markcherrington posted on August 11, 2009 10:23
With a new Cruising Committee, it's time to think about getting out onto the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour and beyond. And what better way to kick things off than an “Almost the end of winter cruise” to somewhere where we've all sailed around numerous times -- but which many of us have never visited: the wonderful Cockatoo Island?
With a long history of ship repair, shipbuilding activities and launching new vessels, it's the perfect spot to relaunch the cruising and social activities of the Balmain Sailing Club.
Bring your own lunch, refreshments and ideas and suggestions for future cruising activities.
This is an excellent opportunity for anyone -- boat-owner or crew -- to participate in our reborn Cruising Division. That includes racers, dingy sailors, rowers, kayakers and sailboarders and those who just cruise anyway.
The island's recently opened berthing facilities (almost directly opposite the clubhouse) have room for about four vessels; I suggest interested boat owners who would like to provide their own transport to the island contact Cruise Captain Sue Carrick.
There are three possible routes:
- BSC direct to Cockatoo Island. Estimated distance is somewhat less than one nautical mile.
- BSC - circumnavigation of Cockatoo Island - Cockatoo Island: Estimated distance is still somewhat less than one nautical mile.
- BSC - Pittwater - Cockatoo Island: Estimated distance 25 nautical miles, although you will need to leave on Friday!
The Cruising Plan
All Cruise participants requiring transport to muster at 1100 on Saturday August 22 at the Club.
Transport vessels will ferry people to the island. Alan Clark and Sue can take about eight at a time on Cleopatra (the cute cruiser) for example, and follow-up with additional trips as necessary.
If any last-minute issues arise (including changes of plan if the weather is bad), we will advise them via this website.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Cockatoo Island visiting notes
Both the Lower and Upper Island have scenic and shady picnic spots. Just remember there's a fairly steep hill up to the upper island that you'll need to carry your bulging Esky up, so leave out that last sandwich!
If you can't wait to break into that packed lunch, there's a picnic spot at the campground, just near where you get off the ferry on the northern side. It's also a good spot to reward yourself at the end of your visit.
The Muster Station café is also nearby so you can supplement your picnic with a nice cup of coffee, tea or a beer.
The Upper Island offers two picnic spots. It's well worth the walk up as the views of the harbour and city skyline are glorious, and you'll be surprised at the leafy residential setting near the Federation housing, in contrast to the more industrial feel of the Lower Island.
The tap water on the island is Sydney tapwater and drinkable. Please note that for a short period, while services are being reconnected, there will only be toilets on the Lower Island, not on the Upper Island.
Portable barbecues are not permitted on the island. Electric BBQs are provided near the Campground on the Lower Island (bring along $1 coins to operate). Also be aware that you cannot bring alcohol onto the island, although the café is fully licensed.
The Cockatoo Island Tourist Guide can be downloaded as a PDF at http://www.cockatooisland.gov.au/pubs/see-visitorguide.pdf.
Private vessels may drop off and pick up passengers at the island's Parramatta Wharf (on the northern side)
Alternatively private vessels can moor for short-term stays at the Camber Wharf Marina. Please be aware that the maximum length for vessels moored at the Camber Wharf Marina is restricted to 7 metres. Masts should not exceed 10 metres in height to avoid overhead navigation hazards.
The cost of the public berths (including unmetered power and water) are as follows:
- 0-4 hours $10
- 5-8 hours $20
- 9-24 hours $35
Kayaks and other small, non-motorised craft may use Slipway No. 1 on the Northern Apron at no charge (presumably this includes sailing dinghies)
A PDF map of the Island can be downloaded at http://www.cockatooisland.gov.au/pubs/map-cockatoo.pdf