Join our sailing expedition to Lady Musgrave & Lady Elliott Reefs & Middle Percy Island — Ocean Sailing Expeditions My title

Southport to Mackay

Australian expedition / 14 days / cat 2 sailing expedition / 550nm / leg 2

Overview

Set sail on an unforgettable 14-day sailing adventure with Ocean Sailing Expeditions, exploring the stunning tropical coastline of Queensland from Southport to Mackay. This journey takes you through pristine islands, coral reefs, and secluded anchorages, offering an exhilarating mix of coastal cruising, reef exploration, and island discovery.

Departing from Southport, we head north along Australia’s sun-drenched coastline, stopping at Mooloolaba’s vibrant marina, the serene beauty of Double Island Point, and the world-class coral reefs of Lady Elliott and Lady Musgrave. These Great Barrier Reef wonders invite you to snorkel among manta rays, explore thriving coral gardens, and witness the breathtaking marine biodiversity of the Coral Sea.

Further north, we sail to Hoskyn Island, Boult Reef, and Fitzroy Lagoon, where crystal-clear waters provide some of the best snorkelling and diving in Queensland. At Heron Island, a renowned research station and nature haven, you’ll experience some of the most pristine marine ecosystems on the planet.

As we continue, we explore the untouched paradise of North Reef, the historic havens of Middle Percy and South Percy Islands, and the wild beauty of Curlew and Digby Islands. This adventure concludes in Mackay, a lively coastal city where nature and modern charm blend seamlessly, providing the perfect finale to an extraordinary sailing expedition.

This sailing adventure is perfect for those seeking the thrill of discovery, the serenity of remote island anchorages, and the chance to explore one of the most spectacular sailing routes in Australia.

passage destination options

Southport

Southport, located on the Gold Coast, is a premier sailing gateway offering a blend of modern marinas, protected waterways, and easy ocean access. Its proximity to the Broadwater and South Stradbroke Island makes it an ideal departure point for coastal and offshore sailing adventures. Southport is known for its rich maritime history, vibrant culture, and stunning waterfront views, attracting sailors and ocean lovers alike. With state-of-the-art marina facilities and a thriving sailing community, it provides the perfect starting point for an unforgettable voyage up the Queensland coast.

Mooloolaba

Nestled on the Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba is a top sailing destination known for its golden beaches, scenic waterways, and bustling esplanade. The Mooloolah River provides a safe and scenic anchorage, making it a favorite stop for sailors cruising the East Coast. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at the famous fisheries, explore nearby national parks, or take in the relaxed coastal lifestyle. With easy access to the Coral Sea and nearby reefs, Mooloolaba is an excellent spot for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and ocean exploration.

Double Island Point

A hidden coastal gem, Double Island Point is renowned for its stunning beaches, rolling dunes, and iconic lighthouse. Only accessible by boat or 4WD, this remote anchorage offers crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and some of Australia's longest waves for surfers. The surrounding Great Sandy National Park provides a backdrop of untouched wilderness, making it a peaceful escape for sailors looking for solitude and scenic beauty.

Lady Elliot Island

As the southernmost coral cay of the Great Barrier Reef, Lady Elliott Island is a top snorkeling and diving destination. Known for its abundant manta rays, vibrant coral gardens, and clear blue waters, this island is a marine sanctuary teeming with life. Its transformation from a former guano mining site to a thriving eco-resorthighlights its commitment to conservation and sustainability. With world-class underwater visibility, Lady Elliott Island is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of the Great Barrier Reef.

Lady Musgrave Reef

Lady Musgrave Reef is a turquoise lagoon encircled by a coral reef, offering one of the best sailing anchorages on the Great Barrier Reef. This stunning coral atoll provides calm, clear waters ideal for snorkeling, diving, and paddleboarding. Its rich marine ecosystem, including turtles, reef sharks, and tropical fish, makes it a paradise for nature lovers. As a key part of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, it is a prime example of marine conservation efforts in action.

