Port Macquarie to Trial Bay and South West Rocks

Direction covered: Northbound Primary arrival: Trial Bay anchorage near South West Rocks Optional onward movement: Macleay River only after separate local assessment and expert local advice Planning distance: About 41 nautical miles from d'Albora Port Macquarie Marina to the Trial Bay anchorage assessment area using the offshore planning gates in this guide Expected sailed distance: About 42 to 46 nautical miles, depending on the departure channel, offing, wind, current, tacking, traffic and anchorage selected Typical passage time: About 5 hours 50 minutes to 10 hours 15 minutes at 4 to 7 knots, before adding bar, anchoring and operational time Recommended format: One full daylight coastal passage for boats that can maintain the required speed, followed by a separate decision on any Macleay River entry Main complications: Hastings River bar, a long exposed coast without an all-weather midway harbour, south-setting current, several headlands, bomboras, Fish Rock and Green Island, intensive diving activity, conditional shelter in Trial Bay, and an extremely dangerous Macleay River entrance Guide research checked: 29 August 2026

Hey sailors, we created this YouSail guide to help you start planning the northbound trip from Port Macquarie to Trial Bay and South West Rocks. It is not a definitive pilot, chart, forecast or instruction to cross a bar. The coast, sandbanks, aids, anchorage conditions, marine rules and facilities can change. Check current official charts, weather, swell, tides, warnings, notices and local reports.

Talk to Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, Marine Rescue Trial Bay, experienced local skippers, yacht and sailing clubs, dive operators and the people responsible for any berth or facility you intend to use. The skipper must make the final decision. If the entrance, anchorage, forecast, boat or crew is not right, wait or change the plan.

This guide treats Trial Bay anchorage and Macleay River entry as two different decisions.

Trial Bay is a roadstead anchorage, not a marina and not an all-weather harbour. It can provide valuable shelter in suitable southerly conditions, but its protection is conditional. A change in wind or swell can make it uncomfortable or unsafe.

The official Transport for NSW South West Rocks map states that the Macleay River entrance bar is extremely dangerous and should be attempted only by people with expert local knowledge. It also states that the former entrance leads were decommissioned because of the dangerous nature of the entrance.

Accordingly:

• the primary route in this guide ends at a safe anchorage assessment area in Trial Bay;
• no fixed route across the Macleay River bar is supplied;
• the Macleay entrance coordinates are location references only;
• a previous track, another boat or an old set of leads does not establish a safe channel; and
• entering the river should be planned as a separate operation, commonly after observing conditions from Trial Bay and obtaining current expert local knowledge.

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The passage in plain language

This is the first leg in the northbound sequence where distance becomes a major planning variable. The official coastal map lists Port Macquarie to the Macleay River as approximately 40 nautical miles. A yacht that averages 6 knots may complete the route comfortably in daylight. A yacht making only 4 knots needs more than ten hours of pure travel time, before leaving the marina, assessing the Hastings bar and anchoring.

The coast offers attractive landmarks but few forgiving options. Crescent Head and Hat Head are not all-weather harbours. Trial Bay itself is a conditional roadstead. The plan must therefore preserve speed, daylight, fuel and weather margins from the beginning.

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Option A: Port Macquarie to Trial Bay in one day

This is the normal plan for a cruising yacht that can conservatively maintain the required speed made good.

The operational sequence is:

1. depart the booked berth early enough for the planned bar window; 2. cross the Hastings River bar only when safe; 3. establish offshore clearance before turning north; 4. make steady progress past Point Plomer, Crescent Head and Hat Head; 5. round Smoky Cape and the Fish Rock area with deliberate sea room; 6. keep clear of dive operations around Fish Rock and Green Island; 7. approach Trial Bay from safe water in daylight; 8. inspect the selected anchoring area, depth, bottom, swing room and exposure; and 9. secure the boat while retaining a plan to leave if shelter deteriorates.

Option B: Trial Bay overnight, Macleay River on a later tide

This is the preferred structure for a vessel that ultimately wants sheltered river water.

Day 1:

• sail from Port Macquarie to Trial Bay;
• anchor only if the bay is suitable for the expected wind and swell;
• obtain current local advice;
• inspect both official webcams and the entrance from a safe position; and
• prepare a separate bar plan.

Day 2 or a later tide:

• reassess the river bar;
• confirm the current channel with expert local knowledge;
• verify that the former leads remain irrelevant and are not being followed;
• wear legally required lifejackets;
• ensure the boat, propulsion and crew are ready; and
• enter only if the skipper is satisfied that conditions are safe.

The existence of Trial Bay does not oblige the skipper to enter the Macleay River. Continuing to another port on a later passage may be safer.

Option C: Two coastal days via an open anchorage

Crescent Head and Hat Head may appear to divide the route neatly, but neither should be treated as a guaranteed refuge. Any overnight plan there requires a separate, current anchorage study considering:

• wind and swell direction through the entire night;
• holding ground and depth;
• surf and dinghy landing risk;
• room to swing clear of reef and beach;
• ability to leave in darkness if conditions change; and
• the absence of marina support.

For many boats, a carefully timed single passage is safer than creating an exposed overnight stop.

