7-DAY ITINERARY IN NEW SOUTH WALES

A short harbour leg that stays in sheltered water, ideal for settling aboard and running systems checks before the week’s coastal mileage begins. Rose Bay sits behind South Head’s sandstone ramparts, with consistent holding over sand and mud in moderate depths. In summer, the afternoon northeasterly funnels into the harbour, so a slightly deeper set can reduce swing in gusts.

Daily Highlights:

• Late afternoon swim off the beach line in calm water
• Seaplane watching and shoreline walk along the promenade
• Sunset drinks with the city skyline astern
• Optional paddleboard session in the lee of the bay

Track east toward the Heads, then turn north into Manly’s wide bay, where the harbour opens into brighter water and stronger tidal set near the entrance. The coastline shifts from urban foreshore to steep sandstone and pocket beaches within minutes. Manly Cove is well protected, but wash from ferries can increase roll, so fendering and scope matter even on calm days.

Daily Highlights:

• Morning run past South Head and the harbour entrance
• Swim stop with views back toward the Heads
• Walk the Manly to Shelly Beach track for coastal outlooks
• Seafood lunch along the wharf precinct

A classic Sydney north coast passage past Long Reef and the Collaroy headlands, then into Broken Bay where ocean swell drops quickly behind Barrenjoey Head. The entrance to Pittwater is straightforward in settled conditions, with a clear transition from open sea to a long, protected lagoon. Afternoon sea breeze often peaks on this leg, making it a clean reaching run when timed well.

Daily Highlights:

• Offshore passage with clear headland navigation marks
• Arrival drink with Pittwater’s sheltered anchorage views
• Shore visit to Palm Beach and Barrenjoey Lighthouse
• Optional tender cruise through the bay at golden hour

This leg turns inland into the drowned valleys of Ku ring gai Chase, where sandstone walls rise sharply and wind chop softens. Cowan Creek narrows and deepens, with excellent shelter in most weather and minimal current compared with the outer bay. The sheltered water here is well suited to quiet anchoring and refined onboard dining.

Daily Highlights:

• Slow cruise into Cowan Creek’s sandstone gorges
• On water relaxation with minimal wake and chop
• Lunch reservation at Cottage Point Inn style venues ashore
• Optional bushwalk access into the national park tracks

Continue north into the Hawkesbury system where river widths open and tidal influence becomes more noticeable. Bar Point sits along a working stretch of waterway, with deeper channels and stronger ebb and flood compared with the creeks. Plan arrivals around tide to reduce current at docking and to keep tender operations comfortable.

Daily Highlights:

• Scenic river passage through layered sandstone country
• Wildlife spotting along mangrove edges and quiet inlets
• Shore stop in Brooklyn for provisions and a relaxed café lunch
• Optional sunset drift with the current before anchoring

Exit the river system back toward Broken Bay, then make the coastal run north toward Bouddi’s cliffs and surf beaches. This passage is more exposed, with swell and wind angle shaping comfort, so timing around forecast and daylight is key. Bouddi’s coastline is carved into headlands and coves by Hawkesbury sandstone, delivering dramatic shore profiles from the water.

Daily Highlights:

• Open water run with headland navigation and clearer sea color
• Afternoon swim where conditions allow, or a sheltered bay alternative
• Bouddi coastal walk segments for viewpoints over the Pacific
• Dinner ashore in Hardys Bay with a quiet coastal pace

A dedicated shore and water day to enjoy Bouddi without repositioning, using the anchorage as a stable base. Brisbane Water remains protected behind the sand spit and headlands, keeping conditions comfortable even when the outside coast is active. Clear mornings often bring the best visibility for snorkeling before the afternoon breeze builds.

Daily Highlights:

• Sunrise swim and tender exploring in protected water
• Beach time at Putty Beach and lookouts along the headland
• Long lunch with local produce and coastal views
• Optional short cruise within Brisbane Water for a final golden hour