4 Listings
Self drive hire from Manly
Note: Boats are available for pickup from Rose Bay and Manly in all months except December and January. During this peak season, all self-drive hires are exclusively available for pickup from our main location at Spit Bridge. See here for bookings from Spit Bridge
Licensed self drive
Axopar 28
Luxury Sports Cruiser
- Up to 8 guests
- Fast, comfortable, spacious day boat
- Lunch table, toilet, lounge seating
- Swim platform
- License required for self drive
- Skipper available if required
No license self drive
Coral
Leisurely Cruiser
- Book Now- Available to hire from November
- Up to 6 guests
- Inside cabin with lunch table
- Outside lunch table w/ full shade
- Swim platform
- Beginner friendly/ easy to drive
- Full instructions provided
Hiring a boat in Sydney is an exciting way to experience the harbour city from a different perspective. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, planning a party, or aiming for a peaceful day on the water, Boatique Sydney Boat Hire has you covered. Our range of boats and exceptional service make us the go-to option for boat hire in Manly and beyond.
Begin Your Adventure with Our Self-Drive Axopar
At Boatique, we offer skippered or self-drive boat hire with our popular Axopar. This sleek, easy-to-handle vessel is perfect for those who love to take control and explore at their own pace. Explore Sydney Harbour, anchor at hidden coves, and creating your own itinerary.
Our Axopar is equipped with modern navigation systems and safety features, ensuring a smooth and secure journey even for beginners. Whether you’re planning a family outing, or just a relaxing day on the water, our self-drive option gives you the freedom to tailor your adventure exactly as you wish. Read more about Axopar and book for $1,195 for a full day hire!
Other types of boats available to hire in Manly
Explore the most popular categories.
3 Listings
45 Listings
Catamarans
<h3>Book a catamaran in Sydney with Boatique!</h3>
53 Listings
43 Listings
Luxury
Finding the perfect boat for your occasion
43 Listings
1,037 Listings
48 Listings
Get started
Just a few steps to book a boat.
Find your boat
Browse our boats or get in touch and we’ll help find the boat for your occasion
Book
Confirm your booking let us take care of the rest
Set sail
Hop onboard and enjoy your occasion on the water
Diverse Boat Hire Options
At Boatique, we understand that every occasion is unique. That’s why we offer a variety of vessels to cater to different preferences and requirements. Here’s a closer look at our boat categories:
- Self Drive Boat hire: If independence and adventure are what you seek, our self-drive options, including the Axopar, allow you to chart your own course and experience the harbor like never before. It’s an ideal choice for intimate outings and spontaneous trips.
- Party boats: Planning a party in Manly? What about moving it to the next level and hiring a boat. Our party boats are equipped with sound systems, spacious decks, and all the amenities needed for a fantastic gathering. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or corporate event, our party boats ensure unforgettable moments.
- Catamarans: Catamarans offer stability and space, making them perfect for larger groups and family outings. With plenty of room to move around, sunbathe, or enjoy a meal, catamarans provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
- Motorboats and yachts: For those looking for a luxurious experience, our motorboats and yachts are top-of-the-line. Enjoy the elegance and power of these vessels as you cruise through Sydney’s iconic waterways.
- Super yachts: Take your experience to the next level with our super yacht hire. These magnificent vessels come with premium amenities, including personal crew, gourmet catering, and luxurious accommodation. Perfect for high-end events and making a statement.
- Function boats: Hosting a corporate event or a large function? Our function boats are designed to accommodate bigger gatherings with facilities like meeting rooms, dining areas, and presentation equipment.
- Budget-friendly options: Boating doesn’t have to break the bank. We offer budget-friendly options that allow you to enjoy the beauty of Manly and the whole harbour without compromising on quality. Great for casual outings, small groups, or anyone looking to experience boating.
- Sailing boats: For those who appreciate the art of sailing, our sailing boats provide an engaging experience.
- Water taxis: Need a quick and efficient way to get from Manly around the harbour? Our water taxis offer a convenient and scenic mode of transport. Perfect for short trips, sightseeing, or getting to your destination with ease.
Why choose Boatique for your boat hire in Manly?
At Boatique, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch service that leaves a lasting impression. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we know what it takes to make your boating experience memorable and hassle-free.
Personalised Recommendations
Hiring a boat can be overwhelming. At Boatique, we simplify the process by providing personalized recommendations based on your needs. Whether it’s a leisurely cruise along Sydney Harbour or an adventurous trip to hidden coves around Manly, our expert team will help you choose the perfect boat.
Booking Process Made Easy
Our straightforward booking process ensures that you spend more time enjoying your trip and less time dealing with logistics. Simply choose your preferred vessel, select your date and time, and you’re all set.
Pro Tip: Book your boat well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best options.
Exploring Manly and Nearby Areas
Manly is one of Sydney’s most beloved coastal suburbs, known for its vibrant beach culture and stunning natural beauty. When you hire a boat with Boatique, you can explore the best that Manly and its surrounding areas have to offer. Drop anchor near the beach (on the harbour side of Manly), take a swim, or enjoy a picnic on board.