Option D: Continue to another port

If Trial Bay is unsuitable, a yacht may need to remain offshore or continue north. Nambucca Heads also has a coastal bar and is not automatically a safe alternative. Coffs Harbour is much farther and requires a separate offshore plan, fuel allowance, crew capacity and likely night navigation.

No alternative should be improvised at the end of the day.

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d'Albora Port Macquarie Marina

• YouSail listing: d'Albora Port Macquarie Marina
• Official marina page: Port Macquarie Marina
• Address: 18 Park Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
• Phone: 1800 32 52 672
• Email: enquiry@dalbora.com.au
• Guest services are listed as open seven days, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

The official marina page lists:

• 101 berthing positions;
• 92 wet berths for vessels up to 25 m;
• 9 swing moorings;
• short and extended stays subject to vessel suitability and availability;
• 24-hour fuel;
• power and water;
• showers, bathrooms and laundry;
• a full-service boatyard;
• slipway haulout and hardstand services for vessels up to 60 ft; and
• staff support during business hours.

Fuel at Port Macquarie is strategically important because no reliable full-service fuel berth should be assumed at Trial Bay or South West Rocks.

Lady Nelson Wharf

• YouSail listing: Lady Nelson Wharf
• Council page: Lady Nelson Wharf
• Council-published location: 31°25.657'S, 152°54.479'E

This is public infrastructure, not a guaranteed long-stay berth. Check signs, current rules, time limits, vessel suitability and availability.

Marine Rescue Port Macquarie

• Published unit position: 31°25.81'S, 152°55.24'E
• VHF: Channel 16
• Phone: 02 5547 9100
• Address: 11A Buller Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
• The unit states that its radio base operates 24/7.
• Official page: Marine Rescue Port Macquarie

Log on before leaving and give the correct route, persons on board, destination and estimated time of arrival.

Trial Bay anchorage

Trial Bay is the principal arrival for a cruising yacht. It is a broad, north-facing bay historically used as shelter from southerly weather. The NSW Superyacht Guide describes it as one of the better north-coast anchorage options in southerly conditions.

It is still a roadstead. There is no enclosing harbour entrance, no marina breakwater and no guarantee that the selected anchoring area will remain comfortable.

Before relying on it overnight, assess:

• current and forecast wind, including any turn to north or north-east;
• primary and secondary swell direction and period;
• wave wrap around Laggers Point;
• surf along the beach;
• depth and bottom on the current chart and sounder;
• anchoring room and other vessels;
• prohibited swimming or powered-vessel areas;
• wreck and breakwater hazards near shore;
• ability to raise anchor and leave at night; and
• whether crew can safely reach shore.

No full-service marina

The official NSW Superyacht Guide states that there are no marinas with superyacht berths in South West Rocks and recommends anchoring in the bay. For ordinary cruising yachts, the practical message is similar: do not expect a conventional full-service visitor marina.

Trial Bay Gaol beach and tender access

The NSW Superyacht Guide identifies Trial Bay Gaol beach as a possible tender landing in calm conditions. This is conditional on surf, tide, swimmers, current access rules and the crew's ability to launch and recover the tender safely.

The official boating map marks an area near the Gaol where boats and personal watercraft are not permitted in the swimming area. Identify the current buoyed or signed boundary and keep clear.

Mattys Flat Jetty

The NSW Superyacht Guide identifies Mattys Flat Jetty on the Macleay River as a public floating pontoon with a maximum one-hour stay. Reaching it requires entering the Macleay River, which is a separate high-risk bar decision. It is not an alternative to Trial Bay when the bar is unsafe.

Confirm the jetty's present existence, access and time limit before relying on it.

Back Creek and the Boatshed area

The local map shows small-scale boating infrastructure around South West Rocks Creek and the Boatshed area. It also warns that South West Rocks Creek is shallow, navigable only by small craft and should be attempted only on the flood tide.

It is not a general destination for an offshore cruising yacht. Confirm draft, mast, beam, tide, depth, bridge and berth arrangements directly before considering it.

Fuel and marine services

Assume that no dependable dockside diesel, water, pumpout, chandlery, haulout or repair berth will be available at Trial Bay unless directly confirmed.

• Fill fuel and water in Port Macquarie.
• Carry the spares needed to continue or divert.
• Do not base the plan on carrying jerry cans through surf.
• Confirm all South West Rocks services by phone before departure.

Marine Rescue Trial Bay

• Published unit position: 30°53.00'S, 153°02.49'E
• VHF: Channel 16
• Phone: 02 6566 5240
• Address: Horseshoe Bay Headland, South West Rocks NSW 2431
• Email: base.trialbay@marinerescuensw.com.au
• Official page: Marine Rescue Trial Bay

The unit page instructs boaters to use VHF 16 or ring Triple Zero, 000, in an emergency.

YouSail destination links

• Sailing in Trial Bay
• Sailing around South West Rocks

These pages provide destination context. Current official charts, warnings, rules and local advice remain controlling.

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Coordinate rules

• These are planning references, not surveyed safe-water waypoints.
• Plot and check every position on the current official chart or ENC.
• Alter the route for charted dangers, current navigation aids, weather, traffic and the vessel's safe offing.
• Bearings between points are not instructions to steer through a bar.
• Never activate the route without checking every leg and cross-track area.
• P02, P03, P11 and P12 must not be used as fixed entrance or anchoring instructions.

