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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels, minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
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.
Riverboat Postman
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.
Riverboat Postman operates from Brooklyn, New South Wales, offering guided cruises and island tours along the Hawkesbury River. The operator preserves a living mail delivery tradition that dates to 1910, combining daily river service with interpretive commentary from local skippers. Cruises visit multiple water-access-only settlements and historic sites, including the wreck of the HMAS Parramatta beneath sandstone cliffs and ancient Aboriginal rock carvings on sheltered island shores. Signature departures include the Riverboat Postman mail run, the Seven Islands of the Hawkesbury cruise, the Bar Island Tour and Cruise, the Dangar Island Tour and Cruise, and the three-hour Sunday on the Hawkesbury experience. Tours are offered aboard locally operated vessels such as the M.V. Emily Melvey, M.V. Zarapito, and M.V. Bayrunner. Guests receive regional refreshments on many departures, including homemade ANZAC biscuits, morning tea, and Ploughman-style lunches on selected tours. The Bar Island itinerary highlights a restored island, historic cemeteries, and memorial sites, while the Dangar Island option focuses on local settlement history and shoreline views. The Seven Islands cruise emphasizes natural sandstone scenery and maritime history. The Sunday cruise combines a three-hour schedule with a ploughman’s lunch and island history. Riverboat Postman emphasizes safety, local knowledge, and a focus on cultural and maritime heritage, making its Hawkesbury cruises suitable for families, history enthusiasts, and visitors seeking accessible river experiences.
Most cruises depart from and return to Brooklyn, New South Wales, offering convenient access for day visitors and overnight guests staying nearby. Advance bookings are recommended for peak periods and special events.
Tours Offered
5 tours
Signature Hawkesbury itineraries.
Heritage
Since 1910
Long-running mail delivery tradition.
Vessels
M.V. Emily Melvey, M.V. Zarapito, M.V. Bayrunner
Locally operated river vessels.
Base
Brooklyn, NSW
Gateway to the Hawkesbury River.
Secure seats on signature island tours and the historic mail run — departures from Brooklyn, NSW.
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.
Sunhat
Protects against sun exposure during the cruise.
summer
Waterproof jacket
Be prepared for unexpected weather on open water.
spring|fall|winter
Camera
Capture scenic views and memorable moments.
Comfortable clothing
Wear layers suitable for variable weather conditions.