Sydney Yacht Charters - Going Bareboat

A bareboat yacht charter is the ultimate freedom.

You're in control.

You get to choose where you go and when you go there.

And you don't have to share your yacht with a skipper.

So what's Sydney harbour like as a bareboat yacht charter destination?

Here's our guide to Sydney yacht charters...

There's no doubt the harbour is impressive and there's something very special about steering your yacht past the Opera House and under the Harbour Bridge.

It's glamorous exciting and you'll likely see lots of expensive boats pass you by.

The open area between Point Piper and the heads is a the best sailing area.

You get relatively clear wind and if you choose the right time of year you'll get some open water to yourself.

Middle Harbour is also OK but the wind is a bit flukey due to the narrower channel and surrounding headlands.

The Harbour is steep sided and deep close to the shore in most areas. Just watch out for the 'Sow and Pigs' (partially submerged rocks to the East of Lady Bay and Camp Cove) and the shallow area on the Eastern side of Rose Bay.

The main hazards you need to consider on the harbour are other vessels. The ferries display an orange diamond which means they have right of way over sailing yachts and dinghies.

Are you looking for a peaceful yacht charter in Sydney?

Pittwater...

...is a waterway of similar size to Sydney Harbour.

It's just 45 minutes North of Sydney's CBD.

Pittwater is a top class cruising area.

Choose a bareboat charter here and you will enjoy uncrowded and unspoiled waterways surrounded by miles and miles of National Park.

Here's more about the tranquility of Pittwater sailing.

Venture onto the harbour on a summer Saturday afternoon and you will share the water with...

• racing and cruising yachts and dinghies
• kayaks
• jet boats
• fishing boats
• the Manly Ferry
• and the occasional ocean liner!

It's a great spectacle...

...but it's not relaxing for the inexperienced skipper.

If you're not sure whether you have enough experience take a look at our guide to bareboat yacht charters.

You might also be interested in our learn to sail yachts courses which give you the practical skills you need to charter a yacht for a day or two.

If you anchor overnight in Sydney Harbour wash from the ferries starts early in the morning and can disturb your sleep.

We'd suggest you head upstream of the Spit Bridge and explore the quieter sections of the harbour.

Here's the Spit Bridge opening times. The bridge only opens if yachts are waiting to come through so it's best to be 10 minutes early.

Once you're under the bridge head to Sugarloaf Bay or Bantry Bay and you'll enjoy relative peace and seclusion surrounded by gorgeous Australian bushland.

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