Tours & experiences

🐠 Water Activities in New South Wales

Small-group tours, day trips, cooking classes and multi-day adventures. Every tour vetted for traveller reviews first.

🌍
Popular:United States (13993)United Kingdom (11219)Japan (10115)France (9529)Spain (9441)Italy (9278)Indonesia (6768)
124 tours in Water Activities in New South WalesClear filters
Half-Day Jervis Bay Sea Kayak Tour
β˜… 5.0 (324)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Half-Day Jervis Bay Sea Kayak Tour

A 5-hour sea kayak tour departing Jervis Bay where you paddle to secluded beaches with white sand and spot marine wildlife including seals, dolphins and seasonal whales. All gear is provided and guided throughout. Suits anyone with moderate fitness who wants to paddle rather than hike, combining exercise with genuine wildlife-watching chances rather than guaranteed sightings.

5 hoursfrom AUD $145
Kayak to Goat Island in Sydney Harbour with Local
β˜… 5.0 (134)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Kayak to Goat Island in Sydney Harbour with Local

A 3-hour sea kayak adventure through Sydney Harbour that takes you to Goat Island, a public-access-restricted site included with a special permit. You'll paddle past the Harbour Bridge, explore the island's natural features, and return via Darling Harbour. Your guide is a qualified local with photography credentials β€” professional-quality shots of you framed by iconic landmarks are included at no extra charge.

3 hoursfrom AUD $128
2 Hour Private Surf Lesson in Byron Bay
β˜… 5.0 (63)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

2 Hour Private Surf Lesson in Byron Bay

A two-hour private surf lesson in Byron Bay with an instructor who assesses conditions and your ability to pick the best beach and wave height for learning. You'll work with a large quiver of soft boards and intermediate equipment across ten local breaks, designed for people new to surfing or ready to progress past basics. Lessons are tailored to suit whatever the ocean's doing on the day.

2 hoursfrom AUD $290
Self Drive Boat Hire Sydney Harbour (No license required)
β˜… 5.0 (41)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Self Drive Boat Hire Sydney Harbour (No license required)

Self-drive boat hire in Sydney Harbour on Coral, a six-person cruiser that needs no license or prior experience. You'll receive training before taking the helm for a leisurely 7-hour exploration at speeds up to 11 km/h. The boat includes a picnic table, full weather protection inside and out, and a cabin β€” making it equally suited to families wanting a slow cruise or small groups after a water-based day out.

7 hoursfrom AUD $510
Sydney Secrets Lunch Cruise
β˜… 5.0 (40)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sydney Secrets Lunch Cruise

A 4-hour harbour cruise aboard a luxury sports cruiser combining scenic views of Sydney's iconic landmarks with lunch at a contemporary waterside restaurant. You'll cruise past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, visit secluded national park waterways where penguins and seals live, and see waterfront mansions, all in a small group of up to 10 passengers with live commentary throughout.

4 hoursfrom AUD $450
Private Catamaran Hire on Sydney Harbour
β˜… 5.0 (32)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Private Catamaran Hire on Sydney Harbour

A private catamaran charter for up to 30 guests on Sydney Harbour, bookable for 3–4 hours. The Kirralee is a 10.5-metre Australian-built catamaran with open-plan design, spacious cabin and cockpit areas, and both indoor and outdoor seating. Bring your own food and drinks, or use the on-board BBQ and have the crew cook for you. Pick-up and drop-off points are flexible across the harbour.

3 hours – 4 hoursfrom AUD $1725
Sunrise Paddle Session on Sydney Harbour (single kayak)
β˜… 5.0 (27)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sunrise Paddle Session on Sydney Harbour (single kayak)

A 2-hour guided kayak paddle on Sydney Harbour timed for sunrise, offering close-up views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Luna Park from the water. Suited to first-timers and families with kids aged 12+, this experience prioritises safety and photo opportunities across all fitness levels. You'll paddle a single kayak with a qualified guide leading small groups through one of Australia's most recognisable waterways.

2 hoursfrom AUD $179
Sydney Harbour - Sailing Hands-On Experience
β˜… 5.0 (25)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sydney Harbour - Sailing Hands-On Experience

A hands-on sailing experience on a 24ft keelboat departing from Manly, where you can help raise sails and take the helm, or simply watch from the water. Over 1.5 to 2.5 hours, you'll cruise past waterfront estates and discover hidden beaches, with views of Sydney's landmarks depending on conditions and which cruise length you choose. Professional skippers lead the experience, and basic swimming skills are recommended but not required.

