If you’re thinking about hiring a boat and exploring Sydney’s beautiful waterways on a self drive adventure, you’re in for an amazing experience. With Boatique, you can rent a self drive boat and take your time discovering the unique sights of Sydney Harbour. We’ve put together some top places that we like to go and think you’ll agree with us. For a thorough rundown of your day on the water visit our self drive guide.
Where to go during your boat hire
Sydney Harbour offers plenty of places to explore, from well-known spots to hidden gems. Here are some must-visit locations:
- Lane Cove River: Cruise up this peaceful river, enjoying the lush surroundings and quiet waters and waterfront mansions.
- Manly: Famous for its beaches and relaxed vibe, Manly is perfect for a day out. You might even spot penguins during winter months!
- Sydney Harbour: See Sydney’s icons. Drive under the Harbour bridge, relax in front of the Opera House and Royal botanic gardens and Darling harbour.
- Middle Harbour: This area is more secluded and offers beautiful scenery, perfect for a calm and relaxing day on the water. Upriver of the Spit bridge you’ll find Bantry bay in the Garigal national park. You’ll forget you’re in Sydney along this long stretch of tree lined stretch of coast with its bays and beaches.
Our favourite bays and beaches
North and Middle Harbour
- Castle rock – a large sandy bay sheltered from the afternoon breeze and popular with boaters.
- Delwood beach – Anchor off Delwood beach for a swim and enjoy some of the nicest coloured water in Sydney with the Norfolk Pine tree lined beach.
- Store Beach – Is a quiet and protected spot out of the wind, perfect for an afternoon lunch and swim. Part of the national park and only accessible by boat, this is one of our favourite spots in Sydney. In the right season you may spot a penguin or two as they nest in the bushes here hence ‘boat only’.
Main harbour
- Camp cove – Beautiful sandy beach, anchor in front of the swimming net and enjoy the scenery
- Obelisk beach – another amazing bay if conditions are calm.
- Chowder bay – the most sheltered beach in the harbour. Great stop for lunch and a swim with kids. The water is very shallow here especially at low tide so be careful with the engine hitting the sand and always park in deeper water
- Queens beach – the perfect afternoon spot for a view of the city and harbour at its finest.
- Taylors bay – a nice little sandy cove. It can get busy at times but surrounded by trees and is a hidden gem in our book.
- Athol bay – great views of the harbour
- Milk beach – DO NOT GO to Milk beach and be careful of submerged rocks around this area, best to avoid.
Other beaches and bays
Sydney Harbour is home to some of the best beaches where you can pull up and enjoy a swim or a picnic:
- Balmoral Beach: Known for its clear waters and sandy shores, Balmoral is ideal for families.
- Nielsen Park: This picturesque beach is quiet and offers great swimming spots if you anchor near the swimming net.
- Rose bay beach– A lovely sandy spot but be careful to anchor in deeper water as it gets very shallow during low tide a long way out from shore.
- Chinamans beach– Another favourite picturesque sandy bay.
What if it’s windy?
Click HERE for wind forecasts in Sydney Harbour
The most common wind in summer is the north easterly seabreeze which start building in the early afternoon. Southerlys and westerlies also occur at different times of year. There is always a nice spot out of the wind and with a bit of planning you can make the most of your time on the Harbour.
In summer if there will be a northerly in the afternoon, it’s a good idea to explore the main harbour first when its calm and spend more time in north and middle harbour in the afternoon which is more protected then.
Protected spots in Noreasterly
- Athol bay
- Store beach and the surrounding areas
- Castle rock
- Chowder bay
- Bantry bay
- Delwood beach
- Taylors bay
Protected spots in Southerly
Southerlies can appear at a moments notice a be very intense causing large swells in the main harbour.
- Balmoral beach
- Chinamans beach
- Store beach
- Rose bay beach
- Bantry bay
- Chowder bay
Protected spots in Westerly
Usually occurring in winter and can be very strong at times
- Balmoral
- Chinamans beach
- Obelisk beach
- Taylors bay
- Chowder bay
Where else to go
Waterfront cafes and eateries
Someone must stay with the boat at all times if anchored but some areas provide reasonably easy access with shallow water and a short paddle to get a bite to eat.
Check out these waterfront cafes:
- Chowder bay: The water is so shallow here its possible to jump out and walk to the kiosk on the northern end of the beach for a coffee and eats.
- Watsons bay: Grab some tasty fish and chips at the famous Doyles restaurant and kiosk, a little deeper here but possible to jump out north of the ferry wharf in front of Doyles.
- Manly: If you call in advance you can park the boat at Manly boatshed for a coffee and cake.
Wildlife Wonders: Penguins and Seals
Sydney Harbour is not just about beautiful views; it’s also home to some fascinating wildlife. In Manly, you might catch a glimpse of fairy penguins between May and February. These little creatures are a delight to watch as they waddle along the shore and chase fish in the harbour. Store beach is the best place to spot one and one of the nicest anchorages in the harbour. Additionally, seals are sometimes seen basking on rocks around chowder bay and the opera house steps or swimming playfully in the water. Keep your camera ready, as these moments are truly special.
Ready to explore Sydney Harbour on your own terms?
Book your self-drive boat with Boatique today and start planning your adventure!
FAQs About Self-Drive Boat Hire in Sydney
- Do I need a boating license to hire a self-drive boat? Yes you will need a boating license, be 25 years of age with some experience to hire our self-drive boats.
- What is included in the rental? Our boats come fully equipped with safety gear, maps, and a full tank of fuel.
- How long is the safety briefing? The safety briefing lasts approximately 30 minutes and covers all essential information.
- Can I bring my pet on board? Pets are allowed on board. Please contact us for specific requests.
- Is there a limit on where I can go with the boat? Yes, you can navigate anywhere within Sydney Harbour from Lane Cove to Manly, but not beyond the heads.
- Can I swim from the boat? Yes, there are several spots where you can safely swim. Always follow safety guidelines.
- What should I bring for the trip? Sunscreen, hats, snacks, and beverages are recommended. Make sure to pack light and bring essentials.
- How do I book a self-drive boat? You can book directly through our website or contact us by phone for assistance.