Activities – Page 3 – Sydney Life, Travel, Fun & All Things Nautical

BORED AT HOME ?

SPECIAL EDITION 4 - NAUTICAL FUN FOR ISOLATION

As we sail through the weeks of lockdown (not for the first time), many individuals and families are starting to feel a level of boredom. If you’re looking for some guidance or new activity ideas, our team has collated a list of 10 fun things to do at home with your family.

With such a diverse range of activities listed, there is sure to be something for every household to love.

10 FUN THINGS TO DO AT HOME WITH YOUR FAMILY

Listen to a podcast – Want something to boost your mood or expand your mind? Or want to listen to your old favourite TV show cast members and artists talk about their time in the spotlight? Podcasts range in genre – from murder mystery to Q&A’s, educational and nautical topics, to best friends just talking about life podcasts – and have it all these days.

If wanting to take some time out, you can find self-meditation and inspiration podcasts, which can motivate you to work hard in these times to better your mindset. Listen on your daily walks/runs or when you are doing the household chores.

Catch up on your reading – Discover the best books released in 2021 or catch up on some old classics. These days most books can also be purchased as an audiobook, so that you can listen on the go. Fiction or non-fiction, the list of books available to read is endless.

The team at Sea Sydney Harbour have selected some of their reading favourites to get you started:

The Wife Upstairs; by Rachel Hawkins
The Kitchen Front; by Jennifer Ryan
The Beauty of living Twice; by Sharon Stone
Somebody’s Daughter; by Ashley Ford
Last Call; by Elon Green

Take up a hobby – Find something new to do, to show off when the time comes! This could be anything from photography or arts and craft, learning a musical instrument, learning about sailing and boats, to perfecting cocktail making.

Finding a hobby will keep you happy and positive, keep your mind occupied and see you strive to make yourself and the way you live better. Why not focus this time on doing things you love?!?

Create a mood board or bucket list – Get inspired to move forward in lockdown and think ahead to the sunnier days! Take images of places and things you want to do in the coming years. Create some goals you want to achieve in the future. Put it up somewhere you can see every day to keep yourself motivated to complete these activities and goals.

Expand your wine tastes (one for the 18+) – Take a leap into the expansive world of wine and create your own wine tasting tour in the comfort of your home. Buy different wines from your local bottle shops that you wouldn’t buy on a regular basis, trying new varieties every night. You can add some cheese and appetisers to make it even better, or cook meat to go with your wine selections. Expand your taste in wine and be ready for the better days to come, when you can enjoy a glass with your family and friends.

Get active – Missing the gym? It’s time to create your own home workout. This will keep you motivated and make you feel good at the same time. You can have gym equipment delivered to your house or create workouts that don’t need any. Look online and find your inspiration, stay fit and be ready for when the gyms re-open. You can even do some yoga in the morning to make you feel good and get you up and out of bed before you start working from home or doing your chores for the day.

This will keep you active and make you feel good all the way down to your soul. Make the most out of lockdown, don’t wait for tomorrow, start now and make every minute count!

Get your gardening on – Roll up your sleeves and get into the garden – it’s the perfect time of year to do it just before spring! Turn your garden into a beautiful, happy garden and watch it flower the first flowers of Spring, bringing you joy along the way every time you look at it. You can even just clean up your garden, the parts you have been looking at for months which have been on the to-do list. Now is your time to get it done.

Clean out and organise your house – Do your annual Spring clean in Winter this year and clean out all the junk in your house. It’s time to hit that corner of the house that you have been avoiding for a long time. Clean it all out – this will make you feel good; if you don’t need it get rid of it!

If you need some inspiration The Home Edit is where to find it. They have a show on Netflix, and after watching just one episode, you will be inspired to clean and tidy up your house. They also have a book if you prefer to learn and read. These girls are amazing – they really know how to clean and organise a house.

Baking and cooking – Get the kids in the kitchen or do it yourself, and bake the meals you always dreamed of making. Expand your skills in the kitchen and become a master chef. Your family/house mates will love you for it.

There are some great recipes online at the moment (even via Woolworths and Coles), so try making them any day of the week, for dinner, lunch or breakfast. There are also lots of great decorative ideas online for those baking lovers, including nautical-inspired designs. It’s never too late to try something new and make the best out of your time at home!

Game on – Get your game on with your family/house mates! Whether it be board games or puzzles or everything in between, this will keep the fun in the house and expand everyone’s minds, while keeping some healthy and exciting rivalry going within the house.

