This is the harbour tour for people who would rather feel the water than watch it. The jet boat departs from the eastern pontoon at Circular Quay and runs for about thirty minutes across much of the harbour, reaching speeds of up to 75 kilometres an hour. It is not a sightseeing cruise in the traditional sense, though the route does pass the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Taronga Zoo, Fort Denison, Rose Bay, Goat Island, the Navy fleet and the Prime Minister's Sydney residence, with occasional slow-downs for views and photographs. Between those pauses, the driver puts the boat through its paces, with fishtails, 270-degree spins and power-brake stops, and passengers should expect to get wet. The price includes a safety briefing and life jacket, a weatherproof poncho, storage lockers and hotel pickup and drop-off, subject to the booking terms. It is the kind of ride that leaves people laughing and slightly breathless, and it is short enough to fit between a morning at the Opera House and lunch in the Rocks.
What to expect
Check in about twenty minutes before departure at the Oz Jet Boating pontoon at Circular Quay, listen to the briefing, put on the life jacket and poncho and take a seat. The first moments are a cruise out of the quay, and then the boat accelerates, with spins and sharp turns timed to the music and the driver's commentary.
You will get splashed, particularly in the front seats, so expect wet clothes and hair, and bring a change of clothing if you have plans afterwards. Phones and cameras are best left in the lockers or kept in a waterproof pouch. The pace is thrilling rather than frightening for most people, but those who dislike speed or sudden movement should choose a calm cruise.
Requirements
Every passenger must be at least 1.2 metres tall, and passengers under 13 must ride with a parent or guardian over 18. Adults need valid photo ID matching the booking name. A moderate fitness level is required, and the ride is not recommended for pregnant travellers, for people with back problems or for anyone with heart conditions or other serious medical issues or injuries.
Passengers must declare pre-existing conditions before departure. The boat takes up to 23 travellers, and departures depend on minimum numbers. The experience is not wheelchair accessible. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the ride.
Fit and combinations
The jet boat suits teenagers, adrenaline seekers, groups of friends and families with older children, and it is one of the better ways to fill half an hour at Circular Quay. It is not the right choice for travellers who want a quiet cruise, a narrated history or a leisurely photo trip, for which a standard sightseeing cruise or a ferry to Manly is better.
Circular Quay is well served by trains and ferries, and there is parking under the Opera House a few minutes' walk from the pontoon. Combine the ride with a visit to the Opera House, the Rocks or the Botanic Garden to make a full harbour day.
What to expect
The experience
A 30-minute jet boat ride across Sydney Harbour from Circular Quay, with spins, fishtails and power stops and brief pauses for landmarks.
Best time
Any time of day; warmer months make the soaking more comfortable.
How long
About thirty minutes on the water, plus check-in twenty minutes before departure.
Tips
Expect to get wet, secure phones and cameras, bring ID and a change of clothes, and check the minimum height of 1.2 metres.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Teenagers, friends and thrill seekers who want a fast, fun harbour experience.
- Families
- Suitable for children from 1.2 metres tall, with under-13s riding with an adult over 18.
- Couples
- A playful shared thrill rather than a romantic cruise.
- Pair with
- The Opera House, the Rocks and the Royal Botanic Garden at Circular Quay.
- Time needed
- About an hour including check-in.
Good questions
Where does the jet boat leave from?+
It departs from the eastern pontoon at Circular Quay. Check in about twenty minutes before departure.
How fast does it go?+
The boat reaches speeds of up to 75 kilometres an hour, with spins, fishtails and power-brake stops, and slows for views of landmarks.
Will I get wet?+
Yes. A weatherproof poncho is provided, but you should expect to be splashed, so keep valuables in the lockers.
Is there an age or height limit?+
Every passenger must be at least 1.2 metres tall, and passengers under 13 must ride with a parent or guardian over 18.
Who should avoid the ride?+
It is not recommended for pregnant travellers, people with back problems, heart conditions or other serious medical issues or injuries, and it is not wheelchair accessible.
