Water Activities & Hawkesbury Cruises: Bar Island Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels, minimal physical exertion required
Overview
Discover the history and natural beauty of Bar Island on a private cruise. Enjoy scenic views, cultural stories, and a relaxing lunch in this unique water adventure along the Hawkesbury River.
Bar Island Tour and Cruise
All ages • 3 Hours
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Explore the newly restored Bar Island on a private guided cruise with Hawkesbury Cruises. Discover rich Aboriginal and settler history, visit historic cemeteries, and learn poignant stories, including a memorial to drowned instructors. Enjoy morning tea and a delightful Ploughman-style lunch while soaking in this unique experience.
After nearly 100 years of isolation and increasing dilapidation, tiny Bar Island at the mouth of Berowra Creek has been restored and re-opened to the public by Hornsby Shire Council. Hawkesbury Cruises offers private guided tours of this amazing piece of Aboriginal and white settler history for groups of up to 40 guests (limited by Hornsby Council for environmental impact reasons).
See the newly restored headstones of the original cemetery and hear some of the stories of our stalwart first white settlers of the area. Visit the memorial dedicated to the drowned instructors from the Outward Bound Camp at Fisherman's Point just to the north of Bar Island and learn the tragic story of their deaths.
This cruise requires a minimum booking of 25 passengers to run, and can operate on any day of the week. It includes morning tea and a delicious Ploughman-style lunch served on board.
Adventure Tips
Arrive early for the best views
Getting to the cruise early allows you to settle in and enjoy the scenery before departure.
Dress for the weather
Bring layered clothing and a hat; it can get breezy on the water.
Bring binoculars
Optional but helpful for wildlife sightings and scenic vistas.
Book in advance
These cruises are popular and fill up quickly, so reserve your spot early.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Possums
- Kingfishers
History
Bar Island was a vital part of indigenous trade routes and later became a key site for early settlers' communities.
Conservation
Hawkesbury Cruises supports local environmental efforts to preserve the river's natural habitat and clean waterways.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunhat
Protects against sun exposure during the cruise.
summer specific
Waterproof jacket
Be prepared for unexpected weather on open water.
spring|fall|winter specific
Camera
Capture scenic views and memorable moments.
Comfortable clothing
Wear layers suitable for variable weather conditions.