sydney fish market tour

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Sydney Fish Market Behind the Scenes Tour

Learn the ins and outs of Sydney Fish Market at this behind-the-scenes tour.

Time Out says

If you want to catch fishermen at work, you’ve got to get up early. Sydney Fish Market runs almost-daily tours that start at 6.40am. Wrapped up warm, our group of six visitors meet outside Doyle’s Restaurant where tour guide Alex gives us a briefing and a few impressive facts about the largest fish market in the Southern Hemisphere. For one, it’s now considered the second most diverse seafood market in the world after Tokyo’s markets.

We enter the auction floor on the mezzanine level, where we can see buyers seated in front of three huge screens, jeering as a sale is completed. Alex jokes that the jeers might be because the young bidder paid too much and set the bar high for the other sales in that category. In any case, we’re fascinated by the electronic Dutch auction system, which gives the buyers in the room just two seconds to make a decision.

Sydney Fish Market has been using the Dutch auction system for over a decade and their data informs the cost of fish purchased on any week of the year. Auction prices start at $3-to-$5 above the data price per kilo and as the counter clicks at high speed, buyers in the room tap away on blue keypads at plastic desks and a sale is made before you can say ‘medium blue swimmer crab’. Alex says it’s significantly more efficient than a voice auction, and wasted stock is as low as 0.5 per cent on any one day. 

We learn that there’s 55 tonnes of fish out on the auction floor on this Monday morning, brought in by more than 1,000 suppliers across the Asia-Pacific region. At 3am, three quality assurance staff inspect the seafood and grade it according to the predicted shelf life, size, weight and condition of every species. Wearing our high-vis jackets and closed-toe shoes we venture onto the auction floor for a tour of the 100-plus varieties of fish and shellfish.

Alex picks up an NSW-caught C-grade crab and encourages us all to give the shell a squeeze. Quick tip: when buying crustaceans, make sure the shells are as strong as possible and the dirtier looking, the better. We hear that fish travels from as far as the Northern Territory by truck, but (perhaps more interestingly) the number of days since a fish was caught is not the determining factor for freshness. It’s how the fish has been treated since it was caught that matters.

We’re introduced to an 85.4-kilogram striped marlin – as long as a person, even without its head. We sniff the gills of a bright pink whole-sized eastern pigfish, to test for freshness. We watch Alex grapple with the weight of a shimmering, iridescent snapper from South Australia. We coax a live pipi from its shell as Alex talks about hitting up Golden Century for a bowl of them cooked in XO sauce. But the prize of the day is a B+ grade yellow tuna fish that’s estimated to cost upwards of $22,000. It’s the first B+ that Alex has seen in weeks; he’s stoked.

As we weave our way past working fishermen and buyers who are keen to move their stock off the wet floor and out to retailers, our toes are numb from the chill. The tour finishes up in the marketplace where we witness Hawkesbury river rock oysters being shucked at Christie’s Seafoods. It’s a packed two-hour tour, and if you need a photo to show off your morning adventure (there’s strictly no photography on the auction floor), Alex will fish out a live king crab and rock lobster from their tanks for the perfect selfie.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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Sydney Fish Market | Tours

❊ Official Tickets ❊

❊ when ❊, ❊ where ❊, ❊ web links ❊.

Behind the Scenes Tour

• Duration: 2 Hours (approx.)
• Location : Sydney, NSW
• Product code: BTS

Want to know more about where your seafood comes from? How the industry ensures Australian seafood is sustainable? Where Sydney's top restaurants go to buy the freshest of the fresh?

Our Behind the Scenes Tour is your ticket into the weird and wonderful world of Australian seafood.

• The hustle and bustle of the auction floor (normally closed to the public!).
• The Dutch auction system in action, selling more than 50 tonnes of fresh seafood to 150+ buyers.
• Over 100 seafood species in our famous blue crates, from the fan-favourites to the weird and wonderful.
• Brand new species of seafood that we bet you've never seen before.
• Tuna filleting (you might even spot one hanging from a forklift!).
• Live lobsters, sushi prep, oyster shucking, and more.

