yachting in australia

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Yachting in Australia

On the east coast of Australia, in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, green islands with white sandy beaches appear like a mirage under the rays of the tropical sun. Though far from civilization, they attract and frighten at the same time with their unpredictability. The colorful world of fish, turtles, dolphins, and even whales frolicking in warm waters, and the unique coral reefs make it worth embarking on an unpredictable yacht trip off the coast of Australia. Thanks to the reef, the coast of Queensland boasts the largest number of safe anchorages and sheltered yacht clubs. Along the rocky coast and sandy beaches, only the mouths of the rivers serve as natural harbors.

Yacht Charter in Australia

The east coast of Queensland, specifically Airlie Beach, offers yacht charters.

Nearest Airports in Australia

Brisbane International Airport (BNE) and Sydney International Airport (SYD) are the nearest airports to the yacht charter location.

Features of Yachting in Australia

Yachting in Australia is recommended for experienced yachtsmen due to the high level of difficulty. The area is characterized by tidal waters, strong ocean currents, strong winds, rocky shores, gently sloping ocean waves, and difficult seabed topography. Safe and secure moorings and marinas are located along the east and southeast coasts, though navigation can be challenging. However, every island, reef, and passage is well-marked on the region’s nautical charts.

The best time for yachting in Australia is from August to October and from February to May (local spring and autumn). The southeast coast of Australia has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and rainy, mild winters. The air temperature from November to April is around 25-27 degrees Celsius, while the water temperature ranges from 20-25 degrees Celsius. South and southeast trade winds typically prevail at 20-25 knots, and showers are likely.

Australia Yachting Route from Airlie Beach

A 7-day itinerary for a yacht trip around the Whitsunday Islands off the east coast of Australia from Airlie Beach is available. It includes a detailed description of anchorages with GPS coordinates and distances (in miles) for daily sailings on the islands of the Coral Sea in Australia. The route covers 95 nautical miles and includes stopovers at Airlie Beach, South Mall Island, Hook Island, Whitsunday Island, Shaw Island, Hamilton Island, and Shute Harbor.

Queensland is the most popular and famous of the six Australian states. The state’s popularity is attributed to the fact that most of its local tourist attractions are “invented” by nature itself: the best beaches, breathtaking mountain systems, and a series of beautiful waterfalls. The famous Great Barrier Reef, stretching in the Coral Sea along the northeast coast of the state, and the Whitsunday Islands are the main attractions of Queensland. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the largest coral systems in the world, and it can be seen even from space. The reef is made up of billions of coral polyps, the smallest microorganisms. It is the largest formation in the world created by living organisms. In the north, it is almost continuous, while in the south, it breaks up into groups of separate reefs, in some places receding from the coast by 300 km.

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An inexhaustible source of adventure, Australia is the quintessential superyacht destination. Overflowing with iconic destinations that bask in the country’s infectious laid-back style, it is no wonder Australia is an enduring favourite for sport, adventure and natural wonders.

 With an eclectic mix of unique experiences, there are memories to be made in Australia that simply cannot be found anywhere else. Escape to a country that in one moment will leave you in awe at its untouched natural beauty, and the next throw you into the very heart of the some of the world’s most exhilarating events. Beaches are more than a spectacular blend of sand and sea in this colourful country; they’re a lifestyle and inhabit every piece of Australia’s coastal character, from the boho fashion of the locals to the delicious seafood cuisine served in waterfront restaurants.

Australia boasts an all-year-round cruising calendar, outstanding tourism experiences and world-renowned refit and maintenance facilities that welcome the global superyacht fleet. For those willing to indulge their inner hedonist, Australia is the ultimate superyacht playground.

Unique experiences, all-year-round

Summer and Winter cruising seasons afford Australia an irresistible outdoor spirit that lasts 365 days a year – rather fortunate given the abundance of experiences that await…

A country surrounded by water, Australia is a superyacht haven. Ranging from unspoilt, secluded stretches of glowing white sands to towel-strewn golden paradises and rough surfing havens, beach-lovers will never be disappointed here. Diversity reigns supreme in this huge island nation, where a cruising itinerary can encompass an amazing range of sights not found anywhere else in the world.

From the stunning coral reefs of Queensland, to the spectacular waterways of New South Wales and the crocodile-filled waterholes of the Northern Territory, Australia is a truly unique yachting experience. The kaleidoscopic colours of the Great Barrier Reef are the pinnacle of any diver’s fantasy. From Port Douglas down to Bundaberg stretches 300,000 square kilometres of coral cays, brimming with marine treasures and exquisite sea life. There is simply no better destination for water-based activities.

Not all of the adventure is concentrated at sea. Step inland and discover Australia’s diverse flora and fauna, along with a rich Aboriginal culture. Stop off to play with kangaroos, koalas and wombats or sample fine wines at one of Australia’s exemplary vineyards. The rugged beauty of The Kimberley and Tropical North Queensland presents the opportunity to learn something new. Immerse yourself in 50,000-year-old Aboriginal rock art, brush up on your bush tucker skills or get an awe-inspiring perspective of it all from the sky.

For those who can’t stay too long away from the hustle and bustle of a city, world-class marina facilities in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne can take you right back into the action. Sydney is perfect for a long weekend of luxury comforts, fine dining, and high-end shopping. New Year’s Eve onboard a superyacht with the backdrop of Sydney’s Opera House and Harbour Bridge is certainly one for every owner’s bucket list. Head down to Melbourne, the events capital, for some of the world’s best events. From the Harbour, you are a short tender cruise from the major sporting events held throughout the year, including the Grand Prix, Melbourne Cup and Australian Open. Alternatively, a short walk down the newly renovated dockside will bring you to the Marvel Stadium, where leading artists flock to perform.

Indulge in infinite luxury

No matter where in the country your itinerary may take you, Australia’s highlife is never far away.

Premium superyacht marinas scattered across the islands lead into luxurious five-star resorts, leaving your yacht in good care while you delve into an authentic barefoot island retreat. Ideal for groups carrying a wide demographic, the Whitsunday Islands offer everything from chic beach glamour to high-octane water sports.

Should you wish to venture into Australia’s richly diverse regions, the Luxury Lodges of Australia will welcome you in sumptuous style. A collection of the finest lodges and camps around Australia, Luxury Lodges offers over 250 individual experiences and activities that connect guests to Australia’s most breath-taking locations, unlocking their curiosity and adventure-seeking spirit. The standards of comfort and service in Australia’s high-end heritage sites are parallel to that of a stay onboard one of the finest superyachts. Whether overlooking the Ningaloo Reef on Australia’s West Coast, staying in the world-renowned Barossa Valley wine region in Southern Australia or dining underneath the iconic Ayers Rock in the World Heritage listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, the Lodges deliver a truly special experience.

If you prefer not to stray too far from the natural playground of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns and the Whitsunday Islands offer a selection of high-end luxury resorts. Surrounded by a bewitching blend of sublime landscapes, intriguing marine life and infinitely perfect anchorages, the tropical coast marinas offer something for every superyacht party. Superyacht owners have enthused that being able to explore the coastal towns without the need for a security detail has added a special touch to their Australian exploits.

World-class superyacht facilities

Nowhere else in the world can a superyacht sit so detached and isolated yet still be within a short cruise from premier, state-of-the-art shipyard facilities. Australia has a thriving refit and maintenance industry that has benefitted recently from significant investment to cater to larger vessels, meaning no project is too complex.

All along the East Coast there is an array of shipyards that constantly makes sure the South Pacific superyacht fleet is well serviced and pristine. The capabilities available are not to be understated. In Cairns, the world’s largest Mobile Boat Hoist at BSE Maritime Solutions gives the area significant pulling, and lifting, power. The City can accommodate superyachts of up to 140m in length, while highly experienced agents take great care in providing everything needed for a seamless transition from or to life at sea. Cairns itself provides the perfect setting for a superyacht homeport, situated between the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, two World Heritage listed natural wonders.

Queensland’s vibrant South East region boasts a similarly impressive offering. The well-established facilities in Brisbane and the Gold Coast have given the green light to significant investments as they prepare for an influx of visiting superyachts. Rivergate Marina & Shipyard has its own prominent international reputation, having completed over 250 superyacht projects since opening in 2006. Rivergate’s positioning on the Brisbane River provides easy access to both the bustling city and the immaculate cruising grounds of Australia and the South Pacific.

The Australia Marine Complex in Henderson, Western Australia is home to Echo Yachts and Silver Yachts, both multi-award-winning superyacht builders with glowing international reputations. The delivery of 84m trimaran White Rabbit by Echo Yachts in 2018 earned worldwide acclaim for reimagining the possibilities of comfort and efficiency onboard a superyacht. Superyacht projects undertaken in Australia not only benefit from the thousands of specialised trades that surround each facility and the historic expertise in aluminium, but also from the significant exchange rate advantage of the Australian Dollar.

New possibilities

With the intimacy of a small island and the might of a first world country, Australia is the South Pacific superyacht hub with a perfect balance to ensure there is never a dull moment. Some of the world’s largest superyachts frequent the sanctuary of Tropical North Queensland’s marinas as a homeport and gateway to the excitement of the South Pacific islands. Hollywood star Will Smith became the first to officially charter a foreign flagged superyacht in Australia following the passage of new legislation in 2019. Since then, interest in superyacht charters has blossomed from the tropical northern areas down to the isolated splendour of Tasmania.

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Well, Hello, Old Friend: A Cruise Up Australia’s East Coast

• By Kevin Green
• April 19, 2022

Our Contessa 25, Skyebird , lay at its mooring in Sydney Harbour, looking forlorn after my year trapped overseas amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally back in the Land of Oz, I rowed out to her, my mind filled with thoughts of sailing. It was January—midsummer in our Southern Hemisphere—and my wife, Carole, and I had just enough time to prepare for a voyage north to escape the Australian winter.

Skyebird is a former racer-cruiser that knew Australia’s waters well in its racing heyday. Australia’s east coast is the country’s most popular sailing area—and the most populated part—so there is access to services along the way. Stretching from the edge of the Southern Ocean to the Torres Strait, along an island larger than Europe, the cruising region is one that I have enjoyed several times. It’s best broken into two legs: Sydney to Brisbane, and then the tropical leg north to the Torres Strait and the Indian Ocean. The route is pristine cruising with relatively few other yachts. 

After several months of preparations, we set out in April to cruise the first leg. We gave ourselves six weeks to sail in daylight or overnight, according to the weather. The southern half of the region is more temperate, and the tropical northern part is in the hurricane zone from November to February. The storms can be powerful; Cyclone Debbie, which destroyed much of the Whitsunday Islands charter fleet in March 2017, had the force of a Category 3 hurricane. 

Even after this destruction, the beauty remains. I think of the Whitsundays like the Caribbean in terms of weather, as well as quiet beaches, deep anchorages and, offshore, the beginning of the Great Barrier Reef’s sheltered cruising ground all the way to the Torres Strait. 

Settling into the cruise

Aboard Skyebird , the day had worn on and the wind had lightened, so I hanked on the genoa instead of the working jib for us to reach our destination of Broken Bay before nightfall. Motoring was not really an option because we had only an 8 hp outboard in the transom well. Broken Bay is the Sydney region’s main cruising ground—a network of estuaries, rivers and creeks that offer good shelter. As we sailed in, we passed the busy yachting area known as Pittwater, which is home to several yacht clubs and marinas. 

We glided into our favorite anchorage as the sun fell below the western hills. Later, whisky in hand and our fleeces on, we sat on deck enjoying the evening song of the kookaburras’ laughter. With the strong Australian sun having charged our battery from the two solar panels, I used my laptop to check the weather for the next leg, a 50-nautical-mile sail to the major port of Newcastle. 

Early the next morning, we hoisted sail before sunrise and glided seaward past the winking lighthouse at Barrenjoey Head. With safety in mind, I used my phone app to register our voyage with the Marine Safety Authority. At the tiller, Carole enjoyed the thrill of sailing Skyebird over the swells as the breeze filled in to about 15 knots and white spume flew from the wave crests.

Pilotage on Australia’s east coast is relatively benign at first glance: short tidal range, stable weather and lots of sunshine. But there are hazards, such as the strong, south-flowing East Australian Current. It’s a lee shore when strong easterlies blow, and many of the anchorages are guarded by shifting sandbars. Australian surfers are often world champions for a good reason.

The famous southerly wind caught up with us about 10 miles south of Newcastle and then backed easterly. On the foredeck, I wrestled down the genoa for the working jib as we sped along at 7 knots. Our inshore track was now dangerous, so we added some offing as the gusts grew to 25 and then 30 knots. A second reef was put into the mainsail. Slab reefing, gooseneck bullhorns and a topping lift had been my major changes to the rig, and they were all essentials on this voyage, along with using the heavy topping lift as a running backstay. Conditions worsened, so I worried about the east-facing entrance to Newcastle Harbour, a narrow gap known for cross seas. On approach, we followed an arriving coal boat and surfed in on the breaking swells as night fell over the town. 

As we settled into our berth at the Newcastle Yacht Club, a neighbor ­congratulated us on having the ­smallest oceangoing vessel there, beating his home-built Vertue 26 by a mere 6 inches. The next day, he kindly drove me to Whitworths, which is Australia’s main chandlery chain, and then to Jaycar (kind of like RadioShack) for electrical components. 

But we weren’t in civilization for long. A few days later, we headed north, sailing wing on wing along the seemingly endless beaches of the Stockton Bight. Light southerlies propelled us toward the towering headlands that marked the entrance to the next main cruising ground, Port Stephens. Larger than Sydney Harbour and with hidden estuaries and creeks, it attracts cruising and racing sailors. The main town, Nelson Bay, and the general region were once considered for Australia’s capital, but it’s a terribly shallow area where channels must be religiously followed, or sandbars and rocks await your keel. 

Approaching the heads at Port Stephens can be done only in mild conditions, so we skirted the southern headland below the lighthouse, then studied our Raymarine echo sounder. The numbers fell 6 feet before we found a public mooring at Salamander Bay during low tide. These moorings are meant to be for 24-hour use, but a couple of days can usually be spent on them. 

After rowing ashore, we celebrated our arrival in port from the balcony of the Game Fish Club with some gamefish on our plates, no doubt courtesy of the high-end angling boats that hunt the black marlin in the area. 

A relaxing stretch

The next day, a swim at the beach roused us just in time to watch the racing fleet pass. The four main marinas were packed for the annual Sail Port Stephens event. A grand-prix division of TP52s scythed past our boat, and I considered joining one as crew. My wife read my thoughts and reminded me that I was in cruise mode for this trip, so I ignominiously went grocery shopping instead.

Our next destination was only a 15-mile sail yet one of the most sublime, into the Broughton Archipelago. Guarded on all sides by shoals, some uncharted, its fortress-­type exterior deters most yachties, but I knew it well. As we came under the lee of its north side, the water revealed myriad browns (shoals), sky blue (sand) and deep blue (clear water). A shark swam by—the region is a gray shark nursery—as a muttonbird swooped in toward its burrow. Then, sheer bliss as the engine stopped, its sound replaced by the piping of sooty oystercatchers and the quizzical look of cormorants drying their wings on a nearby rock.

