The Husky Ferry Guide: How to Cruise Currambene Creek

At a Glance: The Story Snapshot

Why We Love It: There is simply no better way to instantly slip into “holiday mode” than feeling the gentle sway of the Husky Ferry on Currambene Creek with a cold drink in hand. It perfectly bridges the gap between functional local transport and a quintessential, soul-soothing Jervis Bay leisure experience.

Beyond the Blue: Why the Husky Ferry is Jervis Bay’s Best Kept Secret

Picture this: The late afternoon sun is just beginning to cast a golden, honey-hued glow across the impossibly clear, sapphire waters of Currambene Creek. You’re sitting on the open deck of the Kelly Marie, the Husky Ferry’s flagship vessel, designed for stability and panoramic views. There’s a cold local beer or a chilled seltzer in your hand, and you are surrounded by the laughter of your favorite people. The salty coastal breeze catches your hair, and at the helm, the captain turns to give a warm, welcoming wave. This isn’t just a postcard fantasy; this is a Tuesday afternoon on the Husky Ferry.

For many travellers making the easy, picturesque escape down the coast from Sydney or the quick hop over from Canberra, Jervis Bay is synonymous with its world-famous, whiter-than-white sand beaches. But those in the know—the true locals and the seasoned visitors—understand that the magic of the Shoalhaven extends far beyond the shoreline. The real heartbeat of Huskisson is found on the water.

The Husky Ferry is a floating front-row seat to the creek’s tranquil ecosystem, where you can spot rays, local birdlife, and the occasional visiting dolphin, a gathering place for friends, and the ultimate vantage point to watch the coastal world go by. Whether you are looking for a shortcut that saves you a driving commute, or you want to book a private sunset cruise that you’ll be talking about for years to come, stepping aboard this iconic local vessel is an absolute must for your Jervis Bay itinerary.

The Deep Dive: The Heart of the Story

More Than Just a Crossing

To understand the charm of the Husky Ferry, you have to understand the geography of Jervis Bay. The bustling, cafe-lined hub of Huskisson sits on one side of the spectacular Currambene Creek, while the sleepy, untouched beauty of Myola rests on the other. By car, the trip between Huskisson and Myola can take upwards of 20–30 minutes during the busy holiday season; the ferry cuts this down to a 10-minute breeze. By water? It’s a breathtakingly scenic 10-minute glide.

But the ferry isn’t merely a water taxi; it is an experience crafted with deep local soul. Operating daily during the warmer months and on weekends throughout the quieter seasons, the ferry allows you to bypass the traffic, leave the car keys behind, and immerse yourself entirely in the natural landscape. The vessel itself, with its open-air design, sturdy railings, and ample seating, is built for taking in the panoramic views. You aren’t enclosed behind glass; you are out in the elements, smelling the distinct mix of eucalyptus and sea salt, feeling the gentle wake of the boat as it navigates the turquoise channels.

The Magic of the Sunset Cruise

While the daily Myola-to-Huskisson transit is brilliant for day-trippers, the true jewel in the Husky Ferry’s crown is their evening offering. Booking a sunset cruise transforms the vessel into your own private floating lounge. As you clink glasses with your fellow passengers—just like the joyous group captured aboard the Kelly Marie—the sky above Jervis Bay puts on a spectacular show. Pinks, purples, and fiery oranges reflect off the glassy surface of the creek. You might spot a pod of local dolphins breaking the surface near the inlet, or giant smooth stingrays gliding silently beneath the hull. It is an unhurried, unfiltered connection to nature, paired perfectly with the luxury of good company and BYO beverages.

Perfect for Every Jervis Bay Traveller

• The Family Escape (Chaos-Free Fun): For families with young children, a ferry ride is a full-blown adventure. Kids are captivated by the pelicans scooping up fish, the seabirds diving for fish, the boats moored in the harbor, and the thrill of being out on the water. It turns a boring transit into the highlight of the day, allowing parents to sit back, relax, and actually enjoy the journey.
• The Romantic Couple (Peaceful Seclusion): There is an undeniable romance to twilight on the water. Couples can cuddle up on the timber benches during a sunset cruise, sharing a charcuterie board and a bottle of local Shoalhaven wine while watching the harbor lights of Huskisson begin to twinkle against the dusk sky.
• The Solo Adventurer or Group (Joy and Discovery): Whether you are a solo traveller looking for the perfect photography vantage point or a group of friends celebrating a milestone, the ferry offers a vibrant, social atmosphere. The friendly captains are a wealth of local knowledge, pointing out hidden sand spits and sharing stories of the town’s rich maritime history.

Practical Magic & Insider Edge

To make the most of your time on the water, you need to navigate the experience like a true local. Here is your insider edge for mastering the Husky Ferry.

