exmouth to fremantle / 750nm / 31 OCT - 21 NOV 2026

AUSTRALIAN CIRCUMNAVIGATION LEG 10 / 21 days / cat 2 sailing EXPEDITION / EVENT #2610 / SILVER FERN & TE KAIHŌPARA: CREW POSITIONS AVAILABLE

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Overview

Step aboard for an epic 21-day sailing adventure with Ocean Sailing Expeditions, where the captivating coastlines of Western Australia come to life. From the exquisite coral gardens of Exmouth to the historic charm of Fremantle, this journey is a masterful blend of natural wonders, aquatic adventures, and coastal allure.

As we set sail from Exmouth, the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, prepare for an immersive encounter with one of the most accessible coral reefs on the planet. Snorkel or dive alongside gentle whale sharks and witness the ballet of manta rays in these crystal-clear waters.

Heading south, Shark Bay awaits with its combination of natural marvels from the famous stromatolites to the friendly dolphins of Monkey Mia. Sail into the historical tapestry and marine diversity of the Abrolhos Islands, a cluster of 122 islands forming an aquatic paradise teeming with life above and below the sea.

The bustling port city of Geraldton beckons, offering a dose of culture and the gateway to the wildflower country. At Port Denison, relish the tranquility of a charming seaside community before enjoying the pristine coastal retreat of Green Head.

Navigate to Hillarys Boat Harbour, a premier destination offering leisure and entertainment on Perth’s sunny coastline. As we sail past the secluded sanctuaries of the Green Islands, embrace the chance to connect with Western Australia’s serene marine environment.

Lancelin invites you to indulge in the thrill of water sports with its renowned windsurfing conditions, while the enchanting Rottnest Island promises a friendly quokka welcome and some of the most postcard-perfect bays you’ll ever drop anchor in.

Our final port of call is the vibrant Fremantle, a city that charms with its maritime history, artistic enclaves, and an upbeat vibe. Fremantle is not merely a destination; it’s a celebration of Western Australia’s spirited coastal life.

On this 21-day voyage with Ocean Sailing Expeditions, luxury meets adventure aboard our state-of-the-art yachts. Experience personalized service, gourmet cuisine, and the thrill of setting sail each morning to new discoveries. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or seeking the adventure of a lifetime, our expedition promises to enchant, with each day a new chapter in your story of the sea. Join us, and let the sails unfurl to the rhythm of Western Australia’s heartbeat.

Passage plan

Expedition Description

Exmouth

Exmouth, the jewel of Western Australia's Ningaloo Coast, offers an unparalleled gateway to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef. This coastal town is a sanctuary for adventurers and nature lovers, where the rugged beauty of the Cape Range National Park meets the underwater wonderland of one of the world's largest fringing reefs. Sailors come to Exmouth to swim alongside gentle whale sharks, explore vibrant coral gardens, and marvel at the marine biodiversity. The town's history, deeply tied to the American naval presence during World War II, adds a fascinating layer to its natural allure. Exmouth is a destination where the desert meets the sea, offering endless adventures both onshore and underwater.

Ningaloo Reef

Ningaloo Reef, a pristine and easily accessible reef, is one of Australia's natural wonders. Stretching over 260 kilometers, it's a haven for marine life, including coral gardens, manta rays, turtles, and the famous whale sharks. Sailing the crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo provides an intimate experience with nature, where you can anchor in secluded bays, snorkel or dive directly from your yacht, and witness the spectacular migration of humpback whales. The reef's significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site underscores its global importance as a marine biodiversity hotspot, making it a must-visit for any sailing enthusiast.

Shark Bay

Shark Bay, with its extraordinary marine environments, including the world-famous Monkey Mia dolphins, is a site of both natural beauty and scientific interest. This UNESCO World Heritage area showcases some of the planet's oldest life forms, the stromatolites, at Hamelin Pool, and offers encounters with dugongs, sharks, and an array of seabirds. Sailing into Shark Bay presents a unique opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes, from the crystal-clear waters of Dirk Hartog Island to the fiery red sands of Francois Peron National Park. Shark Bay's rich Indigenous culture and history of European exploration add depth to its natural attractions, providing a comprehensive Australian adventure.

