Commuting with Sydney Ferries (Australia)

I think I must have mentioned it before, but I am not really that fond of Sydney (or Melbourne...). I grew up in a smaller city, and I did live in both of these cities for periods of time... but I never really liked the big city feel... too many people, and mostly, too many "important" people. Sure, I get that there is "life" or whatever people call it... but it really feels like an ant hive, and a real rat race. Little quiet places are the sorts of places for me...

... unfortunately, as a musician, I do have to come to the big cities as that is where the bulk of the work is!

Sydney is okay for visiting I guess... and one of the nicest things that I like about it is when I have the opportunity to "commute" to "work" with the ferries! The trains and buses are the usual packed mess that is common with most cities... lots of people busily going places. However, the ferries are a bit of a nice and leisurely way to get around...

The main hub for the ferry network is the Circular Quay wharves. From here, they spread out up and down the river to popular tourist attractions and residential areas that line the river shoreline.

There are at least five wharves that employ the same gate system as the rest of the Sydney network of public transport. So, you can easily use the same Opal card, or a credit card, to easily pay for your trips.

The only thing to remember is that on the outer stops in the residential areas, there are no gates... so you will need to remember to check out!

There are two types of ferries running the routes...there are the newer and more modern little cats...

... and the old iconic ones with multiple levels. Both are pleasant to ride (if you don't get seasick!) and have ample seating both indoor and outdoor. Sitting out in the open air is quite refreshing!

All the ferries are named after notable Australians across all fields... for instance, Victor Chang was a renowned cardiac surgeon in Australia.

Pulling out from the Circular Quay wharves is always quite exhilarating... as the engines pump up and the water churns underneath.... if you are lucky, you will see all sorts of watercraft on the water. The huge ocean liners dock nearby, and there are also military supply ships at the naval base further towards the river mouth.

As you commute out on the water, you will see all the iconic Sydney landmarks! The Opera House...

... Luna Park...

... and of course, the famed Sydney Harbour Bridge!

Honestly, even if it raining, it is still a beautiful sight to behold! As long as you are tourist... and aren't living here!

So, if you find yourself in Sydney... give the ferries a go! Head up to Taronga Zoo, visit the beaches... do all the things, skip the trains and buses if you are wanting to visit these places!