Explore Cockatoo Island's rich history with immersive self-guided audio tours available during daylight hours.
Ongoing activity
Cockatoo Island, New South Wales 2110, Australia
$10
Discover the fascinating stories of Cockatoo Island at your own pace with three immersive audio tours. These tours bring to life the island’s convict past, shipbuilding heritage, and layered history through engaging narratives and soundscapes. Perfect for families looking to combine outdoor adventure with educational fun.
Each tour offers a unique perspective: hear gritty tales of jail life, learn about the craftsmanship behind naval giants, or enjoy a bite-sized history journey from First Nations Dreaming to industrial times. The tours are designed for self-guided exploration, allowing you to pause and absorb the stories as you wander.
Bring your own mobile device and headphones for the best experience. The tours are web-based, require mobile data, and no downloads are needed, making them easy to access on the go.
- Cost: $10 per person, includes access on one device for 24 hours.
- Duration: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your pace.
- Available during daylight hours.
- Three tour options: Cockatoo’s Convicts, How to Build a Ship, and Sandstone to Steel.
- Self-guided with QR code jump-on points located around the island.
These tours are suitable for parents and school-aged children interested in history and storytelling. Note that some content includes stories of crime and punishment which may not be suitable for younger children.
The tours take place on Cockatoo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Sydney Harbour. Access the island by ferry or private boat; public transport information is available on the official website.
The island features uneven surfaces and some stairs, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The audio tour route is designed for self-paced exploration, allowing families to enjoy the surroundings safely.
You can start the tours at designated jump-on points marked with signs and QR codes, including at the Visitor Centre.
- Bring your own device; mobile phones are not provided.
- The tour uses mobile data, not WiFi.
- Headphones are recommended for an immersive experience.
- The tour app includes a text transcript for those who prefer reading.
- Location services should be enabled on your device to view your position on the tour map.
- The tour is valid for 24 hours from purchase and can be replayed multiple times.
- Content warnings apply due to stories of crime and punishment.
Tickets are purchased online only; no cash sales on site. The $10 fee grants 24-hour access to the tour on one device. After purchase, you will receive an email with a link to access the tour.
If you encounter any issues accessing the tour, recovery links and support information are provided on the payment page. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