1h 30m – 2h 30mfrom AUD $120
1.5 Hr Jet Ski Safari
β˜… 5.0 (25)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

1.5 Hr Jet Ski Safari

A 2-hour jet ski safari on the Hawkesbury River where you ride your own machine with no licence or prior experience required. You'll explore the northern reaches of Sydney's waterway at your own pace, with all equipment and safety gear provided. This is the only unlicensed jet ski operation in New South Wales, making it a genuine point of difference if you want to pilot your own vessel without bureaucratic barriers.

2 hoursfrom AUD $329
Beautiful Middle Harbour Sunriser / Guided Kayaking Private Tour
β˜… 5.0 (19)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Beautiful Middle Harbour Sunriser / Guided Kayaking Private Tour

A private kayaking tour for up to 4 people departing before sunrise to paddle Middle Harbour and catch the dawn over Sydney's Heads. You'll spend 2.5 hours in stable composite double kayaks, exploring spots like Grotto Point Lighthouse or Cobbler's Beach depending on conditions, with a midway stop for hot coffee and light breakfast. Guides are qualified and the tour includes all kayak gear and a safety briefing.

2h 30mfrom AUD $185
Private 2 Hour Highlights Cruise of Sydney Harbour - Up to 6
β˜… 5.0 (16)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Private 2 Hour Highlights Cruise of Sydney Harbour - Up to 6

A private 2-hour harbour cruise for up to 6 people departing Darling Harbour into Sydney Harbour. You'll board a timber vessel with an experienced skipper, enjoy Australian cheese and sparkling wine, and watch the sunset over the city skyline from the water. The boat operates in all weather, so bring layers.

2 hoursfrom AUD $950
Sydney Harbour Twilight Cruise
β˜… 5.0 (15)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sydney Harbour Twilight Cruise

A 90-minute private harbour cruise at dusk aboard a luxury vessel, with French champagne included. You'll drift past Sydney's signature landmarksβ€”Opera House, Harbour Bridge, waterfront mansionsβ€”as daylight fades, with personalised commentary throughout. It's a relaxed way to see the harbour's best angles without consuming your entire afternoon, and suits anyone after an elegant wind-down rather than an action-packed outing.

1h 30mfrom AUD $1480
Sunset Paddle Session on Sydney Harbour (single kayak)
β˜… 5.0 (15)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sunset Paddle Session on Sydney Harbour (single kayak)

A 90-minute guided kayak paddle on Sydney Harbour timed to catch sunset, sunrise or night city lights. You'll paddle past the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Luna Park from water level in a single kayak, with all safety gear and instruction included. Suited to anyone regardless of fitness or kayaking experience β€” the focus is on sightseeing and photography rather than technical paddling.

1h 30mfrom AUD $149
Sydney Harbour: Hands-On Sailing Experience on Luxury Yacht
β˜… 5.0 (13)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sydney Harbour: Hands-On Sailing Experience on Luxury Yacht

A 2.5-hour sailing experience on a 61-foot classic yacht in Sydney Harbour where you'll help raise sails and take the helm, or simply relax on deck. Departs from Manly Sailing with a tender ride to Southwinds moored in the bay. No sailing experience requiredβ€”skippers adapt the hands-on level to what you prefer, and you'll pass the Opera House and Harbour Bridge from the water rather than from land.

2h 30mfrom AUD $225
Whale Watching Discovery Tour from Lake Macquarie
β˜… 5.0 (10)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Whale Watching Discovery Tour from Lake Macquarie

A two-hour whale watching tour from Lake Macquarie aboard Hydro, a custom-built eco-tourism vessel. You'll depart from Swansea Bridge, cruise through the channel past Moon Island, and search for migrating Humpback Whales during peak season. The boat accommodates a maximum of 12 guests, giving you water-level views and room to move freely as you observe these animals in their natural behaviour. The return journey takes you past Caves Beach's distinctive rock formations. A professional wildlife guide and all safety gear are included.

