CRUISING QUEENSLAND AUSTRALIA
Queensland’s coastline, stretching over 1250 NM, offers adiverse and rewarding cruising grounds. From the bustling marinas of Brisbane to the remote wilderness of Cape York, yachtsmen can explore an array of experiences, from pristine reefs to vibrant cities, each with its unique charm and challenges. This guide provides an in-depth look into navigating Queensland’s waters, covering major destinations, marinas, and practical advice for the intrepid sailor.
1. The Great Barrier Reef: Nature’s Maritime Wonder
Overview
The Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an unparalleled highlight of cruising Queensland. Spanning 2,300 kilometers, it offers a mosaic of coral cays, lagoons, and vibrant marine life. Navigating these waters is a sailor’s dream, but it demands attention to detail with charts, tide tables, and environmental regulations.
Key Destinations
- Lady Musgrave Island: A coral cay with a protected lagoon anchorage perfect for snorkeling and diving.
- Hardy Reef: Home to the famous Heart Reef, this area offers excellent mooring options for day visits.
- Green Island: Located near Cairns, this island is a favorite for those seeking both natural beauty and accessibility.
Tips for Navigating the Reef
Navigating the Great Barrier Reef requires careful planning. Utilize up-to-date reef charts and electronic navigation aids. Watch for shifting sandbanks and coral outcrops, especially during tidal changes. Stick to marked channels where possible, and consult local advice for safe anchorages.
2. The Whitsunday Islands: A Sailor’s Playground
Overview
The Whitsundays are the quintessential cruising destination, offering 74 idyllic islands scattered across the Coral Sea. The protected waters and reliable trade winds make it an ideal spot for sailors of all skill levels.
Highlights
- Whitehaven Beach: Renowned for its silica sands and stunning views from Hill Inlet.
- Hamilton Island: A vibrant hub with a full-service marina, resorts, and dining options.
- Hook Island’s Nara Inlet: A tranquil anchorage surrounded by dramatic cliffs and ancient Aboriginal cave art.
Marina Services
Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach is the primary gateway to the Whitsundays. It offers comprehensive services, including provisioning, repairs, and mooring rentals. Hamilton Island Marina provides another excellent stop for refueling and enjoying the island’s amenities.
3. Far North Queensland: Remote and Rugged
Overview
As you venture north of Cairns, the cruising becomes more remote and adventurous. This region is characterized by stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and fewer crowds.
Key Stops
- Lizard Island: Known for its luxury resort and exceptional snorkeling at the “Cod Hole.” This island’s Blue Lagoon provides a picturesque anchorage.
- Cooktown: A historical port with ties to Captain James Cook. It’s an excellent spot to resupply and explore local history.
- Torres Strait Islands: At the northernmost tip of Queensland, these islands offer unique cultural encounters and challenging navigation through tidal straits.
Navigational Challenges
The tidal ranges and currents increase significantly in Far North Queensland. Use detailed tide charts and plan passages carefully, especially around the Torres Strait. Local knowledge is invaluable for avoiding hidden hazards.
4. Major Ports and Marinas
Queensland boasts a robust marina network catering to yachts of all sizes. Here are some key marinas along the coast:
- Rivergate Marina & Shipyard, Brisbane: Known for its world-class refit facilities and proximity to the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
- Mooloolaba Marina: A favorite stopover for its sheltered location and access to the Sunshine Coast’s attractions.
- Cairns Marlin Marina: A gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, offering extensive services and a lively waterfront.
- Hamilton Island Marina: The heart of the Whitsundays, providing excellent amenities and a luxury experience.
Each marina provides opportunities for provisioning, maintenance, and exploring the surrounding region. Booking ahead during peak season (May–October) is recommended.
5. Weather and Seasonal Considerations
Cruising Seasons
Queensland’s cruising season aligns with its dry season, from May to October. During this time, the weather is characterized by clear skies, moderate trade winds, and lower humidity. It’s ideal for sailing and exploring the reef.
Cyclone Season
The wet season, from November to April, brings higher temperatures, heavy rainfall, and the risk of tropical cyclones. Yachts should seek shelter in cyclone-rated marinas or relocate south if possible.
