What Type of Boats Can I Hire on Sydney Harbour?

The truth is you are spoiled for choice, with everything from sailing yachts, catamarans, luxury motor cruisers, event boats and even super yachts on the menu. But it really depends what sort of day (or night) you want on the harbour. 

Is it a special occasion like a milestone birthday party, bucks party or hens party? Or is it a corporate team-building cruise, wedding cruise or a family occasion that you want to make extra special?

No matter the event, choosing the type of boat depends on a few key criteria, namely:

• Your budget
• The number of people
• The type of event you are hosting or want to celebrate
• What you want to do on the boat (swim, BBQ, SUP, present etc)

Let’s take a closer look at what your options are, and what types of activities each boat is best suited for.

Types of boats you can hire on Syndey Harbour

Motor cruisers

Whether it's a romantic dinner cruise, high-end luxury harbour cruise or a quiet spot soaking up a quiet bay - luxury motor cruisers ensure a memorable time on the water. They also often have multiple decks, so you can take in those harbour views from all angles.Motor cruisers come in all shapes and sizes, which can accommodate groups from 12 to 90 guests or more. The great thing about this boat hire option is that if you are planning an evening or winter cruise, they have shelter from the cold/wind. Other facilities can include a bar, kitchen, entertainment system, water toys and more.

Perfect for: Romantic dinner cruise, any type of party, family outings, or corporate functions. 

Cost: Expect to pay anywhere from $350 per hour for a small cruiser that can host up to 12 guests, to $750 per hour for a larger cruiser that can host up to 20 guests.

Sailing yachts

If you want to navigate the pristine waters of Sydney Harbour with the wind in your hair - then booking a yacht is a must! Taking in the iconic landmarks and enjoying the serenity of the harbor from the deck of a sailing boat is an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Depending on your budget and the number of guests, you could be in a compact boat under sail, or choose a larger elegant sailing yacht if you need more space and facilities. 

Perfect for: Social events, parties, family outings, or corporate functions. 

Cost: Expect to pay anywhere from $660 for a larger yacht that can host up to 50 guests.

Catamarans

Catamarans (or cats) - are yachts with two hulls - and one of our most popular boat hire options on Sydney Harbour. They have tons of room to walk and lounge around and are also unbeatable for swimming thanks to the steps leading down into the water. Their standout feature is the huge deck space -  a bit like a trampoline - where you and your guests can unwind and soak in the breathtaking views that Sydney Harbour has to offer. Catamarans are good value and often will have things like water toys (sometimes at extra cost) including slides, lily pads and SUPs.

Perfect for: Any type of party where you want to swim and chiil on deck.

Cost: Expect to pay anywhere from $465 per hour for a catamaran that can host up to 20 guests, to $975 for a larger modern catamaran that can host up to 150 guests.

Event boats

If you want to celebrate a special occasion like a wedding, birthday party on the water, or even a corporate function - an event boat ticks all the boxes. These boats usually have an open plan design on a pontoon that can be customised to your event or celebration. If it’s for a corporate day out you'll need a boat that's equipped with the necessary facilities, like a PA system and everything you need to make presentations. If it’s for a wedding, milestone birthday or bucks or hens party then a dance floor and licensed bar are a must. And if you are planning to catch the lights of Vivid Sydney on a cruise, then 180 degree views are a must!

Perfect for: Party boat hire, weddings or corporate events!

Cost: Expect to pay anywhere from $750 per hour for an event boat that can host 65, to $1200 per hour for a larger more luxurious event boat that can host 300 guests.

Superyachts

Want to live like a tech billionaire or A-lister? Then you need to book a superyacht on Sydney Harbour! For the ultimate indulgence and extravagance, a superyacht can take your day or night on the Sydney Harbour to a whole new level. With luxury facilities, exceptional service, and a high level of privacy, these prestigious vessels are perfect if you want an exclusive, unforgettable experience. Depending on the superyacht you hire you can expect luxury facilities like sunbathing decks, jacuzzi, social bar area, water toys and even bedrooms (yes, you can hire overnight!). 

Perfect for: Cocktail parties, corporate events and any private celebration

Cost: Expect to pay anywhere from $850 per hour to $3000 per hour for the privilege

Have questions? Want to book a boat today? It’s as easy as getting in touch with our booking office, which is open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday.