Other Transport Options
Ferry
For Sydney-siders who live on any of the hundreds of bays along the harbor or river, the ferry is a very practical way to travel to work in the CBD. For weekends and leisure it is fun and links many of the tourist sites around Sydney.
The ticketing is the same as the bus and train. Sydney has an integrated ticketing system which means you buy one pass that can be used on buses, trains and ferries. You can buy this at the ferry station before getting onto the ferry.
On the Parramatta River and to Manly on the Northern Beaches there are fast ferries perfect for commuters, and then the harbor is blessed with slower ferries which have a lot of character and add to the ambiance of Sydney Harbour.
The same as bus and trains, trip planning is conducted from http://www.131500.com.auwhich is an integrated trip planning system.
The fare for the 0-9 kilometer band ranges from $5.80 for a single ticket and $23.20 for a 10-ride pass.
Water Taxi
Due to the vast waterways, an alternative to ferry transport is via Water Taxi. Water Taxis can pick up on any public wharf in Sydney and can transfer to other wharfs, boats and to waterfront restaurants.
Main companies include:
- Water Taxis http://www.watertaxis.com.au
Bicycles
Sydney is becoming more and more bicycle friendly with a growing awareness and respect for bike riders sharing the roads. Sydney councils have also been creating policy and infrastructure to accommodate bike riders and there has been an increase of bike riding lanes, tracks and stands.
Sydney is a hilly city so it is recommended that you use a bike with gears. Bike riders tend to get to their destinations a lot quicker during peak hours than cars. An increasing number of people are commuting to work by bike.
- http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/explore/getting-around/cycling
- Bicycle maps http://www.bicycleinfo.nsw.gov.au
- Bicycle NSW http://www.bicyclensw.org.au
Motorbikes and Scooters
Sales for scooters and motorbikes have risen in the last few years. They are becoming a popular option to cars as a city vehicle. Scooters and motorbikes are economical to run and inexpensive to purchase. They are also are also easier to park in the city. You will need a motorbike license to be able to ride. To get one, you will need to complete a riding test and practical test. These are conducted by the Roads and Traffic Authority.
https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/licence/index.html/
Monorail and Light Rail
Not really used for regular commuting, the monorail and tram line in the CBD can be used to get from one side of the city to the other and around Darling Harbour. Tickets are relatively expensive and are perfect for tourists and occasional use.