Feature coordinates for orientation only

Why P07 to P09 are deliberately offshore

Fish Rock rises steeply from deeper water and is surrounded by current, dive activity and submerged topography. Green Island is another major dive area. A route that cuts between the coast, Fish Rock and Green Island may save distance but adds complexity, local-current effects and collision risk.

The route in this guide therefore uses an offshore arc. The skipper must still verify that arc against the current chart and conditions.

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Distances are approximate great-circle measurements between planning references. Bearings are initial bearings in degrees true. They are not magnetic compass courses and do not include leeway, set, drift, tacking, traffic avoidance or a safe bar track.

Expected real distance

Allow 42 to 46 nm for:

• movement from the assigned berth;
• standing off to inspect the Hastings bar;
• a safe curve around nearshore hazards;
• deviations for wind, current and traffic;
• keeping clear of dive boats and divers;
• examining Trial Bay before anchoring;
• searching for suitable depth and bottom; and
• a second anchoring attempt if the first is unsatisfactory.

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Pure travel time over 41.0 nm

Practical departure-to-anchor budget

A 5-knot yacht should usually plan for roughly 9.5 to 11 hours from berth departure to a fully checked anchor. A 4-knot yacht may not have enough winter daylight after a safe bar departure.

Minimum average speed required

Use:

Required speed made good = remaining distance / usable travel hours

If 43 nm remain and there are 8.5 usable hours before the final daylight anchoring time:

43 / 8.5 = 5.06 knots

If the boat cannot conservatively maintain that speed under the forecast wind and current, the one-day plan does not fit.

Backward planning method

1. Choose the latest time by which the anchor must be set and checked in full light. 2. Subtract 45 minutes for Trial Bay inspection and anchoring. 3. Subtract the conservative travel time using expected speed made good, not hull speed. 4. Add time for current, traffic and sail changes. 5. Subtract Hastings bar observation and crossing time. 6. Check the resulting departure against the preferred last part of the flood tide. 7. Check civil twilight, sunrise, berth access and crew readiness. 8. If the bar window and daylight window do not overlap, select another day.

Example only

A boat planning on 5.5 knots over 43 nm needs about 7 hours 49 minutes of travel. Add:

• 30 minutes from berth to bar;
• 30 minutes for bar assessment;
• 45 minutes for Trial Bay arrival and anchoring; and
• 60 minutes of operational margin.

Total planning time becomes about 9 hours 34 minutes. If the anchor must be secure by 16:30, the provisional berth-departure time is about 06:56. This is an arithmetic example, not a recommended tide or departure time.

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Two official forecast zones

The route crosses a Bureau of Meteorology forecast boundary at Smoky Cape.

• Macquarie Coast forecast, Smoky Cape to Seal Rocks
• Coffs Coast forecast, Wooli to Smoky Cape
• NSW coastal observations
• BOM marine and ocean forecasts

Check both zones even when only a short portion lies north of Smoky Cape. A front or wind change can reach one zone earlier than the other.

Forecast data to record

For departure, mid-passage, Smoky Cape and anchoring time, record:

• sustained wind direction and strength;
• stronger-wind wording and gust risk;
• sea height;
• primary swell height, direction and period;
• secondary swell;
• rain, thunderstorms and visibility;
• warning status;
• time and direction of any wind change; and
• whether current observations match the forecast.

Southerly wind

A moderate southerly may provide a fast northbound sail and make Trial Bay attractive. It can also produce:

• following or quartering seas;
• accidental-gybe risk;
• rapid closing speeds on Fish Rock and Green Island;
• wind acceleration around headlands;
• large swell continuing after the local wind eases; and
• a difficult return to Port Macquarie.

Trial Bay's northerly aspect can provide shelter from southerly weather, but long-period swell may still wrap around the headlands. Do not assume flat water from wind direction alone.

North-easterly wind

North-easterly conditions are directly adverse to a northbound boat and can make Trial Bay exposed.

Expect:

• lower speed made good;
• more tacking or motoring;
• short steep sea against a south-setting current;
• increased lee-shore exposure;
• lost daylight margin; and
• uncomfortable or unsafe anchorage conditions.

A forecast north-easterly increase is one of the clearest reasons to question the passage.

Westerly wind

Offshore wind can flatten nearshore water while becoming much stronger offshore. Gusts can descend from elevated terrain near Smoky Cape. A disabled vessel may drift away from the coast, which creates its own recovery and rescue considerations.

Easterly and south-easterly wind

An onshore component increases coastal exposure and may send swell into Trial Bay. The coast can become a lee shore, and the Fish Rock area can develop confused water.

Swell period and direction

Swell height alone is insufficient. Long-period energy can:

• break over reefs and bomboras;
• refract around Smoky Cape and Laggers Point;
• affect an anchorage that appears visually protected;
• make beach or tender landings dangerous; and
• produce rolling even when local wind is light.

Forecast limits worksheet

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Transport for NSW states that the Hastings River bar is dangerous because of sandbanks and should be navigated only with extreme caution. It identifies the last of the flood tide as the best time of passage.

That recommendation is an important starting point, not a guarantee. Departure also requires acceptable:

• swell height, direction and period;
• wind;
• river outflow;
• visibility;
• current channel and variable leads;
• traffic;
• engine reliability; and
• crew readiness.

