THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the timeless charm of Sydney Harbour aboard Southwinds, a classic sailing yacht offering hands-on or relaxed 2.5-hour explorations from Barangaroo. Whether you’re new to sailing or just want to savor the views, this small-group trip puts you close to Sydney’s iconic landmarks and vibrant marine culture.
Discover the timeless charm of Sydney Harbour aboard Southwinds, a classic sailing yacht offering hands-on or relaxed 2.5-hour explorations from Barangaroo. Whether you’re new to sailing or just want to savor the views, this small-group trip puts you close to Sydney’s iconic landmarks and vibrant marine culture.
Book with Manly Sailing
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Manly Sailing · Barangaroo, New South Wales
Sydney Harbour is one of the world’s most iconic waterways, where modern cityscape meets shimmering blue waters framed by lush headlands and historic wharfs. Aboard Southwinds, a beautifully maintained classic sailing yacht designed and built right in Sydney, visitors get an intimate, hands-on experience of this legendary harbour. This 2.5-hour journey launches from Barangaroo, a revitalized waterfront precinct just west of Circular Quay, and offers guests an authentic taste of sailing on one of Australia’s most storied waterways.
What makes Southwinds truly unique is its blend of old-world craftsmanship and modern accessibility. This isn’t a distant, corporate charter boat; it’s a small-group experience with room for only 12 guests, ensuring plenty of personal attention from the professional skipper and crew. Whether you want to take the helm and learn the ropes or simply relax on deck and absorb the panoramic views, this trip is fully adaptable to your preferred pace.
As the yacht glides past Sydney’s iconic landmarks—the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and luxurious harbourside neighborhoods—you’ll witness the harbour’s vibrant boating culture up close, from sleek motor yachts to traditional wooden vessels. The bay’s sparkling waters are framed by rugged sandstone cliffs and green parks, reflecting Sydney’s striking balance of urban life and natural beauty.
The adventure begins with a short, scenic powerboat transfer from Rowntree’s Wharf in Barangaroo to Southwinds, moored in the nearby Nawi Cove. Boarding involves a few steps, so participants should prepare accordingly. Once on board, guests are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy while soaking up Sydney’s radiant sun and fresh sea breeze.
This trip suits all ages beginning at 4 years old and requires no prior sailing experience, making it an excellent introduction for families, couples, and solo travelers curious about yachting on a grand scale. It’s also ideal for locals eager to rediscover Sydney Harbour from a new perspective.
Beyond its sheer aesthetic appeal, the Southwinds experience highlights Sydney Harbour’s role as a cultural and recreational hub. Established decades ago, Barangaroo itself is named after a prominent Cammeraygal woman of local Aboriginal heritage, and the sailing route evokes a connection to centuries of coastal navigation.
Whether racing the breeze or drifting in calm waters, this small-ship voyage is a refreshing way to spend a morning or afternoon in Sydney—an offbeat alternative to crowded ferries and tourist spots. For anyone wanting an elegant, flexible maritime outing with unparalleled scenery, Southwinds offers a rare window into the spirit of Sydney’s waterfront.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required except for basic balance and mobility when boarding
No, this trip welcomes participants of all skill levels, including complete beginners.
Yes, the experience is suitable for children aged 4 and above when accompanied by an adult.
No, guests are encouraged to bring their own refreshments to enjoy during the cruise.
If the weather is unsafe for sailing, the trip may be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund.
Guests meet at Rowntree’s Wharf in Barangaroo and transfer by powerboat to Southwinds in nearby Nawi Cove.
Due to steps during transfer and limited space on board, this experience may not be suitable for wheelchair users.
Barangaroo is named after a female leader of the Cammeraygal people from Sydney Harbour’s indigenous history.
The operators and Sydney Harbour encourage sustainable boating practices to protect marine life and water quality.
Manly Sailing is a water‑based activity provider located in Manly, New South Wales, offering a broad range of sailing, kayaking, and youth adventure programs. Operating from Manly Cove and sailing into Sydney Harbour, Manly Sailing runs kayak hires, guided kayak tours, taster sailing experiences on 24‑foot yachts, and multi‑day sailing and adventure camps for children and teens. The programme includes single sit‑on‑top kayak hire and guided 1.5‑hour kayak tours that visit beaches such as Store Beach and Collins Flat; taster sailing experiences and 2.5‑hour sailing trips on 24‑foot yachts; one‑day and multi‑day keelboat and yachting camps for ages 12–17; kids' learn‑to‑sail Opti and advanced Optimist/O’pen Skiff courses; windsurfing, snorkelling and team‑based adventure camps; plus Australian Sailing Start Crewing and Start Helming course options and private two‑day crew/helm instruction for small groups. Safety and instruction are core features across offerings. Professional skippers and experienced instructors provide briefings, demonstrations and supervision. Safety equipment is supplied on courses and camps, and activities are structured for family‑friendly kayak hires, beginner taster sails, and youth development programs focused on confidence and skill building. Bookings range from hourly kayak hires to multi‑day camps and formal Australian Sailing courses, with options for private bookings or group experiences. Many youth camps offer early drop‑off and flexible scheduling to suit family needs. Small‑group instruction and private bookings are available for families, school groups and small friend groups seeking tailored experiences safely.
Book with Manly Sailing