The Broughton Archipelago is a national park, but it used to be a fishing settlement. The Gumbaynggirr and other aboriginal tribes would have paddled the 2-mile mainland crossing when the surf was low. The mainland itself has towering gum and eucalyptus trees (the largest one in the entire state of New South Wales is nearby). The place is beautiful today, although its history is bloody; it’s the site of one of the worst aboriginal massacres in this bloodstained land. The Fatal Shore by Robert Hughes is essential reading for those interested in the formation of white Australia. 

On Skyebird , the sweet scent from our methylated stove told me that Carole was preparing dinner while I landed a few zebrafish with the rod. After a run ashore, we knew that lingering at Broughton with a usable southerly was not wise, so the following day, we threaded through the reefs with a pod of 100 dolphins escorting us. “Look, a double-finned one!” Carole shouted, pointing toward one that turned out to be a large, gray nurse shark checking out our trailing lure—which I quickly retrieved. 

A few challenges

Just as well, because we were ­approaching one of the major ­headlands, Sugar Loaf Point. It’s strewn with shoals where sudden swells break. We could see them ahead, but I could see a few more were hidden from eyesight when I zoomed in on my Navionics smartphone chart and checked the Blue Charts on my Garmin plotter. 

Even knowing the area well, we were shocked as a huge swell reared up right beside us, just as a shoal, or bommie, revealed itself. Chastened, we carefully sailed beyond the lighthouse. Just like when I’ve raced this coast, we kept in low to avoid the 3-knot current, but it’s a dangerous game to rock-hop. Ahead, Skeleton Rocks bared its teeth at us in passing, just as the afternoon wind died. Avoiding drifting nearer required using the Mercury outboard, so with a plume of two-stroke smoke, we plodded along. The sun bit down on us, and we grew disgruntled, chomping on egg sandwiches while I thought of a plan. 

Motoring was not a long-term option on Skyebird , so I reluctantly resolved to put in at the river entrance of Forster, yet another sandbarred hamlet. However, with no easterly swell, that bar was quiet as we motored over it against the strong outflowing tide, dodging prawn trawlers as we went. The channel of only 50 meters wide in parts held our attention, as did the mere 1 meter under our keel. 

Finally, we lassoed a piling and came to a semigracious halt near the fishermen’s cooperative. Later, my worry about depth proved correct as I watched the full moon semidry us out, causing me to leap off and secure the mast to a nearby power pole. Our slightly drooping bow revealed the one major flaw in the Contessa 25 design: a cutaway angled forefoot on the keel, unlike the flat forefoot of the English Contessa 26 that regularly takes the ground in the tidal UK.

The next day, the town’s plentiful ­facilities—including Woolworths, a gas station, and a club where I enjoyed a draft VB, the most typical of Aussie beers—were easily within walking distance. 

Leaving Forster with only a light southerly felt like déjà vu , so again, we had to consider shortening our sea time. Like all diligent sailors, I did have a secondary port in mind—in fact, the only one: the commercial fishing harbor at Crowdy Head. 

This headland, like many Anglo-Saxon ones, was named by Capt. James Cook when he surveyed this coast in 1770. Drifting windless would only mean the current sending us southward, so we carefully glided into the shallow harbor with only inches below our keel, right alongside the jetty. 

Later, I threw out our smaller, second anchor to work as side rope—an old technique from my commercial-fishing days in Scotland, where 30-foot tides required creative mooring. The view of the Three Brothers mountains to the north was enjoyed with a Dimple whisky. My son and I regularly surfed the beaches around here, using the farm of a family friend. Famously, Australian novelist Kylie Tennant had a writing hut here and fondly wrote about some of that farming family in her book The Man on the Headland .

The next day saw us running north for our first overnight part of the trip, something that Carole was apprehensive about. With no ports of refuge on this leg, my weather planning had been done carefully, but it didn’t prevent strong winds and sail changes under the tall Smoky Cape. We were glad to see the lights of the all-weather port and town of Coffs Harbour and its good marina. It’s about the cheapest on the coast, and we stayed for 10 days, enjoying the restaurants and our walks up Muttonbird Island to view the nesting shearwaters.

A rough end to the journey

With the planned departure of my lovely wife, the next 200-mile leg was done alone. It began in big swells and wind as I caught the end of a gale to propel me northward before the forecasted lull. However, conditions were heavy and broke the Raymarine Tiller Pilot linkage. As I surfed down 12-foot swells with only the mainsail up, I considered my options. 

There was only one that seemed worthy: North Solitary Island, where I’d heard about fishermen sheltering. With night falling, I closed its wild coast and then sharply turned east into a tiny cove on its northern end. This rocky perch in deep water afforded me enough shelter to rebuild the shattered wooden linkage, and allowed some fitful rest before the long leg that would take me to my final destination on the Gold Coast in the state of Queensland. 

Contrary to the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts for the next day, conditions again worsened considerably as I passed the one possible shelter at the rivermouth town of Yamba, with its breaking sandbar entrance. More sail changes ensued, and then the ship traffic began. I’d been monitoring the ships via my Marine Traffic phone app with a good 4G signal, but there is a delay in this system. And, of course, an app is no substitute for proper shipboard AIS. So I found myself dodging coal ships and some unidentified vessels, including one that I thought was a barge tow, causing me real anxiety. 

Then the gale hit just as my autopilot batteries expired. Thankfully, I had prepared for this potential problem by catnapping in preparation for helm time. 

The worst of the gale came 20 miles off Australia’s most easterly point, Cape Byron, an often-feared place with the strongest of the East Australian Current. I trimmed the jib enough to allow Skyebird to self-steer with the helm lashed. Gaining some respite below from the rain and wind, I recovered, but I knew that the current had gotten me. I battled to douse the main, and with no autopilot, I tacked toward the powerful Cape Byron Lighthouse beam and, at last, beyond the river towns of Nambucca Heads and Tweed Heads, and the final obstacle, the shoals on the south end of the Gold Coast.

With daylight, the towering skyscrapers of this Las Vegas-by-the-sea welcomed me shoreward and provided some blessed relief from King Neptune’s realm.

Kevin Green is a sailor and yachting ­journalist based in Sydney.

The C ontessa 25 

A quarter-tonner penned by Australian America’s Cup designer Peter Cole, the Contessa 25 has sweet sheerlines, a semilong and encapsulated lead keel, and a sizable skeg/rudder that, together with a 44.5 percent ballast ratio, makes it a stiff boat. There’s a fairly tall deck-stepped rig of about 36 feet with an inner forestay and a sail plan that has 120 percent genoa plus a symmetrical spinnaker. This boat’s class dominated the Sydney racing scene in the 1970s with 50 hulls launched. The hull is solid GRP that’s thickly laid, and all the bulkheads and cupboards are glassed. The mast has a 4-inch-thick wooden archway connected to the keel. 

The design is, in a word, sturdy. In 1972, one Australian magazine declared after the sea trial that its team would take the Contessa 25 around the world. Race results made some sailors famous, such as aspiring boatbuilder Bruce Ritchie. Bruce Fairlie, at East Coast Yachts in Gosford, built the Contessa 25 as a scaled-down version of the Cole 43 that won Admiral’s Cups and Sydney-Hobart races, and completed record-breaking circumnavigations. 

The deck was simply laid out with a tiller, self-draining cockpit, and large forehatch for spinnaker hoists. Inside, the Contessa was highly customized for each owner. Skyebird (most likely Hull No. 48) has a V-berth and quarter-berth, plus a third that is accessed by removing the table. It is an ideal cruising layout for my wife and me because there’s a large cockpit lazarette instead of a second quarter-berth. 

The standard galley came with a two-burner Maxie stove—the same type I retrofitted to Skyebird —along with a sink. Sharing the V-berth on some hulls was the Bryden Boy head. A useful fitting was the removable jerry-can water tank, handy for Junior Offshore Group racing. 

The standard inboard engine was a 5 hp gas-powered Albin with a feathering propeller. A diesel Volvo Penta MD1 could also be fitted.

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Better Sailing

Best Sailing Destinations in Australia

Australia’s coastline runs for almost 30,000 kilometers if all of the islands are included. The area of the east coast from Sydney in the south to Cairns in the north, which is without a doubt one of the world’s premier cruising grounds, is by far the most popular place for sailboats. Summer and fall are the ideal seasons for most Australians to spend time on the water. Despite the fact that Australia is known for being the best destination for water sports, sailing in Australia is a once-in-a-lifetime event. When traveling by boat, Australia has a wealth of destinations to offer. So, in this article, I will list the best sailing destinations in order for you to experience the South Pacific’s stunning landscape, warmth, and beauty.

Cyclone Season and Weather in the South Pacific

The Australian cyclone season runs from November to April, but few cyclones take place in November. Even tiny tropical storms might become significant cyclones around this time. Their power and direction might shift without warning. Landslides, mudslides, and flash flooding are all caused by cyclones, wreaking havoc on infrastructure. Communication, transportation, emergency help, medical treatment, etc, can get damaged from cyclones. In some places, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons, monsoons, and tornadoes pose a major threat. In others, you’ll need to prepare for harsh winter weather. But, as a sailor, you should avoid sailing in Australia during the cyclone season.

The voyage to Australia is normally highly predictable. Weather windows are longer in the latter half of the southern hemisphere spring (September – November). This, of course, implies that you can change your port of arrival at any time to deal with the conditions you encounter. In mid-September to early November, favorable weather periods of roughly 5 -6 days for sailing from New Caledonia to Bundaberg (the shortest distance to a port of entry) are common.

Those sailing in northern Australian seas will hear about the northwest monsoon, which brings strong winds and rain. This is the wind pattern that dominates tropical Australia’s wet season. Rain and thunderstorms of high intensity are likely, especially around the ITCZ (intertropical convergence zone), where trade winds mix with monsoonal winds. These thunderstorms are almost always sure to create a terrific light show. But, they are normally far less severe than thunderstorms that occur in the mid-latitudes. A mild to fresh breeze is typical of the northwest monsoon. The northwest monsoon, on the other hand, can become gale-force if a tropical low occurs. Or, if the northern hemisphere’s high-pressure system is exceptionally powerful.

>>Also Read: Australia Sailing Guide (With Itinerary)

The Whitsundays, Queensland

This spot is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It is regarded as one of the world’s seven natural wonders. Whether kicking back on the deck or deep-sea diving, you might catch sight of sea turtles, colorful fish, and multi-colored corals. Sailors flock to the area, and all you have to do is moor your boat and begin exploring the islands. You will find the location to be a perfect spot to unwind since it is considered one of the most popular boating locations.

Moreton Bay, Queensland

On Brisbane’s doorstep, this bay will greet you with its beauty and appeal. Moreton Bay is a large waterway on Australia’s eastern coast, covering more than 1500 square kilometers and dotted with islands. The North and South Stradbroke Islands, as well as Moreton Island and Fraser Island, combine to produce the world’s largest sand formation. If you enjoy diving and snorkeling, Moreton Bay is a terrific place to go. It has a variety of marine life to see, including dolphins, humpback whales, and turtles. With over 100 shipwrecks you can enjoy wonderful beach resorts while snorkeling at various local shipwreck sites.

Great Sandy Strait, Queensland

The Great Sandy Strait, which runs between the Sunshine Coast and Bundaberg – and hence between the mainland and Fraser Island – is a beautiful and scenic place ideal for sailing. The water is crystal clear, similar to the Whitsundays, and it’s one of the best places to explore by sailboat. Dugongs, dolphins, and turtles are among the species that you will probably see in the Great Sandy Strait. Lastly, note that the place is a protected marine sanctuary.

Pittwater Bay, New South Wales

The Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House’s stunning white sails have long piqued travelers’ interest. Aside from historic architectural treasures, there are some magnificent sights to behold from a boat’s unique perspective position. Pittwater is one of many peaceful bays where you can escape the bustle of Sydney’s gorgeous city. It is a calmer but no less stunning paradise just 45 minutes from the downtown business district. With low swell, consistent winds, and calm waters, the sailing grounds near Pittwater are sure to take you on a relaxing sailing voyage. There are numerous motels and eateries on the beach for an overnight stay. A picturesque stroll up to the historic Barrenjoey Lighthouse is also a must!

Lord Howe Island, New South Wales

This low-key island provides sailors with the opportunity to meet unique animals while avoiding the crowds of other major tourist attractions. The island, which is a “biological ark,” can give peace and quiet for people who don’t want to sail the busy waters of some of the more popular sites. Lord Howe Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the number of persons who can visit the island at the same time is limited. This means you’ll have the lagoon’s coral gardens to yourself or the entire island to yourself!

>>Also Read: How Long Does it Take to Sail Around the World?

Port Stephens, New South Wales

Port Stephens’ stunning blue bay is a fantastic area to sail. The bay is two and a half hours north of Sydney and is known as “The Blue Water Paradise” for obvious reasons. The area is home to whales and dolphins and offers approximately 30 kilometers of beautiful, white-sand beaches. In Port Stephens, there is a sailing experience to suit everyone’s tastes, so make the trip and enjoy this unique adventure!

Lake Macquarie, New South Wales

Lake Macquarie is one of New South Wales’ most popular sailing destinations. On its east side, the lake merges with the Pacific Ocean, just 150 kilometers north of Sydney. Sandy inlets and isolated bays dot Lake Macquarie, making it ideal for sailing, swimming, and snorkeling. Lake Macquarie is four times the size of Sydney Harbour and is extremely calm, making it an ideal sailing location in Australia.

Corroboree Billabong, Northern Territory

Corroboree Billabong, part of the Mary River Wetlands, is one of the top Australian boating places for observing local fauna species. As you cruise the length of this billabong, expect to observe the worlds largest bask of crocodiles, as well as more than 280 bird species, water buffalos, and wild pigs. Corroboree Billabong is without a doubt one of northern Australia’s most famous barramundi fishing grounds, as well as a must-see tropical wetland home to a diverse range of birds and animals. A trip to Corroboree should be on everyone’s bucket list if they’re visiting the Top End. Corroboree Billabong, along with the nearby Rock Hole and Hardies Lagoon, is actually a series of long, periodically interconnected waterholes and stretches of river course that effectively separate the Mary River Bridge Pool and the freshwater side of Shady Camp during long dry seasons.

Darwin, Northern Territory

Darwin Harbour is a major sailing hub in the Northern Territory. You will explore this tropical estuary’s mangrove-lined waters, which are home to fish, crocodiles, turtles, and the occasional dugong or snubfin dolphin. The Bynoe Harbour Marine Park, a favorite of locals and visitors alike, is just a short sail from Darwin. Bynoe is good for fishing and exploration because of its many small islands and dry reefs. The secluded beaches of the Melville and Bathurst Islands (Tiwi Islands) and the Cobourg Peninsula are located along the magnificent coastline north of Darwin. The Cobourg Peninsula is 2 days sailing from Darwin and offers some of the world’s best reef and mangrove views. In this unspoiled marine ecosystem, barramundi, barracuda, and queenfish are just a few of the species that spring out of the water.

Bruny Island, Tasmania

Bruny Island, off the coast of Hobart, consists of two islands connected by The Neck, a tiny isthmus. It’s a popular weekend getaway for beachgoers and foodies. The island is home to a rocky, largely undeveloped landscape that’s both dramatic and gorgeous. Take advantage of the island’s thriving gourmet food and wine sector, which includes wonderful walking trails and pristine swimming, surfing, and sailing. The Bligh Museum of Pacific Exploration tells the stories of the Aboriginal people, sailors, and explorers who shaped Bruny Island’s history.

