Manly to Circular Quay Ferry
Iconic ferry ride offering breathtaking Sydney Harbour views, connecting the city to the relaxed coastal charm of Manly.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views of the harbour
Manly to Circular Quay Ferry
Best Time
Best views of the harbour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic ferry ride offering breathtaking Sydney Harbour views, connecting the city to the relaxed coastal charm of Manly.
"One of the most scenic ferry rides in Sydney, offering breathtaking views of the harbour."
🎯 Sit on the right side!
For the best Opera House & Bridge views heading to Manly, sit on the right side of the ferry.
💳 Tap on/off with card
Use your debit/credit card or Opal card for easy boarding. No need to buy tickets in advance!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sydney Harbour Views
Ferry Deck
Iconic sights of the Opera House & Harbour Bridge from the water. Unbeatable photo ops!
Manly Wharf Arrival
Manly Wharf
Step into a relaxed coastal vibe with sea air and immediate access to beaches & cafes.
Coastal Breeze Experience
Ferry Deck
Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and the feeling of a mini-holiday on this scenic ride.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Tap On, Tap Off Convenience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sit on the right side!
For the best Opera House & Bridge views heading to Manly, sit on the right side of the ferry.
💳 Tap on/off with card
Use your debit/credit card or Opal card for easy boarding. No need to buy tickets in advance!
🌬️ Bring a light layer
The sea breeze can get chilly, especially after sunset. A light jacket is recommended.
🌊 Watch for dolphins!
You might get lucky and spot dolphins during your ferry ride. A delightful surprise!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sit on the right side!
For the best Opera House & Bridge views heading to Manly, sit on the right side of the ferry.
💳 Tap on/off with card
Use your debit/credit card or Opal card for easy boarding. No need to buy tickets in advance!
🌬️ Bring a light layer
The sea breeze can get chilly, especially after sunset. A light jacket is recommended.
🌊 Watch for dolphins!
You might get lucky and spot dolphins during your ferry ride. A delightful surprise!
🐦 Guard your chips!
Bold seagulls love snacks. Keep your food secure, especially on the wharf.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers consistently praise the Manly ferry as a highlight of their Sydney visit, offering stunning harbour views at a low cost. The journey is described as refreshing and scenic, with Manly Wharf providing a charming gateway to coastal activities. While generally positive, some note the potential for crowds on weekends and the need to be mindful of seagulls.
"Stepping out of the ferry terminal at Manly Wharf is such a refreshing experience. The first thing you notice is the beautiful blue sky stretching over the harbour, and the air feels crisp and inviting. The surroundings are very clean, well-kept, and full of natural charm, making you feel instantly relaxed.
From the wharf, it’s just a short stroll to the beach, shops, and cafés, all set in a laid-back coastal atmosphere. Manly Wharf is not just a transport hub—it’s the perfect gateway to one of Sydney’s most scenic seaside areas."
Min Min
"Manly Wharf feels like the start of a small holiday, even if you are just popping over for lunch. The ferry slides in, ropes hit the bollards, and you step straight into sea air and the buzz of the Corso a few minutes away. I like pausing on the pier for a moment before moving on. You get gulls wheeling, a view back across the harbour, and that first whiff of salt that instantly resets your mood.
The setup makes life easy. Signage is clear, platforms are wide, and tapping on or off takes seconds, so peak periods still move smoothly. If the weather is kind, grab a spot on the ferry’s outside deck for the run in or out, the views both ways are special. Inside the wharf you have options for every appetite. Quick coffee before the return trip, fresh fish and chips eaten along the railings, a cold drink at one of the waterside bars, or gelato for the walk toward the beach. Prices vary, but there is something for a fast snack or a sit down catch up, and staff handle the rush with good humour.
