always clean, comfortable and safe. No need to have a car unless you're planning a trip out of town.I read more

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If you want to have a little harbour cruise experience without paying big bucks? I suggest you take advantage of the Sunday $2.50 ride all day special using your Opus Card. We did a sunset "cruise" from the Circular Quay to Manly Wharf, which give you a great view of Sydney Opera House and Habour Bridge. It was quite enjoyable but was a little windy during spring time. If you want to avoid the crowd, you might have to pay $15+ for a round trip fare. read more

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Like in Hong Kong, one of the best ways to see Sydney is by taking a ferry. Ferries are great as they offer you a different vantage view of this city. It also helps to accentuate the beauty of notable landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. You don't get the same view of them up close as you do by water. The Circular Quay Ferry Terminal is a short walk away from Circular Quay Station. Sydney Ferries offers 7 different ferry routes from this terminal. The two routes that are particularly popular are the ones to Manly and Taronga Zoo. On my second day in Sydney, I decided to take a ferry trip to Manly. The ferry ride takes 30 minutes. For most of the day, ferries also run every 30 minutes on this route. To buy tickets for the ferry, there is a ticket stand by the platform. If you have the Opal card, you can swipe the card at the platform when boarding to pay for the fare. You don't need to tap out upon getting off the ferry like you do on the train. If you need to top off your card to pay for your fare, there are some Opal machines nearby to add money to your card. I had thought of going to Manly on Monday as I thought it would be less crowded then. But I decided to push up my trip to Sunday as I learned of a great Opal card promotion. On Sunday, you can take unlimited rides on the bus, ferry and train for $2.50! If you are going to Sydney Airport by train, you are still subject to the airport station surcharge fee. But this means that you can take a round trip ferry ride for only $2.50 as opposed to paying $15.20 regularly. After swiping the Opal card at the entrance, I waited in a holding area to board the ferry boat. The ferry has two levels and is passenger only unlike the ferry boats in Seattle which allow for cars. However like the ferries in Seattle, there is a cafe onboard. Though I believe this is available only on the Manly route. There is outside seating around the boat if you want to enjoy the ocean breeze. There is also an outside deck seating area at the front of the boat which is great if you want to take pictures of your journey. The trip to Manly goes by the Sydney Opera House and travels north through Sydney Harbour to Manly passing along several northern Sydney coastal suburbs. Taking a ferry on one of the Sydney Ferries routes is a cheap way to take a cruise through Sydney Harbour. I recommend this highly if you are visiting Sydney as you will see a different perspective of the notable landmarks. It also allows you to get to some of the other notable areas in Sydney more quickly. read more

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This is a fun way to gain a different perspective of the Sydney. The ferries can take you near or far to the different ports in the area. You can buy a ticket by region with the further areas being more expensive. Day passes and multiple day passes are also available. Discounted tickets are available for children and seniors. It is rather exciting to purchase your ticket and jump on a ferry. We purchased our one way ticket at Circular Quay and found our way to the dock. Watching all the ferries coming and going from the area is very interesting. This seems to be a very popular way to travel around. At circular quay there are also a large variety of shops and eateries to enjoy and watch the ferries as well. read more

Sydney Ferries - Water Taxis Near Me - Sydney, NSW

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It's not only one of the best ways to get around the harbor areas of Sydney, it's also the most fun way to do it. The ferries are punctual, everything about them clean, efficient and with varying rates not only based upon distance but also offerings of senior citizen discounts, full day passes & etc. Indeed it is one of the least expensive yet best ways to see the harbor area of Sydney which to me is one of the best in the world, especially with all of it updates and newly established developments. read more

Mate, don't spend your hard-earned cash on one of them fancy harbour boat rides! A trip on the Manly Ferry will give you a similar experience for a tenth of the price. Named "Manly" not because it resembles a phallic symbol, but because it goes to Manly Beach - one of the most famous beaches in Sydney. Bit of history, when settlers first discovered this area, they thought the Guringai Aboriginals were quite "manly" here, hence the name. (There is actually a nut company based here; you can imagine what their labels looks like.) Back to the ferry, it leaves from Circular Quay and is the largest of the fleet. You can sit upstairs or outside, and there is a concession stand inside. Daughter loved buying a Golden Gaytime ice cream anytime we took the ferry. The ride to Manly Beach is roughly half an hour, but it goes by quickly. One time I even spotted a school of dolphins in the harbour! I love the fact that even if you live in the inner city suburbs you can still reach a decent beach in an hour or so. Just hop on a train, take a ferry and Bob's your uncle! read more

