Sydney to gold coast / 383nm / 31 May - 6 jun 2024
7 days / coastal cat 2 PASSAGE / Event #2439 / Magic Miles: CREW full waitlist only
Overview
Embark on a magnificent 7-day sailing adventure through the vibrant coastlines of New South Wales and Queensland, Australia, aboard one of Ocean Sailing Expeditions yachts. Begin your journey in the world-renowned Sydney, where the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge set a spectacular maritime backdrop. Sail north to the dynamic city of Newcastle, where rich history and a contemporary cultural scene provide a lively atmosphere. Continue to the natural beauty of Port Stephens, famed for its pristine beaches and marine life, offering exceptional opportunities for water sports and dolphin sightings. Next, visit Port Macquarie, a haven for nature lovers with its abundant wildlife and scenic coastal walks. Yamba, with its laid-back charm and top-notch surf spots, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Conclude your journey in Southport, Queensland, where the Gold Coast's glittering skyline and bustling marinas welcome sailors with open arms. This 7-day voyage offers a unique combination of serene sailing, coastal exploration, and urban discovery, all set against the stunning backdrop of Australia's eastern coastline.
Passage plan
Crew registration
Secure your place on the crew with a 20% deposit.
AUD$3,250 (shared berth)
PRIVATE CABIN: AUD$8,775 (INCLUDES 3 BERTHs)
7 days
Expedition Description
Sydney
Sydney, Australia’s dazzling coastal metropolis, offers a wealth of experiences for the discerning sailor. Anchored by its stunning harbour, known as one of the world’s most beautiful waterways, Sydney is a gateway to maritime luxury and adventure. The city’s iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge create a dramatic skyline and offer an unforgettable view from the deck of a yacht. Sailing in Sydney Harbour opens up opportunities to explore secluded beaches, historic sites like Fort Denison, and vibrant waterfront districts bustling with world-class dining and entertainment. The annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, a highlight in the global sailing calendar, epitomises Sydney’s deep connection with the sea. Whether participating in regattas or cruising at leisure, Sydney promises a splendid fusion of urban sophistication and spectacular natural scenery.
Newcastle
Newcastle, a dynamic harbour city with a rich maritime history, is a prime destination for yachting enthusiasts. Once the heart of the coal industry, today's Newcastle combines its industrial heritage with a lively arts scene and revitalised waterfront. The city’s marinas are perfect for beginning a coastal voyage, with easy access to the Hunter River and the Tasman Sea. Beyond sailing, Newcastle’s renowned beaches, such as Nobbys Beach and Merewether Beach, offer excellent surfing and relaxation spots. The blend of modern culture, historic architecture, and stunning coastal landscapes makes Newcastle an appealing stop for sailors seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Port Stephens
Port Stephens is a natural paradise, renowned for its stunning waterways and pristine environment, making it a jewel in the crown of New South Wales’ coastline. This vast blue bay is dotted with over 20 golden beaches, and its clear waters are a playground for dolphins and whales. Sailors can enjoy the calm waters of the port, perfect for leisurely sailing, fishing, and water sports. The surrounding national parks offer scenic trails and panoramic lookouts. Port Stephens’ combination of tranquil natural beauty and active marine life creates a perfect seaside escape for nature lovers and marine adventurers alike.
Port Macquarie
Port Macquarie, set along the Hastings River, offers a rich blend of heritage and natural beauty. This vibrant coastal town is known for its historical sites, including Australia’s third-oldest penal settlement, now a heritage site. Sailing into Port Macquarie offers a picturesque view of its rugged coastlines and lush hinterland. The region’s waters are ideal for whale watching and deep-sea fishing, while the hinterland provides scenic trails and native wildlife encounters at the Billabong Zoo. With its lively arts community, coastal walks, and friendly atmosphere, Port Macquarie is a delightful stop for sailors seeking a mix of history and coastal charm.
Yamba
Yamba, situated at the mouth of the Clarence River, is a charming fishing town famous for its surf breaks and relaxed lifestyle. Renowned for its historic lighthouse and the famous Angourie Point, Yamba’s laid-back atmosphere is complemented by its natural beauty and abundant marine life. Sailors can explore the serene Clarence River, enjoy fresh seafood straight from the ocean, and relax on unspoilt beaches. The town’s annual surfing competitions and vibrant local markets add to its allure, making Yamba a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in a tranquil coastal community.
Southport
Southport, in the heart of Queensland’s Gold Coast, serves as a luxury retreat for maritime enthusiasts. Known for its broadwater, Southport provides excellent conditions for sailing and is a gateway to the renowned cruising waters of the Gold Coast. The area boasts some of Australia’s best boating facilities, including state-of-the-art marinas and waterfront dining. Southport’s proximity to the Gold Coast’s attractions, such as theme parks and shopping districts, as well as its beautiful parks and a vibrant arts scene, makes it an ideal stopover for sailors who appreciate the finer things in life while enjoying the freedom of the sea.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED
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 Sydney on or before the 31st of May 2024 in time to join us for a crew welcome dinner. On the morning of the 1st of June we will complete safety training and familiarise you with the yacht before departing around midday for our first coastal anchorage. Depending on wind direction and currents it should be about 4 days to sail to the Southport Yacht Club on the Gold Coast, where we should arrive by the 5th of June. You should plan to fly out of Gold Coast or Brisbane Airports after 12pm on the 6th of June.
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.
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Sydney, Gold Coast and any stopover ports en-route, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel is also included along with suncream.
Private Cabins
There are 2 and 3 berth options available in singles in doubles. If you reserve a 3-berth cabin for the use of 2 or less people, the rate is still the 3-berth rate, less a 10% discount. If you reserve a 2-berth cabin for the use of 1 person, the rate is still 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.
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.
Review sailing calendar for all events