Hoskyn Island

Part of the Capricorn Cays National Park, Hoskyn Island is a protected seabird habitat and an untouched paradise. Though access is restricted to preserve its delicate ecosystem, the surrounding waters provide breathtaking snorkeling and wildlife encounters. This secluded island is a haven for sailors who appreciate untouched nature and conservation efforts.

Boult Reef

A lesser-known but spectacular destination, Boult Reef is an untouched coral paradise in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. With flourishing coral gardens, diverse fish species, and stunning underwater landscapes, this reef offers an unparalleled snorkeling and diving experience. As a protected marine ecosystem, it showcases the importance of reef conservation and responsible exploration.

Fitzroy Lagoon

Located within the Great Barrier Reef, Fitzroy Lagoon is a secluded and tranquil anchorage perfect for sailors seeking solitude and natural beauty. The calm, crystal-clear waters make it an excellent snorkeling and diving spot, home to colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and healthy coral formations. Its remote location ensures an uncrowded, peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing break along the journey.

Heron Island

A renowned research station and bird sanctuary, Heron Island is famous for its rich marine biodiversity and thriving coral reef. With direct beach access to stunning snorkel and dive sites, it is one of the best places to experience the Great Barrier Reef up close. The island's history as a marine research hub makes it a fascinating stop for those interested in reef conservation and marine science.

North Reef

Marked by its historic lighthouse, North Reef is a remote coral cay offering a rugged yet beautiful sailing experience. The reef's isolated location makes it an excellent destination for wildlife observation, snorkeling, and diving. Sailors passing through this part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park are treated to unspoiled beauty and incredible marine encounters.

South Percy Island

With its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and scenic walking trails, South Percy Island is a perfect stop for sailors seeking relaxation and adventure. The island's natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for snorkeling, beachcombing, and wildlife spotting. Its sheltered anchorage provides a safe and picturesque overnight stop.

Middle Percy Island

A must-visit for coastal cruisers, Middle Percy Island is famous for its historic A-frame hut, where sailors leave memorabilia as part of a long-standing tradition. Its pristine beaches, rugged interior, and clear waters make it a favorite stop for adventurous sailors. The island’s Homestead Bay offers excellent swimming, hiking, and a chance to connect with fellow seafarers.

Scawfell Island

Scawfell Island is a hidden gem within the Great Barrier Reef, offering secluded anchorages and unspoiled natural beauty. Its lush vegetation and rocky headlands create a stunning contrast against the turquoise waters surrounding the island. Snorkelers and divers can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, while hikers can enjoy scenic trails with breathtaking coastal views. As the sun sets, the island transforms into a peaceful retreat, perfect for unwinding beneath a star-filled sky.

Curlew Island

Curlew Island is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, known for its dense vegetation and remote, untouched landscapes. Its secluded beaches provide a tranquil escape, making it an ideal stop for those seeking privacy and natural serenity. The island’s rich marine ecosystem attracts seabirds, turtles, and other wildlife, offering incredible opportunities for observation. With pristine waters and a peaceful atmosphere, Curlew Island is a perfect anchorage for a quiet night at sea.

Digby Island

Digby Island is a secluded paradise, offering calm, sheltered anchorages and stunning coastal scenery. Its crystal-clear waters invite sailors to swim, snorkel, and explore thriving marine life. The island’s untouched beaches and dense foliage provide a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. Whether relaxing on deck or venturing ashore, visitors can enjoy a sense of solitude and connection with nature.

Mackay

Arriving in Mackay, we conclude our remarkable sailing expedition through Queensland’s most breathtaking coastal destinations. Known as the gateway to the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef, Mackay offers modern marina facilities, a lively waterfront, and access to lush national parks. Beyond its sugarcane fields and Art Deco architecture, Mackay is home to a thriving sailing community and rich maritime history. This vibrant city marks a fitting end to an unforgettable sailing adventure along Australia’s tropical coastline.

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.

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

Review sailing calendar for all events