Historical

Circular Quay

环形码头

Est. 1844
Circular Quay, Sydney NSW 2000

About This Location

On January 26, 1788, the First Fleet dropped anchor at Sydney Cove—then called Warrane by the Gadigal people—after eight grueling months at sea carrying 1,400 convicts, marines, and settlers. Captain Arthur Phillip raised the Union Jack at 7 PM that evening, claiming the land for Britain and beginning the transformation of a sunny north-facing crescent of sand. The original landing site is now First Fleet Park, but the weight of that moment—people in chains staring at a strange new world—still echoes through the bustling ferry terminals.

Then & Now

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1844
Today
Circular Quay
PastPresent

Did You Know?

1

Original name was 'Semi-Circular Quay'

2

Site of the First Fleet landing in 1788

3

Ferries have operated here since 1844

4

Underground train station opened in 1956

Plan Your Visit

Hours

Open 24/7

Admission

Free

Map Preview

-33.8612, 151.2110

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