Hop On Hop Off Sydney Harbour Explorer

• More flexibility – Instead of a fixed short cruise, you can travel throughout the day, hopping on and off at major harbour destinations like Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, Manly and more.
• Same great views – You still get all the iconic sights (Opera House, Harbour Bridge, bays and coves) but with the freedom to explore on land as well.
• Cruise all the way to Manly - short sightseeing cruise stay in Main Harbour and don't travel past the entrance to Sydney Harbour to beautiful Manly
• Better value – For a small price increase, you turn a one-hour cruise into a full day of sightseeing and harbour transport.
• Choose your pace – Spend as much or as little time as you like at each stop. No pressure to finish sightseeing in an hour.
• Spontaneity – If the weather improves or something catches your eye, you can get off and explore - something impossible on a standard cruise.

• Double the time for almost no extra cost – The new special means you get a second full day of unlimited harbour travel for just $1. That’s unbeatable value.
• Ideal for flexible or uncertain plans – Even if you’re not sure you’ll use both days, the tiny upgrade cost makes it easy to say yes.
• Perfect for exploring at a relaxed pace – A second day means you don’t have to rush to fit in multiple stops. Spread your sightseeing out comfortably.
• More chances to enjoy the harbour – If the weather changes or you discover new places you want to revisit, you already have an extra day built in.
• Great for families and visitors – Kids tire easily, and plans shift. The second day gives you backup time to do more without paying full price again.
• No downside – For just $1, even limited extra use (one extra ferry ride) more than pays for itself.

Hop On Hop Off Cruise Only

Taronga Zoo Combos

Family Bonus

Simply book online and enter promo code FAMILY at the check-out page. One child 4-15 years cruises for free with every full paying adult. Not valid with Book Online specials or Attraction Combos. Full details

Retail rates are valid to 31-March-2027. All prices are per person. Specials subject to change.

⛽Please note: A temporary fuel surcharge of $3pp applies to Hop On Hop Off cruises. Click here for more information.

Save on City Parking

Captain Cook Cruises' guests receive special rates at selected parking stations when you pre-book your car park online with Wilson Parking.

Remember to check with local authorities for special event road closures.

Hop On Hop Off Sydney Harbour Explorer - FAQs

Why Choose Captain Cook Cruises?

When it comes to cruising Sydney Harbour, no one does it better than Captain Cook Cruises. Recognised as the Harbour’s premier operator, we combine over five decades of experience with award-winning service, a modern fleet, and unrivalled views of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks. From luxury dining cruises and sightseeing adventures to private celebrations and special events, we set the standard for unforgettable experiences on Sydney Harbour. Trusted by more locals, more visitors, and more industry experts - choose Captain Cook Cruises. Read more about Our Story.

What’s the difference between the Hop On Hop Off Sydney Harbour Explorer and Sightseeing Cruises?

• Hop On Hop Off Sydney Harbour Explorer (HOHO)
  • Explore Sydney Harbour at your own pace with unlimited travel between key Harbour destinations - Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, Shark Island and Manly
  • Hop on and off as often as you like throughout the day, making it ideal for flexible sightseeing and exploring harbourside attractions
  • Includes Smartphone Commentary, a printed Map & Highlights, free Wi-Fi, and access to both indoor and outdoor viewing decks
  • Available as 1-day or 2-day passes, offering great value for visitors wanting to see multiple destinations around the Harbour
  • Choose the HOHO for freedom and flexibility
• Sightseeing Cruises
  • Continuous cruises offering guided commentary and panoramic Harbour views
  • Options include Premium and Classic sightseeing experiences featuring welcome drinks, cheese & charcuterie boards, or light snacks and bar service
  • Ideal for a relaxed cruise experience without disembarking

Is the Hop On Hop Off Sydney Harbour Explorer worth it?

Yes - it’s one of the best-value ways to see Sydney Harbour

• You can visit multiple top attractions on one ticket, including Taronga Zoo, Manly and Watsons Bay
• The flexible schedule means you can explore at your own pace without being tied to a single cruise time
• It’s a scenic and convenient transport option, often cheaper and more enjoyable than taking separate ferries
• Perfect for first-time visitors wanting to see Sydney’s highlights by water

How long does the Hop On Hop Off Sydney Harbour Explorer take?

• A full circuit (without hopping off) takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the route and stops
• With a 1-day or 2-day pass, you can hop on and off as often as you like during operating hours - typically from 9:00am to 5:00pm
• Timetables vary slightly by season, so check the latest schedule before you travel
  

What stops are included on the Hop On Hop Off Sydney Harbour Explorer?

Typical stops include:

• Circular Quay - main departure point near the Sydney Opera House
• Barangaroo or Darling Harbour – for dining and attractions
• Taronga Zoo – for the zoo and panoramic Harbour views
• Watsons Bay – great for beaches, seafood and scenic walks
• Manly – famous for surf beaches, cafes and coastal trails
• Shark Island – a beautiful picnic and swimming spot

How does the Hop On Hop Off Sydney Harbour Explorer ticket work?

• Purchase a 1-day or 2-day pass, valid for unlimited travel on the HOHO route
• Simply show your ticket (digital or printed) when boarding at any designated stop
• You can start at any point and hop on and off throughout the validity period

Can I use the Hop On Hop Off Sydney Harbour Explorer to visit Taronga Zoo?

• Yes! The HOHO ferry stops directly at Taronga Zoo Wharf, making it one of the easiest ways to get there
• You can combine your HOHO pass with zoo entry for a great-value combo ticket
• Check-in at our Circular Quay office to collect your ferry and Zoo entry tickets (tickets cannot be collected directly from the Zoo)
• Spend a couple of hours or all day - it's up to you! Please check the day's timetable so you are familiar with ferry return times
• After your visit, simply re-board at the same wharf and continue exploring the Harbour

What’s included in the Hop On Hop Off Sydney Harbour Explorer ticket?

• Unlimited ferry travel between designated stops for 1 or 2 consecutive days
• Smartphone Commentary, printed Map & Highlights, and free Wi-Fi
• Indoor/outdoor seating with panoramic views
• Combo options may include entry to attractions such as Taronga Zoo

Other Information

• Dress Code: Smart Casual

• Children: All guests under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult

• Wheelchair Access:

  • Accessible: Sydney 2000 (Ocean Deck), Captain Cook 3 (Main Deck), The Jackson (Main Deck)

  • Not suitable: Starship Sydney and Starship Aqua

  • Please check our Accessibility page for full details and wharf access considerations

• Responsible Service of Alcohol: Our staff follow RSA guidelines at all times

• Credit Card Verification: At check-in, you will be required to present the credit card used for your online booking

• Terms & Conditions: Visit our Terms & Conditions page for full booking and cancellation policies

• For more information, visit individual cruise pages, or our Frequently Asked Questions page

• Our Fleet: Learn more about our vessels on the Fleet Overview page

• Still Looking? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page