Be sure to get the family involved, don’t just let the kids do it alone in their rooms. Find a game to involve everyone of all ages in the house. For the older kids/flatmates that love to put their mark on the games, think about making one to suit your group – it’s a fun activity to make the game and also play the game.

Pick just one or two activities to keep you and your family occupied during the lockdown, or why not try out all ten fun ideas!?! You may have to do it indoors (or in your backyard), but you can certainly still have lots of fun at home, keeping yourself focussed, active, and in high spirits.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #stayhome #isolation #boredom #activities #family #allthingsnautical

SYDNEY HARBOUR COVES – OUR TOP PICKS

When hiring a boat on Sydney Harbour, spending some time at anchor in a harbour cove, is a common pass-time. Whether this is to take a dip in the water, cook a BBQ on board, or simply enjoy some amazing views from a unique perspective, there is an array of spots to choose from.

Our team are local experts on the harbour, and they frequently visit coves and locations that they know guests on board will love. Who better to ask for their top picks?!?

ATHOL BAY

A very popular location situated on the north of the harbour near the infamous Taronga Zoo. This bay is sheltered from the Summer winds, so provides charter guests with a comfortable, smooth spot to anchor. Located not too far from a secluded beach, those that a confident swimmers or excellent paddle boarders, can make their way to the sand bank by water, or simply enjoy a swim near to the vessel. Better yet, if you are out on the water at sunset, this location provides spectacular views of the sun setting on Sydney Harbour, with the iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House as the amazing backdrop.

TAYLOR’S BAY

A beautiful, secluded, quiet bay, you can’t go wrong with a stop here! Also located on the northern side of the harbour, this bay whispers serenity. It’s perfect to stop at when on a day cruise with friends, family or even for a romantic adventure, and if you want to take a dip in the harbour you can do so. It’s also an amazing place to anchor should you wish to stay overnight on the harbour, and sleep in a peaceful environment.

MILK BEACH

A very popular swimming destination, and one that guests often request to visit! Due to its location, cruising here can be impacted by the swirl and weather conditions on the day, but if you do get the opportunity to visit, Milk Beach is a great all-rounder! It has beautiful views of the city and your experience here will certainly be memorable, with the opportunity to snap some Instaworthy shots. It’s also great for a swim and vessels can often anchor quite close to the beach.

ROSE BAY

In addition to having a nice, soothing name to the bay, this location is popular for its stunning views of the whole harbour. You can get great postcard shots from this bay, and you won’t miss viewing any of the Sydney landmarks. Located on the east side of Sydney, this location is also popular for boarding and disembarking vessels from the local wharf.

NEILSEN BAY

An area located not too far away from Rose Bay, if you have your heart set on spending time swimming and having water fun, this location is ideal. Neilsen Park has shark nets in the water, so if you have guests in your group that are concerned about the harbour’s wildlife, you can ease their worries. It’s also a nice location generally and not too overcrowded with vessels on the water.

Do you have a favourite place to cruise to on Sydney Harbour? Share this with Captain Frank and the team when you are next on board!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #harbourcoves #boat #catamaran #privateboathire #floatingvenue #toppicks #allthingsnautical

FUN FAMILY WATER ACTIVITIES

SPECIAL EDITION 3 - NAUTICAL FUN FOR ISOLATION

As we navigate new waters in this extraordinary time, Sea Sydney Harbour has created a special cruise package to combat those isolation feels, while adhering to government and social distancing guidelines – the ‘Sail, Paddle, Fish Family Cruise‘.

While staying at home and social distancing has now become the norm for Australians and much of the world, there is no doubt that if you are working from home, homeschooling children and also spending your spare time at home, it might all become a little overwhelming at times and you might need to get out of your four walls for a short period. With Australia showing positive signs towards the road of recovery and restrictions starting to ease, the Sea Sydney Harbour team are keen to share their passion for boating and the joy of Sydney Harbour.

This special ‘Sail, Paddle, Fish Family Cruise‘ has been designed to keep you and your family/household active, healthy and safe on the water with a 2 or 3-hour private cruise on Sydney Harbour. Enjoy 360° uninterrupted views of the most beautiful harbour in the world, participate in sailing, paddleboarding and/or fishing in a quiet cove, and enjoy the fresh Sydney air and sunshine.