>>Also Read: How Much Does it Cost to Sail Around the World?

East Coast, Tasmania

St Helens in the northeast, Coles Bay in the middle, and Eaglehawk Neck in the southeast are three of the most popular destinations on the east coast. Georges Bay is amazing for observing marine life, with sheltered water and a plethora of fish such as bream, trevally, salmon, kingfish, and other species. Coles Bay is on the western side of the Hazards, a granite mountain range with a wild ocean on one side and sheltered seas on the other. Coles Bay is a stunning part of Tasmania that is a haven for cruising boaters and wilderness junkies alike. Eaglehawk Neck is steeped in Tasmania’s convict history, with Port Arthur and its prison artifacts top on most visitors’ to-do lists. You will certainly enjoy the awe-inspiring cliffs, which provide a spectacular perspective from the water.

Gippsand Lakes, Victoria

A voyage around the Gippsland Lakes will allow you to take in the breathtaking scenery of these waterways. The cliff regions of Mitchell and Tambo are very lovely for sailing. The Barrier Landing, which separates the Bass Strait from Hoptoun Channel, is a great place to meet the local boaties. Channel Side has a fantastic beach and a public jetty, and it’s only a 2-minute walk to the Ninety Mile Beach. Barbecues, public jetties, and walking trails with a wealth of natural animals and fauna are available at Sperm Whale Head and Rotamah Island. You should also visit Bunga Arm, which offers spectacular sunsets!

Saint Kilda, Victoria

If you’ve heard of Saint Kilda, you’re probably aware that it’s known for its beaches and waters. Local boaters flock to this mooring spot because they know they’ll find calm waters, magnificent vistas, and a terrific arrival on land thanks to the many attractions Saint Kilda has to offer. When sailing there, keep in mind any Saint Kilda festivals or events that may take place. Due to the popularity of the region, a calendar of events on the beach and waterways is constantly updated. Royal Brighton, Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron, and St Kilda Marina are the three main mooring berths in Saint Kilda.

Yorke Peninsula, South Australia

Between the Spencer Gulf and the Gulf of St Vincent sits the York Peninsula. Exploring old mining towns, national parks, and fishing villages is a great way for boaters to get a taste of history. Beautiful beaches and coastal views from the ocean are amazing. The gulf waters of the Yorke Peninsula are also ideal for recreational fishing. Moreover, you can find a great anchoring spot in the area’s numerous sheltered bays.

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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The Top 10 Destinations For Sailing in Australia

Looking for the best places to sail in Australia? Now has never been a better time than to set sail on a new adventure.

For most Aussies, summer and autumn calls for the perfect season to spend time on the water.

Although we’re renowned for being the best destination for water activities, sailing in Australia is an experience like no other.

So whether you’re looking for a sailing holiday or simply just the top sailing destinations, these top 10 places to sail in Australia will have your weekends sorted!

When is the best time to sail in Australia? Thanks to the balmy weather and the calming of tides, the best cruising and sailing season in Australia, more specifically southern Australia, is in January, February and March of every year.

The Best Places to Sail in New South Wales:

Port Jackson

Port Jackson is found within the waters of Sydney Harbour, and where better to explore Sydney’s famed sights than from the harbour itself. These sailing trips venture around the harbour and are a spectacular experience for both tourists and locals alike. Thanks to the warm, blissful weather paired with beautiful scenery, Port Jackson makes for one of the top sailing experiences in Australia.

Lake Macquarie

Lake Macquarie is one of the top sailing destinations of New South Wales. Located just 150 kilometres north of Sydney, the lake connects with the Pacific Ocean on its east side. Lake Macquarie is pooled with sandy inlets and secluded bays perfect for sailing, swimming and snorkeling. Four times as big as Sydney Harbour and extremely quiet, Lake Macquarie is a perfect sailing destination in Australia.

Port Stephens

The sparkling blue bay of Port Stephens is a brilliant place to sail. Named “The Blue Water Paradise” for obvious reasons, the bay is located tw0-and-a-half hours north of Sydney. The bay has over 30 kilometres of clean, white, sandy beaches and is home to whales and dolphins. Sailing in Port Stephens is a brilliant experience, and a fantastic holiday destination this sailing season. There is a sailing experience for all tastes in Port Stephens, so be sure to make the trip and enjoy this marine experience.

The Best Places to Sail in Victoria:

Gippsland Lakes

Under a four hour drive from Melbourne’s CBD or just over two hours from the heart of Gippsland lies one of Victoria’s largest and renowned network of Gippsland Lakes. Covering an area that stretches out to 354 kilometres, Gippsland Lakes is conveniently comprised of Lake Wellington, Lake King and Lake Victoria. Taking the title as one of the best places to sail in Victoria, sailing enthusiasts will feel anchored thanks to Gippsland Lakes’ circumference of marshes, lagoons and more.

The Best Places to Sail in Tasmania:

D'entrecasteaux Channel

Located between mainland Tasmania and Bruny Island – a two hour sail from Hobart and home to miles of sheltered water – D’entrecasteaux Channel is our top pick of Australia’s top sailing destinations. The channel is filled to the brim with secluded beaches and there are often dolphin, whale and seal sightings in the area. On specific tours you can learn how to sail and immerse yourself in all things sailing as you take the helm. If you’re looking to experience sailing and take in the beautiful blue waters of Tasmania, be sure to visit the D’entrecasteaux Channel.

The Best Places to Sail in South Australia:

Kangaroo Island

Reachable by ferry, if you love to sail, then why not get the catamaran started and head off to one of South Australia’s favourite sailing destinations in Australia? Although it may be small in size, Kangaroo Island is mighty in all that it offers for cruising and sailing enthusiasts alike. With the island renowned for its protected nature reserves, on your next sailing adventure you and your crew could come up close and personal to native wildlife species and some of the most striking coastal rock formations.

The Best Places to Sail in Western Australia:

Rottnest Island

Located 19 kilometres off the coast of Fremantle, Rottnest Island is Western Australia’s very own island getaway. The island is Australia’s premier boating destination. You can catch a ferry to the island, but why not sail to the island in luxury instead? Sail to and around the island on a luxury catamaran and enjoy snorkeling, as well as plenty of other activities around the island. This is an incredible experience, so if you ever find yourself around Western Australia, be sure to put time aside to sail to Rottnest Island.

The Best Places to Sail in Queensland

Moreton Bay

Moreton Bay is a gorgeous sailing destination on Queensland’s southern coast near Brisbane. Found between mainland Australia, Moreton and Stradbroke Island, the area is the ideal destination for water activities and has become a hub for boating, diving and swimming enthusiasts. Making for one of the best sailing holidays in Australia, here you’ll be able to stop at a variety of destinations including both islands and the Tangalooma Wrecks.

The Whitsundays

Meet the gorgeous Whitsundays, one of Australia’s classic summer holiday destinations. The islands around The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland are the perfect holiday destination, and you’re bound to have heard someone rave about how great Hamilton Island is! One of the best ways to explore this gorgeous part of Australia is on a boat, and sailing trips are a hugely popular attraction. There’s an array of sailing options to choose from: whether you want just a day on the water, or to stay several nights on a boat, there is surely a sailing holiday for you.

Great Sandy Strait

The Great Sandy Strait, located in between the Sunshine Coast and Bundaberg – between the mainland and Fraser Island – is a gorgeous and picturesque area, perfect for sailing. The water is incredibly clear, much like the Whitsundays, and makes for one of the most perfect places to get out on a yacht and relax for the day. The marine wildlife you can potentially come across in the Great Sandy Strait include whales, dugongs, dolphins and turtles, hence why the Strait is described as a marine sanctuary.

Love exploring the outdoors? Then get ready to dive into the 12 best snorkelling spots around Australia . And for some island-hopping inspiration, be sure to add these 10 beautiful islands around Australia to your 2021 bucket list .

We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.

Feature image: Photographed by Evan Smogor. Image via Unsplash.

This article was first published on november 8 2018. it was updated and edited by hunter and bligh on february 18 2021..

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63  Crewed Luxury Yachts for Charter in Australia

Australia Yacht Charter

A constellation of wonder, an Australia yacht charter offers guests a bewitching blend of possibilities: from soaking up the ambiance of ever-twinkling cityscapes like Sydney or Melbourne to reconnecting with nature on a humbling, almost visceral level in the Great Barrier Reef.  Mesmerizing, spellbinding, spectacular — there is simply no end of superlatives to describe the magic of Australia.

Australia Yacht Booking Guide:

Australia Yacht Charters: At a Glance

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The sheer size and vast expanse of coastline that Australia has to offer makes it perfect for a luxury yacht charter vacation. Renowned for its abundance of watersports opportunities, from action-packed jet skiing and water skiing to scuba diving in the vast underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, it is one of the most comprehensive and exciting cruising destinations in the world. 

• A diving and snorkeling paradise From the incomparable Great Barrier Reef which has more than 1,500 types of fish to the aquatic delights of Ningaloo Reef and the countless bays to cherry-pick from.
• A melange of awe-inspiring landscapes Australia provides yacht charter guests with a diverse range of idyllic landscapes: from shifting sands and tropical shallows to city lights and cosmopolitan thrills: the choice is all yours.
• Endless anchorages The Great Barrier Reef alone has a staggering 900 islands — whatever you're looking for from an anchorage, Australia can provide it.
• Famous, top-end superyacht marinas Jaw-dropping panoramas abound at Australia's marinas, from the magnificent Sydney Harbour to the impossibly blue shores of the Whitsundays, the country has some of the most prestigious and sought-after berths in the world.
• Wildlife wonderland Australia has a staggering array of flora and fauna: koalas, kangaroos, humpback whales, penguins, dolphins, and much more.

From Outback wilderness to sweeping sands lapped by cerulean seas, Australia provides topographical drama at its most exquisite. Below are the destinations that have seen Australia cement its status as a top superyacht hub:

Great Barrier Reef Best for : being a veritable Mecca for snorkeling and diving, mind-blowingly beautiful island-hopping, rare species, and rainforest trails.

Whitsunday Islands Best for:  impossibly perfect waters arranged in a turquoise swirl, legendary lizards, turtle spotting, isolated reefs, magical dive expeditions, and beaches so stunning they appear almost make-believe.

Sydney Best for:  laid-back luxury, atmospheric haunts, deluxe superyacht marinas, swanky nightspots, classically big, golden beaches, superb surfing opportunities

The Kimberley Best for:  its soul-stirring vistas, and the world's largest fringing reef home to deep oceanic shoals.

Melbourne Best for:  upscale eateries, high-end boutiques, exquisite wineries, picturesque bays, and an abundance of trails.

An Australian yacht charter vacation offers a mesmerizing selection of things to see and do. Here is our small selection of some of the most outstanding:

Don't Miss:

• Heart Reef : hop in a helicopter and witness this adorable heart-shaped coral composition from the skies.
• Airlie Beach : this laidback mainland gateway for the Whitsunday's is a perpetual favorite with families and a fully-fledged destination in its own right.
• Sydney Tower : reach the top of the tallest building in Sydney, some 268m above the city for incredible vistas.
• Hunter Valley : one for the oenophiles, go taste-testing in one of Australia's most revered wine districts.
• Yarra Valley : watch sunrise fall on this wonderful pastoral scene over Melbourne in a hot air balloon.
• Bungle Bungles : located within Purnululu National Park, these sublime sandstone formations in The Kimberley are a must-see.
• Matso's Brewery : sip on locally brewed mango beer at this famed brewery in The Kimberley.
• Horizontal Falls : behold the magnificent site of the flat, whitewater rapids that bulge through two lofty mountain ranges.

Offering some of the most diverse and sublime cruising grounds on the planet, Australia yacht charters are perfect for anyone seeking adrenaline-filled vacations off the beaten track. With endless itinerary options available; from diving with hammerhead sharks, scaling rocky precipices along the Kimberley coast and wine tasting in the yarra valley to dining at some of the world’s most exclusive restaurants in Sydney, this fascinating country bewitches the senses at every turn and promises a spectacular yacht vacation for anyone with a passion for adventure.

Tracing its history back almost 60,000 years, Australia boasts an impressive and storied past with cave drawings, pottery and artwork narrating its history through the centuries. The indiginous people enjoyed a peaceful coexistence until British settlers claimed possession in the 18th century and established a penal colony, dispossessing these Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islander people of their land and marginalising their communities. 

Descendants of the original settlers have now been formally recognised as custodians of this vast continent, and we continue to learn through their deep connection with the land and marvel at the astonishing and diverse landscape that acts as a siren call to anyone lucky enough to explore Australia's vast and glittering shores.  

Today, Australia is renowed for its cosmopolitan culture and vibrant nightlife, world-class diving and elite watersports activities; an alluring combination for luxury yacht charters.

A superyacht charter in Australia is without a doubt the best way to fully immerse yourself in this marine utopia, offering unparalleled access to a dizzying array of splendid stops far from the tourist trail. Unsure whether to pick a crewed motor yacht charter or a sailing yacht charter ? We've laid out the main aspects to consider before making a final decision.

Motor Yacht Charters in Australia

A crewed motor yacht charter  in Australia is the pinnacle of luxury. With five-star amenities and hotel-serviced living coupled with a completely unadulterated level of privacy and the freedom to cruise as you please, it's no wonder a motor yacht has enduring appeal. Uncover reefs, bays, and beaches of incomparable grandeur that are only accessible by boat, and experience your own private paradise.

Sailing Yacht Charters in Australia

Selecting a sailing yacht charter in Australia is the perfect choice for guests looking for a charter experience at a slower, where you will be wooed by its old-world charm. Spend leisurely days basking in the sun or dining al-fresco on your spacious deck and fully embrace being at one with nature, letting the elements guide you.

With so many options available, there’s something to suit every type of budget. For convenience we have listed the average prices for motor yacht and sailing yacht charters in the Australia below;

• For motor yacht rentals in Australia, prices can range from $81,578 to $784,092 per week, plus expenses
• For luxury sailing yacht rentals in Australia, prices can start from $43,000 weekly, plus expenses

Tax for Yacht Charters in Australia

The passage of the Special Recreational Vessels Bill 2019 has been a huge boon to Australia's superyacht sector. The legislation allows foreign-flagged superyachts to charter in Australian waters without fully importing their vessel to the country, increasing the selection of yachts available for crewed charters.

Superyachts can obtain a coastal trading temporary allowance to charter, and guests will need to pay a  10% Goods and Services Tax (GST) according to the charter's value. This will be applied on top of your charter fee, as well as any delivery or redelivery fees that are incurred.

For additional information on VAT and tax concerning your yacht charter in Australia, please consult your chosen  yacht charter broker .

Given Australia's unfathomably vast terrain, temperatures can range from temperate to tropical depending on the region, so the optimal times to visit popular yacht charter destinations can vary slightly.