T ours begin at 6:40am sharp.  Please arrive by 6:30am to check in, or you might get left behind!

Please note that due to occupational health and safety regulations,  all visitors to the auction must wear regulation safety footwear which will be provided at the start of the tour . Please ensure you wear/bring a pair of socks for comfort/hygiene. Unfortunately no   wheelchairs or prams are permitted on the auction floor.

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This Bustling Sydney Market Is The Largest Of Its Kind In The Southern Hemisphere

Find fresh seafood, baked goods, fruits, veg and a lot more at this beloved Sydney spot.

Australia is famous for its sparkling white sand beaches , lush national parks and untamed landscapes but did you know it’s also home to one of the largest seafood markets in the world? We’re talking about the iconic Sydney Fish Market which has long been the primary spot to peruse for the freshest seafood in town. Visitors will also find an abundance of takeaway meals, fun little souvenirs, dedicated stalls selling fruit and veg, bakeries, wine shops and even a seafood school . It’s the largest market of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and you won’t find a more diverse variety of fish elsewhere with the exception of Japan. Seafood is also delivered to the market daily so you can expect to take the freshest fare home.

Sydney Fish Market

From occasional pop-ups, to year-round markets and harbourside bazaars , Sydney is full to the brim with vibrant shopping spots . The Sydney Fish Market remains a staple on the scene and it’s a must-visit if you’re a fan of seafood . Often regarded as Australia’s Home of Seafood , the market was established in 1945 and is today the third-largest seafood market in the world.

It’s perched on the Blackwattle Bay foreshore in Pyrmont and shoppers can get their hands on a variety of locally sourced and sustainably caught seafood including oysters, salmon, Tasmanian scallops, snapper fillets, Moreton bay bugs, barramundi and a lot more. Find the full list of retails here .

There are also plenty of hot food options at the venue if you want to take a break from your shopping and grab a bite to eat. Popular dishes include the famous sushi tacos filled with fresh sashimi, micro herbs and sushi rice, lobster rolls, octopus skewers, toasties, burgers and poke bowls. There’s also a bakery on site, Gregory’s Bread , where you can get your fill of sweet treats, fresh bread and good coffee. The market is open 7 days a week from 7am to 4pm except on Christmas Day.

What is the best time to visit the Sydney Fish Market?

If you’re planning a visit, head there early to get ahead of the crowds and make sure you wear comfortable shoes because there’s a lot of ground to cover. The markets are great fun all year round, but planning a trip during the festive period is highly recommended especially for the 36-Hour Seafood Marathon where retailers open their doors to the public for 36 hours straight.

Sydney Fish Market tours

The sprawling space can be overwhelming to navigate and if you don’t know where to start, the market hosts behind-the-scenes guided tours where you can learn everything about new species of seafood oyster shucking and more. Head here to book a spot.

Head to the official Sydney Fish Market for more information including new grocers, recipes and retailers.

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Sydney Fish Market

Experience Australia's Home of Seafood, an authentic working fish market on Sydney Harbour in Blackwattle Bay, Pyrmont.

Sydney Fish Market is the largest market of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, SFM has got something for you to enjoy.

Think six seafood retailers, as well as cafés, restaurants, a bakery, a butcher, a gourmet deli, a greengrocer, and a bottle shop (phew!). There's also a wholesale auction (and Behind the Scenes tours), a working wharf, and, of course, Sydney Seafood School.

Accessibility

Allows a person's carer free entry into participating venues and events

Actively welcomes people with access needs.

Advise tour guides of the access needs of guests at the time of booking (includes pick up and drop off requirements)

Employ people with disability

Have accessibility information and photos, including of a bathroom, room and/or floor plan on your website (can be emailed on request)

Offer a range of contact methods for receiving complaints

Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia)

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Sydney Fish Market

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

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It’s noisy, crowded and usually smelly, but the Fish Market is a much-loved part of the Sydney culinary scene. The site is home to a retail and wholesale fish market, plus a small working port and excellent seafood cooking school.

