Are you planning a day out on Sydney Harbour with your boat and wondering where you can safely anchor? There are several spots in Sydney Harbour where you can enjoy the view while securely anchoring your vessel. In this article, we have gathered some great places where you can anchor hassle-free. If you’re meeting people before your trip and unsure of the most convenient pickup location, check our article listing the Sydney Harbour pickup spots to find the closest one.
PLEASE NOTE:
Google Maps may not display the most updated information, so we suggest checking the Marine Chart. The image on the left will direct you to the Google Maps link, while the image on the right will lead you to the Marine Chart.
Sydney Harbour Boat Anchoring Locations
Sugarloaf Bay
Sugarloaf Bay in Middle Harbour offers a quiet anchorage with scenic surroundings. It’s a great spot to relax, drop anchor, and take in the beauty of the harbour.
Pearl Bay
Pearl Bay is located near Mosman on the northern side of Sydney Harbour. The bay features calm waters and a rocky shoreline. With its stunning views and natural beauty, Pearl Bay is a great location to enjoy a day on the water.
Bantry Bay
Bantry Point, offers boaters the opportunity to anchor and enjoy its beauty. However, please note that the area falls within a “4 Knot Zone.” This means that vessels should operate at a reduced speed, not exceeding 4 knots, to maintain safety and minimise disruption. Additionally, anchoring is prohibited near the Pink Courtesy Mooring. For precise information on the restricted area, please refer to the marine chart.
Long Bay
Located near Folly Point, Long Bay is a popular anchorage spot for boaters. It offers a scenic setting with its rocky shoreline and clear waters. While anchoring is allowed in most areas, please be aware that there is a designated zone where anchoring is prohibited due to a marine cable crossing. For precise information on the restricted area, we recommend referring to the marine chart.
Little Manly Cove
Little Manly Cove, near Manly Point in Sydney Harbour, is a sweet spot to chill. The cove has calm waters and a sandy beach, perfect for a good time. However, the area falls within a designated 4 knot zone. To obtain more detailed information, kindly refer to the Marine Chart.
Clontarf Reserve
This chill reserve in Clontarf is the perfect spot to drop anchor and unwind. Just a heads up, though—it’s a “No Wash Zone” and falls under the “4 Knot Zone” rules. That means you’ll need to keep your boat speed low and stay a safe distance from the shoreline. Please refer to the Marine Chart to see full details.
Milk Beach
Milk Beach, located in the fancy Vaucluse suburb, is another popular choice. With stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, and the surrounding natural beauty, it’s a perfect spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the waterfront. Just a heads up, there might be some restrictions in place. Make sure to check the Marine Chart so you’re in the know before you go.
Athol Beach
Athol Beach, near Taronga Zoo, is a go-to anchorage spot for boaters seeking tranquility. Just keep in mind that there’s a shipping channel boundary indicated on the Marine Chart where anchoring is off-limits. Check out the Marine Chart for the precise area to ensure you stay within the permitted zones.
Chinamans Beach
Chinamans Beach in Mosman is a hidden gem, offering calm waters perfect for a leisurely swim and sunbathing. You can anchor your boat safely here, but be aware of certain restrictions. The area is within the 8 knot zone, meaning you should keep your speed in check. Additionally, there is a specific area nearby where powerboats are allowed only within 60 metres from designated swimming areas.
Castle Rock Beach
Castle Rock Beach in Clontarf is known for its unique rock formations and breathtaking harbour views. It provides a secure anchorage for your boat while you swim, snorkel, and have a picnic on the beach.
Clifton Gardens Reserve
Clifton Gardens Reserve, situated in Mosman, is a well-known destination for boaters seeking an anchorage spot. However, a designated shipping channel exists in the area, and anchoring is prohibited within this specific zone.
Little Sirius Cove
Another fantastic spot for anchoring your boat is Little Sirius Cove in Mosman. It offers a safe and secure environment for boaters to drop anchor and enjoy the surroundings.
Shell Cove
Shell Cove, located near Kurraba Point, is a fantastic spot where boaters can safely drop anchor. This charming cove provides a peaceful sanctuary, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the water.
Farm Cove
Farm Cove, situated near the Sydney Opera House, permits anchoring. Be mindful of the designated commercial shipping area indicated on the marine chart before dropping your anchor. Also, please note that there is often a lot of ferry wash, so choosing a time when fewer ferries are in operation would be beneficial.
Rose Bay
Anchoring in Rose Bay, near Point Piper, is generally permitted. Please refer to the marine chart for any cautions or specific guidelines.
Double Bay
Located between Darling Point and Point Piper, Double Bay offers a favourable anchorage spot. Boaters can anchor in this bay to enjoy its serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. The bay is known for its calm waters and is home to a lively atmosphere, upscale shopping, and dining options.
Watsons Bay
Anchoring is allowed in Watsons Bay, which is located near Parsley Bay. However, there are specific areas within the bay where anchoring is not permitted to accommodate commercial shipping. To determine the exact boundaries, please refer to the marine chart.
Vaucluse Bay
Vaucluse Bay, situated near Vaucluse Park, is an additional anchorage option in Sydney. Google Maps may not provide the most accurate location details and anchoring information. Therefore, we recommend referring to the marine chart.
Parsley Bay
Parsley Bay, a small and secluded bay near Vaucluse, permits anchoring. However, due to its limited space, anchoring may only be allowed near the Parsley Bay Wharf.
Sydney Harbour offers numerous areas to choose for anchoring, mooring, berthing, or even for dining. However, it’s important to be aware of certain restrictions. Before dropping your anchor, it is advisable to consult the marine charts.
I suggest taking a look at this simple guide that provides helpful tips on successfully anchoring your boat. Opt for locations in the lee of the land, with minimal swell, and without ferry wash to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Finally, as a responsible boater, be mindful of your impact on the marine environment and do your part to prevent ocean pollution by properly disposing of any waste.
Did we miss any of your favourite spots? Don’t forget to check out these anchoring spots on Pittwater as well and let us know your favourite anchoring locations – we love to find new great spots to go to.
Planning to watch the Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks? Check out the list of the best spots to watch the Sydney NYE fireworks by boat as early as now. Stay safe and have a blast on the water!
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