2 hoursfrom AUD $135
Snorkeling Adventure for Kids with Private Guide In Sydney
β˜… 5.0 (10)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Snorkeling Adventure for Kids with Private Guide In Sydney

A 90-minute private snorkelling tour at Clovelly Beach designed for families with children aged 8 and up. Your certified guide adjusts the route and pace to suit your group's comfort level, with all equipment provided including child-sized masks and fins. Calm waters and optional flotation aids make it accessible, while weight belts let more confident swimmers explore deeper.

1h 30mfrom AUD $188
Dogs on Deck Harbour Cruise
β˜… 5.0 (9)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Dogs on Deck Harbour Cruise

A 1-hour Sydney Harbour catamaran cruise designed for dog owners and their well-behaved canine companions. You'll sail past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge aboard an intimate vessel capped at 20 passengers plus up to 10 dogs, with grazing platters, one included beverage per person, and dog treats provided. Small to medium dogs (up to 25kg) who are vaccinated, desexed, and comfortable around other dogs are welcome; they must remain leashed throughout.

1 hourfrom AUD $69
Private BYO Sydney Harbour Catamaran Cruise - 60 or 90 Minutes
β˜… 5.0 (8)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Private BYO Sydney Harbour Catamaran Cruise - 60 or 90 Minutes

A private catamaran cruise on Sydney Harbour for up to 30 guests, available for 60 or 90 minutes. The Kirralee is a 10.5-metre Australian-built vessel with both indoor and outdoor seating, and you can bring your own food and drink β€” no corkage fee. Choose to sail or motor past Opera House, Harbour Bridge and headlands at your own pace, or use the boat as a relaxed transfer between harbour locations for weddings or corporate events.

1 hour – 1h 30mfrom AUD $1000
Sydney Family Snorkelling Eco Tour
β˜… 5.0 (7)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sydney Family Snorkelling Eco Tour

A private snorkelling tour at Cabbage Tree Bay in Manly for families and small groups wanting hands-on marine life instruction in shallow, protected waters. Two hours, all gear supplied. You'll get a safety briefing, guided exploration of the bay's fish and rock pools, and complimentary photos β€” the operator has 15+ years running this specific beach location and customises pace and depth to your group's comfort.

2 hoursfrom AUD $170
Private Sydney Snorkeling Experience: Explore Cabbage Tree Bay
β˜… 5.0 (7)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Private Sydney Snorkeling Experience: Explore Cabbage Tree Bay

A 2-hour private snorkel tour of Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve with a personal guide who tailors the experience to your water confidence level. You'll explore a protected marine reserve known for Blue Gropers and seasonal species changes, with wetsuits, snorkel gear, and tour photos included. The guide provides water safety tips, wildlife insights, and adjusts pacing to suit whether you're cautious or experienced in the water.

2 hoursfrom AUD $170
Sydney LED Lit Kayak Tour of the Opera House and Bridge
β˜… 5.0 (5)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sydney LED Lit Kayak Tour of the Opera House and Bridge

A 2-hour guided kayak tour through Sydney Harbour in LED-lit kayaks, timed for sunrise or sunset. You'll paddle past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge with an experienced guide who covers safety and technique before launching. All gear is provided, and you'll receive digital photos and videos at the end. Suits beginners through confident paddlers; no prior kayaking experience needed.

2 hoursfrom AUD $139
Half-Day Deep Sea Fishing in Wollongong - Weekdays only
β˜… 5.0 (5)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Half-Day Deep Sea Fishing in Wollongong - Weekdays only

A 6-hour deep sea fishing trip departing from Wollongong for anglers of any skill level. You'll fish established grounds for snapper, morwong, flathead, wrasse and other species using provided gear and expert guidance. The crew includes a skipper and deckhands who'll assist throughout, and any legal-sized catches are gutted and cleaned for you to take home. Runs weekdays only.

6 hoursfrom AUD $200
Private Group Sydney Harbour Luxury Cruise - 90 Minutes
β˜… 5.0 (5)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Private Group Sydney Harbour Luxury Cruise - 90 Minutes

A 90-minute private harbour cruise aboard Fleetwing II, a two-deck motor catamaran accommodating up to 60 guests. You can set your own route with the skipper or let them navigate β€” either way, you'll cruise Sydney Harbour with access to indoor and outdoor decks, a bar, and optional catering. Ideal for small groups, corporate events, or weddings who want a customisable, weather-protected vessel experience on the water.

