Sydney Harbour Ferries

Sydney Harbour Ferries is a richly illustrated journey through history, heritage, and modern life on the harbour.

Packed with over 300 photographs from rare archival treasures to stunning contemporary images – this book celebrates the ferries that have shaped the city for more than 200 years.

Inside, each chapter takes you deeper into the story:

• Before the Bridge – the early years of ferry travel, from rowboats to paddle steamers.
• On the Job – the people and crews who keep the fleet moving.
• Circular Quay – the bustling heart and “front door” of Sydney.
• Manly – the world-famous run and its iconic Freshwater-class ferries.
• Lower North Shore & Eastern Suburbs – leafy bays, heritage suburbs and scenic rides.
• West of the Bridge – the Parramatta River’s long ferry tradition and revival.
• Sydney Icons – the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, viewed best from the water.
• Trams to the Ferry – how ferries and trams once worked hand-in-hand.
• Sydney Moods – the harbour in all its light, colour, and drama.
• Celebrations & Ferrythons – races, festivals, and events on the water.
• Stalwarts of the Harbour – the historians, photographers and crews who preserve the story.
• The Fleet & Celebrated Ferries – a showcase of legendary vessels past and present.

Whether you’re a Sydney history enthusiast, a lover of Sydney’s breathtaking landscapes, or simply someone who appreciates beautifully designed books, Sydney Harbour Ferries is a must-have addition to your collection. This keepsake not only documents the ferries' rich history but also serves as a tribute to the Harbour itself. A true celebration of the harbour, its ferries, and the city they helped build.

 About the author

James Willson has had a lifelong connection with Sydney Harbour, a spiritual place he has cherished since his earliest memories. This deep-rooted bond was fostered by his grandfather, Robert Willson (1906-1995), who documented the evolving skyline of Sydney through photographs from the 1920s to the 1990s. Inspired by this legacy, James began his own photographic journey as a young boy in the 1990s, focusing on the dynamic beauty of Sydney Harbour. Over the years, he has amassed an impressive collection of nearly 100,000 images, capturing the essence of the harbour from every angle, across every season, at every time of the day. 

By day, James leads the C8.Group, a marketing collective that has served as the platform for bringing this passion project to life. His love for cities, places, ferries, architecture, and business is evident in every page of this book.