4 Listings
Welcome to Boatique, where we make your private boating dreams come true. Our private boat hire options will help you discover the beauty of Sydney Harbour in a way that’s as unique as you are. Start with choosing your boat:
Top Categories
Explore the most popular categories.
45 Listings
Catamarans
<h3>Book a catamaran in Sydney with Boatique!</h3>
43 Listings
Luxury
Finding the perfect boat for your occasion
Occasions catered by Boatique
- Private events: Mark your special occasions with an unforgettable journey aboard a private boat. Browse boats.
- Weddings and Engagements: Celebrate your special day on the water with our luxury yachts. Our team will work with you to customize every detail, from decorations to dining.
- Corporate Events: Host your next corporate event aboard one of our spacious boats. Whether it’s a product launch, team-building day, or client meeting, we provide all the amenities needed for a successful event.
- Family gatherings: Make your next family reunion extra special with a private boat hire. Our family-friendly boats are equipped with safety features and plenty of space for kids to play.
- Birthdays and anniversaries: Celebrate milestones with style. Our customizable options allow you to create the perfect atmosphere for your birthday or anniversary party.
How much does it cost to hire a private boat in Sydney?
The cost of private boat hire in Sydney can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the type of boat, the duration of the hire, and any additional services or amenities you choose. For instance, hiring a luxury yacht can range from $1,500 to over $6,000 per day. Catamarans and smaller vessels tend to be more budget-friendly, with prices starting around $400 to $1,000 per hour. Seasonal variations can also impact pricing, with peak times such as summer and holidays often seeing higher rates.
Benefits of hiring boat privately
At Boatique, we believe that everyone should experience the joy of being on the water. Our fleet is diverse and well-maintained, ensuring that we have the perfect vessel for your needs.
- Customizable packages for private hire: Tailor your boating experience to fit your specific requirements.
- Wide range of private boats: From intimate boats for small groups to larger vessels for big celebrations.
- Flexibility: With private boat hire, you’re in control of the itinerary. The day unfolds according to your wishes.
- Local tips for the best spots and beaches.
- Experienced crew: Our friendly and professional crew ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Customisable options for your exclusive boat hire
We know that every boating experience is unique. That’s why we offer a range of customisation options to ensure your trip is just the way you want it:
- Decorations: Personalize your boat with decorations for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate events.
- Music and entertainment: Choose your favourite playlists or live entertainment options to set the mood.
- Catering services: From gourmet meals to casual snacks, we offer a variety of catering packages to suit all tastes. If you are wondering if to book catering or BYO, read our article.
Booking process
- Browse our fleet: Visit our website to explore the different private boats available.
- Get a quote: Once you select your boat, tell us a few details (date, how many people, time) and we will send you a quote.
- Customize your experience: Let us know if you have any specific requests or needs.
- Confirm and book: Once you’re happy with your choices, confirm your booking.
⚓ Popular pickup wharves for private charters: Choose from King Street Wharf, Rose Bay, Balmoral Beach, Lavender Bay and 45 more. See all 49 charter wharves.
FAQs
- How do I book a private boat with Boatique? Browse our selection of boats, select your preferred private boat and date, customise your experience, and confirm your booking.
- What types of private boats are available for hire? We offer a range of private boats including small group boats, family-friendly vessels, and luxury yachts.
- Is there a minimum hire duration for private boats? Most private boats have a minimum hire duration, typically around three to four hours depending on season.
- Are food and drinks provided on board? We offer customizable catering options. You can also bring your own food and drinks. Please let us know ahead of you would like catering or BYO option.
- What should I bring on the trip? Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and any personal items you may need.
- Can we swim during the trip? Swimming is permitted in designated areas. Always follow the crew’s instructions for safety.
- Are pets allowed on board? Some private boats are pet-friendly. Please check with us when booking.
What Is Private Boat Hire?
Private boat hire means your group gets the entire vessel exclusively — no strangers on board, no shared schedules, no fixed routes. Unlike public cruises where you buy a ticket and share the boat with dozens of others, private hire gives you complete control over the experience. You choose when to depart, where to cruise, what to eat, and what music to play.
On Sydney Harbour, private hire is available on everything from small self-drive boats for 6 people to large function vessels for 400+ guests. Every boat comes with a professional skipper and crew (unless you choose self-drive), and you can customise the catering, entertainment, and route to suit your occasion.
