Small Boat Hire

What is the typical price for booking a small boat hire on Sydney Harbour?

The cost for a small boat hire depends on the boat, the size of your party and any optional extras. For groups of 12 or more, we'd recommend a small catamaran as the most affordable option. For example, one of our most popular catamrans in this category, Champagne Lady, can cost as little as $300 per hour, which broken down per person is a great deal! Our Italian-style luxury motorboats are a little more expensive, as base rates are higher and there are fewer passengers. From there prices increase depending on the size of boat you need, the type of boat you want, the duration of your cruise, the time of season and weekday or weekend preference, and if you want any catering.

Will there be any hidden costs when booking a small boat hire with Ucruise Sydney?

At Ucruise Sydney, we believe in transparency when it comes to costs. Aside from a standard card processing fee, there are no concealed charges or additional fees when you make a booking. When you visit our website, we offer you an initial quote estimate to provide a general idea of pricing. Following that, our dedicated team will prepare an official quote that includes a secure payment link, allowing you to confirm and secure your selected boat for your event.

Is small boat hire suitable for couples looking for a romantic experience on Sydney Harbour?

Yes, our small boat hire services are ideal for couples seeking a romantic experience on Sydney Harbour. You can rent a charming small boat like MV Bel to explore the stunning views and create unforgettable moments with your loved one. If it's a really special occasion (i.e. if there's a ring involved), we can help you arrange for decorations and special catering options as well.

What is the best time of day to book a small boat hire for friends or family?

Generally, groups aim to capitalise on Sydney's stunning weather by scheduling their boat parties around midday, concluding at 4pm when opting for the popular 4-hour duration. Nevertheless, some families prefer to book a morning outing when there is less water traffic and the sun is a little less harsh. Friend groups, meanwhile, often go for a slightly later boat hire to coincide with sunset, aiming for a seamless transition to continue the celebration back in the CBD with food and drinks around 7pm or 8pm onwards.

How far in advance should I arrange and book a small boat hire?

If you don't have your heart set on one boat in particular, and it isn't a peak time, we can usually organise a small boat hire on fairly short notice, although we'd still recommend making the reservation at least a week in advance. If you want to hire a specific boat or it's peak season, then you ought to aim for 3-4 weeks to make sure you don't miss out.

Do you offer BYO food and drink options for small boat hires?

Absolutely, most of our small boats fleet have BYO as an option for food and drink. These boats are equipped with Eskys and/or fridges to store and chill your drinks, along with galley space for storing food until it's ready to be served. Most catamarans also have on-board BBQs that are ready for use as well. For those opting for BYO, we recommend considering boat-friendly food and drink choices, favouring finger foods over items requiring utensils. Additionally, opting for cans and bottles over cocktails is advisable to prevent spillages and ensure a hassle-free celebration on the water. However, if BYO isn't your preference and you'd rather have everything taken care of, many of our vessels offer catering options with comprehensive food and drink menus, providing a hassle-free and delightful culinary experience for your boat trip at reasonable rates.

Are there specific safety measures in place for families renting small boats on Sydney Harbour?

Safety is a top priority at Ucruise Sydney, especially for families renting small boats on Sydney Harbour. Our vessels and staff all meet the latest legal and recommended safety requirements and you'll also be given a thorough safety briefing to ensure a secure and worry-free experience for all family members.

Are there any age restrictions for children on the small boats hired for family outings on Sydney Harbour?

No, not at all. Children of all ages are welcome on our boats, but for legal reasons they count as a paying passenger even if they're just a baby. Of course, even though Sydney Harbour is usually really calm and relaxing, we encourage parents to consider their children's experience with open water and large boats when planning the excursion.

What happens if there is rain or bad weather on the day of my cruise?

Regrettably, if it rains, your small boat hire will proceed, as outdoor activities in Sydney adhere to this policy across boat hire agencies. Many of our boats feature canopies, coverings, or are fully enclosed to shield guests from rain. It's advisable to check the weather beforehand and dress accordingly. If you fail to attend, 100% of your payment will be forfeited. Rain or shine, most groups thoroughly enjoy the experience. Only in cases where Maritime deems the weather hazardous do we consider a postponement rather than a refund so it's important you are clear on all our terms and conditions prior to booking.

Is there a planned route around Sydney Harbour or can one be suggested?

Our experienced skipper can navigate various routes for your small boat hire, considering factors like weather and wind direction and your own interests. The goal is to provide a smooth sailing experience, especially if you plan to anchor, have a BBQ onboard, and enjoy a swim. If you have specific destinations in mind, feel free to inform us, and we'll do our best to accommodate your preferences. Popular anchoring spots include or near Milk Beach and Athol Bay.