Abrolhos Islands

The Abrolhos Islands, a coral archipelago in the Indian Ocean, are a blend of vibrant marine life, tragic history, and isolated beauty. Known for the 1629 shipwreck of the Batavia, their waters tell tales of mutiny and survival. Today, the islands are a paradise for sailors, divers, and fishermen, with their unique biodiversity, including the rare Australian sea lion. The Abrolhos offer a rare glimpse into unspoiled coral reefs and a birdlife sanctuary, making them an essential stop for anyone sailing Western Australia's coast.

Geraldton

Geraldton, a dynamic regional hub, is the gateway to the Abrolhos Islands and a bastion of culture, history, and vibrant seaside living. The town's rich maritime history is showcased in the HMAS Sydney II Memorial and the Museum of Geraldton. Sailing enthusiasts enjoy Geraldton for its excellent wind and surf conditions, making it a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The town's thriving café scene, art galleries, and beautiful foreshore make it a delightful stopover for sailors exploring the Coral Coast.

Port Denison

Port Denison is a tranquil seaside town, perfect for sailors seeking a quiet retreat. Its sheltered marina is ideal for mooring, offering easy access to the town's amenities and friendly community. The beautiful Irwin River estuary provides a picturesque setting for fishing, kayaking, and bird watching. Port Denison’s laid-back lifestyle, combined with its historical sites and the renowned Dongara Lobster Festival, offers a slice of authentic coastal life in Western Australia.

Green Head

Green Head is a hidden gem along the Turquoise Coast, offering pristine beaches, clear waters, and secluded bays perfect for sailing, snorkeling, and swimming. This small, friendly community is the epitome of relaxed coastal living, with stunning natural attractions like Dynamite Bay and the Three Bays Walkway. Green Head serves as an idyllic base for exploring the nearby Lesueur National Park, known for its wildflowers and biodiversity, making it a peaceful escape for nature lovers.

Hillarys Boat Harbour

Hillarys Boat Harbour is a premier recreational destination, combining a protected marina, family beaches, and the Aquarium of Western Australia. Its wide range of dining and shopping options, alongside entertainment venues, makes it a lively stop for sailors. The harbour's proximity to Perth and its role as a launchpad for excursions to Rottnest Island add to its appeal as a bustling hub of activity and relaxation, suitable for all ages.

Green Islands

Green Island in the Coral Sea is a tropical paradise, offering a unique blend of rainforest and reef. Accessible by sailing from Cairns, it's one of the few coral cays in the world with a rainforest. This island is ideal for snorkeling, diving, and exploring its lush interior. Its history as a luxury resort destination and a protected marine park ensures a delicate balance between enjoying its natural beauty and preserving its delicate ecosystems, making it a must-visit for environmentally conscious sailors.

Lancelin

Lancelin is a coastal town famous for its stunning dunes, crystal-clear waters, and excellent conditions for windsurfing and kiteboarding. Sailing into Lancelin offers a chance to enjoy its relaxed, beach-town vibe, explore the surrounding natural beauty, and engage in thrilling water sports. The town's proximity to the unique Pinnacles Desert adds an interesting onshore excursion, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Western Australia.

Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island, a short sail from Perth, is beloved for its tranquil waters, secluded bays, and the friendly quokkas. This car-free island paradise offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure. With its protected marine reserve, Rottnest is a fantastic spot for snorkeling, diving, and exploring shipwrecks. The island's military history and heritage buildings provide a fascinating glimpse into its past, making Rottnest a comprehensive destination for sailors seeking both relaxation and discovery.