Drop in for a plate of sushi, some fresh oysters or piping hot fish n chips. It’s worth the trip just to wander around the kaleidoscopic displays of shellfish, giant tuna and lobsters. These are the dying days of the market – a brand spanking new facility is under construction across the water in Blackwattle Bay; due to open in 2023.

Getting there & doing it

Pyrmont is about 15-minutes by cab from the city, but it’s easier to catch the Metro Light Rail from Central Station, Haymarket or Darling Harbour. The Fish Market stop is opposite the main entrance. Train services run every 15 minutes.

Do it alone, or better still book in advance online for a fascinating 1.5-hour behind-the-scenes tour, run Tuesday to Friday. It’s an early start (6.40am), but well worth it; an expert guide will take you around all facets of the market and its operations, including the auction floor, and crab and lobster pen. Book them directly on the official website .

When to do it

Retailers open all year round, seven days a week. Behind-the-scenes tours run 6.40am-8.30am.

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The Ultimate Guide to Sydney Fish Market: Dive into Freshness!

Discover the wonders and delights of the world-famous Sydney Fish Market, a haven for seafood enthusiasts. Explore the history, operations, and culinary delights awaiting your next visit.

Introduction

The Sydney Fish Market is not just a place to buy fish; it’s a remarkable cultural and culinary destination that draws locals and tourists alike. Situated in the heart of Sydney, this market offers a unique experience, blending the bustle of daily trade with the joy of dining and education.

Sydney Fish Market: A Quick History

Established in 1945, the Sydney Fish Market has grown to become the third-largest fish market globally, reflecting Australia’s rich maritime heritage. It serves as a vital link between fishermen and consumers, ensuring that only the freshest seafood reaches your plate.

Location and How to Get There

Located in Pyrmont, just a stone’s throw from Sydney’s bustling city center, the market is easily accessible by bus, light rail, or car. For a scenic journey, consider taking a ferry ride, which offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour en route.

Must-Visit Stalls and Sections

Beyond the fish stalls, the market houses bakeries, gourmet delis, and even wine shops. Dive into the diverse array of fresh produce, from oysters and crabs to scallops and sea urchins.

Fresh Seafood Galore

One can’t discuss the Sydney Fish Market without raving about the seafood. Locally sourced and sustainably caught, the variety is simply astonishing. From the sought-after Barramundi and King Prawns to the exotic Moreton Bay Bug, there’s something for every palate.

Behind the Scenes: Fish Auctions

Experience the thrill of live auctions where tons of seafood are traded daily. These auctions are the backbone of the market, ensuring that businesses across Sydney receive fresh stock every day.

Dining Options and Recommendations

With its myriad restaurants and cafes, the market offers a culinary journey. Whether you crave sushi, grilled fish, or seafood pasta, there’s a dish waiting to tantalize your taste buds.

Cooking Classes and Learning Opportunities

Eager to master seafood cooking? The market’s cooking school offers classes, from beginner to advanced levels, teaching you the art of preparing and cooking seafood.

Tips for Visitors

• Visit early to beat the crowds.
• Wear comfortable shoes; there’s a lot to explore!
• Always ask vendors for cooking and storage tips.

Best Time to Visit

While the market operates year-round, summer weekends and holiday seasons are particularly vibrant, with special events and an electric atmosphere.

Seafood Sustainability Efforts

In line with global sustainability efforts, the market has initiatives ensuring that the seafood is sourced responsibly, preserving marine life for future generations.

Events and Celebrations

From the annual Oyster Festival to Chinese New Year celebrations, the market hosts events year-round, reflecting Sydney’s multicultural tapestry.

Beyond Seafood: Other Attractions

While seafood is the star, don’t miss out on the fresh fruits, pastries, and gourmet cheeses, making the market a food lover’s paradise.

Seafood Storage and Preparation Tips

Ensure that your seafood remains fresh and delicious with tips from the experts, from storage temperatures to marinating techniques.

Sydney Fish Market Tours

Experience the market like never before with guided tours, offering insights into its operations, history, and the people who make it tick.

What Makes Sydney Fish Market Unique

More than just a market, it’s a testament to Sydney’s rich maritime history, culinary diversity, and commitment to sustainability.