• June to October is considered the best time to experience the natural wonder of the Great Barrier Reef , where yacht charterers can benefit from considerably less rainfall, which means improved diving conditions due to better water visibility.
• June to August  are the best months for seeing  The Kimberley's  celebrated waterfalls at full flow.
• When summer comes to the Whitsundays  it buzzes to life with temperatures hovering at 30 degrees, with balmy sea temperatures of between 27-28 degrees. October is the sunniest month with up to 10 hours of sunshine a day. For the glitterati, September is the optimal month to visit the Whitsundays as it's comfortably warm with less humidity, plus fewer tourists are around.
• December to February are the months when Sydney is at its liveliest and it's also widely regarded as the best time to visit: watch the city's harbor turn into a riot of color as fireworks are let off for New Year's Eve.
• November to March  are the key months to experience the pleasant climes of Melbourne .

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The Whitsundays is an invariably popular place to begin a superyacht charter in Australia, comprising a long indented ribbon of 74 islands cradled from the outer ocean by the Great Barrier Reef.  As an underwater menagerie featuring some of the most bewilderingly beautiful lifeforms, and at land level replete with barely-frequented, jungle-clad beaches that boggle the senses with their heavenliness, its allure is evident. Plus, there is a multitude of overnight anchorages at guests' disposal here.

The preferred jumping-off points for the Whitsundays are the  Coral Sea Marina and  Hamilton Island Marina . If discovering the Great Barrier Reef in all its glory first,  Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina is a preferred choice.

Though Australia certainly isn't lacking in impressive spots to start a yacht charter elsewhere: take majestic Sydney  with the world's largest natural harbor. But keep in mind there may be a smaller fleet to select from in other destinations.

sample itineraries

Discerning charterers know that a fabulous mise en scène is what brings a yacht into glorious technicolor, and Australia's throng of epic marinas certainly transforms this fantasy into a reality. Here are the Australian marinas where your experience on land will be just as rip-roaring as it is on the shimmering azul sea.

• Hamilton Island Marina: well-protected marina situated in the picture-perfect surrounds of the Great Barrier Reef, with berths available for superyachts up to 60m.
• Coral Sea Marina: this premier facility is mere minutes from Airlie Beach, a popular starting point for Whitsundays charters. Accommodates up to 520 berths for yachts up to 80m in length.
• Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina : the only place where two UNESCO World Heritage sites meet (Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest). Queensland's northernmost marina has a 135 berth capacity for yachts up to 50m.
• Cairns Marlin Marina: situated in the heart of the city and only 10 minutes from Cairns International Airport. Has 261 berths with some reserved for superyachts up to 140m.
• Sydney Superyacht Marina : luxurious on-shores facilities with chic bars and restaurants in the world's most famous harbor, can accommodate yachts up to 75m.
• Melbourne Superyacht Marina : prime position to attend one of the city's many sporting fixtures, located in a sheltered environment and provides superyacht berthing up to 75m.

A heady tapestry of anchorages in a patchwork of implausible blues are woven into Australia's deliciously diverse landscape, ideal for an action-packed or a luxuriously sedate yacht charter alike. From ribbons of chalk-white sand etched with the pawprints of passing kangaroos, to aquamarine waters home to an aquatic world that flourishes in all its vivid coral variety, itinerary options are practically limitless. Below, we've hand-picked some of the best anchorages in Australia:

• Osprey Reef (Great Barrier Reef): utterly remote and sitting atop of a submerged atoll, come for exceptional diving visibility, spotting everything from sea turtles to beaked whales.
• Ribbon Reefs (Great Barrier Reef): select from a garland of glistening reefs to anchor overnight at and snorkel to your heart's content.
• Lizard Island (Great Barrier Reef): tranquil oasis renowned for its buttery soft sands and translucent waters, and has a top-end resort with fine dining possibilities.
• Nara Inlet (Whitsundays): well-protected anchorage that spans two miles,  providing guests with unbridled solitude. Ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.
• Sawmill Beach (Whitsundays):  a heavenly overnight spot situated in Cid Harbour, best for rainforested hiking trails and astounding panoramas.
• Whitehaven Beach(Whitsundays): one of Australia's most famous spots to drop anchor at thanks to its swirling sands.
• Cape Hillsborough (Queensland): cruise further afield and be richly rewarded with kangaroos and wallabies who scour the beach at sunrise.
• Cable Beach (The Kimberley): vast swathes of pristine sand frame fiery orange sunsets that are widely regarded as the best in Australia.
• Montgomery Reef (The Kimberley):  be captivated by the spectacular sight of the reef seemingly rising out of the water, with hundreds of cascading waterfalls forming around it.
• Rose Bay (Sydney):  peaceful stop to anchor at, conveniently located near to the world-renowned golden arc that is Bondi Beach.
• Sugarloaf Bay (Sydney): known for its blissfully secluded surroundings and gives excellent protection from the wind.

• Keep in mind that stingers (potentially lethal jellyfish like the Box Jellyfish and Irukandji) are found in coastal areas of Queensland. The higher risk season is from October to May in the Whitsundays, so wear protective 'stinger suits' when diving, swimming, or snorkeling.
• Be aware of freshwater and saltwater crocodiles in the Kimberley, which can appear from waterholes. Whilst they are majestic creatures, they are best appreciated from afar!
• Whilst Queensland itself is certainly a fantastic all-year-round destination, it's worth remembering that the Great Barrier Reef only experiences two seasons, wet and dry. The dry season here is from May to October.
• Remember to wear sunscreen: Australia's proximity to the equator means that the country experiences very high UV radiation levels.
• Guests should ensure their passport is valid for up to six months prior to their charter.
• Most guests will need a valid Tourist Visa or an Electronic Travel Authority to enter the country. There is no fee if your stay in Australia is less than three months. Please consult your yacht broker for personalized information pertaining to your trip. 

Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a diving haven that lures the global superyacht fleet with almost 3,000 reefs and 900 mostly uninhabited islands. Caressed by warm, gentle waters that sparkle with total clarity, yacht charter guests will be enthralled by the seemingly unending seascape. To elude the crowds, head to the  Ribbon Reefs and its garland of phenomenal diving sites such as The Clam Gardens , the Temple of Doom , and Andy's Postcard. 

For a spot of underwater magic after dusk, head to Snake's Pit . Marvel the impressive night spectacle of coral that blooms in a smattering of multicolored daubs and friendly sea snakes that float amid shoals of fish. No trip to the Great Barrier Reef would be complete without relishing the barefoot luxury of Lizard Island.  24 silk-like beaches are hugged by topaz shallows — and it's the refuge of a few sun-dappled reptiles too.

The mainland also many treasures: don't miss out on the exclusive restaurants and spas of uber-chic coastal town  Port Douglas, which is bordered by the lush vegetation of the  Daintree Rainforest. The melodies of kookaburras and kingfishers circling above will absolutely enchant you.

Read more: Why You Have to Book a Great Barrier Reef Yacht Charter Right Away

Whitsunday Islands

A smorgasbord of mellow, paradisiacal beaches, lavish resorts, and tropical rainforests coupled with gin-clear waters, the Whitsundays makes for a thrilling yacht charter. The eponymous isle  Whitsunday Island i s where you will find the world-famous Whitehaven Beach: 7km of white satin-like silica (98 percent) sand that furls with the turquoise shallows like a just-whipped ice cream sundae. To get the best views of its almost luminescent appearance, hike up to the lookout on Hill Inlet on the northern end of the beach.

For the gourmands and the golfers, cruise towards the resort at Hamilton Island . Choose from an array of splendid fine-dining options with beachfront views of the heavenly Coral Sea , or go to the 18-hole golf course, replete with steep valleys and jaw-dropping ridges.

Justifiably popular spots to whip out the snorkels and flipper fins to include Hook Island , and its stunning Nara Inlet or Butterfly Bay -where a swarm of Ulysses butterflies make their trajectory over the ocean each morning and night.,  Neck Bay or Cid Island, where blossoming coral mingles with manta rays and many more.

Read more: 5 Reasons to Visit the Whitsunday Islands on a Luxury Yacht Charter

Sydney shimmers with a cosmopolitan brilliance. With a staggering number of swanky bars and hip eateries, as well as being a trailblazer in arts and culture, the city entertains yacht-goers with great panache. We haven't even mentioned the internationally-renowned golden stretches of sand ( Bondi Beach , Palm Beach , Coogee Beach, and Manly Beach to name but a few) that are sprinkled along its coast. 

Outstanding New Year's Eve shows is where Sydney truly excels. And what vantage point could be better than from the sundeck of your superyacht, clinking Champagne flutes as the sky transforms into a whirlwind of pyrotechnics at Sydney Harbour Bridge ?   Recover the next day and cruise towards the serene  Sugarloaf Bay , sequestered from the hustle and bustle of city life, and fall into a quiet slumber on the sun pads.

Related: How to Celebrate New Year's Eve aboard a Superyacht in Sydney

The Kimberley

The Kimberley retains a certain mystique that seduces the adventurous yacht charterer year after year, as a region where the Outback invitingly melds with the coast. As an undulating rhythm of lush jade greens, softly glowing auburns and ochres tumble into a whirl of pink sands and mint-colored seas, The Kimberley beguiles the senses. Feel everyday life slowly slip away like the dreamy sunsets that will come to define your charter here following a day spent bronzing on Cable Beach , the coral-hued, mangrove-fringed Roebuck Bay , or cleansing in the lagoons of Mitchell Falls .

Onshore, trace 50,000-year-old Aboriginal art carved into soaring rock faces on a private tour of the semi-arid savannah, before jumping on a tender to delve into  Ningaloo Reef:  an inexhaustible source of diving adventure and the world's largest fringing reef. Admire gliding sea turtles and float alongside pods of dolphins or tame whale sharks - the latter visit the area from March till July.

Read more: The Kimberleys Yacht Charter Itinerary

Silhouetted by the angular forms of illuminated skyscrapers, Melbourne is a glittering metropolis that's an ideal yacht charter destination for those seeking a trip with a hearty buzz. World-renowned annual events such as the Australian Grand Prix , The Melbourne Cup and the Australian Open  all take place here, and it bursts at the seams with trendy eateries, Michelin-starred restaurants, and cool bars. If you are looking for cute critters, make a pitstop at the Phillip Island Nature Parks where you can hug a koala and watch penguins make their nightly waddle across the beach.

If the bright lights start to wane, Melbourne is conveniently located to offshoot locations like the hip coastal city of  Mornington Peninsula , all sprawling vineyards and colorful beach-hut lined sands, as well as  Tasmania, whose wild beauty far surmounts its diminutive size. 

Related: Four of the Best Things to Do on a Melbourne Luxury Yacht Charter

With the Great Barrier Reef alone spanning almost the length of Italy , and tremendously diverse scenery both at sea and land, it isn't hugely common for an Australian yacht charter to continue elsewhere. There is enough to keep people busy for possibly weeks or months! 

However, to find out about possible yacht charter combinations further afield (such as New Zealand ), please contact your yacht charter broker.

For Australia yacht charters, we strongly advise booking well in advance of your trip to ensure you get the perfect vessel for your chosen dates. We recommend doing so three to six months ahead to give your  yacht charter broker  the time to organize a personalized itinerary and provide you with an amazing Australia chartering experience. 

If you leave left too late, the selection of yachts at your disposal will be reduced. Plus, finding dates when everyone in your charter party is available, can become more difficult the longer it's postponed.

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Explore Australia

Guide to Sydney

Guide to Whitsundays

Guide to Great Barrier Reef

Guide to The Kimberley

Guide to Melbourne

Australia yacht charter itineraries.

Our curated yacht charter itineraries ensure you experience the very best of Australia's enchantingly diverse landscapes, wherever you decide to cruise.

Crafted by our superyacht experts, select a charter itinerary according to your destination. From the spellbinding subaquatic world of the Great Barrier Reef to the tranquil topaz shallows of the Whitsundays, to the final-frontier beauty of The Kimberley and the shimmering cityscapes of Sydney and Melbourne: your itinerary options here are practically limitless.

Discover Australia

Paradisiacal diving opportunities, mind-blowing snorkeling spots, mesmerizing coral reefs, deluxe superyacht marinas, fine sandy beaches, rainforest trails and a staggering array of wildlife.

When to Go:

June - September: Great Barrier Reef, The Kimberley, Whitsundays

December - February: Sydney, Melbourne

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Luxury Yachts for Charter in Australia 2024 & 2025

Crewed charter yachts in australia.

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Southern Cross

45m   Niigata Shipyard

from $120,000 p/week

86m Oceanco

from $549,000 p/w eek ♦︎

85m SilverYachts

from $950,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Wanderlust 12

from $960,000 p/w eek

Sea Eagle 11

81m Royal Huisman

81m   2020/2022

from $599,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Wayfinder 12

68m Astilleros Armon

from $375,000 p/w eek

57m Royal Huisman

57m   2010/2021

from $250,000 p/w eek

Mischief 12

54m Baglietto

54m   2006/2017

from $265,000 p/w eek

Red Dragon 12

52m Alloy Yachts

52m   2008/2010

from $266,000 p/w eek ♦︎

48m Oceanfast

48m   2010/2023

from $177,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Southern Cross 12

45m Niigata Shipyard

45m   1996/2021

from $120,000 p/w eek

45m Sanlorenzo

from $197,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Calliope 10

43m Richmond Yachts

43m   2007/2022

from $150,000 p/w eek

De Lisle III 8

42m Gulf Craft

42m   2008/2018

from $108,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Impulsive I 10

40m Mondo Marine

from $92,000 p/w eek ♦︎

The Beast 12

39m Profab Central Engineering Ltd

from $205,000 p/w eek

38m Sanlorenzo

from $144,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Ghost II 12

37m Gulf Craft

from $72,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Nancy-Jean 12

37m Sunseeker

from $125,000 p/w eek

37m   2010/2022

from $89,500 p/w eek

37m Camper & Nicholsons

37m   1999/2017

from $93,000 p/w eek ♦︎ *

Evolution 8

37m Oceanfast

37m   2005/2023

37m Warren Yachts

from $99,238 p/w eek

Emerald Lady 8

35m Lloyds Ships

35m   1983/2008

from $46,000 p/w eek ♦︎

35m Sunseeker

from $138,000 p/w eek ♦︎

35m   2006/2011

from $73,000 p/w eek ♦︎

from $82,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Princess Iluka 10

34m Ray Kemp

34m   1979/2023

Three Rivers 12

35m   2014/2020

34m Alloy Yachts

34m   2007/2023

from $115,000 p/w eek

Pleiades II 12

34m Kingship

34m   2007/2019

Relentless 9

34m   2006/2020

from $75,000 p/w eek

Corroboree 12

33m Lloyds Ships

33m   1988/2018

from $60,000 p/w eek

Mohasuwei 8

33m Cantieri di Pisa

33m   2009/2018

from $66,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Oneworld 12

32m Gulf Craft

from $65,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Bluestone 1 10

31m Gulf Craft

from $71,000 p/w eek ♦︎

30m Azzura Yachts

30m   2016/2023

Little Perle 9

from $52,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Seven Star 8

VivieRae II 10

30m Nordhavn

from $90,000 p/w eek *

Triple 888 Eight 8

29m Horizon

29m   2008/2016

from $65,000 p/w eek

28m Jade Yachts

28m   2010/2022

28m Warren Yachts

28m Lloyds Ships

28m   1981/2010

from $56,000 p/w eek

28m Sulis Marine

28m   2009/2021

from $78,000 p/w eek

28m   1988/2015

from $40,000 p/w eek

27m Horizon

from $59,000 p/w eek ♦︎

27m Leopard

from $29,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Pure Adrenalin 12

27m Azzura Yachts

27m   2013/2022

from $51,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Rua Moana 8

27m Pachoud

from $110,000 p/w eek

27m Warren Yachts

from $39,000 p/w eek ♦︎

26m   2004/2021

from $90,000 p/w eek

Bali Hai II 8

25m Norman R. Wright & Sons

25m   1964/2009

24m Sunseeker

from $41,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Atlantic Princess 8

24m   1991/2019

from $28,000 p/w eek ♦︎

24m Sunreef Yachts

from $85,000 p/w eek

24m Lazzara

from $62,300 p/w eek

23m Overmarine

23m   2007/2023

from $43,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Cattitude 8

23m Alliaura Marine Group

23m   2012/2013

from $45,000 p/w eek

23m Sunreef Yachts

from $55,000 p/w eek

20m   2006/2016

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Australia Yacht Charter Q&A

Browsing the range of Australia charter yachts available is a breeze on our website. Select by your chosen dates, number of guests, yacht type, features, and preferred onboard toys and we'll show you what's on offer.