Use the Port Macquarie bar webcam as one source only. Conditions can change rapidly and camera perspective can hide wave size.

Trial Bay is an open anchorage rather than a bar crossing. Tide still matters because it affects:

• depth at the selected anchor position;
• swing clearance;
• surf and tender landing;
• exposure of shallow hazards;
• the relationship between charted and observed depth; and
• the amount of cable required.

Calculate the depth expected at the next low water, not merely the depth at arrival.

The NSW webcam page states that South West Rocks tides are measured at Jerseyville and are 60 minutes later than Sydney. Use the current official prediction for the correct location and date rather than manually applying the offset when an official local table is available.

• NSW tide tables
• South West Rocks and Macleay River webcams

The official local map states:

• the entrance bar is extremely dangerous;
• only those with expert local knowledge should attempt it;
• the former entrance leads were decommissioned;
• current Marine Notices should be consulted; and
• all people must wear the required lifejacket when crossing a coastal bar.

The same map states that South West Rocks Creek is shallow, for small craft only and should be entered only on the flood tide.

No tide calculation in this guide overrides those warnings.

The East Australian Current generally flows south along the NSW coast, but its strength and position vary and eddies can reverse local flow.

For a northbound passage, adverse current can:

• reduce speed made good by one or more knots;
• move the vessel south of the planned track;
• lengthen exposure to strengthening wind;
• consume daylight;
• increase fuel use; and
• make the final turn toward Trial Bay later than expected.

Use IMOS OceanCurrent for planning context. Verify the real effect by comparing heading, course over ground, speed through water and speed over ground.

Current observation log

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Stage 1: Marina to Hastings River entrance

Prepare the yacht for open water before reaching the bar:

• lifejackets on before the legal wear point;
• anchor secured;
• tender secured for sea;
• hatches and loose equipment secured;
• sails ready to deploy;
• engine checked and tested under load;
• VHF working;
• navigation route verified;
• crew positions assigned; and
• abort conditions agreed.

Follow the current marked river channel. The direct bearing from P01 to P02 is not a river route.

Stage 2: Hastings bar to P03

Observe several wave sets from a safe position. Identify the current variable leads and navigation marks. Confirm there is no conflicting traffic.

Once committed, maintain control and avoid unnecessary course changes in critical water. Continue offshore until the vessel is clear of bar effects, breaking banks and the commitment zone.

At P03 or the independently selected safe offshore gate:

• check steering;
• inspect the bilge;
• check engine instruments and charging;
• confirm no gear shifted;
• compare actual wind and swell with forecast;
• calculate the first revised ETA; and
• decide whether continuing north is still sensible.

Stage 3: P03 to Point Plomer

The coast north of Port Macquarie includes North Shore Beach, Queens Head and Point Plomer. Maintain deliberate offing from nearshore reefs and rocks.

Do not cut toward the beach because the chartplotter shows a shorter line. Consider:

• swell breaking farther offshore than expected;
• fishing vessels and gear;
• south-setting current;
• lee-shore exposure; and
• room to turn east if propulsion or steering fails.

Stage 4: Point Plomer to Crescent Head

The coast includes Big Hill Point, Delicate Nobby, Racecourse Head, Green Island near the coast and Crescent Head landmarks. These should not be confused with Green Island near South West Rocks later in the route.

At P05:

• compare actual time with plan;
• calculate required speed to the anchoring deadline;
• review crew condition;
• confirm fuel and engine status;
• receive any new warnings; and
• decide whether the route still has sufficient daylight margin.

Crescent Head is not a dependable harbour refuge.

Stage 5: Crescent Head to Hat Head

This is the longest leg in the planning table. Keep a disciplined watch and record position and progress at regular intervals.

Hazards and workload include:

• fatigue after the early departure;
• gradual loss of speed in adverse current;
• afternoon north-easterly development;
• whale activity in season;
• fishing gear;
• nearshore surf; and
• the temptation to reduce offing to regain time.

Hat Head and Korogoro Point are prominent, but Korogoro Creek is not a seagoing refuge. The official map notes that its entrance is shallow and should be navigated with caution.

Stage 6: Hat Head to Smoky Cape

Smoky Cape is a major high headland. The lighthouse is conspicuous and has a published characteristic, but identification must be made from current chart and light information.

Expect possible:

• wind acceleration;
• wave refraction;
• stronger current;
• rougher water near the cape;
• dive and fishing traffic; and
• bomboras or breaking hazards away from the obvious shoreline.

Move offshore before the Fish Rock complex. Do not wait until the rock is abeam to create clearance.

Stage 7: Fish Rock and Green Island

Fish Rock is one of Australia's best-known dive sites. Green Island and the surrounding water also attract dive operations.

Controls:

• maintain a dedicated visual lookout;
• recognise the International Code Flag A used by diving vessels;
• pass at a safe speed and distance;
• expect divers, shot lines and support vessels;
• do not pass between boats and their dive sites;
• allow for current setting the yacht toward the rocks;
• verify the current Grey Nurse Shark critical-habitat and fishing-closure rules; and
• do not use bait line fishing within the Fish Rock or Green Island critical habitat. The current official closure applies all year and covers bait whether alive or dead, subject to the detailed exceptions and definitions on the official page.