• The Myola Lifehack: If you are staying on the northern side of the bay (like Callala Beach or Myola), use the ferry to head into Huskisson for dinner and drinks. You completely avoid the hassle of finding parking in the busy Huskisson town center, and the moonlit ride back across the creek is unforgettable.
• Fish & Chips on the Fly: One of the best local secrets is to grab a parcel of fresh, hot fish and chips from local favorites like World Famous Fish & Chips or Stonegrill in Huskisson, walk down to the wharf, and take it right onto the ferry. Eating fresh seafood on the water as you cruise is a sensory masterpiece.
• Charter for Celebrations: The ferry isn’t just for public transit. You can privately charter the vessel for birthdays, pre-wedding get-togethers, or family reunions. It offers an incredibly unique, affordable, and memorable venue that beats any crowded pub.

Weather & Seasonality

The Husky Ferry experience shifts beautifully with the seasons. In the height of summer (December to February), the vibe is high-energy, sun-drenched, and bustling with holidaymakers. The water is sparkling and inviting. As you move into autumn and winter, the crowds thin out, and the sunsets become even more dramatic. The crisp, cool air makes the water crystal clear—perfect for spotting marine life—just remember to bring a warm jacket!

What to Pack

• BYO Essentials: If you’re on a sunset or private cruise, pack a cooler bag with your favorite drinks (think crisp local whites, seltzers, or cold beers) and a platter of easy-to-eat snacks.
• Sun Protection: Even late in the afternoon, the glare off the water can be strong. Bring polarized sunglasses (essential for spotting stingrays through the water!), a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen.
• The Right Layers: Coastal weather can turn breezy quickly once the sun dips below the tree line. Pack a cozy knit or a windbreaker so you can stay out on the deck comfortably as the evening cools down.
• Your Camera: You will absolutely want to capture the smiling faces of your group against the backdrop of the iconic Jervis Bay waterways.

Stay with Experience Jervis Bay

After a brilliant afternoon exploring the waterways of Currambene Creek, waving to the captain, and soaking in the salty air, there is nothing quite like returning to a home that feels like your own private slice of coastal paradise. At Experience Jervis Bay, we believe that the magic of your holiday shouldn’t end when you step off the boat. The place you rest your head should be just as spectacular as the adventures you have during the day.

We don’t just offer accommodation; we offer curated spaces designed to elevate your entire getaway. When you book with us, you are securing a seamless, stress-free escape backed by passionate locals who know exactly what makes a holiday unforgettable.

The Stay Matchmaker: Find Your Perfect Anchor

• For the Waterfront Dreamers: If the ferry ride has you longing for endless water views, browse our Waterfront Luxury properties. Imagine waking up, brewing a fresh espresso, and stepping out onto a private deck to watch the morning tide roll in, keeping that tranquil, on-the-water feeling alive for your whole trip.
• For the Whole Crew: Traveling with the group of friends you brought on the ferry? You need space to spread out. Our sprawling Family & Group Homes feature massive open-plan kitchens for group breakfasts, outdoor entertaining areas equipped with premium BBQs, and enough plush bedrooms to ensure everyone gets a quiet night’s sleep after a day in the sun.
• For the Furry First-Mates: The Jervis Bay region—and the Husky Ferry itself!—is famously welcoming to dogs. We offer a stunning selection of Pet-Friendly Stays with secure, fully fenced yards, so your four-legged best friend can join in on the coastal escape without you having to compromise on style or comfort.

The Experience Advantage

What sets Experience Jervis Bay apart is our commitment to the details. From high-end, hotel-quality linens to fully equipped chef’s kitchens and immaculately cleaned living spaces, every property is managed with meticulous care. Because we are based locally, we are always on hand to ensure your stay is flawless—whether you need an extra towel or a recommendation for the best spot to grab a coffee before your morning ferry ride.

Our properties keep you exactly where you want to be. Choose a chic apartment right in the heart of Huskisson to be steps away from the ferry wharf, or opt for a secluded bushland retreat in Vincentia for ultimate privacy, knowing the vibrant town center is only a short drive away.

The “Perfect Day” Extension

The Husky Ferry is the perfect centerpiece for a broader, unforgettable Jervis Bay itinerary. Here is how we recommend building the ultimate coastal day around your cruise:

The Ripple Effect

Start your morning slow. Grab a globally-inspired breakfast and an artisanal coffee from 5 Little Pigs right on the main street of Huskisson. After fueling up, take a stroll along the White Sands Walk, dipping your toes into the gentle shorebreaks of Blenheim or Greenfield Beach.

In the late afternoon, head to the Huskisson Wharf for your pre-booked Husky Ferry Sunset Cruise. Spend two hours gliding through the estuary, enjoying your BYO drinks and the fading golden light.

Once you step back onto dry land, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Keep the good times rolling by walking straight up the hill to The Huskisson Hotel (The Husky Pub) for a hearty, locally-sourced dinner on their expansive deck, or book a table at The Quarters for incredible cocktails and elevated coastal dining.

• Category: Activity