The Rivercat's are fast along the harbour; even travelling as far as Parramatta; although the Sydney Ferries key attraction would have to be the Manly Ferry. During high tides; you would be lucky to still be able to sit outside for the 30 minute boat ride (cruise) from Circular Quay to Manly. You need to be quick (especially on a warm day) to grab one of the coveted outside seats as they get snapped up real quick. Human nature is extremely funny during cold weather. Your first reaction is to grab a seat outside, and then near Bradley's Head (or even 10-15 minutes into the journey) many people get up and move inside; especially when it is raining. Sometimes you have no choice. I tend to avoid sitting inside as much as possible as it is quite stuffy; and outside you get some fresh air surrounded by tourists taking their happy snaps (especially when the Harbour Bridge is approaching) and gives the Manly Fast ferry a run for it's money. Its a great cruise, so why not pay a little less and extend your journey by another 10-15 minutes. Your at Manly (and back at Circular Quay from Manly) either way. read more

Sydney Ferries - Water Taxis Near Me - Sydney, NSW

What a fun way to travel around Sydney! The ferries are pretty fast, very clean and always on time. Grab a card and hit up one of the many beach towns that the ferries visit and enjoy a day out! It sure beats taking the bus and subway. I didn't experience any choppy rides that cause sea sickness either. I'd definitely recommend taking the ferry when possible. read more

Don't even think about driving to Manly. Taking the ferry from Circular Quay is by far the most rewarding commute. The first time I went to Manly was in late September, when uncharacteristically hot weather made its way to New South Wales. My friends and I thought it would be a good day to go to the North Shore beaches by ferry, specifically so that I could catch unparalleled views of the harbor. Apparently, we weren't the only ones who thought that way. Boarding at Circular Quay, we waited on the 6th dock for our ferry, along with hundreds of other people. It was so crowded that people were shoving each other to board the boat first. Many people were rude and inconsiderate to some of the elderly who were waiting as well. Once on the boat, I ran straight to the back of the vessel. As the boat pulled away, the vast and unadulterated view of the skyline was laid out before us. It's about a 30-minute boat ride from Circular Quay to the Manly docks. The best of Sydney Harbor are right in front of you as the ferry heads East, then slightly North. When it's a sunny day, make sure that you get a seat on the ferry's stern or on the benches along the side. A one-way ticket will cost you $6.60. read more

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Do not get to the ferry right on time or you will not be let on! I agree with everyone else as it is a must to take a ferry if it is your first time to Sydney. I personally appreciate the Circular Quay to Manly trip, which takes around 25 minutes. Get on fast, go upstairs, and snag a seat outside in the front. It is actually pretty easy to get one of these seats if you move somewhat fast, mainly because it is mostly tourists along with a few locals that are that excited to sit outside. The Manly ferry departs almost every half hour, but look it up. I got there at 4:29 p.m. and was not allowed on the ferry. They shut the gate two minutes before the departure time and are pretty draconian about that. I got to watch the ferry sit at the harbor for a minute before it departed. Luckily if you do miss the ferry, the scenery around the harbor is beautiful, so you can just walk to the Opera House or the Rocks while you wait. read more

Is there any better route to work in the world? No, seriously - I challenge you to find a more pleasant, relaxing and refreshing way to start and end your day. Jump on The Collaroy or The Queenscliff, and start to enjoy better living. Taking half an hour, the Manly Ferry only has one destination - Circular Quay. Step off into the corporate world, and feel relaxed by your journey to get there - it sure beats sitting in traffic or scrambling for a seat on the train. The ferry, operated by NSW's State Transit Authority, is a world beater. Although not as frequent as buses or trains, the Manly Ferry seats a huge crowd of newspaper readers, daydreamers and i-pad users on their way to work. Of course, the ferry is not just for commuters - many Northern Beaches residents use it as their primary means of reaching whatever compels them tothe city - social things, university or shopping Of course, nothing is perfect, and the Manly Ferry does have its downsides - it can get really rough coming through the heads. No, realllly rough. And coming to work with dried salt on your $3000 suit is rarely a good look. Plus, if you're not lucky enough to live in Manly, then finding a park can be a royal pain. But seriously - all these minor inconveniences are easily overlooked when you're sitting on the water, going to work by boat. See ya later, train! read more