P07, P08 and P09 create an offshore route around the area. The safe clearance must be confirmed on the current chart and adjusted for conditions.

Stage 8: Turn toward Trial Bay

From P09, approach P10 north-east of Laggers Point rather than aiming directly for the beach or anchorage.

Before turning west:

• verify that Trial Bay remains suitable;
• identify Laggers Point and the Gaol precinct;
• confirm wind and swell have not shifted;
• check for dive, fishing and recreational traffic;
• identify the prohibited swimming area;
• review charted depths and hazards;
• prepare the anchor and windlass; and
• establish an escape route back to open water.

Stage 9: Inspect and anchor

Slow early. Use visual observation, current chart, depth sounder and a full circle of spatial awareness.

Select a position that provides:

• adequate depth at the next low water;
• suitable holding ground;
• enough swinging room for the full wind and tide range;
• clearance from beach, wrecks, reefs, breakwater remains and other vessels;
• clearance from swimming and restricted areas;
• an unobstructed route to sea; and
• acceptable protection for the entire planned stay.

Anchor procedure:

1. stop the vessel over the selected drop point; 2. lower, do not throw, the anchor; 3. pay out cable while moving astern under control; 4. use scope appropriate to depth, freeboard, forecast and room; 5. set the anchor progressively; 6. take transits and verify GPS position; 7. set anchor and depth alarms; 8. observe the boat through several gusts and swings; 9. maintain an anchor watch suitable to conditions; and 10. prepare to leave if the protection changes.

Stage 10: Optional Macleay River assessment

Do not move directly from anchoring into a casual river attempt.

If river entry is still intended:

• contact Marine Rescue Trial Bay;
• obtain expert local knowledge;
• inspect official South West Rocks and river webcams;
• check current notices;
• identify the present channel without using decommissioned leads;
• assess tide, river flow, swell, wind and daylight;
• wear required lifejackets;
• test propulsion under load;
• establish abort points; and
• cancel if any part is uncertain.

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Shelter matrix

This matrix is qualitative. It is not a safe-condition table.

Scope calculation

Scope is based on the vertical distance from the bow roller to the seabed, not only the depth sounder reading.

Total vertical distance = charted or measured depth + predicted tide rise + bow roller height

Cable length = total vertical distance × selected scope ratio

Example only:

• measured depth: 6 m;
• expected additional tide: 1.2 m;
• bow roller: 1.3 m above water;
• total vertical distance: 8.5 m;
• selected scope: 5:1;
• cable: 42.5 m.

The skipper must select scope for ground tackle, room, wind, swell and consequences of dragging.

Swing-circle calculation

Approximate swing radius:

Cable deployed + vessel length

For 43 m of cable and a 12 m yacht, allow at least a 55 m radius before adding GPS uncertainty and safety margin.

Anchor-watch triggers

Increase watchkeeping or leave if:

• wind direction shifts toward north or north-east;
• swell begins wrapping strongly into the bay;
• the boat rolls heavily;
• anchor alarm activates;
• transits change unexpectedly;
• another vessel anchors inside the swing circle;
• surf increases near the escape route;
• forecast warnings change; or
• the engine or windlass becomes unreliable.

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Gate 1: Two days before

Proceed with detailed planning only if:

• both BOM forecast zones are acceptable;
• the Hastings bar window fits the daylight plan;
• Trial Bay protection matches the full forecast period;
• the yacht can maintain the required speed made good;
• fuel supports a diversion;
• crew capacity supports a long day; and
• no critical equipment defect remains.

Gate 2: Evening before

• [ ] Check warnings and both forecast zones.
• [ ] Check Port Macquarie and South West Rocks webcams.
• [ ] Confirm sunrise, sunset and civil twilight.
• [ ] Calculate the latest anchoring time.
• [ ] Work backward to the berth departure time.
• [ ] Confirm fuel, water and provisions.
• [ ] Confirm destination shelter through the night.
• [ ] Brief the shore contact and crew.

Gate 3: Before leaving the berth

Leave only if:

• the latest forecast remains within limits;
• the actual wind and swell agree with the forecast;
• the bar is acceptable;
• Marine Rescue log-on is complete;
• the crew is rested;
• the engine has been tested;
• current charts and notices are available; and
• remaining inside is still possible.

Gate 4: Hastings bar

Cross only if:

• the current channel is positively identified;
• multiple wave sets have been observed;
• tide and river flow are acceptable;
• crew and boat are secured;
• propulsion is reliable;
• traffic is clear; and
• the skipper is comfortable.

Gate 5: Point Plomer

Continue only if the yacht is making the required speed, weather is stable and the revised Trial Bay arrival remains in full light.

Gate 6: Crescent Head

This is the major schedule decision. If speed is materially below plan, do not assume it will recover later. Recalculate using the remaining distance and likely current.

Gate 7: Hat Head

Proceed toward Smoky Cape only if:

• daylight margin remains adequate;
• the destination is still sheltered;
• crew fatigue is manageable;
• engine and steering are normal;
• the Fish Rock route is plotted and understood; and
• the vessel can remain offshore if anchoring is rejected.

Gate 8: Fish Rock east gate

Proceed north only with safe clearance, positive identification of dive activity and an acceptable route outside Green Island.

