Sydney Yacht Charter Guide

As the world’s largest natural harbour, Sydney has a history as a sailor’s city. Now the home to many famous regattas, including the Sydney-Hobart race, Sydney is the ideal destination for a luxury yacht charter vacation. If the city’s alluring image of bronzed bodies, legendary surf, and iconic beaches is not enough, venture beyond Bondi, and Sydney offers all the attractions of a major metropolis. While the vibrant city retains the laid-back beach vibe, the atmosphere is ultra-modern and the streets teem with art, gourmet cuisine, and culture. The waters beyond the harbour are full of life, which will impress even the most experienced divers. Yacht hire is the ideal way to make the most of the calm waters and year-round warm temperatures. For a truly incredible visit, venture to Sydney in December – watching the harbour light up under possibly the world’s biggest firework displays from your charter yacht will make an unforgettable New Year’s Eve.

Best Time To Visit: Temperatures are warm all year round, with no seasonal shift affecting the waters. Peak cruising season is October to April.

Key Cruising Areas: Cruise around the iconic Sydney Harbour, with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge in the background. Make your way up to Pittwater for a relaxed cruise in these protected waters.

Don’t Miss: Cocktails at the SO Bar – at the top of Sydney Tower, the revolving bar offers 360° views. Watch the city light up, sipping a passionfruit and vanilla mojito as the sun goes down.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: There are hundreds of options for gourmet dining in Sydney, but for something a little different try breakfast with a view at the Poolside Café at Andrew (Boy) Charlton. After some laps in the seawater pool, head up the fig, apricot, and macadamia bread.

Best Local Dish: Fresh seafood and vibrant seasonal food is the name of the game in Sydney. Enjoy a beachside lunch at Doyles Restaurant at Watsons Bay. Family-run for five generations, the bustling little restaurant offers a feast of Australian seafood.

Local Culture: Sydney has an eclectic culture, that results in excellent food, music, and art scene. In January the Sydney Festival brings some of the best Australian talents to the city, but any time of year you can visit one of the outside sculpture trails.

Best Beach: While the iconic Bondi Beach may offer the best surf, for a more laid-back atmosphere with tranquil waters head to Coogee.

IYC recommends: Salute the sun with a sunrise yoga session on the steps of the Opera House. The view as dawn turns the angles of the Opera House hues of orange and pink will cheer even the slowest risers!