Each of these water-based activities are currently permitted under the Public Health Order. To maintain the highest level of safety and hygiene and adhere to social distancing guidelines, the cruise is limited to residents of one household (family or friends) and caters for up to 6 people. Bookings are available 7 days a week for a limited time.

Discover more and book online today or contact the team for further information.

Best Day Out – Guaranteed!
“Have been out many times on Sea Sydney Harbour’s boats and it is the best day out! The team is super professional and are guaranteed to create the best vibe for any celebration. Thank you team! Cannot wait for my next cruise.”

Alina L

To find out more information contact the Sea Sydney Harbour team – email info@seasydneyharbour.com.au or phone +61 452 188 739.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #sailpaddlefish #familycruise #staysafe #isolation #wateractivities #boat #allthingsnautical

THE BOATIE QUIZ NIGHT

SPECIAL EDITION 2 - NAUTICAL FUN FOR ISOLATION

Themed pub trivia quizzes are much-loved pass times, so with pubs and bars currently closed, who said you can’t create your own quiz fun at home? Quizzing on a video call is a great way to connect with friends (and show off all of your boatie knowledge), so for your next virtual catch up, Captain Frank has you sorted with a boatie trivia quiz night.

Take the quiz yourself and check your answers at the bottom of the post, before testing the knowledge of all your boatie friends!

BOATIE TRIVIA QUESTIONS

Q1

If you are on the water, and you see this iconic landmark, what harbour are you in?

Q2

If someone were to say they are on the starboard side of the vessel, where are they positioned?

Q3

A catamaran will always have two of these, as a distinguishing feature?

Q4

Where is the ‘bilge’ on a vessel?

Q5

What is the name of the process, where you join or connect (a rope or ropes) by interweaving the strands at the ends?

Q6

If someone was to say that they are going ‘aft’, where are they going?

Q7

What is the main purpose of the navigation lights on a vessel?

Q8

When is it COMPULSORY to carry an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon)?

(a) When crossing a coastal bar
(b) When operating a vessel less than 5 metres in length on enclosed waters
(c) At all times
(d) When operating a vessel 2 or more nautical miles off the coast

Q9

Someone asks you, “How much does she draw?” They want to know your boat’s… ?

Q10

If a vessel sounds three short blasts, what does this signal mean?

Q11

At night, a vessel at anchor MUST display:

(a) Sidelights
(b) Masthead light forward
(c) All-round white light
(d) No lights are required

Q12

What channel on a VHF radio is the distress channel?

Q13

When crossing a bar, do life jackets need to be worn by all people on board?

Q14

Where should you drive a vessel when in a channel?

(a) On the port (left-hand) side
(b) In the middle of the channel
(c) On the starboard (right-hand) side
(d) On any side – it does not matter as long as a collision does not occur

Q15

What is an anchor used for?

Answers: 1. Sydney Harbour / 2. On the right side when facing forward / 3. Two hulls / 4. The lowest compartment at the boat’s bottom / 5. Splice / 6. Going towards the rear of the boat / 7. To indicate a vessel’s position to other vessels between dusk and dawn / 8. (d) When operating a vessel 2 or more nautical miles off the coast / 9. Draft / 10. Vessel manoeuvring astern (reversing) / 11. (c) All-round white light / 12. Channel 16 / 13. Yes, this type of crossing can be dangerous so life jackets are compulsory for all / 14. (c) On the starboard (right-hand) side / 15. It is used to secure the vessel to the sea bed.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #stayhome #isolation #boat #boatiequiznight #trivia #boatgames #allthingsnautical

THE BEST BOAT MOVIES

SPECIAL EDITION 1 - NAUTICAL FUN FOR ISOLATION

Moving through the days in isolation and staying home, Captain Frank is undoubtedly experiencing some boating withdrawals, so together our team has collated a list of memorable boat movies to help everyone stay entertained and on the water from the comfort of your very own home. There is no better time to binge-watch some boat movies and feel like you are cruising the waters with a bowl of popcorn in hand.

With movies from a diverse range of genres selected, there is sure to be a title suitable for everyone in your household.

BOAT MOVIES WORTH THE WATCH

Captain Ron – a comedy that follows a family Caribbean vacation onboard an inherited vintage yacht. With Captain Ron’s “anything-goes” attitude it is no surprise that the family run into plenty of trouble along the way.