Gate 9: Laggers Point north-east gate

Enter Trial Bay only after confirming that the anchorage is suitable. Retain the option to turn back to open water.

Gate 10: Macleay River

Do not attempt without expert local knowledge. No schedule, fuel concern, crew request or desire for a marina overrides the official warning.

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Engine and fuel

The engine must support bar control, extended headwind motoring, anchoring and possible diversion.

• Check oil, coolant, belts and raw-water system.
• Verify cooling-water discharge.
• Test the engine under real load.
• Inspect fuel filters and water separator.
• Confirm tank level independently where possible.
• Carry spare primary and secondary filters.
• Carry a spare impeller and required tools.
• Know the bleeding procedure.
• Secure lines away from the propeller.
• Keep the engine available near the Hastings bar, headlands, Fish Rock and Trial Bay.

Steering and rig

• Inspect steering cables, quadrant, rudder linkages and tiller fittings.
• Make the emergency tiller accessible.
• Check standing rigging visually.
• Check halyards, sheets and reefing lines for chafe.
• Confirm at least two practical reefing configurations.
• Prevent accidental gybes in following conditions.
• Secure the boom and deck equipment.

Anchoring system

• Anchor suitable for the vessel and expected bottom.
• Adequate chain and rode.
• Windlass tested under load.
• Manual recovery method ready.
• Bitter end secured but releasable in emergency.
• Snubber or bridle ready.
• Deck light and torches available.
• Anchor alarm tested before arrival.
• Second anchor accessible.

Navigation

• Current official chart or ENC.
• Independent backup.
• Current notices checked.
• GPS, compass and depth sounder tested.
• Radar and AIS used where fitted.
• Paper plotting tools available.
• Fish Rock and Green Island positively plotted.
• Route cross-track limits chosen to prevent accidental inside shortcuts.
• Previous bar tracks treated as historical only.

Watertight and deck readiness

• Bilge pumps tested.
• Manual pump handle accessible.
• Seacocks known.
• Hatches and lockers secured.
• Companionway closure ready.
• Tender and outboard secured for ocean conditions.
• Anchor locked for the bar, then prepared before Trial Bay.
• Heavy cabin items restrained.

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Crew roles

Assign:

• skipper and second in command;
• navigator;
• primary lookout;
• radio operator;
• sail-handling roles;
• anchoring bow person; and
• person responsible for time, log and ETA updates.

One person may hold several roles on a small crew, but responsibility should be explicit.

Bar-crossing briefing

Every person should know:

• where to sit or stand;
• what to hold;
• when to clip on;
• which lines must stay clear;
• who watches ahead and astern;
• what an abort call means;
• what happens after an engine alarm; and
• that nobody moves forward without direction.

Long-day fatigue

This leg can take ten or more hours. Preserve the most capable crew for:

• Smoky Cape;
• Fish Rock and Green Island;
• the turn into Trial Bay; and
• anchoring.

Use short rotations, hydration, simple food and seasickness management. Do not allow all experienced crew to become exhausted early.

Man-overboard risk

Before departure:

• rig jacklines where appropriate;
• identify tether points;
• check horseshoe, light and recovery equipment;
• rehearse the immediate helm response;
• know how to mark the position electronically; and
• decide how a person will be recovered with the available crew.

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Fuel formula

Required fuel = planned engine hours × measured consumption × reserve factor

Example only:

• planned engine time: 9 hours;
• measured consumption: 3 L/hour;
• reserve: 50 percent;
• required fuel: 9 × 3 × 1.5 = 40.5 L.

Use the vessel's real consumption. Add separate allowances for:

• bar manoeuvring;
• unexpected headwind;
• anchorage repositioning;
• battery charging if essential;
• return to sea;
• continuation to another port; and
• unusable tank volume.

Water and food

Carry enough for the planned passage plus at least an overnight and diversion contingency appropriate to the yacht.

Keep accessible:

• drinking water;
• simple high-energy food;
• warm layers;
• sun protection;
• seasickness treatment appropriate to each person;
• essential medication; and
• hot drinks in a safe flask if desired.

Do not plan to replenish water immediately after landing through surf.

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VHF

• Monitor Channel 16.
• Use correct distress, urgency and safety procedures.
• Move to a working channel when directed.
• Keep a charged handheld VHF available if carried.
• Do not rely on mobile coverage along the entire coast.

Log on and log off

Use Marine Rescue NSW Log On and Log Off.

Provide:

• vessel name and registration;
• type and colour;
• persons on board;
• departure point;
• route;
• destination, stated as Trial Bay anchorage unless a different destination is confirmed;
• ETA;
• contact number; and
• safety equipment.

Update Marine Rescue when the ETA or destination changes. Log off only after the anchor is set and the vessel is safe.

Distress card

Engine failure response

Pre-brief:

1. maintain sea room and steerage; 2. deploy sail promptly when appropriate; 3. keep all lines clear of the propeller; 4. report the problem early; 5. state position, persons on board and drift; 6. prepare strong tow points; 7. avoid drifting toward Fish Rock, Green Island, a bar or a lee shore; and 8. transmit a Mayday when grave and imminent danger exists.

