ABOUT US

Our story began in 1985 when founder Ian Ford launched River Boat Cruises with two former Sydney Harbour ferries—Protector (built in 1917) and Regalia (built in 1936).

In 1986, the company acquired the TSMV Bass & Flinders and proudly adopted its name, becoming Bass & Flinders Cruises, with the new flagship vessel at the heart of the brand.

For the past 40 years, Bass & Flinders Cruises has been a beloved presence on the Georges River, hosting unforgettable weddings, birthdays, Christmas parties and milestone celebrations for generations of guests.

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In 2000, the company expanded its operations into Sydney Harbour, giving rise to Whale Watching Sydney and Manly Fast Ferry, extending the brand’s reputation for exceptional on-water experiences.

By 2009, the original riverside wharf had been replaced with a historic former Circular Quay ferry wharf built in 1927, marking a shift of primary operations into Sydney’s bustling city centre.

In 2018, Whale Watching Sydney and Manly Fast Ferry were sold, allowing Bass & Flinders Cruises to return to its roots at Sans Souci and refocus on the personalised, local experiences that defined its early years.

Following the challenges of the COVID era, Bass & Flinders unveiled the Bass & Flinders Pavilion—a luxurious waterfront venue adjoining the cruise centre. This elegant floating space has since become a sought-after destination for spectacular events, continuing the company’s long-standing tradition of creating unforgettable memories for today’s guests and the generations still to come.