Cruise Port Stephens from Tea Gardens aboard beautiful historic timber vessels.
Servicing the Tea Gardens community for over 30 years, The Original Tea Gardens Ferry company has restored three iconic vessels to their heritage glory: MV Tea Gardens, MV Jesse and MV Wallamba.
These beautiful timber vessels are proudly loved by the community and operate daily, carrying thousands of passengers each year between Tea Gardens and Nelson Bay. Residents and visitors enjoy the beautiful vistas of the Myall River opening onto the wide bay of Port Stephens, and all the surrounding bird and marine life that the area has to offer.
Crossing the bay is a must for visitors to the Barrington Coast. Our friendly knowledgeable crew provides informative commentary as we cruise through Port Stephens Marine Park. Keep an eye out for some of our locals: turtles, seabirds and the resident dolphins putting on a display for our passengers.
Ask about morning tea cruises and lunch cruises departing from Tea Gardens. You can also hire the vessels for corporate events and group charters.
On the southern shores of Port Stephens at Nelson Bay enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants, cafes or takeaway shops. Catch a movie, go shopping or take your bike and experience the beauty of the coastline to Tomaree National Park and climb Tomaree Mountain. You can take the track to the left to forgotten Fingal Bay or right to beautiful Bagnalls Beach or simply just relax by the water. Fun for the entire family and a great way to see Port Stephens.
On the northern shores at Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest you can enjoy a meal at one of the many eateries and explore the tranquil riverside village of Tea Gardens. Walk over the Singing Bridge to Hawks Nest shops, golf course and beaches or climb Yacaaba Headland and enjoy spectacular views and wildlife including birds, dingoes, eagles and kangaroos.
Departing Tea Gardens from Tea Gardens Wharf at 93 Marine Drive Tea Gardens opposite Tea Gardens Hotel:
- 10.00 am
- 2.30 pm
- 5.15 pm (also doubles as a Sunset Surprise cruise, weather permitting)
Departing Nelson Bay from the public wharf at 40 Victoria Parade Nelson Bay near Dolphin Cafe:
- 8.00 am
- 11.30 am
- 3:30 pm
Double awards for The Original Tea Gardens Ferry!
At the recent Port Stephens Examiner Business Awards 2024, the Original Tea Gardens Ferry won the award for Outstanding Tourism and Accommodation category, and then scooped the overall award of Business of The Year. Congrats to the whole team at Original Tea Gardens Ferry!