1 hourfrom AUD $1750
Private 4-Hour Luxury Yacht Charter on Sydney Harbour
β˜… 5.0 (4)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Private 4-Hour Luxury Yacht Charter on Sydney Harbour

A private 4-hour luxury yacht charter across Sydney Harbour aboard a 12-metre Beneteau, skippered throughout. You'll sail past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, try hands-on sailing (steering, sail trimming, winch work), and can swim at secluded harbour beaches if desired. Suits small groups wanting an active, personalised experience on the water rather than a passive sightseeing cruise.

4 hoursfrom AUD $2500
Sydney Harbour Sail Like a Local Lunch Tour
β˜… 5.0 (4)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sydney Harbour Sail Like a Local Lunch Tour

A 3-hour private yacht charter on Sydney Harbour for up to 4 guests, departing from King Street Wharf. You'll sail a 12-metre Beneteau under skipper guidance, take the helm yourself, trim sails, and cruise past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Lunch includes a charcuterie board, sushi platter, local beer or wine, and the option to swim at a secluded harbour beach. Bimini shade and all safety gear included.

3 hoursfrom AUD $600
Private Luxury Cruise on Sydney Harbour on Classic Yacht
β˜… 5.0 (3)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Private Luxury Cruise on Sydney Harbour on Classic Yacht

A two-hour private sailing experience aboard a restored 61-foot classic yacht on Sydney Harbour. You'll pass the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Fort Denison while sipping complimentary sparkling wine and hearing harbour history from the crew. The yacht blends period character with modern amenities, and you can take a turn at the helm if you'd like.

2 hoursfrom AUD $2250
Sunrise Double Kayak Paddle Session on Sydney Harbour
β˜… 5.0 (3)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sunrise Double Kayak Paddle Session on Sydney Harbour

A 2.5-hour guided double kayak paddle on Sydney Harbour timed for sunrise, with views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Luna Park. You'll paddle in tandem with one other person, led by qualified instructors who handle safety and navigation while you take in the water-level perspective of the harbour. Suitable for all fitness levels and ages 12+, with all gear provided.

2h 30mfrom AUD $179
Sunset Cruise
β˜… 5.0 (2)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Sunset Cruise

A 2-hour evening cruise on the Tweed River with live local music and sunset views. You'll have access to a fully licensed bar, snacks included, and wheelchair-accessible facilities throughout. It's an easy-going social experience suited to anyone after a relaxed evening on the water, whether you're travelling solo, with friends, or as a family.

2 hoursfrom AUD $75
Whales of Sydney Sea Safari
β˜… 5.0 (2)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Whales of Sydney Sea Safari

A 2.5-hour private whale-watching cruise departing Sydney Harbour on a high-speed luxury vessel. You'll head out past Sydney's coastal landmarks to deep Pacific waters where humpback and other whales migrate seasonally. A captain trained in spotting techniques will position the boat for close views and provide live commentary on whale behaviour, with occasional sightings of dolphins and fur seals along the way.

2h 30mfrom AUD $1980
Stand-Up Paddle Board Tour in Byron Bay
β˜… 5.0 (2)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Stand-Up Paddle Board Tour in Byron Bay

A 2.5-hour stand-up paddle boarding tour on the Brunswick River near Byron Bay, suitable for all fitness levels. You'll be picked up from town, fitted with professional gear, and guided across calm water where spotting turtles and other wildlife is common. No prior experience needed β€” the focus is on technique basics and time on the water rather than a high-intensity workout.

2h 30mfrom AUD $85
Lunch on the Lake Cruise
β˜… 5.0 (2)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Lunch on the Lake Cruise

A 2.5-hour lake cruise departing from Booragul that combines leisurely sightseeing around Lake Macquarie with a buffet BBQ lunch cooked onboard. You'll drift past bays and waterside scenery while eating fresh local prawns, scotch fillet steak and gourmet sausages, followed by dessert and complimentary hot drinks. Suits families, groups and anyone after a relaxed water-based meal without the fuss of self-catering.

2h 30mfrom AUD $95
Private Sydney Harbour Twilight Sail with Champagne
β˜… 5.0 (2)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Private Sydney Harbour Twilight Sail with Champagne

A private two-hour twilight sail on Sydney Harbour for up to four guests, departing at 5pm as the light fades. You'll cruise past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge whilst a local skipper points out landmarks, wildlife and waterfront properties, with a bottle of French champagne included. The Beneteau 40.7 yacht offers plenty of deck space and a covered seating area, so you're comfortable in any season.

