Sydney Seven Wonders Coastal Adventure: Review

It was another glorious Sydney weekend, only slightly marred by a few clouds overhead.

I was headed for the Fantasea Sydney Seven Wonders Coastal Adventure, to take in the majestic sights of the city’s coastal side.

Let me preface this review by saying that I can get a tad, some might say extremely, seasick, so naturally I was a little apprehensive about the tour.

The two charming lads who would man the boat and be our guides for the six hour adventure welcomed their passengers on board, smiling and teasing about anyone who gets seasick. They kickstarted the engine, with the boat holding no more than 30 passengers, and took us out into Sydney’s waters.

The cruise set off from the iconic Darling Harbour, taking in the stunning views of both the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, before jetting out into the ocean for a coastal cliffs adventure.

Along the bumpy ride, our guides paused to point out Sydney hotspots, like the first landing site in Australia of Lieutenant James Cook, the beautiful beaches of Bondi and Coogee that border the coast, the Gap and Botany Bay.

Now, amidst all the awe-inspiring views, splashes of sea water and wind in our hair, my seasickness kicked in, and while I battle this for most of the trip, it’s a testament to both the skippers and the cruise itself that I still thoroughly enjoy myself.

We wrap up the first leg of the thrilling cruise over at Bundeena, to enjoy a tasty seaside lunch. Fish and chips is the order of the day, because of course we’re on a boat.

But our skippers inform us that the pub we’re chowing down in is actually a substitute, as the usual restaurant was closed this particular trip.

7 wonders

After lunch, we have the option of exploring the Royal National Park, and learning, courtesy of our guides, about the history of the ancient aboriginal rock carvings we find in the area.

The other option is to lay on the sand by the water, and indulge in a sneaky nap and swim. Because my stomach is a touch sensitive, I take this option, and catch up to the others later, as we spend just over an hour here.

Feeling rested, cheerful and ready for more speed boat action, we all hop back on board the modern boat, and career across the ocean towards the distant outline of the city skyline.

My seasickness disappears, and the views are even better than on the way over. We admire every Eastern Suburbs beach as they rush past us, and keep our eyes peeled for sea critters, however luck is not on our side, and we don’t spot any whales or other fishy friends.

As we turn back into the less choppy waters of the Harbour, and fly past Q Station and the picturesque bays of Sydney, the sun peeks out from behind a cloud to mark our return.

The six hour adventure has passed far too quickly, and queasy feelings aside, it’s definitely an adventure I’d recommend to anyone trekking into Sydney.

Our guides farewell us back at the wharf, laughing at my misadventures at sea, and urging us to come again. I can’t say it isn’t tempting.

Ratings

Comfort: 8/10 – the seats were cosy, the boat, albeit smaller, was still roomy for the number of passengers on board.

Food: 7/10 – fish and chips is my top choice at the restaurant, and if served at the usual restaurant, could’ve been even better.

Value for money: 7/10 – we see some gorgeous sights, stop for a swim, and get fed; a top activity for first timers to Sydney especially.

Staff: 10/10 – the friendly skippers who steer the boat, divulge fascinating facts and keep us entertained were the epitome of Aussie charm.

Overall: 8/10

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fantasea seven wonders coastal cruise sydney