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Check current NSW requirements for the vessel and voyage at:

• Essential safety equipment
• When to wear a lifejacket
• Coastal bar safety

Review at least:

• compliant lifejacket for every person;
• EPIRB registration and expiry;
• required flares;
• VHF radio;
• navigation lights;
• sound signal;
• fire extinguishers;
• first-aid kit;
• bilge pumps;
• anchor and cable;
• waterproof torch;
• heaving line;
• harnesses and tethers where used;
• knife accessible from the cockpit;
• emergency steering;
• tools and spares; and
• reliable means of receiving updated weather.

Equipment must be accessible and usable by the crew, not buried under passage stores.

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Seven days before

• [ ] Inspect engine, fuel, steering and rig.
• [ ] Verify all safety-equipment expiry and service dates.
• [ ] Obtain current charts covering Port Macquarie to South West Rocks.
• [ ] Check Notices to Mariners and navigation warnings.
• [ ] Review Fish Rock and Green Island critical-habitat and fishing-closure rules.
• [ ] Identify the Trial Bay anchoring strategy.
• [ ] Confirm fuel and water capacity.
• [ ] Review diversion distances.
• [ ] Assess crew experience and fatigue tolerance.

Forty-eight hours before

• [ ] Check Macquarie Coast forecast.
• [ ] Check Coffs Coast forecast.
• [ ] Check all warnings.
• [ ] Check Hastings and South West Rocks tide information.
• [ ] Compare swell height, period and direction.
• [ ] Review East Australian Current information.
• [ ] Calculate required average speed.
• [ ] Set latest daylight anchoring time.
• [ ] Contact destination and local sources where appropriate.

Evening before

• [ ] View Port Macquarie bar webcam.
• [ ] View South West Rocks and Macleay webcams.
• [ ] Confirm Trial Bay remains sheltered overnight.
• [ ] Recalculate passage with conservative speed.
• [ ] Fill fuel and water.
• [ ] Plot all planning points and hazards.
• [ ] Brief shore contact.
• [ ] Prepare meals, warm clothing and medication.
• [ ] Agree no-go limits.
• [ ] Secure tender, anchor and deck gear.

Before engine start

• [ ] Fuel quantity physically checked where possible.
• [ ] Correct tank and valves selected.
• [ ] Oil and coolant checked.
• [ ] Raw-water intake open.
• [ ] Bilge checked.
• [ ] Batteries and charging checked.
• [ ] Lines clear of propeller.
• [ ] Navigation systems operating.
• [ ] VHF radio check complete.
• [ ] Latest forecast reviewed.

Before Hastings bar

• [ ] Engine tested under load.
• [ ] Cooling-water discharge confirmed.
• [ ] All crew wearing required lifejackets.
• [ ] Crew secured and briefed.
• [ ] Current channel and variable leads identified.
• [ ] Multiple wave sets observed.
• [ ] Traffic clear.
• [ ] Abort option available.
• [ ] Marine Rescue log-on complete.

At P03 offshore gate

• [ ] Bar safely cleared.
• [ ] Steering normal.
• [ ] No water ingress.
• [ ] Engine and charging normal.
• [ ] Rig and sail controls normal.
• [ ] Actual conditions compared with forecast.
• [ ] ETA recalculated.
• [ ] Continue decision made deliberately.

At Point Plomer

• [ ] Required speed made good being achieved.
• [ ] Current effect calculated.
• [ ] Crew condition checked.
• [ ] Fuel status confirmed.
• [ ] Trial Bay forecast unchanged.
• [ ] Daylight margin adequate.

At Crescent Head

• [ ] Full remaining-distance calculation completed.
• [ ] North-easterly development reassessed.
• [ ] Destination and alternatives reviewed.
• [ ] Engine available for speed support.
• [ ] Fatigue rotation adjusted.

At Hat Head

• [ ] Smoky Cape route checked.
• [ ] Fish Rock and Green Island plotted.
• [ ] Dive-boat lookout briefed.
• [ ] Sail plan appropriate for headland gusts.
• [ ] Engine and steering rechecked.
• [ ] Trial Bay remains acceptable.

East of Fish Rock

• [ ] Safe rock clearance confirmed.
• [ ] Dive flags and vessels identified.
• [ ] Bait line fishing is not being conducted within the Fish Rock or Green Island critical habitat.
• [ ] Current set monitored.
• [ ] Green Island route confirmed.
• [ ] Arrival preparation started.

Before entering Trial Bay

• [ ] Wind and swell remain suitable.
• [ ] Laggers Point positively identified.
• [ ] Prohibited swimming area identified.
• [ ] Anchor, snubber and windlass ready.
• [ ] Depth and low-water allowance calculated.
• [ ] Swing radius calculated.
• [ ] Escape route clear.
• [ ] Arrival is in sufficient light.

After anchoring

• [ ] Anchor set under controlled load.
• [ ] Transits taken.
• [ ] GPS anchor alarm set.
• [ ] Depth alarm set.
• [ ] Swing circle clear.
• [ ] Weather and tide rechecked.
• [ ] Engine remains ready if conditions require.
• [ ] Anchor-watch plan established.
• [ ] Marine Rescue log-off completed.
• [ ] Shore contact notified.

