Convicts & Colonials Cruise

Discover the fascinating colonial history of Sydney Harbour on a private cruise through the birthplace of modern Australia.

Cruise past iconic landmarks including Fort Denison, Garden Island Naval Base and historic waterfront precincts as your skipper shares stories of Aboriginal heritage, the First Fleet, convict life, colonial settlement and Sydney's maritime past.

Enjoy a one-hour private tour at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island, where you'll explore historic convict buildings, sandstone tunnels and former shipyards that played a vital role in Australia's colonial and naval history.

As you continue your harbour cruise, learn about Sydney's military defences, World War II history and the dramatic Japanese midget submarine attack of 1942, all while taking in spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and surrounding foreshore.

Combining breathtaking scenery with rich storytelling, Convicts & Colonials offers a memorable journey through more than 200 years of Sydney Harbour history.

What's included

• 3.5 hour Sydney Harbour tour
• Private boat with captain
• One-hour guided tour at UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island
• Complimentary bottled water
• Glasses, cutlery and plates
• Option to BYO food and drinks
• Fuel, taxes, and wharf fees

Highlights

• Private guided heritage cruise on Sydney Harbour
• Explore over 200 years of Sydney's history
• Discover convict settlements and colonial Sydney
• Cruise past Fort Denison and Garden Island Naval Base
• Learn about Sydney Harbour's role in World War II
• See iconic landmarks including the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge
• Expert commentary from your local skipper
• Ideal for history lovers, families, cultural travellers and education tour groups

Departure Times & Locations

Boarding - Darling Harbour or Circular Quay
Times: 9.00am-12.30pm or 1pm-4.30pm

Boats & Pricing

Axopar Sports Cruiser - up to 4 passengers (4 max) - from $2,455
Seawind Catamaran - up to 4 passengers (20 max) - from $2,690
Riviera 4000 - up to 4 passengers (max 14) - $3,620
Van De Stadt 38 Cruiser - up to 4 passengers (max 12) - $3,645
55ft Riviera Sports Cruiser - up to 4 passengers (max 22) - $5,365 (over 12 passengers extra fee of $400 applies)

Optional Extras

Seafood platter - $90pp
Antipasto grazing platter or Vegetarian Mezze Platter - From $190
Extra passengers - $50pp (Island Tour)

Additional Information

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travellers with back problems, mobility issues or serious medical conditions
• Private experience, no other people will be joining you aboard
• Please bring: Sun protection: glasses, hat, suncream. Warm top/jacket: It can be cooler on the harbour.
• Operates 5 days per week (Monday-Friday). Excluding public holidays and special event dates
• Full payment is due at the time of booking.
• Cancellations more than 30 days are fully refundable, less than 30 days, but more than 14 days before travel, will attract a 50% cancellation fee. Cancellations made less than 14 days before travel will attract a 100% cancellation fee.