Discover Manly Beach
Manly Beach is iconic, with golden sands, rolling waves, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a surfer’s paradise and a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun. The beachfront promenade is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it easy to grab a bite or explore the local scene.
Must-See Spots Around Manly
- North Head: Just a short sail from Manly, North Head offers panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline. It’s a fantastic spot for hiking, with trails that wind through native bushland and historical sites. The lookouts provide perfect vantage points for some incredible photo opportunities.
- Shelly Beach: A hidden gem just a stone’s throw from Manly Beach, Shelly Beach is a sheltered cove ideal for snorkeling and diving. The clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, making it a favorite spot for underwater exploration. It’s also a great place to relax with a picnic under the shade of the trees.
- Quarantine Station: Steeped in history, the Quarantine Station (Q Station) offers a glimpse into Sydney’s past. Located within the Sydney Harbour National Park, it’s accessible by boat and offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and ghost tours for the brave-hearted. The surrounding area is also perfect for leisurely walks and wildlife spotting.
- Fairlight Beach: For a more secluded experience, head to Fairlight Beach. This small, peaceful beach is perfect for a quiet swim or a relaxed afternoon. The rock pools are great for exploring, and the grassy area behind the beach is ideal for picnics.
Book with Boatique Today!
Ready to set sail? Boatique has you covered. Our fleet of luxurious and well-maintained boats are ready to make your day on Sydney Harbour one to remember. Contact us today to book your adventure. We will pick you up in Manly!
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of boats do you offer for hire in Manly?
We offer a variety of boats, including self-drive boats, party boats, catamarans, motorboats, yachts, super yachts, function boats, budget-friendly options, sailing boats, and water taxis.
How do I book a boat?
You can easily book a boat through our website, phone or send us an email.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, some boats offer BYO options. In the description of our boats will be information about BYO and/or catering.
Are pets allowed on board?
Pets are allowed on some of our boats. Please check with our team when booking.
What should I bring on the day of the hire?
We recommend bringing sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, swimsuits, towels, and any personal items you might need.
Do I need boating experience to hire a self-drive boat in Manly?
Yes, you must be over 25, have an Australian boat license and have adequate experience for such a boat.
Manly Boat Hire — Explore Sydney Harbour From the Northern Beaches
Manly is one of Sydney’s most iconic beach suburbs, and it also happens to be one of the best places to hire a boat on the harbour. Sitting at the mouth of Port Jackson where the harbour meets the open ocean, Manly gives you access to stretches of coastline that most Sydney-siders only ever see from a ferry window. With Boatique Sydney Boat Hire, you can pick up a self-drive boat right here in Manly and explore hidden beaches, secluded bays, and dramatic headlands at your own pace.
Our self-drive boats are available for pickup from Manly from February through to November. During December and January (peak summer season), all self-drive pickups operate from our main base at The Spit Reserve in Mosman — just a short drive or bus ride from Manly.
Why Manly Is a Brilliant Starting Point
Most boat hire on Sydney Harbour launches from the inner harbour — places like Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, or Rose Bay. There is nothing wrong with that, but starting from Manly puts you in a completely different part of the harbour. You are already at the gateway between the harbour and the ocean, surrounded by national park headlands, quiet coves, and some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Australia.
From Manly, you can cruise west into the main harbour toward the Bridge and Opera House, or you can do what the locals do and explore the quieter northern shoreline — places like Store Beach, Collins Beach, and the historic Quarantine Station. These spots are largely inaccessible by road, which means you will often have the beach to yourself on a weekday.
Self-Drive Boats Available From Manly
Boatique offers two self-drive boats that can be picked up from Manly:
- Coral (No Licence Required) — A safe, stable vessel perfect for families, couples, and small groups of up to 6 guests. From $400 for a 3-hour hire ($550 for a full day). No boating licence needed — we give you a full safety briefing before you head out. This is by far the most popular option for casual harbour exploration.
- Axopar 28 (Licence Required) — A high-performance day boat for up to 7 guests. From $795 for a half day (from $1,195 for a full day). You will need a current boat licence to skipper the Axopar, but if you have one, this is an exceptional vessel — fast, comfortable, and built for open water. Ideal for experienced boaters who want to cover more ground.
Both boats come equipped with a Bluetooth speaker, safety gear, and everything you need for a day on the water. You are welcome to bring your own food, drinks, and snacks on board.
Where to Go From Manly by Boat
The waters around Manly are some of the most varied on Sydney Harbour. Here are the spots our customers love most:
Store Beach
Store Beach is the jewel of Manly’s coastline and one of the main reasons people hire a boat from here. Tucked inside North Head, this small sandy beach has no road access at all — the only way to get there is by boat or a long bushwalk. The water is calm, clear, and perfect for swimming. On a quiet day, you might be the only people there. It is a five-minute cruise from Manly Wharf.
