CRONULLA BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Three Hours on Port Hacking: A Gunnamatta Bay Cruise into the Royal National Park
A relaxed, three-hour outing aboard the MV Tom Thumb III that traces the upper reaches of the Hacking River, its Indigenous sites and historic shoreline—useful for planning logistics, fares and what you’ll actually see.
Three Hours on Port Hacking: A Gunnamatta Bay Cruise into the Royal National Park.
In three hours aboard the little green-and-yellow ferry MV Tom Thumb III you explore the upper reaches of the Hacking River, taking in Royal National Park shoreline, Indigenous place‑names and sites, early‑settlement history and some of Sydney’s most dramatic waterfront properties while learning the story of Bass and Flinders and the Dharawal people.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Royal National Park Vistas and Upper Hacking River
The cruise moves into the upper reaches of the Hacking River, offering continuous views of the Royal National Park that borders the southern shoreline and the river’s relatively unspoilt waterways.
Bass and Flinders, Settlements and Marine Heritage
Hear the story of how Bass and Flinders explored Port Hacking in a small rowing boat and learn about early settlements, deer farming and the state’s first marine fish hatchery as the ferry follows the historic waterway.
Djeebahn, the Dharawal People and Place Names
The commentary points out Indigenous sites and recounts the story of Djeebahn and the Dharawal people, introducing local language, place names and the meanings attached to Port Hacking.
What the day feels like
What Three Hours on the Water Feels Like
The outing is relaxed and informal: you board at the public wharf on Tonkin Street, Gunnamatta Bay, then cruise the river aboard MV Tom Thumb III while on-board commentary traces natural and human history, the shoreline and notable properties — with opportunities to purchase alcohol on board under the vessel’s liquor licence.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits — and operational notes to match expectations.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Cruises depart Fridays at 10:30am; there are no cruises during the July school holidays and services recommenced in September 2022. Bookings are essential.
The MV Tom Thumb III holds a liquor licence and alcohol is available for purchase on board.
All cruises depart from the public wharf on Tonkin Street, Gunnamatta Bay (behind Cronulla Railway Station); allow time to arrive and board prior to departure.
Adult and concession fares, child and family fares are published and bookings should be made in advance; consult the operator for current ticketing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the cruise?
The cruise duration is three hours.
When does the cruise depart?
Cruises depart Fridays at 10:30am.
Where do I board the ferry?
All cruises depart from the public wharf on Tonkin Street, Gunnamatta Bay, behind Cronulla Railway Station.
What are the fares?
Published fares include Adult $40, Concession $30, Family (2 adults + 2 children) $90; children under 4 travel free and children aged 4–15 are charged at the child fare.
Do I need to book?
Yes — bookings are essential.
Is alcohol available on board?
Yes — the MV Tom Thumb III has a liquor licence and alcohol is available for purchase on board.