Sydney's six best ferry trips
Sydney's Best Ferry Routes
By Sarah Norris
1 Palm Beach
You can go all the way to the Ettalong but if you want to stay in Sydney, opt for The Basin and Mackarel Beach trips. Leaving Whale Beach and dashing across Pittwater, this kick-arse ferry trip escorts you to the shores of the National Park and weekend bliss.
Palm Beach Ferries depart Palm Beach at Barrenjoey Road. (02 9974 2411) Mon-Thu 9am-5pm; Fri 9am-8pm; Sat & Sun 9am-6pm. Adult return $12.60; concs $6.30.
2 Cronulla Ferry
It's a short dash from Cronulla to Bundeena but once you've landed at this southern beachside getaway you'll think you're on holiday.
Cronulla Ferries from Cronulla Public Wharf, Tonkin St, Gunnamatta Bay, Cronulla 2230. Mon-Fri 5.30am-6.30pm; Sat & Sun 8.30am-5.30pm (or 6.30pm from Nov-Mar. (02 9523 2990) Adult $5.40; child $2.70.
3 Cockatoo Island
If you took advantage of the free ferry during the Biennale you will know that Cockatoo Island was the highlight (sorry, arts folks!). As the largest island in the harbour it warrants repeat visit - and the ferry trip will cap off your date. Pack a picnic.
Cockatoo Island Ferries depart from Circular Quay & Darling Harbour. Mon-Fri 8.20am-1.50pm; Sat & Sun 8.05am-1.45pm. Adult $5.20; concs $2.60.
4 Manly
The ferry to Manly is compulsory fun. With gazillion dollar views the whole way, it's the ultimate tourist cheat, allowing you to experience a world-class trip on a shoestring budget. Over 40 minutes passing Sydney icons - and if it's choppy, the trip past the heads is fun.
Manly Ferries depart Circular Quay Mon-Fri 6am-11.45pm; Sat 8am-11.45pm; Sun 7.40am-11.45pm. (131 500) Adult $6.40; concs $3.20.
5 Parramatta
Make use of that giant harbour and explore Sydney's backwaters over a relaxed one-hour journey. Via a sleek catamaran, you swing by Breakfast Point, Meadowbank and the industrial Rydalmere inlet to the pretty end point of Parramatta.
Parramatta Ferries depart Circular Quay and Darling Harbour Mon-Fri 6.55am-6.15pm; Sat & Sun 8am-9.35pm. (131 500) Adult $7.70; concs $3.80.
6 Mosman
Get up close to Sydney's inner northern suburbs from the water's edge and a nosey look at our city's impressive harbourside homes. Gliding past Cremorne Point, Taronga Zoo, South Mosman, Old Cremorne and finally Mosman Bay - you'll see how the other half live.
Mosman Ferries depart Circular Quay Mon-Fri 5.40am-12.10am; Sat & Sun 6am-12.10am. (131 500) Adult $5.20; concs $2.60.