If you do make a subsequent enquiry, a yacht charter broker will then contact you to provide you with a custom charter proposal.

Alternatively, contact your  yacht charter broker directly, and they will be able to research on your behalf your Australia yacht charter options.

For most Australian yacht charters, you secure the booking through a completed charter agreement, with 50% of the charter fee paid upfront as a deposit. This amount is usually payable once the contract has been signed.

The Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays (74 glittering isles located within this gigantic oceanic playground) are the preferred choices to begin or end an Australian yacht charter. Guests adore the world-renowned diving and snorkeling opportunities here (which are practically boundless), their uber-luxe resorts and stunning array of bays and anchorages.

Foreign-flagged superyachts should obtain a coastal trading temporary allowance to charter in Australia.

Be clear about where exactly you want to charter a yacht in Australia prior to booking, as the best times to visit can differ dramatically according to the region. For example, popular superyacht hotspots like the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday's and the Kimberley's are all best explored between June-September. Meanwhile, for Sydney and Melbourne the best times to visit are between December and February.

Australia is a sought-after yacht charter destination, which for guests means there is a yacht to suit practically every budget.

However, take into consideration the additional costs that aren't included in the base rate for your yacht charter in Australia. This includes the 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST) that needs to be paid according to the charter's value, and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance). The APA is usually set at 30% of the charter fee and paid in advance to cover expenses such as fuel, berthing, food and drinks, as well as any special requests.

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Australia Yacht Charters

Australia yacht charters are an adventure of a lifetime. From diving the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, to hopping from island to island in the Coral Sea, boat rentals are jam-packed with one-of-a-kind experiences. Looking for reasons to consider a private yacht charter in the land Down Under?

Discover Breathtaking Australia on a Luxury Yacht Charter

Whether you enjoy soaking up the sun at a hidden beach, or ATV-ing through the rainforest, crewed yacht charters in Australia provide guests the best way to experience the country’s splendors. Plus, you will have the chance to see some of the world’s most unique natural wonders – from the Great Barrier Reef to beach kangaroos.

Australia Yacht Charter Highlights

• Amazing diving and snorkeling in The Great Barrier Reef
• White-sand beaches of The Whitsunday Islands
• Abundant marine life and incredible wildlife
• Exceptional coral creations and unique landscapes

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122.5ft / 36m

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Australia Yachting Season

May through October are the most popular months for yacht charters , with the famous sailing race in August (Audi Hamilton Island Race Week)

December will cater to some great yacht rentals, including Christmas and New Years’ and into January. The weather is very stable, winds are low, rain is generally not prominent, and the water is warm.

Australia Area Guide: Yacht Charter Areas

There are many places to explore on your Australia yacht charter. However, there are two locations that are the most popular and offer the best experience:

• The Great Barrier Reef – this is a popular charter destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. The focus of charters in that area is the underwater world.
• The Whitsunday Islands – this is a popular honeymoon destination. It is also a family-friendly destination with a mild climate and gentle breezes. if you enjoy miles-long sandy beaches and crystal clear water, this is the destination for you.

Australia Yacht Charters: What to See & Do

Australia is home to every type of landscape you could imagine. From coastal rainforests to arid deserts. When you rent a crewed yacht in Australia, you will find many hidden gems off the coast of Queensland near the Great Barrier Reef. Unique and awe-inspiring ports of calls and stunning tropical environs await. Just be sure to pack the sunscreen and sunglasses.

Experience the Amazing Wildlife Here’s an interesting fact about Australia: Nearly 80 percent of the wildlife found here isn’t found anywhere else in the world. That means one thing for yacht charter guests: one-of-a-kind encounters with unique critters and landscapes.

Where else in the world can you see a kangaroo hopping along the beach? Head to Camp Hillsborough near the Whitsundays, where the kangaroos hang out alongside beachgoers. Where else could you cuddle a Koala bear? Try Great Sandy National Park and Noosa National Park to get up close and personal with Australia’s unique cuddly creatures.

World-Class Snorkeling Is there a better snorkeling destination in the world than the Great Barrier Reef? Nothing compares. The Great Barrier Reef measures nearly half the size of Texas and encompasses more than 2000 individual reefs. For snorkelers, that means one thing: Adventure around every corner.

Check out the Ribbon Reefs, a network of reefs teeming with tropical fish, aquatic mammals and sea turtles. Lady Elliot Island is another popular destination, known for its large sea turtle populations. And the coral gardens of Butterfly Bay offer the chance for beautiful snorkeling in the shallows.

Unique Diving Locations The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s top diving destinations. That makes sense. Diving provides a chance to explore more of the reef’s incredible corals. Many charter guests head to Heron Island, a secluded coral island in Australia’s Fraser region. The island offers more than 20 diving spots, each offering an adventure.

Plus, the reef is home to numerous unique dive sites. From hidden bommies to intact shipwrecks. Head to the site of the SS Yongala, one of the country’s most famous wrecks which is now a reclaimed coral garden. The Yongala attracts almost all of the reef’s Great 8 species, making this one of the best dive spots to see it all.

Beaches and Swimming Australia is home to some of the world’s most majestic, untouched, and secluded beaches. In fact, the country might be the best destination in the world for lazy beach days. Where should you go?

Australia offers so many options, from lively beaches where you can sip cocktails in the shade, to massive stretches of sand perfect for shelling. Whitehaven Beach – named Australia’s best beach – is a must-visit. Located in the Whitsundays, Whitehaven offers warm waters and soft sand (and incredible sunset photos). Catseye Beach is another nearby favorite, which is perfect for sunbathing and snorkeling.

Explore the Coastal Rainforest The northern coast of Queensland – one of the most popular yachting grounds – is home to some of the world’s most pristine rainforests. On your private yacht charter in Australia, head to Daintree Rainforest. It is one of the world’s oldest rainforests, and Daintree is a natural wonder.

Visitors come to view nature up close. It’s a popular birding and whale watching destination (particularly May through November). Plus, there are numerous ways to explore the rainforest. Hiking is popular, and Daintree is home to some of Australia’s best zipline courses, as well.

Helicopter Reef Tours After you experience the reef by the sea on your luxury superyacht charter, explore it by air. All along the Queensland coast, especially in Cairns and the Whitsundays, you’ll have access to exhilarating helicopter tours.

Helicopter tours are the perfect way to experience the sheer magnitude of the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll see the reef and sparkling sapphire waters for as far as the eye can see. Plus, if it’s whale watching season, you’ll likely catch a glimpse of pods of orcas, humpbacks, and Bottlenose dolphins.

Whale Watching The coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef are two of the best whale-watching destinations in Australia. During winter (July to September), several whale species flock to the warmer waters to mate and give birth. And the whales put on a show.

The best spots for whale watching while on charter are the Whitsundays. The waters around the islands are common breeding grounds for humpback whales. Plus, other species like the Dwarf Minke whale, bottlenose dolphin, orca, and even the giant blue whales also come here to breed.

Island Hopping The Great Barrier Reef is dotted with hundreds of islands and island chains. Australia yacht charter guests are guaranteed to explore the best. The Whitsundays – a network of nearly 70 islands – offer a playground for exploration. Some of the best beaches in all of Australia can be found in the Whitsundays, and each island offers incredible snorkeling, diving and hiking adventures.

Yet, across the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll find truly spectacular, uninhabited islands. Lizard Island, for example, is a popular northern GBR charter destination. Home to a top luxury island resort, Lizard is a secluded and ultra-exclusive haven that’s ideal for beach days. Lady Elliot Island, a coral island in the GBR, is another beautiful destination, offering some of the best diving and snorkeling in Australia.

Watersports Galore In Australia, the water is balmy year-round. That makes it a popular destination for boat charters, no matter the season. And when on charter, you’ll want to spend as much time in the water as possible. Beyond snorkeling, though, there’s an endless list of incredible water-based adventures to partake in.

Try windsurfing in the Whitsundays. There are numerous windsurfing schools that can show you the ropes. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also great ways to explore the corals and hidden bays of Australia. Or if you’re looking to go fast, jet skiing and tender rides are another favorite way to pass the time, when on yacht charters in Australia.

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Calendar of Yachting Events in Australia: From Regattas to Boat Shows

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Australia’s yachting calendar is packed with a variety of events that cater to all levels of sailing enthusiasts. From high-stakes regattas to informative boat shows, these events bring together the Australian sailing community and offer exciting opportunities for networking, learning, and competition. Here are some of the key yachting events that take place in Australia throughout the year:

Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race

The Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is one of the most prestigious offshore yacht races in the world. Starting on Boxing Day (26th December) in Sydney Harbour, the race covers a distance of approximately 630 nautical miles, finishing in Hobart, Tasmania. This challenging race attracts a diverse fleet of yachts, from professional racing teams to amateur sailors.

Hamilton Island Race Week

Held in August, the Hamilton Island Race Week is one of Australia’s favourite yachting events. The event takes place in the Whitsunday Islands on the Great Barrier Reef, offering a week of competitive racing in a stunning tropical setting. The race week also includes a vibrant social program with parties, food and wine events, and fashion shows.

Australian Yachting Championships

The Australian Yachting Championships are the pinnacle of keelboat racing in Australia . The event attracts a strong fleet of local and international competitors and is typically held in January. The championships include multiple classes, providing competitive racing for a wide range of yachts.

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, held in May, is a premier event in the Australian boating calendar. The show features a vast display of marine products and services, including the latest boats, yachts, marine technology, and equipment. It’s a must-visit event for anyone interested in boating and yachting.

Audi Centre Sydney Blue Water Pointscore Series

The Audi Centre Sydney Blue Water Pointscore Series is a challenging offshore racing series that includes six races. The series starts in October and concludes with the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race in December. The series is known for its challenging conditions and competitive racing.

Audi Hamilton Island Race Week

The Audi Hamilton Island Race Week is a premier event on the Australian yachting calendar. Held annually in August, the event combines offshore racing with onshore festivities, making it a unique experience for participants and spectators alike.

Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race

The Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race is a popular event on Australia’s east coast. The race starts in Pittwater, New South Wales, and finishes in Coffs Harbour, covering a distance of approximately 230 nautical miles. The race is typically held in January.

Great Barrier Reef Festival

The Great Barrier Reef Festival is a celebration of the unique environment in which the Whitsundays is located – the Great Barrier Reef. The festival is held in Airlie Beach, Queensland, from 3rd to 6th August 2023.

Sydney International Boat Show

The Sydney International Boat Show is the largest recreational marine event in the southern hemisphere. It first ran in 1968 and since then has played host to over three million visitors who arrive to be entertained, educated, speak to the experts, and to be inspired by this wonderful pastime enjoyed by millions each year. The event will be held in Darling Harbour, Sydney, from 3rd to 6th August 2023.

Port Stephens Regatta

The Port Stephens Regatta, also known as Sail Port Stephens, is a popular sailing event held in April in the beautiful waters of Port Stephens, New South Wales. The regatta includes a variety of races for different classes of boats and is known for its friendly, festival-like atmosphere.

Melbourne Summer Boat Show

The Melbourne Summer Boat Show, held in February, is a major event for boating enthusiasts in Victoria. The show features a wide range of boats, marine equipment, and services, and includes a variety of on-water activities and demonstrations.

Geographe Bay Race Week

Held in February, the Geographe Bay Race Week is Western Australia’s premier yachting regatta. The event is hosted by the Geographe Bay Yacht Club in Busselton and attracts a wide range of competitors from around the country.

Fremantle to Bali Ocean Classic

The Fremantle to Bali Ocean Classic is a biennial yacht race that covers a distance of 1,440 nautical miles. The race starts in Fremantle, Western Australia, and finishes in Bali, Indonesia. The next race is scheduled for May 2023.

Australian Superyacht, Marine Export and Commercial Industry Conference (ASMEX)

The ASMEX conference is a key event for networking with yacht owners, manufacturers, and designers. Providing attendees with information on new and emerging trends in the marine industry, the conference is typically held at Sanctuary Cove.

Superyacht Australia Soirée

The annual Superyacht Australia Soirée is a must-attend event for those interested in luxury superyachts. Typically held at Jones Bay Wharf in Sydney, attendees gather to celebrate the country’s superyacht industry and Sydney as a superyacht destination.

These are just a few of the many yachting events that take place in Australia throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a keen spectator, or new to the world of yachting, these events offer exciting opportunities to engage with the vibrant Australian sailing community.

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Sailing Tours & Trips in Australia

Get ready to hoist the sails on a sailing adventure of Australia. Whether you are island hopping or gliding along the coast, with 28 sailing holidays lasting from 3 days up to 26 days, we have made finding the right sailboat tour a breeze! Click here to see all sailing trips .

28 Sailing trips in Australia with 41 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Learn To Dive (5 Days)

Great dive instructors.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

North Queensland Adventure (Sailing, 9 Days)

Mark was excellent 5/5 to him.

East Coast Highlights - 3 Week | ULTIMATE

The best tour guide you will ever have! Not only is she super knowledgable of the area but also will be your friend through the whole time you’re with her! Gave me the best memories whilst in Australia! Thankyou Hannah

• €35 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Kakadu and Katherine Gorge Dry Season (Short Break, 3 Days)

I travelled to Yellow waters and beyond yesterday. The driver of the Coach was so professional , informative and entertaining through the whole trip, what a great experience and day we had, I think I can speak for the whole 12 of us on the Tour. Thank you AAT would not hesitate to travel with you again.

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Ultimate Tasmania

Snorkel to Adventure (3 Days)

This experience really exceeded my expectations. The staff are helpful and friendly, the whole experience of snorkeling and scuba diving is fantastic. Definitely an unforgettable memory.

Beaches and Reefs (16 Days)

Beaches and Reefs (Sailing, 16 Days)

Ultimate Australia (Sailing, 25 Days)

The Big Walkabout (Sailing, 25 Days)

East Coast Cruisin (Ex Whitsundays) 2020-21

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Tasman Coastal Cruise (2019)

Kimberley Complete with Coastal Cruise - MS Caledonian Sky (2019)

Icons of the East Coast (2019)

• Coach / Bus

Hamersley Splendour (2020)

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Absolutely amazing, best instructors!

