Australia Day is just around the corner and so is the Ferrython!

After having astounded the world with its spectacular New Year Eve celebrations, Sydney is getting ready to celebrate its national day, the Australia Day, which falls on January 26, 2010. On this day, the whole of Australia joins in national spirit to celebrate its history, heritage and identity.


Among all cities of Australia, Sydney is the most famous for its highly spirited celebrations of the Australia Day. The celebrations in Sydney also stand out as they are more or less concentrated around the Sydney Harbour, in the vicinity of the iconic landmarks, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Ferrython, a race of the ferries, is the biggest highlight of Sydney’s Australia Day celebrations. The race begins near the Sydney Opera House with the firing of the ancient cannon at Fort Denison. The ferries go around the Shark Island and further on towards Watson’s Bay to return to the Sydney Harbour Bridge which is the finishing point of the race.

The Australia Day Parade of vessels decked out to look their best is another highlight of the day where watercraft of all shapes, sizes and kinds compete for the Best Dressed Vessel title.


Sydneysiders as well as tourists rush to make sure they are at the best vantage points much earlier to the actual race so that they get a direct, uninterrupted view of the race. Though there are several points on the foreshores from where you can watch the race, the cruise boats are always the best vantage points for all festive activities around the harbour, as they can take you closest to all the thrill and action!