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Backpackers
Sydney Harbour Hands-On Sailing Experience
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Sydney Harbour Hands-On Sailing Experience

23 Reviews

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes

Overview

This is a small-group sailing trip on Sydney Harbour aboard a 24ft keelboat, led by professional skippers. It is more hands-on than a standard sightseeing cruise, so you can help set the sails and steer if you want to get involved. If not, you can sit back and enjoy the ride. Departing from Manly, the cruise focuses on getting you out on the water for a different view of the harbour, with waterfront homes, quieter beaches and, depending on weather and route, views towards landmarks including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Why backpackers love it

It gives you a more active harbour trip than a big ferry-style cruise, without needing any sailing experience. The option to join in or just sit back makes it easy if you are keen to try something new but do not want a full lesson or day trip. Leaving from Manly also works well if you are already exploring the northern beaches, and the small-boat setup makes the whole thing feel more personal than a larger sightseeing cruise. It is not the cheapest harbour option, but you are paying for a proper sailing session with crew, gear and a more up-close time on the water.

What to expect

You’ll head out from Manly Yacht Club with an experienced crew and safety gear provided. Once on board, the skipper can show you the basics of sailing and give you the chance to take part, including helping with sails or having a turn at the helm. If you would rather keep it easy, you can simply relax while the crew handles the boat. The route takes in harbour scenery including luxury waterfront properties and hidden beaches. Landmark views are weather dependent, and on the shorter cruise it is not possible to sail all the way to the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. The trip only runs with at least two participants, and you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund.

What's included

  • Sailing Instruction (if wanted)
  • Safety equipment
  • 1.5 or 2.5 Hour Cruise on Sydney Harbour
  • Experienced crew

Features

  • Sail on a 24ft keelboat with professional skippers rather than a standard sightseeing boat
  • Join in with steering and sail handling, or relax and enjoy the harbour from the water
  • See waterfront mansions, hidden beaches and weather-dependent views towards major harbour landmarks

Details

Additional details

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Manly Yacht club is stroller, wheelchair and service animal accessible but the boat is not

Prices, availability, and cancellation policies are managed by the tour provider and may change. Please confirm all details on the booking page before purchasing.

From A$120.00

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