World ARC 2024-25, Leg 7
Airlie Beach (Australia), Darwin, Lombok (Indonesia)
August – September 2024, 1,800nm
Starting from Airlie Beach, the Whitsunday Islands are right on the doorstep. Gentle trade winds mean relaxed day sailing between the many islands that are on offer and the Great Barrier Reef further offshore breaks up the ocean swells, creating a wonderful cruising area in smooth water. There will be something for everyone in this tropical paradise.
Spectacular scenery, breathtaking views and local wildlife are to be found on the many walking trails throughout the islands, and we will also be visiting the occasional island resort for a small change of scene, including the famous Hamilton Island Yacht Club.
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest and most complex expanse of living coral reefs, supporting many unique forms of marine life. We will also be spending some time out on the Reef as diving and snorkelling is a must.
From here we head up the East coast of Australia with some stops along the way. We will visit the mainland and the reef islands, highlights will include Magnetic and Lizard islands, Cairns or Cooktown and perhaps a stop right at the top of Cape York in the heart of aboriginal land. There is excellent sailing and fishing across the Gulf of Carpentaria and we may even get to pit stop at the Wessel Islands - where we can negotiate a tidal rip known as the hole in the wall!
After plenty of great sailing we will arrive into Darwin for a few days of land exploration. Darwin has much to offer including the main wharf with its waterside commercial centre, historic walking trails and World War 2 tunnels, early balloon flights with views over the Australian outback, and the Kakadu National Park – a place renowned for the richness of its Aboriginal cultural sites. There is also the Litchfield National Park nearby. For those wishing to explore by bike, there are numerous biking trails or if you are looking for something less strenuous, there are scooters and cars for hire and flights available to Alice Springs and Uluru (Ayers Rock).
Leaving from Darwin, we will then continue on to Lombok in Indonesia, a passage of around 3 days. This leg finishes here, but there are many interesting places to explore nearby before you fly home!
Read about our previous experiences on this leg on our 2017 blog.
Booking Details
World ARC 2024-25, Leg 7: Airlie Beach to Lombok
All dates subject to confirmation. Discounts available for multiple legs. Deposit of 25% due on booking, final balance due 4 months prior to joining.
Key Facts:
What's included:
- Qualified and experienced skipper and first mate.
- Fully coded yacht, licensed to charter anywhere in the world.
- Full Category A medical kit.
- Entry cost to the World ARC.
- Organised tours, parties and events by WCC.
- All onboard expenses.
- Onboard food and drinks.
- Satellite tracking, blogs and photos sent whilst at sea.
- Tuition and guidance from two Ocean Yachtmasters.
- Use of sextant and navigation tables.
- All safety equipment.
- Fuel.
What's not included:
- Flights and transfers.
- Meals ashore.
- WCC crew fees (£150 per leg).
- Personal visas (if required).
- Personal insurance.