Pirates of the Caribbean (film series) – a series of fantasy films that see pirate alliances formed to fight battles. Set in an era when villainous pirates scavenged the Caribbean seas and loosely based on Walt Disney’s theme park attraction, this series is perfect to watch with the whole family.

Titanic – an epic romance and disaster film that takes place on board the infamous luxury British steamship ‘Titanic’, which tragically sinks during its maiden voyage after striking an iceberg. A movie that most have seen before, this award-winning film is well worth another watch!

Jaws – a thriller filled to the brim with terror, as a white shark terrorises a quiet island and unleashes chaos on a beach community. This is the film that included the infamous line “You’re gonna need a bigger boat”, and it is a lasting classic in American cinema. Watch if you dare!

Life of PI – an adventure that follows a young man who survives a disaster at sea and is hurtled into an epic journey of discovery and hope. While cast away, an unexpected connection is formed between the man and a fearsome tiger.

Captain Phillips – an action film with a storyline focussed on pirates attacking a container ship, while it is on course to Kenya. The captain of the ship (Tom Hanks), uses his wits to negotiate for his crew’s safety.

The Perfect Storm – an intense drama that is based on a true story, which sees some commercial fisherman caught in “the middle of a monster” – three great storm systems colliding together out at sea. This movie will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Moby Dick – a classic story of revenge that revolves around the tale of a captain’s self-destructive obsession to hunt the white whale, Moby Dick. Determined to seek revenge and kill the whale due to an incident years before, the sacrifices are high, including life, crew members and his ship.

Pick just one or two movies to watch, or better yet, have a boat movie marathon to pass your time! Watch them solo or with company – either way, you’ll be cruising on the water and across the seas from your very own couch, as you get caught up in these storylines!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #stayhome #isolation #boat #boatmovies #movies #allthingsnautical

SYDNEY BARS – OUR TOP PICKS

With Sydney lockout laws set to change in early 2020, the city is set for a party vibe return and there is some fun to be had both on and off the water.

Our team has picked their favourite bars in Sydney to have a drink or two. Why not check out one of these venues before or after your harbour cruise? You never know, ask nicely and your friendly Sea Sydney Harbour crew might join you at the after-party!

OUR TOP BAR PICKS

Manly Wharf Hotel, Manly – What better way to soak up the sunshine and enjoy views of Sydney Harbour, than at the iconic Manly Wharf Hotel. This venue has something for everyone – three different bars as well as a large sports bar for the sport fans out there, and an extensive food and drinks menu. Opening from 11:30am each day, and closing around midnight, there’s plenty of time for fun, before or after a harbour cruise!

Opera Bar, Sydney – If you want to extend your uninterrupted views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House – go no further, Opera Bar will deliver! Open from 10am (its wine o’clock somewhere), Opera Bar is an all-rounder should you need a venue for breakfast with incredible views, somewhere to begin a night out in Sydney, or somewhere to continue your laughs with friends. You will find good food and a buzzing atmosphere at Opera Bar.

The Glenmore Hotel, The Rocks – Did someone say ROOFTOP?!? Boasting 180-degree views of Sydney Harbour, this rooftop is one of the best in Sydney. Thanks to a retractable roof, this desirable section of The Glenmore can be enjoyed rain, hail or shine. In the event that the rooftop is at maximum capacity upon your visit, the venue has three levels to choose from, with the second level playing host to a beautiful cocktail lounge and three formal dining areas, and the ground level offering a public bar for casual drinks and food. Our team love the vibe of this rooftop bar!

Gallon, Pyrmont – A hidden little gem – from the street Gallon looks like your average bar or cafe, but inside you will find two trendy courtyard areas and two separate bar areas to enjoy. With a mix of tasty food and beverage selections, it’s a favourite for locals and also one to keep up your sleeve for your next night out. Just a short stroll from two local Pyrmont wharf locations makes it an ideal venue to continue drinks with friends after your time on the water.

Cricketers Arms Hotel, Balmain – Located just outside the city, and an 8-minute stroll from Balmain Wharf, this pub makes a great beginning or end to your day. On the street level is the venue’s traditional pub, or head downstairs to a beautiful Italian Restaurant. Alternatively, you also have Balmain Burger Co. conveniently located within The Cricketers Arms. A diverse offering all in the one location, and uncrowded wharves for boarding and disembarking your Sea Sydney Harbour vessel!

