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Where on one hand there is an extensive land transport system in Sydney, on the other hand the city also has an extensive water transport system. The Sydney ferry and water taxi service forms part of the extensive water transport system that one can find in the city. The best way to explore the harbors of Sydney is by availing the ferry and water taxi services. You can board a water taxi or a ferry and go to any place from the Sydney Harbor. Sydney Ferries Corporation operates ferry and water taxi services from Sydney Harbor. Their service mainly extends from Parramatta in the east to manly in the west. These services are extremely popular amongst the tourists. It operates on a 37-kilometer network. Most of the boast and ferries depart from Circular Quay and takes one to nearly 41 wharves, which includes Woolwich, Birkenhead Point, Darling Harbor, Pyrmont Bay, Mosman Bay, Watsons Bay, Taronga Zoo, Manly and Parramatta. The fleet that is used by this service consists of small boats that ensure a safe and sound journey. These boats or catamarans are extremely fast and have huge windows. Usually the ferry boats have a passenger capacity of 150, which often goes up to 250. The water taxis are however smaller and can be compared to the land taxis. The boats are wheelchair accessible so that disabled travelers can board them too. The vessels are well maintained and have life jackets, life buoys and safety signage. The various ports that are used by these water taxis or ferries are equipped with surveillance cameras and emergency assistance centers for the benefit of the travelers. The tickets and fares vary depending upon the type of trip that one is making. The rates for regular commuters will surely be different from that meant for tourist or visitors. Besides there are special rates for senior citizens and separate rates for school students also. Ferry passes are available, which the regular commuters can avail of. These are much more economical than purchasing tickets everyday. The ferry rates for the tourists start from $15.40 per adult. While on a ferry ride, one is not supposed to carry alcohol. One must board the ferry at least five minutes before departure time. If you are carrying some luggage, then you should not leave it unattended at any cost. Water taxis are also available at the Sydney Harbor. These are best suited for short distance traveling. One can take these water taxis to move from one point of the harbor to the other in order to avoid heavy rush on the roads. The Sydney ferry and water taxi service is a delightful way to explore the coastline of the city. It is in fact, one of the most unique ways of traveling to and from Sydney in Australia.
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