SOUTHPORT TO LORD HOWE ISLAND TO HOBART / 1,300NM / 1 - 15 OCT 2024

15 DAYS / CAT 1 sailing PASSAGE / EVENT #2427 / SILVER FERN: last 2 CREW POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Overview

This offshore passage is a 1,300nm passage from Southport on sunny Queensland’s Gold Coast, to Lord Howe Island, 360nm to the south east and then 940nm to Hobart; Australia’s southern most port.

This is a unique opportunity to stop at Lord Howe Island, meet the locals and take in some of the sights of life on an island less than 7nm in length. Lord Howe Island is surrounded by amazing sea life and steep Jurassic like cliff faces at the southern end. When we depart Lord Howe Island we'll head 15nm south east past Ball's Pyramid, a rock rising 551 metres out of the sea from the ocean floor, before we turn SW for the ocean passage to our planned Tasmania anchorages as we sail down the rugged Tasmanian coastline on the passage to Hobart.

We will plan around the weather and select from stopover options that include;

• Wineglass Bay

• Port Arthur

The route we take and recommended anchorages are based on careful research, professional meteorological advice and detailed local sailing knowledge.

Passage plan

Crew registration

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Expedition Description

Southport

Southport, located on Queensland's Gold Coast, is a vibrant coastal destination with a rich maritime history and a lively modern atmosphere. Originally a timber town in the 19th century, Southport has evolved into a bustling hub known for its stunning waterways, parks, and cultural sites. The Southport Yacht Club is a premier spot for sailors, offering excellent facilities and access to the Broadwater, a calm expanse of water ideal for boating. Nearby, the Gold Coast's famous beaches, such as Surfers Paradise, provide ample opportunities for surfing, swimming, and relaxing on golden sands. Southport's blend of historical charm and contemporary amenities makes it an attractive stop for any sailing adventure.

Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a serene and unspoiled paradise located in the Tasman Sea, about 600 km off the east coast of Australia. With a history dating back to its discovery in 1788 by Lieutenant Henry Lidgbird Ball, the island is renowned for its dramatic landscape, which includes volcanic peaks, lush forests, and pristine beaches. Sailing to Lord Howe Island offers an opportunity to explore its unique biodiversity, with numerous endemic species of flora and fauna. The island's clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and diving, particularly around the stunning coral reefs of the Lord Howe Island Marine Park. The tranquil and remote environment makes it an ideal escape for nature lovers and those seeking peace and natural beauty.

Wineglass Bay

Wineglass Bay, located in Tasmania's Freycinet National Park, is one of Australia's most picturesque destinations. Named for its crescent-shaped beach that resembles a wineglass, the bay offers pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters set against a backdrop of pink granite mountains. The area has a rich history, from its use by the indigenous Tasmanian people to the whaling industry in the 19th century. Today, Wineglass Bay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. Sailing into Wineglass Bay allows visitors to experience its stunning beauty from the water, providing a unique perspective of this natural wonder.

Port Arthur

Port Arthur, located on the Tasman Peninsula in Tasmania, is a historic site with a profound and poignant past. Established in the 1830s as a penal colony for some of Britain's most hardened convicts, it is now a well-preserved open-air museum. Sailing to Port Arthur offers a unique way to arrive at this significant heritage site, where you can explore the ruins and restored buildings that tell the story of Australia's early convict history. The site's dramatic coastal scenery, combined with its historical significance, provides a compelling reason to visit. Guided tours, including ghost tours, enhance the experience by delving into the lives of those who lived and worked here.

Hobart

Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is a city steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. Founded in 1804 as a penal colony, it is Australia's second oldest capital city. Sailing into Hobart offers a chance to dock at the bustling waterfront, which is home to the famous Salamanca Market, historic warehouses, and vibrant restaurants. The city's maritime heritage is evident at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania and the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, which concludes here. Beyond the city, the surrounding wilderness areas, including Mount Wellington and Bruny Island, offer stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Hobart's blend of history, culture, and natural attractions makes it a captivating destination for sailors.

ACTIVITIES INCLUDED

• Adventure ashore

• Coastal exploring

• Dining out

• Fishing

• Historic places

Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.

Here’s what you will experience onboard

Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.

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?

Itinerary

You can fly directly into Gold Coast or Brisbane airport’s on the 1st of October 2024 and you will join us for a crew welcome dinner. On the 2nd of October we'll meet for breakfast early, then we'll familiarise you with the yacht, systems and safety equipment and get you ready for departure including running through final checks and preparations and depart from the dock around midday. We will aim to arrive in Hobart by the 14th of October, so you should aim to depart out of Hobart Airport on the 15th of October.

• Arrive at the vessel in Southport by 4pm on 1/10/24

• Crew welcome dinner on 1/10/24

• Crew training and safety familiarisation 2/10/24

• Depart Southport around 12pm on 2/10/24

• Arrive in Hobart by 3pm on 14/10/24

• Crew farewell dinner on 14/10/24

• Depart Darwin on 15/10/24

Inclusions

Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Southport, Lord Howe Island, Hobart and various stopover ports en-route, accommodation onboard, your 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.

Review sailing calendar for all events