Brisbane Water Heritage Cruise with Central Coast Ferries
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels—mostly sitting or standing aboard the ferry.
Overview
Cruise through Brisbane Water’s waters with Central Coast Ferries and uncover the rich tapestry of maritime history that shaped this NSW region. This 3.5-hour heritage ferry tour blends immersive storytelling with breathtaking coastal views.
Brisbane Water History and Heritage Cruise
For all ages! • 3.5 hours • Brisbane Waters: History Afloat! • Book Now for Historic Ferry Fun!
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About This Adventure
Sail through history on the 'Sorrento' with our History & Heritage River Ferry Tour. Discover Brisbane Water's captivating past with live commentary, visuals, and scenic stops. Book now for a historical journey like no other!
Duration
Approximately 3.5 Hours
Ticket Prices:
- Adult: $45
- Concession card holders only: $40
- Children/School Students (ages 4-14): $25
About
THE SUPPORT OF GOSFORD CITY COUNCIL AND BRISBANE WATER HISTORICAL SOCIETY, HISTORY & HERITAGE HUNTER TO HAWKESBURY RESEARCH (4HR) AND CENTRAL COAST FERRIES PRESENT:
- A HISTORY & HERITAGE CENTRAL COAST BRISBANE WATERS RIVER FERRY TOUR
On board the ferry 'Sorrento,' a large A/V screen will display award-winning, specially prepared graphics, historic onsite photographs, and videos of working models and animations throughout the ferry tour with live commentary.
Departing from Woy Woy, The tour includes stops at Blackwall, Broken Bay, Umina, Ettalong, Empire Bay, Davistown, Saratoga, East Gosford, Gosford, West Gosford, Point Clare, Tascott, and Koolewong.
BRISBANE WATER HISTORY TOUR Highlights:
- Governor Phillip arrives only weeks after establishing a colony in Sydney
- Over 500 registered wooden vessels built
- When the waterways were the highways
- The Maitland shipwreck
- Timber getting into the once great forests
- Woy Woy Tunnel - the longest in Australia
- 1900s thriving tourist industry
Please note that the Brisbane Water History and Heritage Cruise experience is confirmed only when we have reached a minimum of 30 passengers. Otherwise, we will fully refund your money to the same method of payment provided for the initial payment.
The ferry departs Woy Woy Wharf at 9:30 am and returns around 12:30 - 12:45 pm. Departure dates vary, and bookings are essential.
Morning tea is included and will be served on board. Bottled water will be available for purchase on board. Lunch can be purchased at various venues in Brooklyn Village, or alternatively, you can bring your lunch on the tour.
Adventure Tips
Book Early
Tours require a minimum of 30 passengers to operate, so early booking ensures your spot.
Bring a Camera
Pack a camera or smartphone to capture historic sites and scenic coastal views along the route.
Arrive on Time
The ferry departs promptly at 9:30 am from Woy Woy Wharf; arrive early to avoid missing the boat.
Pack Light Snacks
Morning tea is served onboard, but you can bring additional snacks or buy lunch at Brooklyn Village after the tour.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Ospreys hunting along the estuary
- Sensitive marine species like weedy seadragons near shore
History
This region was crucial to early Australian settlement, with waterways serving as critical transport routes and sites of extensive wooden shipbuilding.
Conservation
Brisbane Water estuary is under environmental protection efforts focused on preserving marine biodiversity and sustaining water quality amid increasing tourism.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Jacket
To stay comfortable during cooler or breezy moments on deck.
fall specific
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong sun exposure while on the water.
summer specific
Camera or Smartphone
Ideal for capturing historical sites and natural scenery along the cruise.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the 3.5-hour journey, even if bottled water is available for purchase.