Harbour Cruise and Customs House

Customs House.  Customs agent were responsible for all imports and exports, excise on locally manufactured goods, immigration control, control of narcotic substances and morally corrupt goods such as books and films.  This building housed these agents from 1845 to 1988 when they were moved to another location.  Ownership of the building was transferred to the City of Sydney in 1994.  This building has undergone renovations and now houses exhibitions and private functions in addition to being the home of the City of Sydney Library. 

We came to the Custom House to see the 14' × 31' scale model of Sydney's city center viewed through the glass floor.  It was neat to look at but impossible to take a photo of as the glare from the ceiling skylights obscured the view.

 

From the Custom House we crossed the street and passed under the Cahill Expressway to get to Circular Quay.

Our 90-minute tour took us around Sydney Harbour. 

We had booked the premium cruise so we each were allowed to have a drink and they brought out an Australian cheese and charcuterie board for us to share. 

I knew from reading the website that we had to download an app onto our phones to access the tour narrative.  We didn't see anyone else with earbuds in so maybe they didn't know.  So, it was just a boat ride for them.   Anyway, we heard about many of the sites we passed by. 

Fort Dennison, former fortress & prison island turned museum with a landmark circular tower & a daily gun firing.

The Luna Park amusement park opened in the 1930's and was named after the Luna Park of Coney Island fame.  Check out the history section on its website - https://www.lunaparksydney.com/our-history

Headed toward Darling Harbour.  We were originally going to board at Darling Harbour but that cruise time was cancelled.