Fremantle

Fremantle, a vibrant port city, is the soulful heart of Perth's maritime history and bohemian lifestyle. Its historic architecture, bustling markets, and thriving arts scene make it a cultural hotspot. Sailing into Fremantle offers the chance to explore the Maritime Museum, enjoy the renowned café culture, and dive into the city's eclectic music and arts scene. Fremantle's blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy makes it an irresistible stop for those cruising Western Australia's coast.

ACTIVITIES INCLUDED

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE ONBOARD

Weather impact

With any regatta or expedition we have to plan around the weather. We always aim to plan our events to coincide with the optimum time of the year, for the best conditions. Safety and comfort of the crew and vessel, always takes priority over the original schedule. Sometimes we’ll need to adapt the schedule and modify plans, to maximise the onboard experience and enjoyment to keep everyone happy and safe.

Extra reading

• Past events

• Why sail with us?

OCEAN SAILING PODCAST

EPISODE 118: MATT HARVEY / DAVID HOWS - AUSTRALIAN CIRCUMNAVIGATION REVIEW: 8,500NM IN 4 MONTHS

Skippers David Hows and Matt Harvey catch up to review their 2-yacht circumnavigation of Australia in 2023. With 8,500nm covered in just 4 months, they share the highs and lows of covering the 7th largest coastline in the world. The event was spread over 5 legs and 102 crew in total, across the two 72-foot yachts; Silver Fern and Salt Lines, including 3 circumnavigators that completed all 5 legs. With 4,600 meals prepared, it was a planning exercise of military proportions.

With engine failures, crocodiles, storms and boat fatigue to deal with, sailing some sections of this vast country are not for the faint hearted. The stunning Great Barrier Reef, North Queensland islands and reefs, Cape York, Thursday Island, the Kimberley’s, 9 metre tides in Broome, the Montebello Island Group, the Great Australian Bight and the wilderness of Tasmania, there is just so much thats remote and incredible to explore.

Press the play button to listen, or play in Spotify or Apple Podcasts

SAILING.BLOG

Read the sailing.blog articles from last circumnavigation

itinerary

You'll fly into Exmouth on the 31st of October 2026. We'll have a crew welcome dinner that night and complete final preparations for departure the next day. On the 1st of November we'll depart Exmouth and head for our first of many stopovers. You are welcome to stay onboard on the night of the 31st of October, but if you plan to arrive prior to the 31st, you will need to arrange accommodation ashore. 

We’ll aim to be tied up in Fremantle by 3pm on the 20th of November for our final crew dinner and you can plan to depart Fremantle from the 21st of November onwards.

• Arrive at the vessel in Exmouth by 4pm on 31/10/26

• Crew welcome dinner on 31/10/26

• Crew training and safety familiarisation 1/11/26

• Depart Exmouth Marina around 12pm on 1/11/26

• Arrive in Fremantle by 3pm on 20/11/26

• Crew farewell dinner on 20/11/26

• Depart Fremantle on 21/11/26

Getting to and from the yacht

• Arrival at the yacht before departure: Learmonth Airport

• Departing from the yacht on arrival: Perth Airport

• Airlines that fly to Exmouth: Qantas (into Learmonth Airport)

• Airlines that fly to Perth: Multiple, search Webjet

• Accommodation: If you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com,  Wotif &  HomeAway

• Land transport:

  • Learmonth to Exmouth: bus transfers available

  • Perth: taxis, shuttles, train and Uber available

Inclusions

Your crew package includes; all meals onboard and ashore, and accommodation onboard throughout the duration of the event. It also incudes your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, any cruising permits and local taxes, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.

Private Cabins

There are only two private cabins available on each leg on Te Kaihōpara and they include a double and single berth in each.

• If you book a private cabin, you can have 1 , 2 or 3 occupants.

• The price for a private cabin is the combined price of 3 berths, less 10%.

• If the single berth rate is already discounted, there is no further discount for a private cabin. 

Exclusions

Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules.  Visa applications for entry (if required), related fees and travel insurance are also excluded.

Review sailing calendar for all events