Had such a great time on the 3 week tour and Hannah was the best tour guide we could ask for! She was so knowledgeable and always so keen to help (and would go and research the answers to any weird questions she didn’t know the answers to). She even made the weather hold out for us for most of the tour! ;)

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• Yacht Charter Australia

Yacht Charter in Australia

Australia yacht charter

Australia is blessed with some of the most beautiful yacht charter destinations in the world. Located in the South Pacific, with the Indian Ocean to the west, and the Pacific to the east, Australia is a yacht charter paradise. The Great Barrier Reef offers the Australian northeast coast with endless opportunities for yacht charters. With some of the world's best dive spots, uninhabited islands featuring secluded bays, pristine white sand beaches, and a world of peace, serenity, and tranquility, the world's biggest coral reef system is the most beautiful attraction for yacht charters in Australia.

How much to charter a yacht in Australia?

Every imaginable yacht can be found cruising along the coast and waters of Australia. At different price points, varying amenities, sizes, and purposes, you can find every kind of yacht that suits your needs. A 50-foot sailing yacht with four cabins can cost around $6,500 for a week's rent. An 82-foot catamaran, on the other hand, can cost around $60,000 for a week's rent; while a 119-foot motor yacht with five cabins costs around $110,000 for a week's rent in Australia.

What are the most popular yacht holidays in Australia?

With so many beautiful coastal cities, nearby islands, and over 200 marinas located all over the country, it can be a little daunting to find the best yacht charter holidays in Australia. However, if you want to discover the top sailing destinations, these spots are the Whitsunday Islands, Moreton Bay, and Sydney. The Whitsunday Islands is located in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef, and it's no wonder the group of islands is the most popular yacht charter destination in the country. There are 74 islands in this island group, with only six being inhabited. This means there are 68 islands to explore with no crowds, no structures, and very little development. With pristine white sands, crystal clear waters, a subtropical climate, and the most exotic underwater marine life, the Whitsundays top the bill for the most popular yacht charter destination in Australia.

On Brisbane's doorstep, Moreton Bay is another yacht charter destination that boasts of beauty and allure. Moreton Bay itself is the route of migratory humpback whales in the summer, where you'll also get to see dolphins and much other marine life in its waters. Moreton Island is also a stone's throw away from Brisbane, featuring beaches and wildlife. The North and South Stradbroke Islands are popular spots for locals and visitors, while Fraser Island is a definite must for yacht charters for its famous white-sand dunes and freshwater lakes. Dive enthusiasts will also take pleasure in the abundance of marine life in Moreton Bay, especially the shipwrecks that number to over 100.

The Sydney Harbour and Pittwater Bay are popular yacht charter destinations in the country. Cruising along the Harbour presents yachtsmen with beautiful views of the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Located to the north of Sydney is Pittwater, offering little swell and reliable winds. There are three national parks inland, which make for a beautiful day excursion. Furthermore, the Hawkesbury River in Pittwater offers spectacular sandstone cliffs, uninhabited islands, and small towns worth discovering.

Where to go on a luxury yacht charter in Australia?

With more than 290 marinas found in Australia, a luxury yacht charter is easy to find. You can find a plethora of superyachts cruising along the Harbour in Sydney's Port Jackson, offering sunset cruises, corporate yacht parties, and even weddings onboard the most luxurious yachts you will ever see. About 2 hours away, Port Stephens features the Soldier's Point Marina, which has been awarded the Marina of the Year Award in 2007 and proclaims itself as a Four Seasons resort. Dubbed as "The Blue Water Paradise," Port Stephens has 19 miles of clean, white, sandy beaches and a bay that offers perfect sailing conditions.

The Gold Coast in Queensland is another yacht charter luxury destination due to its marine boat building industry. The coastal city is the headquarters for many internationally recognized marine brands, making it the first spot in the world to witness the most beautiful and most luxurious vessels to ever cruise on water. Home to nine luxury marinas, The Gold Coast is where you'll find mega yachts cruising on the Bay, and luxury yachts casually cruising on its famous Broadwater.

Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays, is another luxury yacht charter destination. Tourists who want to visit the Whitsundays head to Airlie Beach, which is in itself, a beautiful coastal location with stunning beaches and world-class resorts. Australia is home to some of the world's best yachting destinations. With a lifestyle that includes spending time outdoors as a daily activity, a yacht charter in the land Down Under is simply the best way to truly experience this stunning country.

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Home » Oceania » Australia » 9 AWESOME Yacht Charters in Australia

9 AWESOME Yacht Charters in Australia

Chartering a yacht in Australia is a great way to see what’s up, down under. Australia is a HUGE country, surrounded by a whole lotta ocean full of incredible sea life that are indigenous to Australia.

As home to some of the best beaches and coral reefs in the world, there is 34,000 km of pristine coastline to explore. No doubt any trip to Australia would be incomplete without heading out on the water and exploring its vast ocean landscape.

But exploring the reefs and tropics is not all you can do on the water in Australia. If you’re looking for a gentle river cruise, you can find that. If you fancy an intimate party on a yacht on Sydney Harbour, well, that’s fine! Or if you’re heading up north in Queensland, Australia for some tropical rays, well go get your sunhat ready!

For a PERFECT holiday on the water, there is no better way to enjoy an all-inclusive experience than to charter a yacht in Australia.

If you’re making the trip to this part of the world, it’s not time to half-ass it. Round up your mates and get on that yacht, people! Let us explain to you how to do just that.

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Top 3 Yacht Charters in Australia

How to charter a yacht in australia, why charter a yacht in australia, best yacht charters in australia,  queensland (brisbane and the gold coast), western australia, things to do on a yacht charter in australia , final thoughts.

Bavaria 44’ Yacht

• > 12 guests
• > Captained
• > Budget friendly option

Rivera 57’ Yacht

• > 30 passengers
• > Versatile and luxurious

Moody 54’ Deck Saloon

• > 12 passengers
• > Family friendly

Okay, Broke Backpackers, you’ve convinced me. I’m interested in setting sail on a yacht in Australia. Umm, wait a minute, how do I do that?

We get it, we don’t have a luxury yacht lying around either. 

Lucky for you, we’ve got some contacts. 

Allow us to introduce you to Sailo. 

Sailo is an online platform where you can rent and charter boats of all kinds. It’s been around since 2014 and has been making waves in the boat rental scene ever since. 

On Sailo, boat owners can list their own boats for you to rent, either with a captain or bareboat (no captain, just you and your crew). All you do is search for your destination of choice, browse through the available boats and contact the owner if you’re interested! And that’s it! It’s like Airbnb for boats.

You can use filters to narrow the options to the smallest, most budget-friendly options for backpackers or to find the most luxurious party yacht. It’s all there, waiting for you to find it. You can also check out previous customers reviews to make sure the boat your hiring isn’t dodgy.

Umm, did we not mention the world’s largest barrier reef, thriving indigenous sea life, and tropical waters that make the Caribbean look like Putney (no offense, Putney)? Well, allow us to convince you further.

Chartering a yacht is a great way to celebrate something special. Maybe you’ve got a milestone birthday or an anniversary coming up, or maybe you’re just planning the trip of a lifetime after a hard year. Don’t wait for an excuse to live your best life. A yacht charter in Australia, or anywhere in the world for that matter, is an epic, all-inclusive way to make the most of a day on the ocean. 

To charter means your hire comes with a captain and crew (and maybe some other fancy features). All the tough work will be done by the crew, so your job, dear friend, is to sit back and enjoy yourself with your nearest and dearest.

If you’re more a hands-on kind of traveller, there are many bareboat options if you’d like to give sailing a go yourself. This means you and your mates are the captain and crew and you do all the organising and navigating yourself. But hold on friends, before you jump aboard a bareboat, remember that you must have a boating license for any boat with an engine over 4.5kw.

While there are bareboat options across Australia, we will be looking at the best yacht charters in the country.

We’ve mentioned already that Australia is not small. It’s also not the cheapest destination to travel to, especially on a yacht. We’re not fools and we know that everyone has different budgets to work with and travel styles to consider.

So, we’ve narrowed down three areas around the country that are great for a yacht charter in Australia, keeping budget and travel preference in mind so there’s something for everyone on our list. 

Here’s our list of the nine best yacht charters and tours in Sydney, Queensland and Western Australia. 

Sydney Harbour and the coast around the New South Wales capital is a dream for yachting enthusiasts. The harbour is filled with gorgeous, peaceful alcoves and iconic city skylines. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Sydney .

And of course, the best place to view those skylines is from your own private yacht in Sydney! Let us show you our favourites.

Best Yacht Charter for Families in Sydney – Moody 54’ Deck Saloon

• 12 passengers
• Sleeping options available

This Moody 54 foot Deck Saloon is great for a sailing trip if you and your family are in favour of something a bit adventurous. Known as Calypso, she’s crossed the Mediterranean and Atlantic ocean a few times and is no stranger to the waters off the coast of Sydney. You won’t miss out on little luxuries aboard either.

Each of the three guest cabins has access to a bathroom and shower and is fully air-conditioned. If you do opt for an overnight yacht charter, you can comfortably sleep 10 on board. 

Maybe something a little more low-key is what you had in mind for your Sydney yacht charter? You better believe it, she can do that too. You’ll love cruising around the harbour on this boat. There’s a big swim platform for dipping in and out of the water, and panoramic views of the water from each of the comfortable lounge areas.

There are also a bunch of safety features on board that offers peace of mind and comfort for everyone, including little ones. Think excellent sun protection and safety rails around the edges. These things are important on a yacht, it can take a while for some people to find their sea-legs!

Over-the-Top Luxurious Yacht Charter in Sydney – Rivera 57’ Yacht

• 30 passengers
• Versatile and luxurious

This Rivera 57 foot yacht is not just nice, it’s also super versatile. Whatever adventure you want to create on Sydney Harbour, you can do it on this boat in absolute style. 

Are you keen on a leisurely day beach hopping and enjoying cheese platters and champagne? This is your boat. A luxurious set-up like this would be the ideal yacht charter in Sydney to watch the iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks on the harbour. It’s also perfectly suited to a deep-sea fishing trip. She can do it all, this one. 

The motor yacht has plenty of space to spread out that is suited to all kinds of activities. There are padded sunbeds on the bow of the boat and inside has a living space with open windows to make the most of the waterfront views. For overnight stays, the master suite rivals some pretty swish hotel setups. 

Of course, a luxurious yacht charter in Sydney doesn’t come cheap, but up to 30 passengers can enjoy the vibes of yacht life in Sydney harbour on this beauty, and that’s bound to be an experience you remember. 

Best Boat Tour in Sydney – Sydney Whale-Watching Cruise

• Up to 15 passengers
• Tour guide included

Everyone knows about the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. But did you know that Humpback and Southern Right Whales migrate along the coast near Sydney between May and November each year? It’s a special experience and this is one of the best boat tours in Sydney to see them from!

This boat cruise takes you out past the head of Sydney Harbour and into the Pacific Ocean in search of these majestic animals. You may even spot some dolphins too! You’ll learn a bunch about Australian marine life from your naturalist guide and a whole lotta info about the biodiversity of the area. 

A BBQ lunch or breakfast is included in your experience while you’re in the calm waters of the harbour, and of course, you’ll get epic views of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. 

There’s always a chance that luck won’t be on your side when you do nature-based tourism. These folk are so confident you’ll see what you came for, they offer guaranteed whale sightings or they will take you out again until you do. They sound like pretty good odds to me!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

The Sunshine State of Queensland is Australia’s most tropical area. The warm waters and riverways around Brisbane and the Gold Coast cities are hot spots for yacht charters in Australia and all kinds of water-based fun. As anyone backpacking the East coast will tell you, the waters around here are out of this world!

So let’s look at some of the best yacht charters in Queensland, then!

Epic Party Yacht Charter in Queensland – Lagoon Catamaran

• 28 passengers
• Sweet party boat

All aboard the Lagoon Catamaran, the best party boat for charter in Brisbane. Catamarans are always a good choice for boozy days out on the water. Not only do they look damn good, but their split hull means they stay extra stable even when you’re a bit wobbly yourself. 

This 40-foot Catamaran is the best choice for you to throw a sweet party with up to 28 of your besties. If you don’t have an occasion to celebrate, make one up. The warm weather in Queensland’s capital city lends itself to a day on the water, enjoying cold beverages and dips in the refreshing water. 

You can choose between a day on the ocean or on the Brisbane River. How you spend the rest of the day is totally up to you. Blast your fave party tunes and party all day. Just make sure you’ve got the drinks in an esky and you’re wearing your SPF 50+ sunscreen. 

Best All-Inclusive Yacht Charter in Queensland – Voyager Catamaran

• 25 passengers
• Standup and kayaks included

If you’re gonna charter a yacht in Australia, you might as well hire one that has a bunch of fabulous extras. This stunning 40-foot Voyager Catamaran is available for adventures on the beautiful Gold Coast. 

When we said all-inclusive, we weren’t kidding. This baby has everything you could possibly need on board, there’s no way you’re going to miss the comforts of land. There’s space to comfortably sleep eight people. It has a fully functional kitchen with stove, oven and BBQ. There’s even a solid Wi-Fi connection, so you’ll be able to update your Insta stories and let your fans know what you’re up to. 

The back deck and the flybridge are the perfect spots to lounge around and enjoy the sun in the sunshine state. The best bit? There’s even standup paddleboards and kayaks included in the charter so you can play on the water. 

The crew are experts who are used to catering for all kinds of special occasions. If you need language assistance, they can even arrange Chinese, Japanese and Spanish language interpreters. 

The experience is not exactly budget-friendly, but it’s bound to be a day you won’t forget. 

The Most Affordable Yacht Charter in Brisbane – Bavaria 44’ Yacht

Australia isn’t exactly known as a budget destination and yachting is up there as a more elite sport. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t options that won’t break the bank.

This gorgeous 44 foot Bavaria is an excellent budget yacht charter in Brisbane for you and up to 12 mates. This means you can split the cost between a fair few of you and make it all the more affordable. The more the merrier, right? If you’d rather have an overnight adventure, the yacht comfortably sleeps eight in the cabin. 

The yacht has everything you need for a delightful day on the water, including speakers, BBQ, air conditioning and plenty of deck space to chill. Of course, the natural beauty around Brisbane takes the experience to the next level. 

She’s the most affordable yacht charter in Brisbane, but she’s also damn charming. 

Ask anyone who’s from here. West Coast = best coast. With turquoise water and an endless stretch of sandy coastlines, the state is full of top destinations to charter a yacht. 

The Biggest Yacht Charter in Australia – Eco Albrolhos  

• 130 passengers
• SUPs and inflatables for hire

This isn’t just any big boat charter. It’s damn huge! This is an awesome yacht charter in Australia if you’ve got a big occasion to celebrate or a chunk of cash to burn.

At 114 feet, the Eco Abrolhos is basically a floating city! She’s been kitted out with modern interiors, so you can be guaranteed to cruise in style. There’s a lot to love about this giant motor yacht. 

