SYDNEY
YACHTING
CHARTER 101
First time on a charter? Here’s everything you need to know.
Chartering a boat on Sydney Harbour is simpler than most people expect. This guide walks you through how it works, what’s included, how pricing works and what to expect on the day, so you can plan with confidence.
HOW IT WORKS
From first idea to your day on the water
1
Tell us about your day
The occasion, how many guests, the date and the feeling you’re after. It takes about two minutes.
2
Get your best 2–3 boats
We recommend the boats that suit your group and your day, with indicative prices, usually within 20 minutes.
3
Confirm the details
We check availability with the boat, answer your questions and send a tailored quote.
4
Lock in your date
A 50% deposit secures the boat.
5
Enjoy the day
Step aboard, and the captain and crew take care of the rest.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
What’s included, and what’s extra
Always included
The boat for your booked hours, with a professional captain and crew.
Food and drinks
Many boats welcome you to bring your own (BYO), usually with a small fee of around $10 to $25 per person, or a flat amenities fee. Some supply all food and drinks themselves, and others offer catering and drinks packages.
Wait staff
Some boats require wait staff for larger groups, usually one per 10 to 15 guests, at around $250 to $440 each for four hours. We always show this upfront.
Extras
DJs, water toys, decorations and more can be arranged on many boats.
Every boat page lists exactly what applies to that boat, and your quote shows every cost before you book.
PRICING
How pricing works
Hourly rate
Boats are priced per hour, from around $450 an hour for an intimate group to over $3,000 an hour for a superyacht.
Minimum hours
Most boats have a minimum of 3 or 4 hours, depending on the season and day of the week.
Seasons
Spring and summer weekends through to Christmas and New Year are usually priced higher than winter.
Wharf fees
Boarding at a public wharf usually costs around $50 to $150.
Public holidays
Some boats add a surcharge, usually 20 to 25%, and some offer special holiday packages instead.
GST and fees
All our prices include GST, and there’s no booking fee for using Sydney Yachting.
Every quote shows the full price upfront. No hidden fees, no surprises.
PLANNING TIPS
A few tips for planning
Book early for peak dates
The best boats go early for spring and summer weekends, Christmas, New Year and public holidays. If your date is fixed, earlier is better, but tell us regardless. We often know where the gaps are.
Count your guests generously
Every boat has a maximum number of guests it can carry, and it can’t be exceeded on the day, so include everyone in your count.
Choose your time of day
Most charters run in the afternoon or into the evening for sunset. Morning cruises are quieter and often better value.
Tell us about your group
Young children, older guests or anyone with mobility needs? Let us know, and we’ll suggest boats that suit.
ON THE DAY
What to expect on the day
Where to board
We’ll confirm your boarding wharf and time before the day.
Arrive a little early
Aim to arrive 15 minutes before departure, so your time on the water starts on time.
What to wear and bring
Flat, soft-soled shoes, a layer for the evening breeze, sunscreen and sunglasses. Planning a swim stop? Bring swimwear and a towel.
Music
Most boats have a sound system you can connect your own playlist to, and many can host a DJ.
Drinks
Many boats have fridges or eskies for drinks you bring, and some have a full bar or drinks packages. We’ll confirm what your boat has.
Safety on board
Celebrate responsibly. The crew look after everyone’s safety, and the captain has the final say on board.
WEATHER
What if the weather turns?
Light rain doesn’t stop a charter. Most boats have covered and indoor areas, so the day still goes ahead, and rain on its own isn’t a reason to cancel or reschedule. A new date or a refund is only considered when the weather makes it unsafe to go out, and the captain makes that call. Each boat has its own weather policy, so we’ll confirm the exact terms for your boat before you book.
Ready to plan your day?
Tell us about your occasion and we’ll recommend the boats that suit it best.