Sailing around Fingal Head

[anitav]

We have a yacht with a 6ft draft. Sailing up from Yamba we went about 15nm out to sea to round the reefs. First timers and hear that it is possible to go between the reefs. Any advise someone who has sailed it please.
Cheers Anita

[Factor]

You can fit in between Cook Island and the headland but I would only do it on very clam pleasant days.

[DtM]

Not sure why you needed to be that far out.

When we race north we go very close to the east side of Cook Island. However, you should take some care and give it a bit of space(cruising) rather than corner cut(racing).

[Jim Cate]

Yes, 15 miles out is WAY overkill! Five miles off the headland takes you safely outside outer Danger reef. The inside routes, either east or west of Cook island are safe enough under most conditions, but I wouldn't advise attempting them in the dark on your first go!

Also, the south flowing current is usually less in close, and that can be a big savings in time/frustration.

Cheers,

Jim

[Boracay]

From memory I think we stood out a few miles. Looks easy on Google Earth, but charts and Lucas' guide do suggest caution.