There are four levels and a bunch of comfy spaces to spread out indoors and in the sunshine. For playtime, there are standup paddleboards, kayaks and inflatables for hire, which obviously level up any experience. She’s got a full indoor jungle-themed bar that puts any hipster establishment to shame. If you’re planning a heck of an adventure, she can even go up to 200 miles offshore. 

For daytime adventures, there’s a capacity of 140 passengers. If you want an overnight stay, there is space for 32 passengers to sleep in twin-share cabins with private ensuites. 

Best Yacht Charter for Sightseeing in Australia – 56’ Custom Yacht

• Flexible rental times

There’s many unmissable things to do around Perth and Margaret River on a boat. If you’re planning to do some sightseeing, check out this option!

You charter the boat by the hour, which gives you the flexibility to plan your ideal day of sightseeing on the waters. She’s a 56-foot motorboat that was custom built for whale watching. If you visit between April and August, this is the perfect yacht charter in Australia to do some whale watching. There are lots of other itineraries you can check out too. 

A boat charter to Rottnest Island will get you up close and personal with Australia’s cutest and most photogenic marsupial, the Quokka. You can’t visit this part of the world without a Quokka selfie after all! 

It’s also a great charter for events and parties, as there’s space for up to 38 passengers to come along. Your job is to decide where you wanna go, and this yacht charter will make it happen. 

Best Boat Tour in Perth – Perth River Cruise and Vineyard Experience

• 10 passengers
• All inclusive package

We’ve mostly focused on boat and yacht charters in the ocean, but for this recommendation, we suggest you venture inland to the Swan River on a boat cruise. This is an awesome boat tour in Perth if you want to get out on a boat, but are more interested in the activities than the vessel. 

The tour is an all-inclusive day-long adventure to the wineries near Perth. You’ll cruise along the Swan River with a knowledgeable guide while stopping at the most excellent wineries in the region. You don’t just get to experience the divine scenery, you’ll also fill your bellies with the best wine and boutique beers in the area. It’s pretty great value too, considering you get wine tastings, meals, activities, a guide, and your transport all included in the price.

• Go swimming – The beaches down under are the most stunning and pristine in the world. Get your gear off and take a dip! Just make sure to check with your captain whether it’s safe to swim off the yacht first.
• Get boozy – When you charter a yacht in Australia, or anywhere else for that matter, you don’t need to worry about who will be the designated driver (or “the desso” as the Aussies say). Whether your day on the water is a rowdy one or a chance to unwind, enjoy the opportunity to have a couple of cold ones on deck and take in the fresh sea air. 
• Snorkelling – Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is world-renowned as one of the most spectacular destinations to explore what is under the surface of our ocean. It’s definitely not the only spot with incredible marine life to explore. Bring a snorkel along and marvel at the biodiversity of these parts. 
• Jetski – Sure, cruising on a yacht is a lot of fun, but zooming around on a Jetski takes the fun to another level. Some of the more luxurious yacht charters in Australia include a jetski as a part of the charter package. If yours doesn’t, chat with your captain while you organise your trip, they may have some contacts to organise one for you. 
• Watersports – Ever tried wakeboarding, kneeboarding, waterskiing or tubing? Watersports are up there as the most fun things you can do on a boat. If your vessel of choice has a strong motor, you might be able to do it on your yacht charter. 
• Enjoy the sun – Catch some vitamin D while you’re out on the water. Be sure to protect your skin, we aren’t kidding when we say the sun is strong in Australia. Aussies take their skincare seriously, be sure to wear a hat, sunnies and SPF 50+. Opt for reef-safe sunscreen if you can, if we’re gonna keep enjoying our oceans, we have to protect them!
• Whale watching – Many kinds of whales, including southern right, dwarf minke, humpback and orcas, make their annual migration along Australia’s coasts during the cooler months. This phenomenon happens on the East, West and Southern coasts of the country roughly between May-November. If your visit lines up with this time, don’t miss the chance to see these magnificent beasts and their young. 
• Watch the sunset . There’s nothing quite like watching the sunset from your own private yacht charter. No matter where you charter a yacht in Australia, you’re in for a show. 

You came for the top yacht charters in Australia, and these are our top picks for Sydney, Brisbane, the Goldcoast and Western Australia.

Australia is big – and there are plenty of other epic locations around the giant island where you can hire and charter a yacht. 

If you didn’t find what you need here, you can head to Sailo and search specific destinations around the country and browse until you find the perfect vessel to suit you and your adventure. If somewhere else in the world is calling your name, you’ll find boats on Sailo all over our pretty planet.

Maybe a DIY Sailing trip is more up your alley than a yacht charter, and if so, be sure to check out the bareboat yacht rentals available, too. Renting rather than chartering tends to be a whole lot cheaper, and we know you folk like to save cash where you can. If it’s your first time renting a bareboat, check out our guide on life on a boat to learn more about what to expect.

In the meantime, we will be planning our yachting adventure in ‘Straya. 

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alexandria Zboyovski

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‘Yachts at the top’: power, privacy and privilege in the world of Australian superyachts

Superyachts are floating markers of power and luxury, and sales are booming. As Australia hopes to lure more of the vessels and their elite clientele, what do we know about this world?

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Visible from the footpath at the water’s edge, the superyachts berthed at Melbourne City Marina bob gently up and down, their sleek and shiny exteriors reflecting the placid waters below.

For me, and most people on this planet, this is about as close as we are likely to get to a superyacht. In Australia, that’s a pleasurecraft longer than 24 metres. Internationally, the starting length is 30 metres. The City of Melbourne recently spent $1.97m upgrading Victoria Harbour, including its four superyacht berths, to fit vessels up to 67 metres long. But for the tiny portion of the world’s ultra wealthy for whom superyacht size is a matter of concern, 67 metres is fairly moderate. The longest privately owned superyacht in the world is the 180-metre Azzam, reportedly built for the former president of the United Arab Emirates , the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Superyachts are markers of power and extravagance. They are floating, transportable six-star hotels, capable of including everything from nail parlours to gyms, helipads and boardrooms, marble bathrooms and priceless art, as well as what the industry calls “toys” – from jet skis worth the equivalent of the average Australian worker’s salary to private submarines worth millions.

In a recent memoir, the longtime Australian seafarer and superyacht captain Brendan O’Shannassy writes: “Until space travel becomes a commercial reality, [superyachts] are the greatest display of wealth on the planet.”

For all their capacity to allow long-distance travel in extreme luxury, though, superyachts aren’t frequent visitors to Australian waters. The local industry has been lobbying to change that, and state and federal governments have made superyacht-friendly moves, hitching millions of dollars in public infrastructure upgrades and tax concessions to claims that these will bring millions in economic benefits to every port in which a vessel makes anchor.

But despite public money going towards establishing and upgrading infrastructure that is only accessible to the very privileged few, there’s been little public scrutiny of this elite industry.

S uperyachts are not super common, although their numbers are growing. Sales company Edmiston recently estimated that the global fleet comprised a total of 5,892 vessels – representing an increase of 44% over the last decade. Most of those yachts are between 30 and 50 metres (4,957); 13% are between 50 and 80 metres (753) and 3% are over 80 metres (182).

There are only about 120 superyachts owned by Australians, concentrated mostly around Sydney Harbour and south-east Queensland. About half of them are charter vessels. It’s likely all of them have, at some point, been through Captain Richard Morris’s hands.

Fresh off the plane from the Dubai Boat Show, Morris tells Guardian Australia that he got his start in the merchant navy at 17, before landing a job as a deckhand two years later on the 86-metre superyacht Nabila, owned by the influential and extravagant Saudi arms dealer, fixer and liaison of presidents and tycoons Adnan Khashoggi. Nabila was Khashoggi’s third yacht and the height of ostentatious luxury when it launched in 1980. Its 100 rooms included Italian hand-carved onyx bathrooms, a patisserie, a movie theatre, a hair salon, a hospital with an operating theatre, and 320 metres of Italian leather upholstery. When Khashoggi’s empire began to decay in the late 80s, he sold Nabila to Donald Trump for $29m – considered a bargain – with the businessman who would later become US president renaming the yacht the Trump Princess .

Morris, meanwhile, left Nabila after a year and began building his own career as a seafarer, becoming a captain at just 27 and a master mariner. He moved ashore in 1999 and was hired by NSW Maritime to build a new superyacht marina in Rozelle Bay.

“That was the beginning of superyachting in Australia,” Morris says. “Prior to that, only a few people here had superyachts, because there was the tall poppy syndrome – high net wealth Australians were reluctant to show their extreme wealth.”

The Sydney Olympics in 2000 changed that, Morris says. The marina development was partly to accommodate the super wealthy who were planning to bring their yachts down for the Games. Morris managed the marina for the next decade, before moving into local superyacht sales and charters.

The Sydney experience is one that the industry is keen to replicate for the forthcoming Brisbane Olympics. The mining magnate Gina Rinehart may have been lampooned by the public in 2021 when she complained that she had nowhere to moor her yacht in Brisbane , but the Queensland Labor government appears to agree it should invest in more superyacht infrastructure. It’s had a multiyear superyacht strategy since 2018, and in May last year it was updated and extended to take the Olympics into account.

Its listed achievements so far include $28m to upgrade the Cairns Marine Precinct, $2.87m for a 160-metre superyacht berth on the Gold Coast, and planning for 80-metre superyacht facilities and additional marinas in new developments on the Spit. Its stated goal is for Queensland to be “world recognised as the major superyacht hub in the Asia-Pacific region”. Economic modelling for industry lobby group Superyacht Australia argues the 2032 Games presents “an unparalleled opportunity to springboard the sector on to the global stage and demonstrate the prosperity the sector can support in Australia”. It hopes Australia will reach 8% of the global market – that’s 533 vessels – in the next three years, which it says will yield hundreds of millions of dollars in direct economic benefits.

Until just prior to the pandemic, superyachts could not come to Australia without the owner paying a hefty tax on the vessel, with the visiting multimillion-dollar vessels treated as though they were being imported permanently into the country. That changed with the passage of the Special Recreational Vessels Act 2019. The act, which relieves the owner of having to pay import duties including GST, was hitched as a rider to various unrelated bills by the Coalition government until it was passed as a standalone just before Christmas in 2019.

The legislation allows foreign vessels to be chartered while in Australian waters, with GST payable only on the charter itself.

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The then member for the Queensland seat of Dawson, George Christensen, claimed it as a pet project. “I have been very, very pushy in getting this legislation to come forward,” Christensen said at the time.

Christensen claimed the bill was “just about ensuring that local communities can get some of the coin that these people drop”. Labor passed the bill with minor amendments.

Since then, six superyachts have applied for a temporary licence, with just four making the trip.

‘It’s your world’

The industry estimates that the local market for superyacht charter or purchase is 1% of the population. It sees it as a subset of the cruise market, which is estimated to capture about 5% of Australians.

It’s hard to ignore the symbolism of that figure, the 1%. Morris’s anecdotes help to illustrate just how that plays out in practice. In 2011, the manager of U2 called him, he recalls, hoping to find a suitable superyacht for the band who were dissatisfied with the crowds at the Park Hyatt. (He was unable to find one that met the band’s specific desires.) That same year, Morris put up the actor Kevin Spacey in the 37-metre Tango during Spacey’s run as Richard III in Sam Mendes’s production that toured Sydney’s Lyric theatre.

“Dinner was at 1am and [Spacey’s] guests would leave at 4am. Then the yacht would move to Rose Bay and he’d sleep till midday, and then come back and do it all again,” Morris says.

“It’s an option for these very high-profile people. They’re anchored in the middle of the harbour. The level of security and discretion that a superyacht provides is much better than any hotel. They can control their world. And that’s the essence of yachting – it’s your world.”

When Covid lockdowns hit, owners of superyachts raced to their vessels, escaping up to the Great Barrier Reef instead of staying at home, Morris says. The associated freedom saw a boom in superyacht sales in 2021 . Since the onset of the war in Ukraine, however, superyachts have also become associated with sanctioned Russian oligarchs. Not without reason: they represented 30% of the global market. Documents recently revealed, for example, that the former Chelsea FC boss Roman Abramovich owned 16 superyachts , a full eight of which were support vessels for the 162.5-metre A$649.5m Eclipse he’d had built in 2010.

Morris says there were Russians who had planned to come to Australia prior to the war – one of whom was going to contract him to manage his yacht. It would have put millions through his business. The sanctions, though, have “put the fear of God through the industry”, he says.

“If I was managing a Russian yacht I would have gotten rid of it. It’s so lucrative, though, that a lot of people didn’t. I’m glad that the Russian client didn’t come. Sure, I missed out on huge revenue, but that’s not the point.”

T he 2032 Olympics aren’t the local industry’s only goal. Another is to bring more vessels to Australia to make use of the shipyards – mainly in Queensland and Western Australia – for maintenance, retrofitting and building. Another still is to increase the number of Australians joining the superyacht workforce.

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On Facebook groups like Superyacht Crew , keen industry up-and-comers post pictures of themselves – snorkelling, in uniform, sipping a glass of wine in a party dress – alongside their formal qualifications and experience. The semi-casual CV comes with added notes about the seafarer’s personality, including whether or not they have tattoos (being tattoo-free appears to be a selling point).

Employment standards, however, can vary. Commercially registered yachts available for charter, which usually have permanent captain and crew despite the rotating guest list, are bound by the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, which lays out minimum standards of employment, including legally enforceable contracts, maximum working hours per week, shore leave and annual leave entitlements, and the right to return to your country of residence for free. Enforcement of those standards is the responsibility of the country under whose flag the ship sails, and yachts chartering out of Australia need to be registered here.

Private yachts are a different story. They are not automatically covered by the Maritime Labour Convention, and employment contracts are often managed by owners’ personal office staff. Non-disclosure agreements are common, and rumours abound that upsetting the wrong people on board can see you unceremoniously dumped at the nearest port.

Superyacht crew in Australia are not covered by any union-based collective bargaining agreements. The Maritime Union of Australia national secretary, Paddy Crumlin, tells Guardian Australia that the MUA doesn’t have a real presence among the superyacht labour force, but alleges exploitation and harassment are rife. Morris vehemently rejects this, saying the working conditions on superyachts are “exceptional”, better than cruising or commercial shipping, higher paid, and far exceeding the minimums set by the Maritime Labour Convention.

Guardian Australia was unable to speak to any junior superyacht crew directly, despite attempts, but a survey of 402 superyacht crew members conducted by the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network in 2018 described them as mainly well paid. More than 90% of survey respondents – male and female – said they felt safe on board, though 53% of female crew said they had experienced discrimination, harassment or bullying from owners, other crew or guests, compared with 30% of men, who most commonly experienced it from captains or other senior crew. The level of work-related stress was high, particularly among women.

No matter who ultimately owns them, private yachts are likely to be flying what the industry calls a “flag of convenience”, which can make standards harder to enforce, as the boat can spend very little, if any, time in its country of registration. Flags of convenience are a common maritime business practice, though, including in cruising and freight. And the results can be ironic: a cursory registry search of some high-profile private superyachts reveals, for example, that the mining magnate Andrew Forrest’s 58.2-metre Pangaea Ocean Explorer – which will shortly carry out environmental surveys on the DNA of ocean life, assisted by $3m in federal funding to Forrest’s Minderoo Foundation – sails under the Jamaican flag. Clive Palmer’s 56-metre $40m yacht, despite being patriotically named Australia , is registered in Malta.