Before any Macleay River attempt

• [ ] Expert local knowledge obtained.
• [ ] Current notices checked.
• [ ] Former entrance leads disregarded.
• [ ] Webcam and on-scene conditions assessed.
• [ ] Tide and river flow checked.
• [ ] All crew wearing required lifejackets.
• [ ] Engine tested under load.
• [ ] Current channel positively identified.
• [ ] Abort point and outside holding area selected.
• [ ] Skipper confirms the bar is safe now.

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Vessel

Crew

Timing

Weather

Tide

Anchorage calculation

Fuel

Alternatives

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Structured reports help future sailors without pretending that yesterday's conditions predict tomorrow's.

Passage facts

• Date and direction
• Yacht type, length and draft
• Persons on board
• Departure berth
• Lines-off time
• Anchor-set time
• Actual route distance
• Average speed made good
• Engine hours and fuel used

Hastings departure

• Tide stage
• Wind
• Swell height, direction and period
• River outflow
• Leads and marks observed
• Wave-set pattern
• Time from marina to clear water

Coastal observations

• Current set and drift by route section
• Sea state at Point Plomer
• Sea state at Crescent Head
• Sea state at Hat Head
• Conditions at Smoky Cape
• Fishing or dive traffic
• Whale activity
• Sail changes and motoring time

Fish Rock and Green Island

• Offshore clearance used
• Current observed
• Dive boats or flags observed
• Sea state and visibility
• Any unexpected breaking water

Trial Bay anchorage

• Anchor location and datum
• Arrival depth and tide
• Bottom and holding observed
• Cable deployed
• Wind and swell through the stay
• Rolling or surge
• Dinghy landing used, if any
• Availability of public facilities
• Reason for staying, moving or leaving

Macleay River report, if entered

• Date and exact local time
• Vessel draft
• Tide stage
• Swell, wind and river flow
• Local expert source consulted
• Current aids used
• Confirmation that former leads were not used
• Actual depth observed
• Facilities reached

Safe reporting language

Write:

At 14:20 local time, our 11.5 m yacht drawing 1.7 m anchored in the Trial Bay vicinity in 6.4 m indicated depth. We laid 42 m of chain over sand in a 12-knot south-west wind. The primary swell was from the south-east and some roll entered the bay.

Do not write:

Trial Bay is safe in a southerly.

Every report must remain tied to a date, time, vessel and observed conditions.

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Official navigation and local safety

• Transport for NSW boating maps index
• Port Macquarie coastal area Map 5, Hat Head to Mermaid Reef
• South West Rocks coastal area Map 4, Sawtell to Hat Head
• South West Rocks, Crescent and Hat Heads Map 4B
• Macleay River Map 4B
• Hastings, Wilson and Maria Rivers and Port Macquarie map
• Port Macquarie bar webcam
• South West Rocks and Macleay River webcams
• NSW Coastal Bar Safety
• NSW tide tables
• NSW Notices to Mariners
• NSW lifejacket wear rules
• NSW essential safety equipment

Weather and current

• BOM Macquarie Coast forecast
• BOM Coffs Coast forecast
• BOM NSW coastal observations
• BOM marine and ocean forecasts
• BOM ocean currents background
• IMOS OceanCurrent

Marine Rescue

• Marine Rescue Port Macquarie
• Marine Rescue Trial Bay
• Marine Rescue Log On and Log Off

Destination and environmental information

• NSW Superyacht Guide, South West Rocks access information
• Macleay River, South West Rocks, Fish Rock and Green Island fishing closures
• Fish Aggregating Devices and Trial Bay bait buoy information
• Trial Bay Gaol campground and visitor area
• Trial Bay community anchorage reference

YouSail links

• d'Albora Port Macquarie Marina
• Lady Nelson Wharf
• Sailing in Trial Bay
• Sailing around South West Rocks

Chart-selection note

Use the Australian Hydrographic Office chart catalogue or Chart Explorer to identify the current official chart or ENC coverage for the entire route. Local boating maps are valuable planning and safety references but expressly state that they are not intended to replace current navigation charts. Apply all chart corrections, Notices to Mariners and temporary navigation warnings.

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1. Fill fuel and water at Port Macquarie. 2. Check both the Macquarie Coast and Coffs Coast forecasts. 3. Calculate whether the boat can reach and inspect Trial Bay in daylight. 4. Target a safe Hastings bar departure, with the last of the flood as the official preferred timing. 5. Establish offshore clearance before turning north. 6. Recalculate ETA at Point Plomer and Crescent Head. 7. Maintain deliberate offing past Hat Head and Smoky Cape. 8. Route outside Fish Rock and Green Island unless a separately verified route is safer. 9.

Keep clear of dive boats, divers, rocks and marine-zone restrictions. 10. Enter Trial Bay only when its conditional shelter suits the whole planned stay. 11. Anchor with adequate low-water depth, holding, scope, swing room and an escape plan. 12. Treat Macleay River entry as a separate expert-local-knowledge operation.

If the numbers, weather or observations stop supporting the passage, change the plan early.

YouSail provides this guide as general community planning information only. It is not navigation advice, a hydrographic product, a weather forecast, a substitute for local knowledge, or a representation that any route, entrance, anchorage, depth, facility, berth or landing is safe or available. The skipper remains solely responsible for the vessel, crew, charts, route, equipment, weather and tide assessment, legal compliance and every decision to depart, continue, anchor, cross a bar or enter a waterway. Always use current official information and competent local advice.