Trade Winds
The southeast trade winds prevail during the dry season, providing steady breezes for sailing. Be mindful of stronger winds around headlands and during afternoon sea breezes.
6. Practical Advice for Yachtsmen
- Biosecurity Regulations: Queensland has strict rules for entering its waters. Be aware of requirements for fresh produce, pets, and ballast water.
- Marine Parks: Many areas, especially in the Great Barrier Reef, fall under marine park regulations. Follow anchoring guidelines and avoid restricted zones to protect delicate ecosystems.
- Fuel and Water: Refueling stations are abundant in major ports but sparser in remote areas. Plan fuel and water resupplies accordingly.
- Local Knowledge: Seek advice from local yacht clubs, marinas, and fellow cruisers. The Queensland yachting community is welcoming and invaluable for navigating these waters.
7. Cultural and Recreational Experiences
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture
Cruising Queensland offers unique opportunities to engage with Indigenous culture. Guided tours in places like Cooktown and the Torres Strait provide insight into the region’s rich heritage.
Recreational Activities
From snorkeling and diving in the reef to hiking lush rainforests in the Daintree, Queensland offers something for every adventurer. Don’t miss the chance to fish for coral trout or explore inland waterfalls like those near Mission Beach.
MARINAS
WEATHER
SWELL
PILOT CHARTS
COUNTRY Pilot Charts provide historic points and aggregated information of wind flows, air and ocean temperatures, wave heights, rain, barometric weight, and climate conditions at various seasons. This data was acquired from oceanographic and meteorologic perceptions over hundreds of years starting in the late eighteenth century. These diagrams are planned to help mariners choose routes around and approaching Cuba with respect to the normal climate and sea conditions using prevailing seasonal wind information.
PORTS OF ENTRY
DOCUMENTS
PORTS OF ENTRY
Queensland
Brisbane
Bundaberg
Cairns
Gladstone
Gold Coast
Mackay
Thursday Island
Townsville
New South Wales
Coffs Harbour
Eden
Newcastle and Port Stephen
Port Kembla / Shellharbour
Sydney
Northern Territory
Darwin
Gove
Tasmania
Hobart
Launceston
ENTRY EXIT REQUIREMENTS
| DOCUMENTATION | Passport Valid for at least 6 months; requires one blank page |
| Passport | Valid for at least _ months; requires one blank page |
| Boat Documentation | Coast Guard Doc (Original) |
| Insurance | Ship insurance
Legislation requires all ships over 15m (for example 15.01m) in length overall* to have enough insurance to pay for potential pollution clean-up, salvage and wreck removal. The insurance policy must meet the following requirements for the type of ship: A recreational ship more than 15m but less than 35m in length overall must have an insurance policy that provides A$250,000 for pollution clean-up and A$10 million for salvage and wreck removal. Ships visiting Queensland’s coastal waters are also required to comply with the legislation. It is recommended that these ships review their existing insurance coverage to determine compliance with this requirement. If the insurance policy doesn’t comply, then these ships must organise temporary insurance while in Queensland’s coastal waters. A current certificate of insurance, or other document evidencing the currency of the insurance policy, must be carried on-board the ship and must detail the relevant limits of cover. The documents must be readily available for inspection by compliance officers. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For those ships which cannot reasonably obtain insurance, the ship’s owner may be able to seek an exemption to the insurance requirement. In such cases the ship’s owner must apply to Maritime Safety Queensland. For further information on how to apply for an exemption, see the reference document (PDF, 63 KB) and Ship Insurance Exemption Application form. For further information contact a Maritime Safety Queensland regional office. |
| Crewlist | Required at checkin/out |
| Zarpe | Required at checkin/out |
| Fishing License | |
| Official Procedures | https://www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/entering-and-leaving-by-sea/yachts-and-pleasure-craft |
| Official Country Visa | |
| Immigration Visa | |
| Required Permits | |
| Upon Arrival Visit: | Immigration; Customs; Port Captain/Authority |
| Upon Departure Visit: | Immigration; Customs; Port Captain |
| Total Entry & Exit Fees: | |
| Notes: | |
| Recommended Agent: | |
| Currency: Australian dollar
|
  |
MUST SEE
QUEENSLAND
. Great Barrier Reef
- Location: Off the coast of Queensland
- Why Visit: One of the seven natural wonders of the world, perfect for diving, snorkeling, and marine exploration.