Private Boat Hire vs Public Cruises — What Is the Difference?
| Factor | Private Boat Hire | Public/Ticketed Cruise |
|---|---|---|
| Exclusivity | Entire vessel is yours | Shared with strangers (50-500 people) |
| Route | You choose — skipper adapts to your group | Fixed route, same every time |
| Timing | Depart and return when you want | Fixed schedule, set departure times |
| Music | Your playlist, your volume | Pre-set entertainment or commentary |
| Food & drinks | BYO or custom catering to your taste | Standard set menu or buffet |
| Swimming | Anchor in a bay and swim off the boat | Not available |
| Per person cost (20 guests) | $52–$100 for 3 hours | $50–$80 per ticket (2-3 hours) |
The surprising thing is the cost. For groups of 15 or more, private hire often works out cheaper per person than buying individual tickets on a public cruise — and the experience is incomparably better.
How Much Does Private Boat Hire Cost in Sydney?
Private boat hire pricing depends on the size of the vessel, time of year, and day of the week. Here is a realistic guide based on our current fleet:
| Group Size | Boat Type | Hourly Rate | 3-Hour Cruise | Per Person |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2–6 guests | Self-drive (no licence needed) | From $80/hr | From $400 | $67–$200 |
| 6–12 guests | Small yacht or cruiser | $250–$600/hr | $750–$1,800 | $63–$150 |
| 12–25 guests Most Popular | Catamaran or motor yacht | $325–$600/hr | $975–$1,800 | $49–$90 |
| 25–60 guests | Mid-size catamaran | $350–$650/hr | $1,050–$2,600 | $35–$65 |
| 60–200 guests | Large vessel or function boat | $550–$1,000/hr | $1,650–$4,000 | $17–$40 |
| 200–430 guests | Premium event vessel | $900–$3,300/hr | $2,700–$13,200 | $14–$33 |
Prices are vessel hire only, including skipper and crew. Peak season (October to March) and weekends at the higher end. BYO food and drinks on most boats saves 30-50% compared to catered packages.
Best Private Boats by Group Size
Couples and Small Groups (2–12)
For an intimate private experience, smaller vessels offer the most personal atmosphere. Carpe Diem ($350/hr, 8 guests) is a charming 38-foot sailing yacht perfect for couples and close friends. Solace ($425/hr, 11 guests) is a premium Jeanneau Sun Odyssey with refined interiors. For the most affordable option, our Coral self-drive (from $400/3hrs, 6 guests) gives you a private boat with no skipper or crew — total freedom on the harbour.
Friends and Family (12–30)
This is the most popular size for private hire. Delphinus ($325/hr, 20 guests) is one of our best value private boats — a sailing catamaran with BYO and a relaxed atmosphere. Sirocco ($350/hr, 30 guests) offers more space at a similar price. For a premium experience, Moxie ($450/hr, 25 guests) delivers polished interiors and excellent service.
Large Private Events (30–100+)
For bigger celebrations, Mascot ($550/hr, 65 guests) and Bayrunner ($550/hr, 180 guests) offer the lowest per-person cost in the fleet. Regal ($600/hr, 70 guests) adds a touch of elegance for mid-size private events. For truly large private functions, see our function boat hire page.
What Occasions Suit Private Boat Hire?
Any celebration or gathering where you want privacy and a unique venue. The most common private boat hire occasions we organise are:
- Birthday parties — from intimate 30th celebrations to milestone 50ths with extended family
- Weddings and engagements — ceremonies, receptions, and proposals on the harbour
- Corporate events — client entertainment, team building, product launches
- Hens parties and bucks parties — the boat becomes your private venue
- Christmas parties — work and social, the most popular time of year
- Family gatherings — reunions, farewells, memorials, or just a day on the water together
- Romantic outings — sunset cruises for two, anniversaries, proposals
What Is Included in Private Boat Hire?
Every private boat hire on Sydney Harbour includes:
- The vessel — exclusive use for your group during the hire period
- Professional skipper and crew — qualified, experienced, and there to help
- Fuel — included on most boats
- Safety equipment — life jackets, first aid, and all maritime safety requirements
- Sound system — Bluetooth connectivity on almost every vessel
- Tables, seating, and basic amenities
Optional extras (arranged at additional cost):
- Professional catering (from $45/person)
- Beverage packages ($40-$75/person) or BYO on most boats
- DJ or live music
- Decorations and styling
- Photography
Where Can a Private Boat Go on Sydney Harbour?
