To get the most out of your holiday the following information may be useful in deciding what to see and do on our beautiful waterways. An excellent book is provided “Cruising Guide to the Hawkesbury, Cowan and Pittwater” and some supplementary information is as follows:

Scotland Island, Church Point, Elvina Bay and Lovett’s Bay sightseeing are a great way to start your holiday. Much of the area and bays are only accessible by water and are serviced by small ferries, water taxi and runabouts. 

Coasters Retreat - The Basin An attractive bay on the western side of Pittwater 40 minutes motoring from Princes Street marina.   It is a great spot for Kids, Families, and Adults. Check out the wallabies and kangaroos that come out of the bush in the evenings to graze. The bay is protected from most winds but exposed to the north-east and south-east.  Pick up a mooring and row ashore to use toilets and showers and relax under the pine trees; swimming in the Basin or bushwalking up to West Head.

Palm Beach A long sandy beach on the eastern side of Pittwater.  Extensive areas of shallow water with seagrass to be avoided.  However several moorings at the northern end tucked under  Barrenjoey headland, 45 minutes motoring from the marina.  Row ashore and walk along the beach to the award winning café, or climb Barrenjoey to inspect the lighthouse with magnificent views over Broken Bay.

Barrenjoey Lighthouse & Summer Bay home to the TV series Home & Away. If you have the time a walk up to the lighthouse will be rewarded with some of the best 360 degree views you will ever encounter anywhere.

Patonga Beach A beautifual small villageat the west end of Broken Bay. The Fish Shop is famous for its fresh local caught fish and hand cut chips. The Hotel has a fabulous beer garden and serves lovely lunches. Take a stroll along the creek at the back of the village.

Refuge Bay / America Bay Twin iconic bays with plenty of moorings on Cowan Creek about ……… hours motoring from the marina.  Very sheltered from most weather conditions and an excellent overnight location.

Other bays on Cowan Creek include Jeruslam Bay, Yoemans Bay, Coal & Candle, Akuna Bay, and Smiths Creek to name just a few.  Study the chart and “Cruising Guide” to determine your position.  Several secluded inlets with public moorings for a peaceful night away from the crowds at Refuge Bay.

Cottage Point A small settlement in the National Park with renowned restaurant.  It is 2 hours from the marina and just beyond Refuge Bay.  Phone the restaurant for a booking on 02-9456  1011 and they will allocate a mooring for you to pick up.

Bobbin Head The former base of Halvorsen Boats and now a modern marina with café and several shops about 30 minutes past Cottage Point.  Phone ahead for a mooring in the open water before the marina.  Row ashore for lunch, etc. and inspect the National Parks & Wildlife Service facilities.  An excellent place to meet friends with plenty of car parking.

Dangar Island An attractive island in the Hawkesbury River near the rail bridge about 2 hours motoring from our marina.  Lovely café at the waters edge on the northern side.  Phone ahead on …………. for a booking, pick up a mooring and row ashore.  A scenic walk around the island to view the river.

• Spencer A little river settlement about 3 to 4 hours from our marina depending on the tide.  Pick up a mooring and row ashore to the “Dunkirk Hotel” under a tree by the water.

• Wisemans Ferry A large historic settlement on the river about 7 hours from our marina (with the run in tide) and 3 hours beyond Spencer. Pick up a mooring and row ashore to enjoy shopping in the village.  Take the ferry across the river and walk on the historic convict built Great North Road.  Marvel at the road building techniques and skills.

• Cruising Guide These are just a few ideas for your holiday with far more detail provided in the “Cruising Guide”. Remember that you are the skipper of the vessel and must exercise caution in all your decisions for the safety of yourself, your passengers and the boat.  It is always easier to pick up a mooring but