Sydney to Nelson Bay and back

20 Mar 2026 - 23 Mar 2026

(4 days, 3 nights)

Following a comprehensive refit and maintenance program, our 70ft expedition ketch Wind Shift is ready to test her new sails, systems and electronics - we’re inviting you to be part of the crew. Whether you’re a veteran sailor curious about our recent upgrades or a complete novice looking to experience some open water for the first time, this short-haul passage is the perfect introduction.

The Objectives

The Shake-Down: Put the new systems through their paces. You’ll be part of the team monitoring the changed equipment, calibrated electronics, and optimised sail plan.

The Taster: A hands-on entry point into the world of expedition sailing. No experience? No problem. We'll teach you the ropes - literally - under the guidance of our circumnavigating professional crew.

What’s Included

• Expedition aboard Wind Shift with skipper and crew

• Meals prepared with local ingredients, served and shared onboard

• All non-alcoholic beverages; tea/coffee always available

• Guided hikes, snorkelling, paddleboards, and tenders

• Bedding, towels, hot showers, and safety equipment

• Storytelling meals and authentic expedition atmosphere

What’s Not Included

• Flights or transfers to and from Sydney

• Alcohol

• Travel insurance (required)

Our Yacht

Sail aboard Wind Shift, our expertly equipped 70-foot ocean-going yacht. With a legacy of global voyages and competitive pedigree, Wind Shift is the perfect platform to tackle this amazing adventure.

Contribution

Shared Bunk Berth (Main Cabin – 8 guests): AUD 950 pp

Shared Twin Cabin (2 guests): AUD 1,200 pp

This adventure does not qualify, nor contribute to our Frequent Sailor Discount program

Why You’ll Love This Adventure

• Authentic Exploration: Remote anchorages, silent reflections, incredible wildlife.

• Comfort & Camaraderie: Small group, big boat—deep connections, plenty of space.

• Safety & Heritage: Sail aboard an MCA-certified expedition yacht built for ocean journeys.

Reserve Your Place

Spaces limited to 10 guests - book your spot now

Friday > The Departure - Sydney to the Central Coast

We slip our lines in Sydney Harbour during the morning. After a briefing on safety, systems, weather and passage plans we raise anchor and complete our sailing drills before we sail out through the Heads.

The Sail: A daylight run north. We’ll use this leg to balance the helm, 'learn the ropes' and get everyone comfortable with watch-keeping, helming and sailing.

The Night: We’ll drop anchor in the sheltered waters of Broken Bay or Pittwater for a sunset dinner. After dinner we'll discuss the navigation and weather.

Saturday > Heading for Nelson Bay

An early start for the 75-nautical-mile stretch to Port Stephens.

The Experience: This is where the settle into our watches, sail and navigate the open water to the north west. We'll all be involved in actively helming and trimming sails whilst looking after each other.

Arrival: Navigating the iconic "Tomaree and Yacaaba" headlands - the gateway to Port Stephens. We’ll moor at Nelson Bay in time for a celebratory drink at the marina or at the local pub.

Again we'll check on weather and navigation for the trip back to Sydney.

Sunday Morning > Dolphins & Reflection

A relaxed start with some wildlife spotting. Nelson Bay is the "Dolphin Capital of Australia" - keep and eye out, if they haven't played in our bow wave when we arrived, then they will pass by when at anchor. For those wishing to feel the sand between their toes a stroll on the beach is in order.

Sunday Afternoon > Overnight Passage and Homeward Bound

We start our return passage in the afternoon where we settle easily back into our watches to enjoy another sunset before our overnight sail back to Sydney.

Monday Morning / Afternoon >

We enjoy a sunrise, some wildlife spotting and another day of helming and sail trimming. If you enjoying fishing, we can also trail a line to test our luck with some fresh fish for lunch.

Conclusion: Arrive back in Sydney Harbour by 1700, ready to plan your next leg of our global circumnavigation.

Sydney to Nelson Bay and back