Australia's top boating

The broad estuaries and rocky islands of Australia's southern coasts can be explored year-round, while winter is the ideal time for sailing the rivers and coasts of the north. No licences or permits are required for yachts (though sound experience is obviously a must), but powerboats are subject to state and territory restrictions, so check with local waterways authorities.

1 Dampier Archipelago, WA

Pristine beaches, 42 uninhabited islands and an abundance of anchorages make this isolated archipelago a terrific prospect. Dampier is a good launch spot and has a yacht club. Beware of the large tidal ranges, reaching 3.7 m near the main anchorage at Angel Island.

2 Geographe Bay, WA

This is a favourite yachting playground and the venue for the state’s largest regatta, the Geographe Bay Race Week, held in February in Busselton. Port Geographe Marina at Busselton has six trailer-boat ramps and onshore facilities. Bunbury is popular for sailing, jet-skiing, waterskiing and windsurfing.

3 Kimberley Coast, WA

Between Broome and Wyndham, no roads reach this spectacular coastline fringed with islands, inlets and cliffs. It is best visited during the dry season (May to October). The prevailing winds from the east and south-east can be blustery; however, calms are frequent so take plenty of fuel. Strong tides and uncharted reefs make daylight navigation advisable. Marine life abounds, but beware of sharks and saltwater crocs.

4 Fannie Bay, Darwin, NT

Sheltered Fannie Bay has several marinas, numerous boat ramps and good shore side facilities. Local advice can be sought at the Darwin Trailer Boat Club and Darwin Sailing Club, and tinnie hire and cruises are available. High tides restrict ramp access, so familiarise yourself with the tidal almanac. Winter is the best season and the time of the major yachting event, the Darwin– Ambon rally.

5 Boston Bay, SA

This popular trailer-boat destination has sheltered waters, sandy beaches and quiet inlets offering ideal anchorages. Launching from the ramp near the yacht club, boaters can berth in the marina or head out to the islands. Seagoing vessels can explore Spencer Gulf and Yorke Peninsula. The bay hosts the state’s main yachting event, the Port Lincoln Regatta, in February.