Join the crew and sail from Vanuatu to the Gold Coast on a 72-foot yacht — Ocean Sailing Expeditions My title

Port Vila, vanuatu to southport, Australia

13 Nights / cat O ocean passage / 1,050nm

Overview

Set sail on an unforgettable 13-night sailing expedition that bridges the tropical beauty of Vanuatu with the vibrant coastal energy of Australia’s Gold Coast. Departing from Port Vila, Vanuatu’s bustling capital, you’ll be immersed in a rich blend of Melanesian and French-influenced culture, colourful markets, and warm island hospitality. Wander local craft stalls, indulge in island cuisine, or snorkel among vibrant coral reefs in the surrounding turquoise lagoons before hoisting the sails for your next adventure.

Crossing the Coral Sea, you’ll experience true offshore sailing—steady trade winds, deep blue horizons, and the rhythm of open-ocean passage-making. It’s a rare opportunity to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature, as seabirds soar above and the possibility of dolphins, whales, and flying fish adds excitement to your days at sea. Whether you’re at the helm, trimming sails, or gazing at the Milky Way during your night watch, each moment is filled with purpose and awe.

As landfall approaches, the skyline of Southport on the Gold Coast emerges in stark contrast to the islands left behind—ushering in a new adventure. Southport offers world-class marinas, golden beaches, and a lively dining and entertainment scene. From peaceful hinterland hikes to bustling city streets, you’ll experience a dynamic conclusion to your journey.

Perfect for adventurous sailors and ocean lovers alike, this voyage blends remote island charm, open-ocean challenge, and coastal Australian sophistication into one epic bluewater experience.

Expedition overview

Port Vila – Your Gateway to the South Pacific

Your journey begins in Port Vila, the vibrant capital of Vanuatu, nestled on the island of Efate. With its deep, sheltered harbour and colourful mix of French and Melanesian cultures, Port Vila is a favourite among cruisers and adventurers. Spend your pre-departure days exploring bustling markets filled with tropical fruit and handmade crafts, snorkelling coral gardens just metres offshore, and discovering traditional kastom villages where ancient culture thrives. As a port of entry and provisioning hub, it’s the perfect starting point to finalise preparations and settle into the rhythm of island life before heading to sea.

Crossing the Coral Sea

The offshore leg of this passage is where the true heart of ocean sailing reveals itself. Leaving the mountainous backdrop of Vanuatu in your wake, you’ll sail into the deep blue expanse of the Coral Sea—an ocean stretch known for its steady trade winds, long ocean swells, and remarkably clear skies. With 1,100 nautical miles ahead, this is your chance to disconnect from the noise of modern life and fully immerse yourself in the raw rhythm of the sea.

Life on board quickly settles into a purposeful routine built around watch schedules, shared responsibilities, and moments of wonder. Days are filled with sail-trimming, route planning, logbook entries, celestial navigation, and radio skeds—punctuated by the excitement of sighting a pod of dolphins, a sea turtle drifting past, or the shimmering dance of flying fish skimming the waves. The warm trade winds and open-ocean conditions make for consistent sailing and exhilarating boat speeds, while still offering a manageable environment for building offshore confidence.

Nights bring their own magic. With minimal light pollution, the skies come alive with stars—the Milky Way arcing overhead, satellites drifting silently by, and shooting stars streaking across the vastness. You'll share quiet hours under the stars with your watchmates, feeling the yacht hum beneath your feet and the sails pulling you steadily toward Australia. At times, bioluminescence trails in the wake, making the sea itself glow with every movement. These are the unforgettable moments that only come from crossing oceans under sail.

Expect some tactical challenges too—navigating through varying weather systems and monitoring barometric pressure changes. It’s hands-on and deeply satisfying, especially when you see your sail plan perfectly match the conditions and your course fall into place on the chart. This passage is an opportunity to hone your seamanship, deepen your understanding of weather and ocean dynamics, and test your endurance in a supportive team environment.

Southport – A Warm Welcome to Australia

As the Queensland coast rises on the horizon, anticipation builds. You'll enter the calm, protected waters of the Gold Coast Broadwater and arrive at Southport Yacht Club, one of Australia’s most respected sailing destinations. Southport combines cosmopolitan flair with laid-back coastal charm—offering an ideal place to unwind and reflect on your journey. Stroll the beachfront promenade, sample the vibrant dining scene, or explore the lush hinterland, just a short drive inland. With its modern facilities and thriving sailing community, Southport is both a fitting end and a new beginning for ocean sailors.

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.

Extra reading

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