Guided Kayaking Tours of the Harbour

Guests meet at 1B New Beach Rd, Rushcutters Bay, within D’Albora Marina. Look for the large marina sign and head down the alley beside Sturrock’s Ship Chandlers – our shop is on the left.

Please arrive at the time provided in your booking confirmation. On arrival:

• Check-in with a lead guide while the team prepares kayaks (and lights for sunrise tours).

• Secure valuables in our locked shop — bags and personal items stay safely stored while we’re on the water.

• Use the marina toilets (no bathroom breaks during the tour).

• Fit life jackets with help from our guides.

Once ready, we’ll head to the launch area where our kayaks are set out. Our guides assist with seating, adjusting footrests, and ensuring comfort. The lead guide introduces the team, delivers a safety briefing and paddling tutorial, then launches first to guide you into the water.

Guests are launched one at a time from the pontoon with clear instruction. Guides position kayaks in a huddle on the water before setting off as a group, supported by guides at the front, middle, and rear.

During the paddle, there are three rest breaks on the way to the Opera House and three on the return, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos. At the Opera House, our guides capture the signature photo of each group with both the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge in frame.

• Duration: 90–120 minutes (1–2 hours on the water).

• No stops ashore once the tour begins.

• Start times vary seasonally, ensuring the best alignment with sunrise or sunset.

Your safety is our top priority, and our experienced guides are with you every step of the way.

• Guide-to-Guest Ratio: Typically 1 guide per 3–5 guests, ensuring plenty of personal attention and support.

• Qualifications: All guides are trained in First Aid and carry essential safety equipment.

• Safety Gear: Each guide has a tow line, and the lead guide carries a first-aid kit. All guides are equipped with walkie-talkies to maintain communication and signal for assistance if ever required.

• Life Jackets: Mandatory for all guests at all times – no exceptions.

• Kayak Stability: Our fleet features stable-based kayaks that are almost impossible to capsize. We proudly hold a 100% no-capsize record.

• Swimming Ability: No minimum swim competency is required – everyone is welcome.

With our safety measures, expert team, and reliable equipment, you’ll be in good hands from start to finish.

We closely monitor conditions to ensure every tour is both safe and enjoyable.

• Cancellations: Tours will be cancelled in the event of extreme winds or thunderstorms.

• Rain Policy: We operate in light rain – the harbour is beautiful in all weather.

• Guest Notification: If we need to cancel due to unsafe conditions, our customer service team will notify you by email and/or text at least one hour before your tour. Please check both your inbox (and spam folder) and your phone before heading out.

• Rescheduling & Refunds:

  • If we cancel due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date.

  • If you cancel more than 72 hours before your tour, you can choose an alternative date at no cost or receive a 90% refund (the 10% covers booking and processing fees).

  • If you cancel 48-72 hours prior, you may reschedule free of charge, but refunds are not available.

  • If you cancel within 48 hours or fail to show up, there is no refund or reschedule.

Your safety always comes first – but we’ll do everything possible to keep your adventure on track.

We provide everything you need for a safe and enjoyable paddle, and our tours are designed to welcome beginners as well as seasoned adventurers.

• What’s Provided: Stable single and double kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and seasonal extras like gloves.

• What to Bring: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water bottle, and a change of clothes. A waterproof phone pouch is recommended if you’d like to bring your phone or camera.

• Getting Wet: Expect a few splashes from paddling. On windier days you may get wetter – occasionally a small wave can lap into the kayak.

• Storage: Whilst on tour we lock our shop so bags and valuables are stored securely onshore while you’re on the water.

• Group size: Small groups with roughly 3–5 guests per guide for personal attention.

• Ages: All under 18s must be accompanied by an adult and the minimum age of any participant is 12 or above.

• Fitness level: A basic level of fitness helps, but no prior kayaking experience is required. We take regular breaks and can offer a tow if you need a rest.

• Swimming: No minimum swim competency required. Life jackets are mandatory and our kayaks are very stable.

• Accessibility: Our team can assist with launch and exit and can adapt on the day. If you have specific needs, contact us before your tour so we can prepare.

• Size/weight guidance:  Footrests are adjusted for comfort and posture. If you’re unsure about fit, reach out before booking.

The most important aspect of our operation is that we are both eco-friendly and fun. 

• For everyone: Suits solo travellers, couples and groups.

• On-water feel: Relaxed pace with time to take in the views and chat with guides.

• Stories: Guides share local history and insider tips along the route.

• Wildlife: You might see dolphins, seals, penguins, jellyfish and seabirds, but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

• Photos: We capture plenty along the way, including the money shot with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge right behind you.

We want you to focus on the experience, not your phone – so we take care of capturing the day for you.

• Free Digital Photos/Videos: Your guide will capture plenty of shots during the tour, including the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge backdrop.

• Quality & Quantity: Expect a mix of candid action shots and group photos. Images are provided in high resolution for easy sharing.

• Delivery: All footage is sent to you digitally after the tour at no extra cost.

• Bring Your Own Camera: You’re welcome to bring your phone or camera but customer’s use them at their own risk. If you have a waterproof case that would be beneficial. We recommend leaving the photography to us so you can relax and enjoy the paddle.

We make it easy to find us and get set up before your tour.

• Location: 1B New Beach Road, Rushcutters Bay. All details including arrival time and map are provided with your booking confirmation.

• Arrival Time: Please arrive per the time outlined via your booking confirmation.

• Check-In: Meet your guide at the designated spot, sign in, and get fitted with your safety gear.

• Parking & Transport: Limited street parking is available nearby. Public transport and rideshare are recommended where possible.

• Facilities: Basic amenities, including restrooms, are available close to the meeting point.

To keep things safe and enjoyable for everyone, we ask all guests to follow these simple rules.

• Waivers: All guests must sign a waiver before paddling. Guests under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign on their behalf.

• Late Arrivals: If you arrive late, we can’t guarantee that the tour won’t have already departed. Missed tours due to late-arrival are non-refundable.

• Alcohol & Substances: We reserve the right to deny any customer we suspect is abusing substances and/or visibly intoxicated. 

• Respect for Others: We welcome everyone. Please treat guides, fellow guests, and the harbour with respect.

Sydney Harbour changes with the seasons, and so do our tours.

• Start Times: Sunrise and sunset departure times shift throughout the year. Please check your booking confirmation for the exact start.

• Weather Variations: Summer can be hot and bright, while winter mornings may be crisp. Dress appropriately for the season.

• What to Bring: In cooler months, we recommend an extra layer and even a beanie. In warmer months, bring extra sunscreen and plenty of water.

• Scenery: Seasonal light, wildlife and harbour activity all add unique character to your tour – no two paddles are ever the same.