The short answer: anywhere on the harbour. Your skipper plans a route based on your preferences and the conditions. Popular private cruise routes include:
- The classic loop — past the Opera House, under the Harbour Bridge, around Fort Denison, and back. The most popular route for first-time harbour cruises.
- Eastern harbour — Rose Bay, Shark Island, Watsons Bay, Vaucluse. Sheltered bays, swimming spots, and waterfront dining at Doyles.
- Middle Harbour — Balmoral Beach, The Spit, Clontarf. Quieter water, beautiful bushland, and fewer boats.
- Northern beaches — Manly, Store Beach, North Head. Accessible from The Spit or inner harbour (best with faster boats).
Most 3-hour cruises cover the main harbour highlights comfortably. Longer hires (4-6 hours) allow for swimming stops, island visits, and more relaxed exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Boatique’s Private Hire Fleet — 16 of Our Most-Booked Boats
Private boat hire on Sydney Harbour means exclusive use of a whole vessel for your group only. Below: 16 of our most-booked private hire boats across every type — luxury yachts, catamarans, function vessels and super yachts.
Rhemtide
Catamaran · up to 45 guests
from $1350/hr
Sydney Seabird
Catamaran · up to 45 guests
from $1200/hr
Bella Lacqua
Motor Yacht · up to 36 guests
from $1200/hr
Prometheus
Cruiser · up to 36 guests
from $1000/hr
Hestia
Catamaran · up to 33 guests
from $600/hr
Fleetwing II
Catamaran · up to 60 guests
from $725/hr
Kondor
Catamaran · up to 47 guests
from $650/hr
Rum Runner
Catamaran · up to 47 guests
from $600/hr
Heaven
Catamaran · up to 46 guests
from $675/hr
Ali B
Catamaran · up to 45 guests
from $600/hr
Inception (cruise)
Party Event · up to 415 guests
from $1100/hr
Constellation
Catamaran · up to 400 guests
from $1000/hr
Vagabond Spirit
Catamaran · up to 350 guests
from $850/hr
Athena
Cruiser · up to 35 guests
from $600/hr
Aussie Legend
Catamaran · up to 250 guests
from $1100/hr
Luna
Catamaran · up to 193 guests
from $500/hr
➤ How much does private boat hire cost in Sydney?
Private boat hire starts from $400 for a 3-hour self-drive experience (6 guests, no licence needed). Skippered private charters start from $325/hour for small groups (12-20 guests). For larger groups of 50+, rates start from $550/hour. Per-person costs drop as groups get bigger — a boat for 30 people often costs $35-$65 per person for 3 hours.
➤ Is private boat hire cheaper than a public cruise?
For groups of 15 or more, private hire is often the same price or cheaper per person than individual public cruise tickets — and the experience is far more personal. A public cruise ticket costs $50-$80 per person. A private boat for 20 guests at $350/hour for 3 hours works out to $52 per person, with complete privacy and flexibility.
➤ What is the smallest private boat I can hire?
Our smallest private option is the Coral self-drive boat — 6 guests, no licence required, from $400 for 3 hours. For a skippered private cruise, the smallest vessels hold 8-12 guests, starting from $250/hour.
➤ Can I BYO food and drinks on a private boat?
Yes — most boats in our fleet allow BYO food and alcohol. This is the easiest way to keep costs down. Some boats charge a small BYO fee ($5-$25 per person), while others include BYO at no extra charge. Professional catering is also available from $45 per person if you prefer everything handled for you.
➤ How far in advance should I book a private boat?
For weekend bookings in peak season (October to March), book 4-6 weeks ahead. For Christmas and New Year’s Eve, 3-6 months is recommended. Off-peak weekdays can sometimes be booked with 1-2 weeks notice. The earlier you book, the better your choice of vessels.
➤ Do I need a boat licence for private hire?
No — all skippered private charters come with a qualified captain and crew. You do not need any boating experience or licence. The only time you need a licence is if you choose self-drive hire on the Axopar 28. Our Coral self-drive boat does not require a licence.