In this video, I take the ferry from Sydney’s Circular Quay to Manly, one of the most iconic and enjoyable journeys in the city. This short trip across Sydney Harbour is not just a way of getting from one place to another—it’s an experience in itself, offering some of the best views of Sydney’s world-famous landmarks and coastline.
The journey begins at Circular Quay, the heart of Sydney’s harbour transport. Surrounded by the bustle of ferries, trains, and people heading in every direction, Circular Quay is also framed by two of the most recognisable landmarks in the world: the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Boarding the Manly ferry here already feels special, with the excitement of the trip ahead and the harbour sparkling in the background.
As the ferry departs, the first moments are unforgettable. On one side, the Opera House shows its iconic sails from the water, while on the other, the Harbour Bridge towers above, often with climbers visible on its upper arches. The ferry glides past these landmarks, giving passengers perspectives that are impossible to see from land.
Leaving the inner harbour, the ferry passes Fort Denison, small bays lined with houses, and stretches of green parks. The further it travels, the more the scenery opens up—luxury homes on the cliffs, yachts sailing in the breeze, and stretches of natural coastline that remind you how Sydney is shaped by the sea. The water itself becomes part of the experience, with waves, reflections, and the occasional chance to spot marine life.
As the ferry continues toward Manly, the view of the Heads—the two headlands marking the entrance to Sydney Harbour—comes into sight. The cliffs are dramatic and give a sense of scale to the harbour as a natural formation. Passing through this section, the ferry begins to approach its destination, and soon the relaxed coastal town of Manly appears.
The arrival at Manly Wharf feels like stepping into a different world. While Circular Quay is busy and urban, Manly is relaxed and beach-focused. Just a short walk from the wharf, the famous Manly Beach stretches along the ocean, offering golden sand, surf waves, and a laid-back atmosphere. The contrast between the city and the beach is one of the things that makes this ferry ride so memorable—it connects two completely different sides of Sydney in just about 30 minutes.
This video captures the impression of a ferry journey from Circular Quay to Manly: the harbour landmarks, the open water, the coastal scenery, and the arrival at one of Sydney’s most famous beaches. It is not a detailed guide but a way to share the atmosphere and beauty of this classic Sydney experience.
For travelers, the Manly ferry is often described as one of the best ferry rides in the world, and it’s easy to see why. It’s affordable, accessible, and offers a view of Sydney that feels like a cruise rather than public transport. Whether you take it as a daily commuter, a visitor exploring the city, or someone simply wanting to enjoy the harbour, the Circular Quay to Manly ferry ride is an experience not to be missed.