10 destinations to trailer your boat in Australia
Looking for inspiration on new destinations to trailer your boat in Australia for your next holiday? You’ve come to the right yarn. Learn more here.
By Jessica Palmer,
July 23, 2024
Do you need some inspiration on new places to trailer your boat in Australia for your next holiday? You’ve come to the right yarn. As you already know, here in the lucky country, we have a ridiculous amount of incredible spots for boating enthusiasts to explore. So whether you’re into fishing, snorkelling, or just want to escape your everyday life on the water, here are our top 10 destinations to trailer your boat.
#1. Hervey Bay, QLD
Hervey Bay is a boater’s paradise, known for its calm waters and for being the whale watching capital of Australia. Located in Queensland and close to K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island), it’s perfect for various water activities.
Pelican Banks offers clear water for beach fishing and family fun, Wathumba Creek is known for its shallow waters and abundant marine life, and Big Woody offers excellent fishing opportunities and the chance to explore a heritage-listed lighthouse.
In fact, you can read all about the fantastic boating spots from Hervey Bay in our sister publication, Unsealed4x4, by clicking on the link below.
#2. Lake Eildon, VIC
Lake Eildon, northeast of Melbourne, boasts 540 kilometres of shoreline. This vast inland waterway caters to all types of watercraft, from speedboats to canoes. It features plenty of camping spots, boat ramps, lakeside shops, and fuel facilities. Waterside hotels at Jamieson and Bonnie Doon add to the area’s charm, making it an ideal family boating destination.
#3. The Hawkesbury, NSW
The Hawkesbury River, surrounded by sandstone valleys, offers extensive waterways perfect for exploring, fishing and cruising. Popular launch spots include Bobbin Head, Berowra, and Brooklyn, with numerous boat ramps, marinas, and yacht clubs scatters along the foreshores. The river’s deep, sheltered cruising grounds and sandy beaches make it ideal for water sports and overnight anchoring.
#4. Portland, Victoria
Located along the Great Ocean Road, Portland is a beautiful maritime town known for its game fishing. The area features a safe harbour and abundant marine life, including bluefin tuna, yellowtail kingfish, and several species of sharks. Inshore, anglers can find King George whiting, squid, and Australian salmon. The deep drops at the edge of the Continental Shelf are home to blue-eye trevalla and the occasional broadbill swordfish.
#5. Port Stephens, NSW
Just a couple of hours north of Sydney, Port Stephens is a large natural harbour stretching over 134 square kilometres. The area is perfect for fishing, sailing and kayaking, with abundant campsites, ramps and moorings.
Port Stephens is also known for its dolphin population and calm estuary waters, making it a popular spot for families. Joining local fishing competitions, such as the NSW Game Fishing Association tournament or the annual Trailer Boat Fishing Tournament, gives you further incentive to visit.
#6. Moreton Bay, QLD
Moreton Bay, extending from the Gold Coast Seaway to Caloundra, is fed by no less than six rivers and features numerous islands, protected inlets, and reefs. Launching your boat at spots like Bongaree Jetty provides easy access to the bay’s adventures, though boaters should be mindful of shifting sandbanks and marine animals.
#7. Port Lincoln, South Australia
Port Lincoln, located on the Eyre Peninsula, is renowned for its fishing opportunities and well-developed boating facilities. The area’s inshore waters are home to King George whiting, squid, and garfish. Offshore, anglers can find yellowtail kingfish, samson fish, and southern bluefin tuna.
#8. Lake Glenmaggie, Victoria
Lake Glenmaggie in the Gippsland region of Victoria offers serene waters perfect for skiing and fishing. The lake is known for catching trout, bass, carp, and redfin, but as it slowly drains over late summer and autumn (it’s the irrigation supply for local farms), water can be lower around this time.
#9. The Derwent River, Tasmania
The Derwent River, flowing 180 kilometres to New Norfolk, is famous for its Tasmanian sea trout and huge black bream. The river offers excellent fishing, water skiing, and sailing spots, making it perfect for a winter boating adventure with friends and family. Boat ramp access points include Millbrook Rise and Prince of Wales Bay at Giblins Reserve.
#10. Exmouth, Western Australia
Exmouth, near North West Cape, offers world-class fishing year-round. The town is blessed with the warm shallows of Exmouth Gulf to the east and the wonders of Ningaloo Reef to the west. Anglers can find every species of billfish, several species of tuna and mackerel, and a host of reef fish. The area’s diverse fishing options ensure there’s always a sheltered shore or stretch of sea to explore.
These destinations really showcase the diversity of Australia’s waterways. Whether you’re into fishing, snorkelling, or simply enjoying the great blue yonder, these spots promise to be your next favourite boating destination.
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