Sydney Harbour is one of the city’s finest gems. Its waterways are rich in natural beauty and memorable experiences such as cruises, tours, and more. The harbour is where the bustling metropolis meets nature.
One of the best ways to enjoy the sights is to kayak on Sydney Harbour itself. You get to be the one to paddle away, allowing you to take it slow. Soak in the city skyline view and surrounding strips of nature from the comfort of your kayak. Pro-tip: While the city is beautiful any time of the day, it’s bucket list-worthy to kayak in Sydney Harbour at sunrise.
Pass by Sydney’s iconic landmarks! Image credits: @sydneyharbourkayaks on Instagram
If you’re keen to pick up a paddle and give it a go, here’s everything you need to know to kayak on Sydney Harbour:
Can you kayak on Sydney Harbour?
Aside from metropolitan icons, you’ll also pass by lush stretches of nature during your kayaking tour. Image credits: @sydneyharbourkayaks on Instagram
You absolutely can! While there are many kayaking spots in the city, kayaking in Sydney Harbour offers views of the city's metropolis and national parks, beaches, and other nature strips.
You can also check out other great spots to kayak in Sydney, NSW and Queensland.
Is it safe to swim in Sydney Harbour?
While harbours typically have ferry traffic, some parts are perfectly safe to swim in. When you kayak on Sydney Harbour, you can reach beaches that you typically won’t be able to without a boat. Plus, it’s perfectly safe to swim on those beaches! If anything, be careful of any incoming vessels and never swim alone or under the influence.
Are there any rules or safety regulations that I should follow when kayaking?
Make sure to wear your life jackets! Image credits: @sydneyharbourkayaks on Instagram
While it’s generally safe to kayak on Sydney Harbour and do most water activities, it’s important to follow regulations to ensure your safety. These rules are essential when met with some ferry traffic and fellow kayakers.
Here are some safety regulations you have to follow when you kayak in Sydney Harbour:
- Keep safe and stay right. Don’t paddle in the middle of a channel to give way to other boats or kayakers
- Stay on the lookout for possible incoming traffic
- Powerboats can capsize a smaller one, so remember to watch for vessels, especially huge ones
- When crossing, remember to do so from behind the boat rather than in front
- Always wear your life jacket
- Bring a torch during sunset and sunrise kayaks
- Make sure you’re highly visible when kayaking. Wear bright clothes or lifejackets, and paddle in tight formation with your peers
Make sure you’re also following the latest NSW public health guidelines, especially with regards to COVID-19.
Where can I book kayaks?
Night kayaking also offers stunning views of the city skyline with all its glimmering lights! Image credits: @sydneyharbourkayaks on Instagram
Klook offers convenient deluxe single and double kayak hires in Sydney Harbour, which you can book for up to eight hours. That’s enough time to reach untouched beaches as you paddle along Sydney’s Middle Harbour with your friends. You can go as early as 7 A.M. on Saturdays and Sundays for that early morning peace while kayaking.
Even little ones can go kayaking—as long as they’re with a parent or guardian, of course! Image credits: @sydneyharbourkayaks on Instagram
Both single and double kayaks are extremely easy to manoeuvre, even for beginners! They’re light, stable and they glide through the water for a smooth sailing kayaking experience.
The rental also includes a paddle for each person, a map of Middle Harbour, and a floatation device/life jacket—essentially everything you need for a fun kayak in Sydney Harbour.
Here’s where you can hire a single deluxe kayak:
Bring all your buddies for a one-of-a-kind experience in Sydney! Image credits: @sydneyharbourkayaks on Instagram
And a double deluxe kayak hire:
Tandem kayak with your best mate or significant other on the deluxe double kayak! Image credits: @sydneyharbourkayaks on Instagram
The sunrise over Sydney Harbour is incredible when kayaking along the waters. Image credits: @sydneyharbourkayaks on Instagram
If you want to watch the sunrise as you kayak along Sydney Harbour Bridge, you can book a Sydney Harbour Sunriser Kayaking Tour from Sydney Harbour Kayaks. Watch the glorious sun emerge from the city skyline as you paddle along the harbour and feel the fresh sea breeze. The guide will take you to all the best scenic spots. You can even have photo ops with Sydney icons such as Harbour Bridge and Luna Park!
Another kayaking hotspot in Sydney is Manly. You can check out these Manly kayak hires that are Dine & Discover eligible.
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