YOU’VE HEARD OURS… LET’S HEAR YOURS…

Do you have a favourite or local bar that you would love to share with Captain Frank and the team? We would love to hear about them in the comments or share your party pictures capturing your Sydney fun on Instagram.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneybars #partyvenues #afterpartyideas #partyideas #toppicks #allthingsnautical

VIVID SYDNEY IS BACK !

The speculation and travel plans have been happening for some months now, but it’s only recently been confirmed that Vivid Sydney is set to return for 2019! For it’s 11^th year running Vivid Sydney is set to dazzle our beautiful city!

Vivid Sydney is an annual festival of lights, music and ideas. The vibrant outdoor festival attracts millions of visitors to Sydney, with the iconic Sydney Opera House being a key focal point of the festival. The array of light installations around Sydney are amazing, and the water is certainly a great place to experience the festival and fun vibes.

This year Sea Sydney Harbour is excited to announce THE LAUNCH of a NEW INTIMATE HARBOUR CATAMARAN CRUISE on board vessel Fleetwing II.

THE VESSEL

Fleetwing II is a luxury 16 metre motor catamaran cruiser that can accommodate for up to 46 guests. Consisting of four deck areas, with upper and lower deck spaces, a large internal cabin and easily accessible bow area, the vessel can be enjoyed in comfort in all weather conditions. The vessel has a modern and sophisticated vibe, with an on board bar and plenty of room to enjoy the harbour views and Vivid lights.

AN INTIMATE VIVID SYDNEY CRUISE

See the spectacular sights and sounds and enjoy the scenic views of Sydney’s enlightened buildings and landmarks. Enjoy the water, see the lights and landmarks and skip the crowds with a harbour cruise departing on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings throughout the festival period.

What’s included?

A 90 minute cruise aboard Fleetwing II with an experienced skipper and crew (maximum passenger numbers of 46)
Delicious canapés + 1 complimentary beverage per person (further drinks can be purchased on board)
Convenient pick up and drop off location at Towns Place Wharf

This intimate cruising experience is perfect to bring along the whole family, or to enjoy with friends or colleagues, as you take in the breathtaking views of Sydney and the spectacular Vivid Sydney light display.

DON’T MISS THE BOAT !

As the festival continues to grow each year there are more and more sites to see from the water and harbour cruises are becoming a popular way to see the lights. No more walking through the crowded streets – jump on a boat and experience the fun from the water!

Vivid Sydney 2019 runs from Friday 24^th May through to Saturday 15^th June 2019. Secure your ticket on board and be sure not to miss the boat!

This post has been written by the Sea Sydney Harbour team to provide information on Vivid Sydney and special event harbour cruises.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #vivid #vividsydney #allthingsnautical

A BLANKET OF FIRE AND BEAUTY

Captain Frank invited a friend out on the Sydney Harbour Sunset & Sparkle Cruise upon the product’s initial launch… So we decided to share her write up!

BY ANNIE B.

As a Sydney-sider I am often treated to a spectacular sunset, with glorious pink and red hues being spread across the sky like a blanket of fire. To say I am spoilt with views is an understatement, as these amazing sunset displays come out for show.

Sunset 2 — Absolutely spectacular colours spread across the sky as the sun sets on a Summer evening. Image – Sea Sydney Harbour.

With Sydney having such vivid sunsets, the next question is where is the best place to capture such a picturesque occasion from? Of course we want the best vantage point so we have the footage to share across social media.

Scrolling through the internet searching for the answer to this question… well it seems that such a discussion is open for debate, with many personal opinions being listed and with the images shared, it’s hard to say they are wrong. Put simply, Sydney has amazing sunsets and there seems to be a number of great spots to capture these from!

Capturing this amazing sunset over Sydney from Athol Bay. *Image – Sea Sydney Harbour*

On this note, a common feature I did notice from the array of listed locations that I sifted through, was that many selected Sydney spots – Watsons Bay, Manly, Cockatoo Island, Sydney Opera House and a number of key harbour side hotels and restaurants – had one thing in common, Sydney Harbour. Thinking about it, the sun does look better glistening off the water.

Just when I thought the idea of a Sydney sunset could not get much better, the opportunity arose for me to experience a gorgeous sunset aboard a harbour cruise. Wow!! To say the least, this was like front row seats at the opera, side line seats at the footy grand final and rooftop seats for an eclipse. Not only did I view the gorgeous sunset from a prime location, but I enjoyed a cruise around the harbour, where I relaxed, grazed on some nibbles and enjoyed a glass of champagne.