Sydney Ferries - Water Taxis Near Me - Sydney, NSW

Parking in the city can be a bit of a problem, so I prefer to take a Ferry to the city. Plus I love water and the cruise feeling! Although the Manly route is the most popular, I prefer taking a ferry from Olympic park to Circular Quay. The route stops along plenty of local suburbs and the ride is quite long and a hundred percent enjoyable. Sydney definitely looks prettier from the water-side. As you approach Cockatoo Island, you can catch a glimpse of the Harbour Bridge and most passengers rush out for a seat on the deck to catch the best view. There are numerous opportunities to take a photograph and the view is breathtaking. The skyline from Darling harbour is impressive but the best moment is when the ferry travels under the bridge and you can see the Opera House in the foreground. The rivercat races along the water and on a particularly windy day, it's difficult to sit on the deck. The Rivercat from inside is neat and clean, especially the Fantasea ferries. Food is not allowed to be consumed, although I have noticed some cheeky families breaking rules. Forget paying big dollars to cruise companies, get on board the local ferry and enjoy the same view minus the commentary. read more

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This is a cheap and excellent way to view the magnificent Sydney Harbour. It is very convenient and you can take it from Circular Quay. There are handful of helpful staffs there if you are not sure of anything and need assistance. I think this is best way to explore the beauty of Sydney. read more

Sydney Ferries - View from the ferry to Manly - Water Taxis Near Me - Sydney, NSW

I love the Manly Ferry but what an appalling service. We waited 30mins for the Parramatta River service, lined up, had some slow people in front of us, all the others were pushing. We finally got to the front to board the ferry and they cut us off. We then had to wait 1 and a half hours for the next service!!! The NSW government should be ashamed of themselves. I SUGGEST DO NOT TAKE THE RIVER FERRY YOU MAY NOT BE ABLE TO GET BACK. Im originally from Sydney and I will never take this crap service again. read more

Manly is a bit of a pain to get to by car, especially if you live in the Eastern Suburbs, and will take you longer than 30mins to get to (and don't even bother during rush hour!), so the ferry is the best option seeing as that takes exactly 30mins from Circular Quay. It's obviously a pleasant trip, what with the scenery and all, but I prefer to get the Fast Ferry if it's running, as I get a bit bored on the other one - probably because I'm a bit impatient and I've done the trip countless times. Again, like most of the ferries, the large Manly ones could do with being replaced at some point in the near future, and when going between the heads on a rough day, you do feel like your about to capsize (news pictures usually confirm this), but it's still a pretty nice way to get between Sydney and Manly! read more

Sydney Ferries - Water Taxis Near Me - Sydney, NSW

Clean, easy to navigate with clear signage and schedules. Even the window sills are clean, and the seats are stain free! Beautiful view of the opera house. Tip: ride it at night. The harbor is beautifully lit at night including the Ferris wheel at Luna Park. read more

Please don't pass up the Sydney Ferry if you go to Sydney. You don't need a destination. Just taking the ferry, across to the Zoo, out to Manly, or to any stop in the harbour, is an experience you'll never forget. And one you'll never stop wanting to do again. It's a tour of the Sydney area, on the water, admiring the houses, beaches, and bridge. And from no where else do you get to see the Opera House "unfold" a bit at a time as you come round the Opera House to Circular Quay to disembark. The only bad part of taking the ferry is that you eventually have to get off. read more

I must have been deprived as a child having grown up in a city which didn't use ferries as a form of public transport (namely because Adelaide doesn't have this body of water that requires commuters to travel to work by boat, though if they really wanted to they could always park outside the zoo and catch the Popeye) but I am fascinated that there are all these boats that regularly traverse the Harbour, and people just jump on them and spend their entire time staring at their smartphone as opposed to looking out the window. Mind you, I find it really hard doing that when I'm on a Sydney Ferry because I'm simply wanting to take in the view. What's really cool is that some of them even have free wi-fi, which means I can play on my laptop while cruising back to the city from Manly. They even has a ferry that goes all the way up the river to Paramatta, though I wouldn't recommend using it for your daily commute - the train is much faster. read more

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The Ferries of Sydney are part of the public transport and my favourite. They are little bit pricey but worth the ride. Sunday is probably the best day to use them because you pay 2.50 $ once and everything is for free the rest of the day. Tip: In order to use the public transport in Sydney buy your Opal Card at every 7Eleven. read more

The Sydney Ferries are pretty awesome. You launch from Circular Quay and it takes you to all points in the harbour. The view is second to none and what's even better is on Sundays the ride is just $2.50. Note: make sure to pick up your card and recharge your card at one of many convenience stores in the city before heading down to the water as it'll save you the headache of dealing with the crowds. Otherwise, machines are readily available for your access. Note: it does get cold on the water so definitely be prepared if you're sitting outside...otherwise the inside cabin is somewhat climate controlled. Also of note: the Sydney Ferries is not the same as the Water Taxis...which is a private service. read more

