Sydney new years evening

[Ironman162]

Any ideas on seeing the Sydney fireworks on nye?
I have a 30ft motor fully self sufficient motor cruiser so I don't need shore power etc.
I believe it will be a no-go area in Sydney Harbour from Cockatoo island to Clark Island so am hoping to get a one night mooring near by at great expense.
I'm relatively new at this and would appreciate any advice.

[MarkJ]

Just anchor. Its free and great.

Lots of space
but try to arrive by 4 pm.

[Ironman162]

Many thanks!
Can you recommend any good spots? I was hoping to get a spot near Woodford bay or Cockatoo Island. I know it's a distance off the bridge but it's my first year boating.
Thanks for the reply

[Pelagic]

Before making that decision, analyze the forecasted weather very carefully.

If it is predicted to be strong, don’t anchor downwind and close, or you can be pelted by burning fragments.

Made that mistake one year by anchoring in Farm Cove. Felt like a war zone.

[Uncle Bob]

Originally Posted by Ironman162

Many thanks!
Can you recommend any good spots? I was hoping to get a spot near Woodford bay or Cockatoo Island. I know it's a distance off the bridge but it's my first year boating.
Thanks for the reply

I spent the night one year anchored just off the zoo, a light noreaster blowing and the evening was GREAT. All the smoke and residue headed for farm cove and the city . I definately agree that the best time to get a spot is early, probably closer to lunch than dinner. And anchoring is free, we spent the night there and left the next day, but the party cruises run ALL night, the wash and noise going by can be a pain. Enjoy, it will be good.

[boden36]

I agree with Bob, anchorage off the zoo is excellent so long as the wind is not too much from the south.
Anchor as close to the line of buoys as you can get.

Regards,
Richard.

[savoir]

There are only two times to arrive - very early or very late. Very early means 12:00 or earlier and very late means after 20:00. Very early gets the most comfy anchorage and very late gets the best view. If you anchor very early some giant flybridge cruiser might park in front of you. Rewarding but risky. If you anchor very late many of the best spots will be full bt no one will block your view. Risky but rewarding.

Wherever you go will be free. Don't motor off at 00:30, the cops are everywhere and the boat traffic is horrendous. Finish the champagne and canapés at your leisure and sleep where you are.

[MarkJ]

Theres great sopts betwen Garden Island and Lady Macquarries Chair. Superb view and one of the most memorable nights of my life.

Protected from southerlies too.

The Water Police will have all the maps of where to anchor on the internet.


Great view from my boat! And look at the space between boats, plenty of room.

Th s site has last years map of the anchorage areas, rules, times and exclusion zones.
Sydney's Summer Aquatic Events - Boating Guide

[JPA Cate]

Mark,

Thanks for posting this pic: ^^^^ We were on the Harbour for the 2000 nye, and the pic brought back really pleasant memories.

Ann

[SkiprJohn]

Welcome aboard!
You've got lots of input already.

[Wanderlust]

Originally Posted by Ironman162

I'm relatively new at this and would appreciate any advice.

Ironman, as you are fairly new to boating I would suggest looking for an easy anchorage rather than the best view, becasue it can be a bit daunting for a beginner.

Years ago we anchored off Balmain in one of the designated areas, but finished up moving after about an hour because one of us was seasick from all the wakes. It does get pretty lumpy until the harbour gets closed. So if any of your crew are at risk, make sure you stay away from high traffic areas.

Last year we anchored off the zoo. It was a bit breezy, with forecast approaching 30 knots later. We were protected by the headland, but at 14m depth it was still a juggle to put out enough scope without swinging more than other boats nearby. But if you leave too much room, a late arrival is likely to try and squeeze in on top of you.

Don't take my comments as a warning not to do it. It's well worth it. I suggest looking at the forecast a couple of days beforehand. If it's likely to be windy, pick a spot protected by a headland, and away from busy traffic areas. Make sure you have enough ground tackle for the depth and have marked the chain so you know how much to deploy. Then enjoy.

[boden36]

Lots of good info here. Just remember that if you are at anchor, the designated skipper must be able to pass a breath alcohol test.

Regards,
Richard.

[Ironman162]

Thank you so much for the valuable advice it's much appreciated!
I will definitely follow the advice from Wanderlust and get a protected mooring well out of the way around Cockatoo Island.
I'm so impressed with all the positive response! What a great website!

[savoir]

Originally Posted by boden36

Lots of good info here. Just remember that if you are at anchor, the designated skipper must be able to pass a breath alcohol test.

Regards,
Richard.

Huh ? Where does it say that ?

[Ironman162]

Maritime told me on the phone today that at least one person on board has to be below .05 when on anchor. Bit like a designated driver - Awful hey!