Cruising the harbour and watching the sun setting underneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Image - Sea Sydney Harbour. — Cruising the harbour, watching the sun set underneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge. *Image – Sea Sydney Harbour.*

For the keen photographer, the lover of relaxation, the explorer of Sydney – the sun setting over Sydney Harbour is definitely a dream setting; a blanket of fire and beauty.

The Sunset & Sparkle Harbour Cruise that I got to experience is certainly one to put into the schedule on your next visit to Sydney!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #exploretheharbour #sunsetandsparkle #allthingsnautical

JUMP (OR PADDLE) ON BOARD!

It’s the latest craze to hit the beaches, it’s cool and core-friendly – so we’ve decided it’s definitely time to jump (or paddle) on board! Our Captain’s been practising… and he’s not quite there yet, but I’m sure he will get the hang of it soon!

Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) boarding is an excellent way to bond with friends and family, while keeping active, fit and building core strength. Suitable for all fitness levels, it’s a fun water activity that is making waves – literally!

Sea Sydney Harbour has recently added two inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Boards to its portfolio and we’re so excited for the Summer season and fun activities to begin! These can be added to any daytime private charter booking for some additional fun, and fun is definitely what you will have!

hobie-10-2-coaster-paddleboard — One of the new Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Boards. *Image – Sea Sydney Harbour*

Jump in the water for a swim, and enjoy the use of paddle boards, pool noodles and the fun of beach balls bouncing around! What better way to spend your Summer Sydney days!

Perhaps you will be able give Captain Frank a pointer or two?!? Check out Sea Sydney Harbour and find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydneyharbour #paddleboards #SUP #allthingsnautical

A RE-ENERGISED LOVE

Melissa (a relative of Captain Frank) shares her views of Sydney upon returning for a visit after a few years of life overseas. Here’s her story!

by melissa balzan

I arrived after a long separation – 9 months since we last met, and before that, we had parted for 12 months. My relationship with Sydney seems to be one of love and aversion: when I am here for too long, I wish to leave; and when I am away, I can only dream of my return. Though this time, there seems to be a new energy in the city of Sydney – within which I wish to indulge.

One of Sydney’s many landmarks – the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Luna Park – captured against the beautiful blue skies. *Image – Sea Sydney Harbour*

Sydney is known around the world for its beauty: its landmark Harbour Bridge and Opera House, its warm golden beaches, and its friendly and down-to-earth Aussies. But after I return from living and working overseas for a while, I appreciate so much more: the skies here are so blue, the air is so clean, and the city re-development works underway are set to rival some of the best in the world.

What has struck me particularly this time, is the public space that has been claimed back by the people and is free for Sydney siders and visitors to enjoy. Barangaroo Reserve is a shining example of this – set by the beautiful harbour with spectacular urban skyline views, and with native gardens, cycle tracks and walk (or stroll) ways – this place is perfect for an afternoon picnic; and on my visit I was also lucky enough to experience some excellent open-air sculptural installations. Other new sites in the heart of the city offer similar public experiences: Central Park Precinct at Ultimo and the Goods Line that connects Ultimo and Darling Harbour, for example.

The open-air sculptural installations at Barangaroo Reserve. *Image – Sea Sydney Harbour*

Amongst these new iconic points, I also wonder among contemporary architectural gems by world-renowned superstars: One Central Park at Ultimo designed by Jean Nouvel with PTW Architects; and the Dr Chau Chak Wing building at University of Technology by Frank Gehry. And set to come is the reimagined International Convention Centre at Darling Harbour by joint venture Hassell + Populous, and also DUO at Central Park by Foster and Partners.

For the outdoor enthusiast, the design talent, the big city buzzer – Sydney truly offers it all.

In my time overseas, I have been asked of my home city hundreds of times. When I proudly respond with the name Sydney, the reaction is often, “Ahh .. a dream city.” And indeed, Sydney is a dream city, my dream city. I encourage everyone to just lose themselves in its beauty at least once in their life.

A mix of Sydney-siders and visitors enjoying Sydney’s beauty. *Image – Sea Sydney Harbour*

When I return next, as I fly in over the stunning Sydney Harbour, I will be looking forward to my further re-discovery of the city – perhaps this time on the water, with uninterrupted views of the beautiful harbour and cityscape.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #allthingsnautical