It is the only part of Sydney's public transit system that anyone can really enjoy. It is on time (within a minute), there always seems to be a bus at the end of the line waiting for the ferry, and the costs are reasonable. Plus the manly ferry gives you a beautiful harbour cruise for a fraction of the price of the tourist traps. read more

Stick me near the water and I'm a pretty happy girl. Put me in it and it's a different story, but keep me safe atop a ferry or on land and I become super relaxed and chilled. Serenity now! You can't beat jumping on a ferry in Sydney just for the sake of it. Forget the fancy catamaran ones, and go for a classic green and gold number. Who cares where it's going, just bob around for a while. If it's a good day sit up the top out the back and catch some rays. read more

NEW YEARS EVE 2018! We came from California by way of a cruise ship to view the NY Eve fireworks show and the Sydney Harbour Ferries did not disappoint. It was a dream come true. From the beginning, the directions on where to meet and line up was clear. We followed the group to get on the ferry through barricades (security is tight). We were handed a boxed meal and there was plenty of room on the ferry, it didn't feel crowded at all. Everyone was happy and kind. There was also a live band that was really good (not too loud at all) while we cruised. We did pack alot of food and drinks to make sure we had enough, but the boxes were packed full of food. The 9pm show was fun and then the parade of lights began. We stopped twice back in at Circular Quay for a refill or one time let a few people on, not sure, but the night ran smoothly. We had a great spot in the harbour between the harbour bridge and the opera house, both times it was great. We were almost too close to capture the entire view from our phones. I would have almost preferred to be on the other side of the harbour to see it all in view, but I am not complaining. We could see it with our naked eye. We brought our two kids (6 & 8), they had fun and then after the incredible display of fireworks, they promptly dropped us off to get off the ferry. Highly recommend. Our only construction criticism was that the radio station set to hear the fireworks was not played or we could not hear it from outside, so we didn't get the experience of the music with the fireworks. My husband wished they could have played DJ music all night to make it more party like, but the band was really nice. Kinda reggae, jazzy. Thank you Sydney Ferries for completing an item on our bucket list. We loved it and will be back!!! read more

The Manly ferry is one of the best ways to see Sydney Harbour. Why fork out $100 for a cruise, when you can do the same on public transport for only $12.50 for an adult return ticket? The 30 minute ferry trip starts at circular quay and gives the best views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House, plus the outer harbour. You then land at Manly, a beautiful beach on the north shore, where you can swim, walk or just have a coffee while waiting for the return ferry ride. A great way to see Sydney and appreciate just why it is considered to be one of the most beautiful harbours in the world. Take your camera aboard, and try to get the sunset leaving time, as it's a magical experience on a beautiful day. If you plan to sit outside, remember that it can get very windy, and therefore you should bring a jacket, or some hot coffee to keep you warm. If you're going to have a night out, then remember the ferry's stop at around midnight, and it can be a very expensive taxi ride back if you don't have transportation. So if it's 11:45pm, and you're still enjoying yourself, you have two options, first find someone to spend the night with :) or run your little feet to the wharf. read more

I take the Manly ferry and it is always enjoyable to see the Sydney Harbor and pass the Opera House. The ferries take off every half hour and is easy and relaxed transportation. If the weather is nice there is an option for outdoor seating and even a bar to get some drinks while on the 20 minute ride! Don't forget your opal card! You can also buy individual tickets but opal cards are cheaper if your using the transportation daily. Highly recommend taking the ferry and sticking around Manly that offers 150 restaurants, and check out the beach vibe Manly brings. read more

Everyone was telling us that we had to check out Manley. So, that we did. Having researched fully we found the best way to get there was by ferry so that was how we travelled. We had bought a 7 day transport ticket which gave us unlimited travel on trains, buses and to go on some ferries so didnt have to worry about the cost, though it seems that it is pretty reasonable. On the journey over to Manley we were sitting up top, make sure if you take the journey you have a camera, there are many pictures to be taken. Dont forget to look back and take photos of Sydney itself. The journey was quick, but very busy- it seems we had picked a public holiday to go, plus the weather was bright and sunny. We had to wait some time to get a ferry back and it was even busier. Hence the 4 star review rather than 5. However, it is definitely worth doing. read more

