This 820nm offshore sailing expedition takes you from Southport on Queensland’s sunny Gold Coast to Sydney, via the remote and rarely visited Middleton Reef, Elizabeth Reef, and the spectacular Lord Howe Island. It is a unique Category 1 passage that combines open-ocean sailing, remote reef exploration, and a stopover at one of Australia’s most pristine islands.
Our first waypoint lies 300nm offshore at Middleton and Elizabeth Reefs, two of the world’s southernmost platform reefs. Rising from more than 4km of ocean floor, these reef systems span over 6nm and are visible at low tide. Their isolated beauty is matched by their history, with more than 70 vessels wrecked here in the past century and some remains still visible today. Weather permitting, we will anchor inside Elizabeth Reef’s lagoon, an exceptional opportunity for snorkelling and exploring this protected marine sanctuary.
From the reefs, we sail south to Lord Howe Island, a World Heritage-listed haven surrounded by turquoise waters and dramatic volcanic cliffs. The island is just 7nm long and offers hiking trails, welcoming locals, and extraordinary marine biodiversity. After our stopover, we pass Ball's Pyramid, a striking sea stack that rises 551m from the Tasman Sea.
The final 420nm leg westward takes us to Sydney, where we sail through the Heads into one of the world’s most iconic harbours, home to the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. This expedition is a rare and rewarding adventure through some of Australia’s most remote offshore wonders.
Sail a rare Category 1 offshore route
Embark on an 820nm blue water passage that combines remote reef exploration with iconic landfalls, ideal for adventurers seeking serious sea time.
Explore Middleton and Elizabeth Reefs
Visit these remote marine sanctuaries, rising from 4,000m depths, home to shipwrecks, vibrant coral, and rich marine life. Weather permitting, anchor in the lagoon for snorkelling and exploration.
Experience Lord Howe Island
Stop at this UNESCO World Heritage listed island, known for its crystal clear lagoons, dramatic cliffs, unique biodiversity, and relaxed island charm.
Sail past Ball's Pyramid
Witness the world’s tallest sea stack—an awe-inspiring volcanic remnant rising 551m straight from the Tasman Sea.
Conclude in iconic Sydney Harbour
Finish your passage sailing through the Heads into Sydney’s famous harbour, passing the Opera House and Harbour Bridge on arrival.
Develop advanced offshore sailing skills
Gain hands-on experience with ocean navigation, weather routing, watch rotations, and passage planning on a true offshore expedition.
Southport Yacht Club
Bustling marina on the Gold Coast with full facilities, dining, and a vibrant sailing community.
Perfect departure point with easy access to offshore waters and the Tasman Sea.
Middleton Reef
One of the world’s southernmost platform reefs, rising from deep ocean waters.
Teeming with marine life and a rich shipwreck history, visible at low tide.
Elizabeth Reef
Remote marine sanctuary with a protected lagoon and colourful coral gardens.
Ideal for snorkelling and exploring in calm conditions.
Lord Howe Island
World Heritage-listed island with turquoise lagoons, volcanic peaks, and rich biodiversity.
Offers scenic hikes, pristine beaches, and a welcoming island community.
Ball’s Pyramid
Spectacular sea stack soaring 551m above the Tasman Sea.
Renowned for its dramatic cliffs and unique marine ecosystem.
Sydney Harbour
Iconic natural harbour framed by the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
A world-class sailing destination and home to the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.
Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls. View gallery
Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination. View gallery
Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s. View gallery
Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication. View gallery
Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures. View gallery
Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard. View gallery
Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan. View gallery
Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather). View gallery
Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions. View gallery
Coastal exploring offers the thrill of venturing to remote places using a RIB, uncovering hidden gems like pristine reefs, secluded beaches, and winding rivers. Discover shipwrecks teeming with history, indulge in beach combing for unique treasures, and experience the untouched beauty of coastal landscapes. View gallery
Onshore activities include hiking and bushwalking to scenic lookouts, exploring local towns, and discovering the unique charm of each destination. Enjoy cultural immersion through local traditions, relax with games, or uncover hidden gems as you explore islands. View gallery
Dining out offers the chance to enjoy local flavours, explore regional specialties, and experience unique culinary traditions. From seaside cafes to hidden gems, each meal is an opportunity to savour the culture and cuisine of the destination. View gallery
Fishing provides an opportunity to connect with nature, whether casting a line from the shore or exploring deeper waters. Enjoy the thrill of the catch, the serenity of the surroundings, and the chance to bring home a fresh, rewarding meal. View gallery
Exploring historic places offers a glimpse into the past through ancient sites, architectural landmarks, and local stories. These visits bring history to life, connecting you with the culture, traditions, and events that shaped each destination. View gallery
Kayaking allows you to glide through serene waterways, explore hidden coves, and get up close to nature. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to discover rivers, coastlines, and marine life from a unique perspective. View gallery
Snorkelling offers an up-close view of vibrant underwater ecosystems, from colourful coral reefs to fascinating marine life. It's a relaxing and immersive way to explore the wonders beneath the surface of the water. View gallery
Swimming offers refreshing escapes in stunning settings, from crystal-clear bays and tranquil rivers to diving off the back of the boat into azure waters. It's a perfect way to relax and be rejuvenated by nature. View gallery
Wildlife watching offers unforgettable encounters with nature, from observing birds and dolphins to spotting whales, turtles, and sharks. Discover diverse marine life, from playful fish to delicate starfish, in their natural habitats. View gallery
Step aboard Silver Fern, a sleek and spacious sailing yacht crafted for comfort, camaraderie, and coastal exploration. Whether you're navigating hidden bays, sharing stories over dinner on deck, or trimming sails on an offshore leg, Silver Fern offers the ideal balance of relaxation and hands-on adventure. With warm hospitality, inviting living spaces, and a spirit of discovery at its core, every journey on Silverfern feels like coming home—only at sea.
You can fly directly into Gold Coast or Brisbane airport’s on day 1 and you join us for a crew welcome dinner. On day 2 we'll familiarise you with the yacht, systems and safety equipment and get you ready for departure including running through final checks and preparations and depart from the dock around midday. We will aim to arrive in Sydney by day 10, so you should aim to depart out of Sydney Airport on day 11.
Day 1:
Arrive at the vessel in the Gold Coast by 5pm
Crew welcome dinner
Day 2:
Crew training and safety familiarisation
Depart Southport around 12pm
Day 3-4:
Sail to Middleton Reef
Day 5:
Stop at Middleton Reef in the morning, explore reef.
Sail to Elizabeth Reef for afternoon, explore reef.
Day 6-9:
Sail to Lord Howe Island
Anchor for 2-3 nights, exploring the island during the day
Day 10:
Sailing to Sydney, passing Ball's Pyramid along the way
Final crew dinner
Day 11:
Depart Sydney
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Southport, Lord Howe Island, Sydney and various stopover ports en-route, accommodation onboard, your crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal flotation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Eligibility
You will need to complete a 5-hour online or 2-day Sea Safety and Survival Training Course or equivalent at least 1 month prior.
Book and pay
Click Book Now button above to secure your place. Choose from Pay in Full or deposit options. Direct debit from bank account, debit card or credit card options available. Pay in the currency of your choice.
Personalise your payment plan
If you want to set up a payment plan, contact us here and let us know your desired deposit (minimum 10% required) and your preferred payment. You can make up to 18 payments, for the balance. You can choose the frequency and customise each payment amount.
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Reserve your place onboard today, with no obligation. We’ll send the confirmation details, itinerary, deposit invoice and be sure to answer all your questions, while you finalise your plans before confirming. Reserve here.
100% cancellation guarantee
If you book and then cancel prior to an event, for any reason, 100% of your payment will be issued as a credit, that you can apply to any future event/s. For a full refund of sailing trip, flights and hotel costs, we recommend travel insurance. View Terms & Conditions.
Members
Check for Member's availability here before booking this event, using Members Benefits. When you book Reserve your place here.