Control, chameleons and seasick fish

What is it that draws the ultra rich to yachting?

“Control,” says David Good, the chief executive of industry peak body Superyachts Australia. “You can control the itinerary, who is on board and what food is going to be served. During the pandemic, when you were on board was probably the only time you could fully take control of who was going to be with you and your family. Covid was probably one of the best things that ever happened to boating in general.”

Sam Sorgiovanni concurs. He’s used to catering to the whims of wealth: a sought-after designer based in Western Australia with about 35 years of experience, Sorgiovanni estimates he’s designed at least 20 superyachts. The biggest challenges usually relate to balancing functionality with the budget constraints of the commissioner. But some design requests are more complicated.

For the Nirvana, Sorgiovanni says his company designed two onboard terrariums for chameleons, water dragons, turtles and frogs, and a separate cricket facility to breed the reptiles’ food. The terrarium included curtains to shield the animals from the disco lights of an adjacent salon. On Anastasia and Barbara – owned by the same Russian billionaire as Nirvana – the designers were asked to include fish tanks. Unfortunately, they later discovered, fish kept in a tank on a boat die – from seasickness.

The origin of most of the super wealth that fuels superyacht ownership is natural resources, Sorgiovanni says. But criticism of the industry, he says, echoing Morris, is “tall poppy syndrome”.

“Yachting is the greatest redistribution of wealth around. Although it is for the privileged few, if you take a 100-metre yacht, there’s 50 crew on board, they’re all being paid, they’ve all got families, and wherever that yacht goes, especially if we’re allowing them to come into charter, as soon as it pulls into port … it would be millions generated every time the vessel comes in,” he says.

“It’s a pyramid. We’ve got the yachts at the top, and a pyramid of suppliers underneath it.”

S altwater and air is hard on boats, and superyachts require a lot of money for upkeep, and a lot of maintenance. So when an owner abandons ship, the vessels suddenly become very large and very unwieldy public burdens.

In February, the government of Antigua and Barbuda claimed and put up for auction the 82-metre Alfa Nero, which it said had been abandoned in Falmouth Harbour since early last year. The owner is rumoured to be the Russian oligarch Andrey Guryev; Guryev has denied owning the yacht, according to other reports.

That same month, the 29-metre superyacht Nakoa broke free of its moorings in Honolua Bay in north-west Maui, Hawaii, and drifted before running hard aground in shallow water, peppered by rocks and reef.

The US Coast Guard seized jurisdiction of the yacht after its owner, the charter mogul Jim Jones, informed authorities that he would not organise or pay for the boat’s salvage. Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources said in a series of statements that Jones would instead receive a bill of at least US$460,000 for the salvage effort, and may face further penalties and possible legal action.

Facing widespread criticism, Jones told Honolulu media that he was “taking responsibility” for the matter. “We’ve been talking to the DLNR to let them know we’re not leaving them with the bill,” Jones said. “We’re not running.”

Timely and safe salvage was important to the local community but also to the environment. The grounding occurred just outside a significant marine conservation zone, and the yacht struck and damaged at least 30 corals and live rocks, its hull leaking diesel into the reef. Footage of the wreck circulated on social media, where commenters raged about the fuel seeping into the pristine water and the damage to the reef.

It took contractors three salvage attempts over nearly two weeks to dislodge the 122-tonne Nakoa. On 5 March, three tugboats managed to drag it back into the water. As they set off to tow the yacht to Honolulu, a pod of humpback whales surfaced and escorted the boats out of the bay, away from the marine sanctuary.

The Nakoa never made it back to dock . Halfway to Honolulu, the yacht began listing heavily. Unable to be dragged any further, it was scuttled in the deep channel between the islands of Maui and Molokai, and left to sink to the ocean floor.

The whales swam on.

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Catamaran sailing in Australia

• February 25, 2022

An extended charter in Australia saw Terysa Vanderloo experience life on two hulls and cruise two iconic destinations when she and her partner went catamaran sailing in Australia

If it could float, it was out on the water in Sydney Harbour that day. Ferries, dinghies, powerboats, catamarans, superyachts , naval ships, and everything in between streamed across the famous inlet. My partner, Nick, and I had collected our charter catamaran from its base, tucked into Rozelle Bay in Sydney Harbour, and now had to navigate this bustling city’s water traffic in an unfamiliar catamaran . We were both feeling a little nervous.

However, the moment that Harbour Bridge came into view, followed moments later by the Opera House looming in the background, our fears were overcome by the sheer thrill. There is nothing quite like sailing past an iconic landmark, and they don’t come more iconic than Sydney’s Harbour Bridge and Opera House. As an Australian I’d dreamed of this moment for years and I bounced around the boat with excitement that a bucket list wish was finally being realised.

A year ago, Nick and I were lucky enough to be one of the very few people who managed to secure a flight to my home country, Australia. After two weeks of hotel quarantine we were free to roam what was, back then, a Covid-free nation with very few restrictions.

Vanderloo at the helm of the chartered Seawind 1260

We were set on cruising the coastline of this vast country and so we opted to do two long-term charters: one in New South Wales and one in the Whitsundays in Queensland. We chartered the same model of boat on both occasions, a Seawind 1260 . This is a smaller version of the Seawind 1370 , a newer design from Seawind Catamarans that we currently have in build.

The charter would be an ideal stepping stone from our years on board our monohull , a Southerly 38, to future liveaboard cruising on a larger cat. Our first test was to navigate our way out of Sydney Harbour – a great exercise in testing out the visibility from the helm, not to mention our knowledge of Colregs.

Escape the city

But just a short sail away was the peaceful Middle Harbour, a few miles from Sydney Harbour yet a world away in atmosphere. Much of Middle Harbour is a national park, and a serene natural sanctuary.

Quiet Pittwater Bay is just 20 miles north of Sydney. Photo: Terysa Vanderloo

Bantry Bay was a memorable spot, and we took the dinghy ashore to hike around its perimeter – a satisfying and enjoyable expedition until we came across a huge spider hanging amid its web at face height, just inches from the path.

It was an orb-weaver spider, harmless and non-aggressive, but intimidatingly large nonetheless. This was our first encounter with Australia’s spider population, but by no means our last, and while British-born Nick retained some natural caution, he soon adopted a more Australian (read: blasé) attitude towards our native wildlife.

Twenty miles north of Sydney Harbour is Pittwater Bay and Cowan Creek, part of a large estuary fringed mostly by the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. For our first proper sail conditions were perfect: bright sunshine, 15 knots on the beam, and slow ocean rolling waves.

We raised the mainsail and unfurled the jib, turned the engine off and settled into several hours of gentle, easy sailing. The swell was quite large, but a lengthy swell period meant that the conditions were still very comfortable; we slowly rose up and down as the wide waves passed beneath us.

We previously had only a small amount of experience sailing catamarans – a day trip off the Spanish coast, a week’s holiday with friends in French Polynesia , a couple of test sails at the Annapolis Boat Show – but this was the first time we’d had the opportunity to sail a cat with just the two of us, and we relished it. The boat was easily making 8 knots and the motion underway so comfortable that I went down below to make a cup of tea and, if I closed my eyes, could have imagined we were at anchor. The most dramatic difference between monohull and multihull sailing was the stability underway.

Bucket list view of Sydney Harbour from the water for Terysa Vanderloo and partner Nick Fabbri.

We reached Pittwater more certain than ever that the decision to sell our monohull – something we agonised over for years – was the right one. Countless bays, coves and creeks dot this inland waterway, all protected from the ocean swell and offering a real sense of isolation and a connection to nature. There were many mooring buoys to choose from, all free to use and well maintained – a pleasant surprise.

America Bay was a stand-out spot, surrounded on all sides by the bush. We took the dinghy to the bottom of a waterfall, clambered up the mountainside alongside it, and ended up doing quite the bushwhack, but finally made it to the top. We encountered more of Australia’s native wildlife while moored in The Basin, a popular anchorage next to an idyllic lagoon and camping spot. This is home to a large number of wallabies, all utterly unfazed by human company.

On our return sail back to Sydney we spent a couple of nights at Athol Bay, on the north side of Sydney Harbour, which has the most spectacular outlook over the city skyline. One night a thunderstorm came through, lightning streaking across the horizon. On others it was clear and bright and we sat in the cockpit all evening watching the city lights twinkle to life. It is truly one of the most special views we’ve ever been lucky enough to enjoy at anchor.

Looking across Athol Bay on the north shore towards Sydney’s city centre. Photo: Taras Vyshnya/Alamy

Breezy Whitsundays

Sailing in the Whitsundays was a total contrast. I’d naively assumed it would be similar to sailing in Thailand or the Caribbean: gentle breezes, the sun shining and palm trees lining white beaches. Well, there were beaches and a few palm trees, but the weather was completely different to what we’d expected.

Our first week saw a strong wind warning, which not only restricted where in the islands we could go (we had to stay on the westward side of the islands, protected – slightly – from the south-easterlies) but we also weren’t allowed to sail at all. Charter company rules said we had to motor everywhere which was a disappointment, although we understood the rationale. Even had we been on our own boat, I’m not sure we’d have wanted to venture onto the windward side of the islands in 30 knots of wind.

However, once windspeeds dropped below 25 knots, we were able to raise the sails and get in some lively sailing. This gave us an opportunity to experience cat sailing under more challenging conditions. When the conditions are ideal, just being out on the water is a joy. But when the wind is howling, the sea state short and choppy, and you’re sprayed with saltwater every time you stick your head out, the vessel itself becomes paramount to getting any enjoyment of the experience (at least, that’s how I feel!).

In this situation, we couldn’t believe how comfortable our catamaran was, even as waves broke onto her windward bow, water slamming into the forward-facing windows and spraying against the clear side panels we’d put up to protect the twin helm stations.

Cruising off Border Island, in the Whitsundays

There are many options for destinations in the Whitsundays, so while the strong prevailing south-easterlies were blowing, we stuck to the windward side. Cid Harbour on Whitsunday Island was a particularly welcome find, both expansive and a well-protected anchorage. Ashore, we did the Whitsunday Peak hike, a winding and at times steep climb to the highest peak in these islands, surrounded by thick bushland.

Despite the strenuous nature of the hike, the view when we reached the top was well worth it. We could see the Whitsunday Islands stretch below us in every direction, right down to our dinghy, now afloat with the incoming tide. With no desire to swim out to our dinghy – there have been several shark attacks in Cid Harbour – we charged down the trail to reach the beach before the tide came in much further. We only had to wade out to our knees, but fellow charterers weren’t so lucky and had to swim to theirs.

A favourite anchorage in Butterfly Bay, Hook Island

South Mole island offered more spectacular hiking. Here the vegetation is less dense and instead the hills are covered in long green grass, rippling in the high winds. Again, we had the hiking trail completely to ourselves – in fact, we had the entire island to ourselves, as it’s uninhabited with only a campsite ashore, the only access being by boat. The anchorage was a little choppy due to the high winds, but the sense of being utterly remote while on land was wonderfully invigorating.

By way of contrast, a trip to Hamilton Island cured any notion of isolation. It’s the main resort island in the Whitsundays and home to a large marina, hotel, several restaurants and about a billion golf buggies, the island’s only form of transport. Hamilton Island gave us a chance to provision and fill our water tanks, but it’s considerably more busy than the other islands in the chain.

Our favourite anchorage of all has to be Butterfly Bay, which sits on the northern coast of Hook Island. Mooring is only permitted on laid buoys, but there were plenty of buoys available, as was the case throughout our entire Australian cruise – a pleasant change from the stress-inducing crowded bays of some popular Caribbean islands, or the cramped anchorages in much of Europe.

Pristine white sands and no-one else about at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach

Butterfly Bay is actually two bays next to each other, which form the shape of butterfly’s wings. Hook Island, like much of the Whitsundays, is also a National Park and totally uninhabited. The edges of the bay are trimmed in coral, which we immediately swam out to explore. Although we saw plenty of fish and some interesting coral, the shallower coral heads were still recovering from damage by Cyclone Debbie in 2017. Freediving to deeper corals rewarded us with healthier, more prevalent coral heads and scuba diving to even deeper levels would reveal yet more sea life.

The world’s best

Of course, no sailing trip to the Whitsundays would be complete without a visit to Whitehaven Beach, situated on the eastern side of Whitsunday Island. Whitehaven is regularly voted the best beach in the world. Pristine and untouched despite its popularity, its sand is made up of 98% pure silica, giving it a bright and brilliant white colour, while the surrounding waters take on a beautiful turquoise hue.

While the south of the beach was home to daytripping boats and other charter yachts, it was only when we explored along to the empty northern end of the beach that we could truly enjoy its untouched beauty. Here, the only footprints belonged to us, the sand soft and silky underfoot. Hill Inlet wraps around the northern tip of the beach, a shallow meandering inlet with shifting white sand bars and blue water. Several yachts had made their way up the channel at high water, and we’d been told it was possible to dry out there. Unfortunately that was off-limits to us as we were on a charter boat, but we dearly hope to return one day on our own catamaran to further explore this incredible cruising area.

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Green Point beach near Yamba littered with debris after abandoned boat runs aground

A remote beach near Yamba on the New South Wales north coast is littered with debris and diesel after a boat ran aground and was smashed to pieces in the surf overnight.

Witnesses said the boat was abandoned by its occupants as they were attempting to cross the Clarence River bar around lunchtime on Monday. 

NSW Road and Maritime said the occupants were evacuated from the vessel by a NSW Marine Rescue crew.

Angourie resident Oli Coe said he later saw the vessel adrift about 2 kilometres offshore.

He watched the boat throughout the day and at one point saw another vessel alongside it.

He said someone boarded vessel and put out its anchor.

"As the wind got up through the rest of the afternoon, we watched the boat drifting and dragging on its anchor and eventually it just dragged way too far and ended up on the beach," Mr Coe said.

At one stage Mr Coe and two friends used jetskis to get out to the boat to see if they could do anything to help.

He said he could not understand why it was not salvaged before it ran aground near Green Point.

"There was definitely some damage to the boat but it was in perfectly good condition [before that]," Mr Coe said.

Clean-up concerns

Locals spent Tuesday morning on the beach, dragging piles of debris above the high tide mark in a bid to ensure it is not taken back out to sea with the next high tide on Tuesday evening. 

Angourie resident Kim Wood said the usually pristine beach at Green Point looked like a "rubbish dump".

"I'm looking at kilometres of debris," she said.

"There is timber, there is oil cans, jerry cans full of diesel, so much plastic, and everything is soaked in diesel.

"You can still see all debris in the ocean."

Ms Wood said the area was home to a wide range of birdlife including oyster catchers and curlews.

Too dangerous to tow

NSW Maritime said the boat was deemed too dangerous for authorities to board or tow.

Senior boating safety officer Bret Ryan said authorities needed to put safety first.

"Marine Rescue revisited the boat several times on Monday, and eventually the Water Police came from Coffs Harbour," Mr Ryan said.

"They came to the same conclusion that it was too dangerous."

"At that point the vessel was secure and the hope was it would remain in that position but unfortunately that didn't happen."

Mr Ryan said the main hazard on the beach was from any sharp objects that might remain buried in the sand.

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