It is also a handy base for exploring. Turn left and follow the path toward Fairlight for a quieter foreshore stroll, head straight up the Corso for the main beach, or angle right for the Shelly Beach track if you are chasing a swim and a snorkel. Facilities are what you hope for in a busy spot: clean bathrooms, water fountains, bins that get emptied often, and plenty of benches to wait for the next service. A few tips help. Weekends can be lively, so arrive a touch early, keep chips away from bold seagulls, and bring a light layer because the breeze bites as soon as the sun drops. Whether you are commuting, meeting friends or starting a day by the sea, Manly Wharf makes the transition from city to coast feel effortless."
Le Hoang Giap
"The Manly Ferry is awesome. If you’re looking for a great day out at a very low cost, catch the ferry to Manly. You get to see the magnificent harbour from a different perspective."
Tony B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic and popular way is to catch the Manly ferry from Circular Quay. It's a direct route and offers stunning harbour views. 
Ferries to Manly typically depart from Wharf 2 or Wharf 3 at Circular Quay. Always check the signage on the day of travel.
The journey usually takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on the ferry class. Emerald Class ferries are quicker.
Yes, the Manly ferry is a primary public transport link. You can easily catch it back to Circular Quay.
While the ferry is the most iconic, you can also drive or take a bus, but these options miss out on the spectacular harbour views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you don't need to buy tickets in advance. You can simply tap on and off with your contactless debit/credit card or an Opal card.
Ferry fares are typically covered by your Opal card or contactless payment. Check Transport for NSW for current pricing, but it's generally considered a low-cost, high-value experience.
Ferries run frequently throughout the day and into the evening. It's best to check the latest timetable on the Transport for NSW website for specific times.
Manly Wharf itself is a public space and does not have an entry fee. The ferry ride has a fare, but accessing the wharf and surrounding areas is free.
If you forget to tap off, you may be charged a default fare. Always remember to tap off with your card or Opal card.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, sit on the right side of the ferry when heading towards Manly.
Daylight hours offer clear views. Sunset provides a beautiful golden light, but can be crowded. Early mornings can be less crowded and offer soft light.
Yes, Manly Wharf offers great vantage points for photos of the Sydney skyline, especially looking back towards the city.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits.
You'll have opportunities to photograph the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, city skyline, and potentially other boats and wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! Manly Wharf has a variety of eateries, from quick coffee spots and fish and chips to waterside bars and restaurants.
Typically, food and drinks are not sold on the ferries themselves. It's best to purchase food at Circular Quay or wait until you reach Manly Wharf.
Manly offers a wide range of dining, including cafes, casual eateries, seafood restaurants, and international cuisine.
Yes, you can find more affordable options like fish and chips or grabbing a gelato for a walk towards the beach.
There are public areas and benches around Manly Wharf and along the foreshore where you can enjoy a picnic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks, as bold seagulls can be quite persistent! 💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Once in Manly, you can enjoy the beach for free, explore The Corso, and find affordable eats like fish and chips or grab a picnic to enjoy by the water. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for the right side of the ferry when heading to Manly for the classic views. Consider timing your trip for sunset for dramatic lighting, though be prepared for more crowds. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Ferry Journey
+1 Many travelers describe it as one of the most scenic public transport rides in Australia. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes, providing ample time to soak in the panoramic views of the harbour, the city skyline, and the sparkling blue waters. Keep an eye out for potential wildlife sightings, as dolphins are sometimes spotted during the trip. Travelers often recommend sitting on the right-hand side of the ferry when heading towards Manly to get the best unobstructed views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
The ferries are well-maintained, and the process of boarding is smooth thanks to the tap-on/tap-off system. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, consider traveling during off-peak hours on weekdays. This allows for a more leisurely journey with fewer crowds, enabling you to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.
Manly Wharf: Your Coastal Gateway
From the wharf, it's a short and pleasant stroll to the heart of Manly. Head straight up The Corso, a pedestrian mall that leads directly to the famous Manly Beach.
If you're looking for a quieter experience, turn left from the wharf and follow the path towards Fairlight for a more serene foreshore walk. 
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