2 hoursfrom AUD $1500
Guided Scuba Dive in Sydney
β˜… 5.0 (2)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Guided Scuba Dive in Sydney

A guided scuba dive for certified divers exploring Sydney's best underwater sites, 6 hours total. Groups stay small at 5 divers per guide, with personalized attention and site selection based on daily conditions rather than a fixed schedule. All premium equipment β€” including dive computers and thermal protection β€” is included in the price, with transport to and from the site covered.

6 hoursfrom AUD $216
Luxury Self Drive Boat Hire Sydney Harbour
β˜… 5.0 (1)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Luxury Self Drive Boat Hire Sydney Harbour

A self-drive luxury speedboat for up to 8 guests on Sydney Harbour. You'll command a sporty Axopar 28 with a 350hp engine for 8 hours, setting your own itinerary around iconic harbour spots. A safety briefing gets you started, and you'll have onboard toilet facilities, a swim platform, and Bluetooth sound. Requires a valid boat licence, minimum age 25, and prior boating experience β€” not for first-timers.

8 hoursfrom AUD $1392
morning sun kayak tour
β˜… 5.0 (1)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

morning sun kayak tour

A 1–2 hour kayak tour on Sydney Harbour timed for mid-morning light and calm conditions. You'll paddle past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge with a guide, paddling at a relaxed pace suited to beginners and casual paddlers. No pre-dawn alarm required β€” the tour departs once the sun is up and the water has warmed, giving you steady photo light and comfortable paddling without crowded early-morning crowds.

1 hour – 2 hoursfrom AUD $149
Private Classic Wooden Speedboat Sydney Harbour Cruise
β˜… 5.0 (1)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Private Classic Wooden Speedboat Sydney Harbour Cruise

A 2-hour private speedboat cruise on Sydney Harbour aboard the Montebello Classic 33, a wooden vessel with polished mahogany hull and cushioned seating. You'll have exclusive use of the boat for intimate groups, with views of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and city skyline. Suits romantic occasions, small celebrations, or anyone wanting a quieter alternative to crowded group tours.

2 hoursfrom AUD $1099
Shared Newcastle Harbour Cruise
β˜… 5.0 (1)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Shared Newcastle Harbour Cruise

A 3-hour shared harbour cruise combining games, meals and gentle sightseeing on Newcastle Harbour. You'll play bingo and trivia games whilst the Captain narrates local landmarks, with morning tea, a plated lunch and dessert included. It's a social experience designed for groups or solo travellers after a relaxed day afloat with food and entertainment built in.

3 hoursfrom AUD $75
Boxing Day Lunch Cruise
β˜… 5.0 (1)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Boxing Day Lunch Cruise

A 3-hour Boxing Day lunch cruise on Sydney Harbour that positions you to watch the start of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race. You'll have reserved seating, live commentary from the captain, and a seafood and carvery buffet prepared onboard, with views from spacious observation decks as competitors head through the Heads. Fully licensed bar included. Suits anyone wanting to see the race start without fighting harbour-side crowds.

3 hoursfrom AUD $140
Discover Sydney Harbour and It’s Secret Islands
β˜… 5.0 (1)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Discover Sydney Harbour and It’s Secret Islands

A 3-hour 15-minute private boat tour of Sydney Harbour that visits lesser-known islands while passing iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. You'll see native wildlife and vegetation up close, with morning tea included. Best suited to those wanting a quieter, more personal alternative to crowded harbour cruises, with water views most day-trippers miss.

3h 15mfrom AUD $175
Lake Macquarie Sunset Dinner Cruise with BBQ and Desserts
β˜… 5.0 (1)
🐠 Water Activities
Australia

Lake Macquarie Sunset Dinner Cruise with BBQ and Desserts

A 3-hour sunset dinner cruise on Lake Macquarie aboard the Lady Mac, departing from Booragul Public Wharf. You'll enjoy a BBQ dinner with local prawns, steak and sausages, gourmet salads, and desserts while watching the sun set over the Watagan Mountains. The licensed bar stocks drinks available for purchase. Suits couples, families, and groups after a relaxed evening on the water.

3 hoursfrom AUD $95
Some tours listed with Viator, a Tripadvisor company. Prices and availability confirmed at checkout.