Sydney Harbour: Hands-On Sailing Experience on Luxury Yacht
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Embark on a sailing cruise on our magnificent 61ft classic yacht, Southwinds, and experience the magic of Sydney Harbour from the water. Benefit from the knowledge of our friendly and experienced skippers, who will show you the ropes on what promises to be an unforgettable day out.
Departing from Manly Sailing, Manly you'll take a short tender ride to Southwinds waiting in the bay.
You'll have the opportunity to help set the sails and steer the boat, or you can simply sit back, relax and take in the views. Cruise past the iconic attractions including the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Get involved as much or as little as you like. No experience is necessary.
Other things to note:
Please feel free to bring snacks and drinks.
Boarding Southwinds is via a powerboat tender and requires a few steps up/down on and off the boat.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Manly
If wind allows it we will sail up the harbour as far North as Manly before returning to Barangaroo.
Sydney Harbour
Cruise past the multi-million dollar waterfront mansions of the rich and famous, and revel in uninterrupted views of iconic attractions including the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. You'll have the opportunity to help set the sails and steer the boat, or you can simply sit back, relax and take in the views. Get involved as much or as little as you like - this is a great chance to discover if sailing larger yachts is for you! No experience is necessary.
What‘s Included
Professional guide
Powerboat/tender from Manly Sailing to Southwinds
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Options
2.5 hour Manly pickup
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes: Start and finish from Manly Sailing, Manly
Reviews
13 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Sailing Sydney Harbour
LeahRobyn M,Mar 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Relaxed and professional and up market treatment by Finn and his crew, Amazing Sydney Harbour views and lots of fun sailing the boat!
A real sailing experience
florencemC4002YS,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A truly outstanding sailing experience. For those who want an authentic, small-group adventure on a beautiful yacht, guided by passionate skippers and instructors. Exceptional sailing, unforgettable moments – highly recommended.
I am not a sailboat...
Susie B,Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00I am not a sailboat person but my husband loved it! Water was a bit rough for me at times but the crew was amazing. Learned some things about sailing and got to enjoy some beautiful scenery.
Unmatched Views of Sydney from Classic Sailboat
Eric W,Oct 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Our sail aboard Manly Sailing’s Southwinds was a highlight of our trip to Sydney. Captain Finn and crew Hannah and Olivia gave us the opportunity to see this fabulous city from the unique vantage point of a classic 1950’s double-masted (ketch) boat. We voted to explore the Central Harbour—but could have headed out into open waters to look for whales. We headed from Fairlight near Manly Beach down the bridge and then back. The views were unmatched. The team aboard expertly handled the ship and taught us how to handle the lines through a series of tacks and jibes. (I assume you could just sit back and ride. But we wanted a more participatory, interactive experience). We each even took a turn at the wheel steering the boat as it cut through the water!
Perfect Morning on a Stunning Yacht!
mariee141,Sep 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We really enjoyed this ‘Try Yachting’ morning on the beautiful ‘Southwinds’ around Sydney Harbour from Manly. Skipper Finn and his team Will, Holly & Conor put in such effort and enthusiasm into ‘showing us the ropes’! They included & encouraged everyone on board, both the young & the experienced alike. Such a relaxed & fun atmosphere - Thanks Guys!!
Fabulous day on Southwinds with Manly Sailing
patriciaoP4985JP,Feb 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a fantastic sail around the harbour…glorious weather…the return portion, back to Manly, had decent wind with was my favourite part of the day, crossing The Heads. Highly recommend this sailing venture…Finn, Nicky & Toby manage professionalism and fun at the same time. Everyone was offered a chance for a turn at the helm. Well done, Finn & company…sail on.
Great ship and wonderful crew!
Excursion22451524112,Jan 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The crew was very dedicated and took care of each passenger individually. You could just sit and enjoy the ride or actively help. In the latter, the crew was very concerned with getting something across. That's when you noticed the long sailing school experience. The sailing route was also adapted to the wishes of the passengers. Just a great experience!
Must book this
foodacholic1,Sep 14, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I booked the 3 hour luxury yacht experience as a gift for my Dads 70th birthday. Manly sailing was very accomodating and made arrangements for myself and father to attend today. It was an excellent experience and highly recommend if you are visiting Sydney to book with Manly Sailing either as a solo or group adventure . The Yacht was presented in immaculate condition and very well looked after. Southwinds was beautiful to look at and very fun to sail. Finn included everyone in sailing the Yacht and we got hands on experience. He did a great job at coaching everyone and made it fun. Other crew members onboard also friendly and welcoming. Overall It was a fun, enjoyable and relaxing experience sailing out in the ocean, we even spotted a whale. We were lucky to have great weather, perfect seas and wind as we sailed through the heads and out to sea. Thank you for a memorable day!
Amazing experience
F4319UGclaudiam,Nov 4, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Beautiful day spent on a sailing boat. Our instructor Steve was amazing. He explained to us with passion and patience how to sail and gave us so much extra information about the bay and historical details. Highly recommended tour.
Had a great day!
Bekir B,Sep 11, 2023
- Review from Viator
5.00We had an excellent day! Xavier was awesome, great captain, great teacher, great guy.. We had light winds but the yacht performed great. Very rewarding overall.
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Operated by Manly Sailing Pty Ltd