Located in Sydney Harbour near the Opera House. Fort Denison has a fascinating history linked to Sydney's convict past and is an amazing lunch venue with stunning harbour views from the island Cafe.
Fort Denison has seen it all – the development of the city of Sydney, Japanese submarine invasion and the building of both the Harbour Bridge and Opera House just metres away. It was even hit by friendly fire during WWII. The island provides visitors a fascinating link with Sydney's convict past and is part of the Sydney Harbour National Park. Its tower is one of only two surviving Martello Towers in the Southern Hemisphere. The Fort gun is fired at one o'clock daily.
Things to do and see on Fort Denison
- Experience the fantastic views from the centre of Sydney Harbour
- Wander through the grounds and explore the Fort turrets and old cannons
- View the island museum and tidal gage
- Enjoy a light refreshment or lunch at the island cafe
- Take an optional guided tour of the Martello Tower (additional cost - see tour details below)
How to get to Fort Denison
Matilda Cruises
Fort Denison Ferries depart approximately every 30-45 minutes daily from Circular Quay and Darling Harbour. Tickets include your return ferry trip and Fort Denison Park Fees (excluding Martello Tower and guided tours).
Alternatively you can purchase an all-day Sydney
Rocket Harbour Explorer Cruise ticket, including Fort Denison Park Fees (excluding Martello Tower and guided tours). The Explorer Cruise departs every 30-45 minutes and visits Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, Fort Denison, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay and Luna Park. Stop off at any destination throughout the day and reboard the next Explorer Cruise at your own pace. A great family day adventure.
Ferry and Cruise Prices:
| As at 10 April 2008 | Return Ferry +
Park Fees | All-Day Explorer Cruise + Park Fees | Download Timetable |
| Adult | $17 | $42 | |
| Concession* | $17 | $37 |
| Child ( 5-14yrs ) | $10 | $24 |
| Private Groups | On Request | On Request |
* Student card holders or Australian Senior / Pension card holders.
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Australian Cheese and Wine experiences on Fort Denison
The Australian Cheese & Wine Experience is a short course showcasing the best of Australia's cheese making talents alongside some great Australian wines. Hosted by McIntosh & Bowman Cheese mongers, it is a fantastic introduction to the local and growing boutique cheese industry. For more information please visit the
McIntosh & Bowman website.
Bookings:
Ferry or Cruise Bookings
Alternatively visit our
Ticket offices and buy your ticket before you travel.
Guided Tours of the Martello Tower
NPWS operate 30 minute guided tours of the Martello Tower up to 3 times daily. These tour packages include your return ferry to Fort Denison from Circular Quay and Park Fee (please note Darling Harbour departures are no longer available). Tickets must be booked through National Parks & Wildlife at least 24 hours in advance and reservations are essential. Tickets must be collected from the NPWS Information Office located at Cadmans Cottage, The Rocks (approx 5 minutes walk from No.6 Circular Quay). Tickets must be collected on the day of departure (NPWS regret they can not issue tickets in advance).
Guided Tour Reservations and Enquiries
- National Parks & Wildlife
- Phone +61 2 9247 5033
- Mon-Fri: 9.30am to 4.30pm
- Sat, Sun & Public Holidays: 10am to 4.30pm
- Physical Location - Cadmans Cottage, The Rocks
Standby Tour Tickets
Any available standby tour tickets for the same day are available at the Café on Fort Denison. Standby tickets cannot be guaranteed by any method (phone, website or email) as they sold on a first come first served basis. Passengers should purchase a Fort Denison Ferry or Fort Denison Explorer ticket (including park fee only) and enquire at the Café on arrival. Standby Guided Tours commence at Fort Denison: 12.15pm & 2.30pm (Mon & Tues), 10.45am, 12.15pm & 2.30pm (Wed-Sun). Cost approximately $10 pp.
Island Cafe Bookings - Phone +61 2 9358 1999 or +61 2 9361 5208
Timetable:
| Departs Daily |  |
| Pier 26, Darling Harbour | every 45 minutes from 9.30am |
| No.6 Jetty, Circular Quay | every 45 minutes from 9.45am |