- Best Time: June to October.
2. Daintree Rainforest
- Location: Far North Queensland
- Why Visit: The world’s oldest rainforest, teeming with biodiversity and the Mossman Gorge.
- Best Time: May to September.
3. Whitsunday Islands
- Location: Off Airlie Beach
- Why Visit: Whitehaven Beach’s pristine sands and clear waters make this a tropical paradise.
- Best Time: May to September.
4. Fraser Island (K’gari)
- Location: Off Hervey Bay
- Why Visit: The largest sand island in the world with 75 Mile Beach and crystal-clear lakes.
- Best Time: April to October.
5. Cape Tribulation
- Location: Northern Queensland
- Why Visit: Where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef.
- Best Time: June to August.
6. Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail
- Location: Near Cairns
- Why Visit: A breathtaking journey through rainforest-covered mountains.
- Best Time: Year-round.
7. Magnetic Island
- Location: Off Townsville
- Why Visit: Known for its stunning bays, hiking trails, and wildlife, including koalas.
- Best Time: May to October.
8. Surfers Paradise
- Location: Gold Coast
- Why Visit: A vibrant beach destination with surf, shopping, and nightlife.
- Best Time: September to April.
9. Noosa National Park
- Location: Sunshine Coast
- Why Visit: Offers coastal trails, stunning views, and wildlife like koalas.
- Best Time: September to November.
10. Lamington National Park
- Location: Gold Coast Hinterland
- Why Visit: World Heritage-listed rainforest with spectacular hiking trails and waterfalls.
- Best Time: April to October.
11. Springbrook National Park
- Location: Gold Coast Hinterland
- Why Visit: Features ancient rainforests, Natural Bridge, and glow worm caves.
- Best Time: March to August.
12. Brisbane South Bank
- Location: Brisbane
- Why Visit: A cultural hub with riverside parklands, museums, and art galleries.
- Best Time: Year-round.
13. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
- Location: Brisbane
- Why Visit: The world’s oldest koala sanctuary, offering close encounters with Australian wildlife.
- Best Time: Year-round.
14. Mount Tamborine
- Location: Gold Coast Hinterland
- Why Visit: Known for its wineries, rainforest walks, and artisan markets.
- Best Time: Year-round.
15. Carnarvon Gorge
- Location: Central Queensland
- Why Visit: A hidden gem with sandstone cliffs, ancient rock art, and lush forests.
- Best Time: April to October.
16. Moreton Island
- Location: Near Brisbane
- Why Visit: Famous for Tangalooma Wrecks, sandboarding, and clear waters.
- Best Time: March to November.
17. Lady Elliot Island
- Location: Southern Great Barrier Reef
- Why Visit: A haven for manta rays, turtles, and pristine coral reefs.
- Best Time: May to August.
18. Glass House Mountains
- Location: Sunshine Coast Hinterland
- Why Visit: Scenic volcanic peaks ideal for hiking and photography.
- Best Time: April to September.
19. Hinchinbrook Island
- Location: Near Cardwell
- Why Visit: Australia’s largest national park island with the famous Thorsborne Trail.
- Best Time: June to August.
20. Wallaman Falls
- Location: Girringun National Park
- Why Visit: The tallest single-drop waterfall in Australia.
- Best Time: May to September.
21. Atherton Tablelands
- Location: Far North Queensland
- Why Visit: Known for waterfalls like Millaa Millaa, crater lakes, and local produce.
- Best Time: Year-round.
22. Paronella Park
- Location: Mena Creek, near Innisfail
- Why Visit: A historic castle and gardens built in the 1930s.
- Best Time: March to August.
23. Burleigh Heads
- Location: Gold Coast
- Why Visit: Offers beautiful beaches, scenic walking trails, and surfing spots.
- Best Time: September to March.
24. Winton and Dinosaur Trail
- Location: Outback Queensland
- Why Visit: Explore the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum and fossil sites.
