Vuda, Fiji to Noumea, New Caledonia & Southport, Australia / 1,700nm / 30 aug - 15 Sep 2024
17 days / cat 1 ocean passage / Event #2423 / Silver Fern: last 3 CREW POSITIONs AVAILABLE
Overview
A 17-day South Pacific Ocean passage from Vuda Marina, Fiji to Noumea, New Caledonia to Southport, Queensland.
Set sail on a 1,700NM maritime journey across the South Pacific, commencing from the picturesque Vuda Marina, Fiji, unfolding the historical tapestry and vibrant culture of Noumea, New Caledonia, and concluding our odyssey in the coastal gem of Southport, Queensland. This is not merely a voyage across azure waters; it's a passage through time, culture, and the stunning landscapes of the South Pacific. Join us as we embark on this extraordinary adventure, where every destination is a chapter in a story waiting to be told.
Passage plan
Crew registration
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Shared Cabin AUD$8,750 (per berth)
17 days
Expedition Description
Vuda Marina
Vuda Marina, nestled on the western coast of Fiji's main island, Viti Levu, is a key starting point for sailors venturing into the South Pacific's pristine waters. This full-service marina is not only strategically located close to the international airport in Nadi, making it highly accessible, but it also boasts a rich historical significance. It is said to be near the landing site of the first Fijians, and its name, Vuda, refers to the source or beginning, echoing its foundational place in Fijian lore. Today, Vuda Marina offers excellent facilities including a boatyard, various marine services, and comfortable amenities for transient sailors. Its circular layout, inspired by traditional Fijian village settings, enhances its charm. The marina serves as a gateway to the beautiful Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands, making it an ideal spot for sailors looking for a blend of convenience and local culture.
Noumea
Noumea, the capital of New Caledonia, presents a unique mix of French elegance and Pacific island charm, making it an intriguing stop for yachts cruising the Coral Sea. This cosmopolitan city offers an insight into its colonial history through well-preserved architecture and museums that narrate its past from a small penal colony to a vibrant modern city. For sailing enthusiasts, Noumea is not only a picturesque harbor but also a hub of nautical activities with world-class facilities at Port Moselle Marina, known for its welcoming atmosphere and comprehensive services. The surrounding lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famed for its extensive coral reefs offering exceptional snorkelling and diving opportunities. Noumea’s blend of cultures, exquisite French cuisine, and stunning natural beauty make it a compelling destination for sailors seeking a taste of Europe in the heart of the Pacific.
Southport Yacht Club
Situated on the Gold Coast of Australia, the Southport Yacht Club combines top-notch sailing conditions with a vibrant community atmosphere, making it a must-visit for sailors and yachting enthusiasts. Established in 1946, the club has a storied history of promoting sailing and marine activities. Its location offers direct access to the broad, sheltered waters of the Gold Coast Broadwater, and the nearby open waters of the Pacific Ocean, providing ideal conditions for both competitive sailing and leisurely cruising. The club is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, including a modern marina, boat maintenance services, and sailing schools. Beyond sailing, members and visitors can enjoy waterfront dining with spectacular views, making it a social hub as well. The Southport Yacht Club is not just a place to moor your yacht; it is a gateway to exploring the lush landscapes and luxurious resorts of the Gold Coast, ensuring a memorable visit both on and off the water.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED
HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE ONBOARD
Sailing: Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather).
Watch duties: Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls.
Weather: Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination.
Navigation: Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s.
Leadership: Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication.
Safety: Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures.
Training: Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions.
Personal wellbeing: Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard.
Passage planning: Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan.
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
Itinerary
You can fly directly into Nadi Airport on or before the 30th of August 2024. When you arrive at Vuda Marina, we'll familiarise you with the yacht, systems and safety equipment and you will join us for a crew welcome dinner. We will aim to depart (subject to weather) around 10am on the 31st of August and leave the Vuda Point Marina, heading SW for Noumea. You are welcome to stay onboard from the date you arrive but if you plan to arrive prior to the 30th of August, you may need to arrange accommodation ashore.
Arrive at the vessel in Port Vuda Marina by 4pm on 30/8/24
Crew welcome dinner on 30/8/24
Crew training and safety familiarisation 31/8/24
Depart Vuda Marina around 12pm on 31/8/24
Arrive in Southport Marina by 3pm on 14/8/24
Crew farewell dinner on 14/8/24
Depart Southport on 15/8/24
Getting to and from there
Arrival Airport: Nadi International Airport, Fiji
Departure Airport: Gold Coast or Brisbane Airports, Queensland
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Fiji and Southport and various stopover ports, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal flotation 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 2 and 3 berth options available in singles and doubles. If you reserve a 3-berth cabin for the use of 2 or less people, the rate is the 3-berth rate, less a 10% discount. If you reserve a 2-berth cabin for the use of 1 person, the rate is the 2-berth rate, less a 10% discount.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. You will need to complete a Sea Safety and Survival Training Course or equivalent at least 1 month prior.
Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
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