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Sydney, Australia
Photo: User: (WT-shared) Inas at wts wikivoyage, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
The Harbour Islands are Sydney's best kept secret. There are several in the harbour that you can visit to explore, for a picnic, or just to take in the history and the view. These include Fort Denison, Cockatoo, Garden, Shark, Clark and Rodd Islands. Goat island is closed. These are all distinct and beautiful islands and have magnificent views of sailing boats on the harbour and of Sydney's harbourside buildings. At most times of the year they can be nearly deserted. Wherever you go, expect spectacular views, interesting history, and somewhere just a little off that well beaten track.
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Museum dedicated to the Royal Australian Navy.
Fort Denison
There is a scheduled ferry service operated to Fort Denison by Matilda/Captain Cook every day of the week.
Cockatoo Island
Cockatoo Island is the biggest of all the harbour islands. It used to be a penal colony and is today one of eleven sites making up the UNESCO World Heritage listing "Australian Convict Sites".
Garden Island
Sydney ferries has regular scheduled ferry services to Garden Island on the Watsons Bay route.
Shark Island
Shark Island is served by a Captain Cook Cruises private ferry two times a day, with different timetables operating on weekdays and weekends/public holidays.
Rodd Island
Situated in Iron Cove, just off Rodd Point. Not served by ferries. Access by water taxi or drop off. Island landing fee of $7.
Clark Island
Situated near to Double Bay, and not serviced by scheduled ferries. You will need to reserve a place and pay a fee of approximately $7 per head to the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Goat Island
Goat Island is the nearest island on the western side of the bridge. Goat Island has been open to the public for significant periods in the past. National Parks runs tours to the island.
Closed Islands
This is a naval base. It is only accessible by tours.
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