- Best Time: April to September.
Boating in the Whitsundays
For complete information about boating in the Whitsundays, refer to the essential sailing guide for the area, 100 Magic Miles of the Great Barrier Reef – The Whitsunday Islands.
Australia’s amazing cruising grounds, the Whitsundays, offer scores of protected anchorages each within easy reach of the next anchorage / moorings
Sailing conditions
South-east trade winds fan the Queensland coast from March-April to September-October providing exhilarating sailing conditions, frequently 15-20 knots in strength. From October onwards milder easterlies and north-easterlies are more common. The islands themselves and the Great Barrier Reef to the east create a relatively protected stretch of water (European discoverer James Cook referred to the Whitsunday Passage as “one continued safe harbour”). But when the winds are piping in, the phenomenon of ‘bullets’ (sharp gusts) may be experienced in some anchorages, and good anchoring technique is essential.
Tides
The Whitsundays are subject to 10-13 feet tides which, during times of maximum flood and ebb, create currents that accelerate through the narrow passages between the islands, and when the direction -of the wind and tidal currents oppose each other, Whitsunday waters can sometimes be turbulent. Yachts plan their movements to take advantage of currents and to avoid bumpy passage making. The large rise and fall of the water level needs to be considered when anchoring a yacht.
Boating facilities
The area has four marinas, with others under construction.
| Location |
Entrance lat./Long. |
Facilities |
| Mackay | 21° 063’S, 149° 14.0’E | 479 berths; full marine services; launching ramp |
| Laguna Whitsundays | 20° 35’S, 148° 41.5’E | Current Status Unknown |
| Hamilton Island | 20° 20.8’S, 148° 56.8’E | 230 berths; full marine services |
| Abell Point | 20° 15.6’S, 148° 42.6’E | 507 berths; full marine services; launching ramp |
REPAIRS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS
- Port Hinchinbrook Marine
Location: 2 Commercial Drive, Cardwell QLD 4849
Services: Refit and haul-out facility with an 80-tonne travel lift, undercover refit shed for vessels up to 30 meters, chandlery, mechanical repairs, and more.
Contact: 07 4066 8419
Email: accounts@porthinchinbrookmarine.com.au
Website: porthinchinbrookmarine.com.au - Norship Marine
Location: 60-62 Tingira St, Portsmith QLD 4870
Services: Large travel lift facilities and a comprehensive range of services for various vessels.
Contact: (Contact details not specified)
Website: norship.com.au - Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard (GCCM)
Location: 76-84 Waterway Dr, Coomera QLD 4209
Services: Modern facility with 50t and 300t travel lifts, accommodating a wide range of vessels, with over 90 on-site marine businesses.
Contact: (Contact details not specified)
Website: gccm.com.au - Rivergate Marina & Shipyard
Location: 7 Rivergate Pl, Murarrie QLD 4172
Services: Comprehensive marine services with a focus on quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.
Contact: (Contact details not specified)
Website: rivergate.com.au - Fishermans Wharf Marina
Location: 864 Boat Harbour Dr, Urangan QLD 4655
Services: Slipway facilities and a range of services for maintenance and repairs.
Contact: (Contact details not specified)
Website: fishermanswharfmarinaherveybay.com.au - Horizon Shores Marina
Location: 80 Cabbage Tree Point Rd, Steiglitz QLD 4207
Services: 70t travel lift, hardstand, refit sheds, and a variety of marine-related services.
Contact: (07) 5546 2300
Website: boatgoldcoast.com.au/horizon-shores-marina-boat-services-and-refits/ - The Yard Brisbane
Location: Brisbane River, Brisbane QLD
Services: Shipyard with 65-600T straddle carriers, multiple refit sheds, and a team of skilled marine professionals.
Contact: (Contact details not specified)
Website: mymarinaguide.com/listing/the-yard-brisbane/ - Runaway Bay Marine Service
Location: Runaway Bay Marina, Runaway Bay QLD
Services: Fully equipped marine workshop, forklift and cradle hire for vessels up to 28ft, trailer hire, haul-out, and storage.
Contact: 07 5577 4411
Website: runawaybaymarineservice.com.au/service.php
