What can I see on the Parramatta Ferry?

The Parramatta is a beautiful river that flows to Sydney Harbour.

The Parramatta River winds its way into the western suburbs of Sydney. The Parramatta Ferry is a fun way to explore Sydney’s suburbs as you coast along the calm waters.

The ferry is also a convenient way to skip city traffic. It allows you to sit back and relax as you make your way from the outer western suburbs to Sydney Harbour. You can board the ferry yourself, or you can enjoy it after our Blue Mountains Day Tour and Blue Mountains Deluxe Tour.

Now the question is, what can you see from the Parramatta Ferry?

Things to see from the Parramatta Ferry

1. Henry Searle Monument

While cruising down the Parramatta River, you may notice a monument jutting out of the river. This monument was unveiled in 1891 as a memorial to Henry Ernest Searle.

Who was Henry Searle? He was a champion rower, who moved to Sydney in 1888 to compete in competitions on the Parramatta River. He was only 22 years old but brought in huge crowds of fans who cheered him on. In 1888 he beat the former World Champion. In 1889, he visited London to race on the River Thames, where he won another massive race. Sadly, at the end of 1889 at the age of 23, he fell ill and passed away from typhoid.

2. Cuckatoo Island

Cuckatoo Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the middle of the Parramatta River. It is the largest of all the islands in the Parramatta, but that’s not what makes it famous. It used to be a convict penal establishment in the mid-1800s. Later, the island was used as a reformatory school for young women. Today, the island is used as a ship repair and building facility, though you can still see the old buildings from the convict site.

3. Goat Island

Goat Island is located in Sydney Harbour. It has served many purposes over the years including a convict settlement and a place to store explosives. Later, it became the location of the first harbour fire brigade and water police station. Most recently, Goat Island has been used for filming, specifically the show “Water Rats”.

4. Sydney Harbour Bridge

You’ll know when you’ve reached Sydney Harbour because of the arching Harbour Bridge. The impressive landmark is the biggest steel arch bridge in the world. The bridge first opened in 1932 and has played an important role in connecting opposite sides of the Sydney Harbour.

5. Sydney Opera House

If you choose to take the Parramatta Ferry to Circular Quay, you’ll also be able to see the world-famous Sydney Opera House. The famous opera house is the most recognisable landmark around the world. In 2023, the opera house celebrated its 50th anniversary! With its unique architecture and history of hosting a range of shows, the Sydney Opera House is definitely a sight to behold.

Jump on board the Parramatta River Ferry for a relaxing and scenic ride along the calm waters of the Parramatta River.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.

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