How often is fresh seafood delivered to the market?

• Daily, ensuring that you always get the freshest produce.

What are the market’s operating hours?

• It’s open from 7 am to 4 pm daily, except on Christmas Day.

Are there parking facilities?

• Yes, there’s ample parking, though it gets busy during peak hours.

Is the market kid-friendly?

• Absolutely! There are plenty of attractions to keep the little ones engaged.

Do they cater to dietary restrictions at restaurants?

• Most restaurants offer a range of dishes catering to various dietary needs.

Are pets allowed?

• While service animals are permitted, pets generally aren’t allowed for hygiene reasons.

The Sydney Fish Market is more than a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a culinary explorer, or someone seeking a unique outing, the market promises memories that will last a lifetime. Dive into freshness on your next visit to Sydney!

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Every weekday morning, a fascinating auction takes place at Sydney Fish Market, the largest market of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Using a reverse auction method that dates back hundreds of years, fifty tonnes of seafood is traded within a matter of hours. The diversity of seafood available at Sydney Fish Market places it in a league of its own. A guided morning tour reveals not only how your food gets to your plate, but why you should be looking beyond just salmon, trout and prawns. For kitchen inspiration, take an excellent cooking class in the modern kitchen located upstairs from the auction floor at Sydney Seafood School.

Length of Trip : Duration of a tour is usually 1 1/2 - 2 hours. Cooking classes range from 2 to 4 hours.

Cost : Click here for current cooking class fees. Click here for the latest Fish Market tour prices.

Best time to go : Tours and classes run year-round. Note that tours begin at 6:40am sharp.

Wheelchair friendly : Call ahead to make arrangements

Family friendly : Minimum 10 years of age.

Where to eat : At the Fish Market of course! There are a variety of restaurants on-site catering to different budgets and the seafood won't be any fresher. Don't miss out on the fresh shucked oyster trays, which are a terrific bargain. Better yet, enjoy the delicious lunch you've prepared upstairs at the Sydney Seafood School, washed down with glass of fine wine.

Official Site : Fish Market Tours Sydney Seafood School

Where to Stay : When in Sydney, we recommend staying in the spacious, serviced apartments of our partner, the historic Oaks Goldsbrough . Located in Darling Harbour, it has easy access to restaurants and the famous Darling Harbour walkway.

Getting There : There is carpark entry is via Bank Street. Catch the Sydney Light Rail from Central Station, The Star, Haymarket or Darling Harbour to the Fish Market stop which is located across the road from the Market. Services run from Central to Lilyfield and back every 10 - 15 minutes. Captain Cook Cruises operates a ferry service between Sydney Fish Market landing pontoon and Barangaroo (King Street Wharf No.1) every Saturday and Sunday.

Note from Robin : You'll never seafood the same way again after you learn how it is caught, sold and makes its way to your plate. You'll also learn how we tend to eat the same species of fish, when there is so much more variety available, sustainably caught and easy to prepare. The Seafood School upstairs has a range of classes, from well known- guest chef sessions to classes for first-timers. It's a great morning capped off with a terrific lunch, even better for the fact that you prepared it!

A Small Crab

Sydney Seafood School

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Contact Info

OPENING HOURS

Retailers & restaurants.

* Some retailers operate outside the hours above:

Vic's Smokehouse  is open until 9pm every Thursday - Saturday

Fishermen's Fine Wines is open from 9am-4pm, Tuesday-Sunday

Explore Sydney Fish Market's retailers here .

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Sydney Fish Market retailers are open every day of the year (except Christmas Day). Yep, this includes all public holidays!

OFFICE & ADMINISTRATION HOURS

Sydney Fish Market office hours are from 7am to 5pm weekdays. We are in the office every week day, except public holidays.

AUCTION TIMES

Sydney Fish Market’s wholesale auction commences at 5:30am every weekday, apart from public holidays. Please note, public access to the wholesale auction is via Behind the Scenes Tours only.

Sydney Fish Market Behind the Scenes Tours are held every weekday at 6:40am. Bookings are required. For more information, please visit our Behind the Scenes Tours page or phone 02 9004 1108.