Quarantine Station and Spring Cove
Just around the headland from Store Beach, the old Quarantine Station (now Q Station hotel) sits on the edge of Spring Cove. This is a beautiful, sheltered anchorage with calm water and a fascinating history. The station operated from 1828 to 1984, processing immigrants arriving by ship. You can anchor off the beach and take in the heritage buildings from the water.
Collins Beach and Reef Beach
These two small beaches sit on the harbour side of the Manly to Spit walk, accessible by foot but far more enjoyable by boat. Collins Beach is a tiny, private-feeling cove surrounded by bush. Reef Beach is slightly larger and popular with locals who know about it. Both offer calm water and a genuine sense of escape, despite being minutes from Manly.
North Head
North Head forms the northern jaw of Sydney Harbour’s entrance. The sandstone cliffs here are dramatic, rising steeply from the water. Cruising along the base of North Head is an experience — you will see the open Pacific on one side and the sheltered harbour on the other. This area is best suited to the Axopar 28 and experienced boaters, particularly if there is any swell running.
Shelly Beach and Manly Cove
Shelly Beach sits just south of Manly Beach and is a protected marine reserve. While you cannot anchor directly at the beach, cruising past gives you a stunning view of the headland and the snorkellers below. Manly Cove itself is a calm, protected body of water perfect for a gentle first cruise if you are new to boating.
Heading West Into the Harbour
If you want the classic Sydney Harbour experience, head west from Manly toward the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. The cruise takes about 30 to 40 minutes in the Coral, or around 20 minutes in the Axopar. Along the way, you will pass Balgowlah Heights, Balmoral Beach, Middle Head, and Bradleys Head before the Bridge and Opera House come into view. It is a genuinely memorable route, especially in the late afternoon when the light hits the western harbour.
Seasonal Availability
Self-drive boat hire from Manly is available from February through November. During December and January, our peak summer months, all self-drive boats operate from The Spit Reserve in Mosman. The Spit is just 15 minutes by car from Manly, or you can catch the 144 bus. If you are set on a Manly pickup during peak season, get in touch and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Getting to Manly and Parking
Manly is well connected to the rest of Sydney:
- Manly Ferry — The classic way to get here. Ferries run from Circular Quay every 20 to 30 minutes and the trip takes about 30 minutes. It is one of the great ferry rides in the world and a perfect way to start your day on the water.
- Bus — Multiple bus routes connect Manly to the CBD, Northern Beaches, and North Shore. The B1 express from Wynyard is the fastest option.
- Driving — Street parking is available around Manly Wharf and along the Esplanade, though it fills up quickly on weekends. The Whistler Street car park is a council-operated multi-storey with all-day rates, located a short walk from the wharf. Arrive early on weekends and public holidays.
Larger Boats and Agency Charter From Manly
If you are planning a bigger event — a birthday party, corporate function, or wedding — Boatique has access to over 120 agency boats across Sydney Harbour. While most of these depart from inner harbour wharves, several can arrange pickup from Manly or nearby locations. Options include party boats, corporate charter vessels, and fishing boats. Get in touch with your requirements and we will put together a quote.
Tips for Boating Around Manly
- Morning is best — The water around Manly is calmest in the morning before the afternoon sea breeze picks up. If you are a first-time skipper on the Coral, a morning session gives you the smoothest ride.
- Bring snorkelling gear — The water at Store Beach and around the Quarantine Station is remarkably clear. Snorkelling gear is worth packing if you have it.
- Watch the ferry wash — Manly ferries create a decent wake. Give them plenty of room when they are entering or leaving the wharf.
- Check the weather — Manly is more exposed to ocean swell than inner harbour locations. If the forecast shows a strong southerly or easterly, conditions around North Head can get choppy. We will always advise you on the day.
- Pack lunch — BYO food and drinks on all self-drive boats. Grab fish and chips or sandwiches from Manly before you head out.
Frequently Asked Questions About Manly Boat Hire
- Do I need a boat licence? — Not for the Coral. The Axopar 28 requires a current NSW boat licence (or interstate equivalent).
- How many people can come? — The Coral takes up to 6 guests. The Axopar 28 takes up to 7.
- Can I bring alcohol? — Yes. BYO food and drinks on all self-drive boats. Please drink responsibly — the skipper must remain under 0.05 BAC.
- What if the weather is bad? — We monitor conditions closely and will contact you if we need to reschedule. Safety always comes first.
- Can I hire a boat for fishing from Manly? — The Coral is suitable for casual line fishing in the harbour. For serious fishing charters, check our fishing boat hire page or enquire about dedicated fishing vessels.
Manly is a special place to start a day on Sydney Harbour. Whether you want to find a hidden beach, cruise past the Opera House, or just spend a few hours floating in a quiet cove, hiring a self-drive boat from Manly puts it all within reach. Check availability and book online, or browse our affordable boat hire options to find the right fit for your group.
Looking at other pickup locations? We also operate from Rose Bay on the eastern side of the harbour.
Related: Want to drive yourself? See our bareboat hire in Sydney guide — Axopar (licence) or Coral (no licence).