It's a Friday afternoon and I'm stuck in the city, all the way down towards Cirqular Quay. I guess I could've be in worse spots although I have to be in Balmain and in peak hour I know this could take an eternity. I look towards the harbour and contemplate swimming there. I move my head about 3 degrees to the right and hit the jackpot. A ferry! It would be close to about ten years to when I last caught a ferry and with a spring in my step I head over and buy a ticket. The board tells me my ferry is only three minutes away and I give myself a little fist pump. This ferry looks as old as the day is long and being only a short trip I decide to sit outside. Actually when the ferry starts veering towards Luna Park I start to think I have caught the wrong one but my fears are soon alleviated. In ten minutes I'm in Balmain and whilst I'm thankful I didn't have to wade through peak hour traffic I'm slightly disappointed that the journey is over. It's a great way to get around and I hope it's not another ten years till get on another one. read more

Sydney Ferries - Water Taxis Near Me - Sydney, NSW

We purchased the My Multi3 pass, which includes unlimited ferry use. Definitely recommend doing this, especially if you are also using the train during your stay. We used our passes to take the ferry out from Circular Quay to Manly, and over to Darling Harbour and back. Great harbor scenery on the ferry. We also tried to catch the ferry back into the city area from Parramatta after a day in the mountains. However, we did not know that, due to low tides, they stop running the ferry from Parramatta after a certain hour. So, we had to wait for a bus to take us to the next stop to take the ferry back. I'll take a star off for making us wait forever with no warning. Still, it was well worth it for us. read more

Basically scam artists. Purchased round trip ticket and went to Zoo. Can't get back as they say wrong ticket. Jerks, rude and what a scam.

This is the best way to see the major sites in Sydney for such a little price. I live in Sydney and I will never 'not get very excited' over getting on board! read more

The Circular Quay to Manly ferry is an absolute MUST if you're a visitor to this beautiful city... and an absolute treat for the locals. Nothing makes me feel so lucky to live in Sydney as catching the Ferry on a sunny day... the glimmer of sunlight reflecting off the ocean as we move out of the Quay, past the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, the headlands and parks... it's among the best sights in the world... As far as public transport goes, the ferry isn't cheap... but it's worth every cent if you're looking to experience Sydney at its best. Don't be afraid of a little wind and ocean spray... get outside, put your troubles out of your mind and enjoy! read more

The Manly Ferry was the commute transport of choice if you lived on Eastern Hill or Fairlight. Any need of transport from Balgowlah or Freshwater onwards the express buses into the city would actually be quicker. Sure its a nice way to commute into work before you enter into the business world depending if you get an early enough ferry. Locals use to get dropped off to the wharf by loved ones and fork out the extra to catch the jetcat because though ferries only take half an hour it takes nearly 10 minutes for the hydraulics on the gangway to wind down and up making the journey painfully slow. Beacause of this the ferry is perfect for tourists or those not in hurry to enjoy cruise mode back and forth from Circular Quay. Theres the characters that stay on the ferry for the return rides and avoid the staff by walking around at departure times. They look suspiciously like they use the ferry as their home. There are highlights though many a ferry rider have experienced the whales that come into the harbour, ridden monstrous waves through the heads before they make that turn into the harbour or into the wharf and hey Manly wharf isnt a bad place to end up on a Friday night after a long week at work with the offer of restaurants and bars on hand. read more

Nothing like a good friend's 30th to pull you out of your habitat and into Manly. As I live over the 'other side', rarely do I trek to the beautiful Northern beaches. To give you an indication, I have lived in Sydney for five years and I have been there twice. The thought of having to catch two modes of transport, bus AND ferry, is just too daunting for your average weekend. Alas, I am up for an adventure, and besides it was basically my duty to go. Thankfully I had a friend in tow to share the experience, or shall I say share the load? She's the kind of friend that always checks where and how to get anywhere so I entrusted her with all responsibility. We arrived at circular quay by bus and although bustling with people on a similar mission, it was pretty easy to figure this ferry business out. They go every half hour on Saturday's, however you have to purchase your tix two minutes prior to departure. That was never going to happen as there was a line about ten deep. Didn't matter that we just missed one, because we waited around and watched an array of interesting peeps. And it was a cracker of a day. We lined up and boarded the ferry at the scheduled time. What?! We sat on the inside of the vessel with plenty of seats to choose from. As it took off, the wind picked up and we passed Sydney Opera House. Wow! We just had to venture out on the deck to feel the breeze in our hair and noticed that absolutely every one was smiling. Sydney really can turn it on. People started to line up at the doors about twenty minutes in to the trip so as to be first off. It got a bit squishy but it wasn't long until we were on the deck in Manly. There, cafes and restaurants greet you with tempting aromas and calm sea air. I am blessed I have a friend demand I venture out of my comfort zone. Next time I won't be so hesitant or in need of a chaperone. I'll just look up Sydney ferries and be brave enough to go solo. read more

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