Sailing in the Kimberley

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RiffRaff
RiffRaff
WA
265 posts
WA, 265 posts
4 May 2015 7:26pm
I am leaving Darwin and heading South to Perth. I have a couple of weeks to spare and was planning to have a look around the Kimberley. I know you could spend months there and still not see half of it but has anyone done any sailing in the Kimberley and do you have any favourite spots to stop over.
cisco
cisco
QLD
12365 posts
QLD, 12365 posts
5 May 2015 12:09am

I was on that coast for a year (1973) on a Navy Patrol Boat. It is a fairly desolate coast line. I think it is FreeRadical who did that trip last year and he may have some tips for you. PM him and see.

Do not try to go into Derby unless absolutely necessary. It is a long way in and out and the tide will beat you.

King George Sound is supposed to be the highlight of that coast but again watch the tide. Google it up and find out where the charter boats go.

When you get to Exmouth, look up Cassa, one of the forum members. He likes his Blues and Booze.

I really envy your trip. Have fun and stay safe.
FreeRadical
FreeRadical
WA
855 posts
WA, 855 posts
5 May 2015 12:31am
Hi Phil,

i didn't do the Kimberley leg. I'll PM you the contact details of the others that did it. By all accounts, a spectacularly amazing part of the world. They didn't get into King George with the D40 draft and also had some fun in the current in some parts. Definitely good idea to get some info from those who have done it.

I came down from Exmouth.

If you're looking for crew for a few days here and there from Broome down, let me know, I may be able to help out if days off work, no cost. Maybe just a few beers!


RiffRaff
RiffRaff
WA
265 posts
WA, 265 posts
5 May 2015 11:15am
Thanks Darren
I appreciate the offer and one I will most likely take you up on.
We are leaving Darwin on the 20th, My wife is joining the trip and getting off in Broome so there will be just 2 of us on board after that.
We were hoping to get into King George River on a rising tide, as you know the D40 has 7ft draft but information i have said that minimum water level is 1.5 mts with 3 mt tide. I will survey the area in my dinghy and a mobile depth sounder first. I think this area is to good to just sail past without making the effort.
shoud be in broome around the end of the month.
Toph
Toph
WA
1890 posts
WA, 1890 posts
5 May 2015 1:38pm
I spent a few seasons banging about the Kimberly (not on a yacht though). Pull out all stops to get up King George. You won't be disappointed. Sailing the Kimberly is on my wish list. Hopefully in 2017..
Travlinon
Travlinon
WA
10 posts
WA, 10 posts
5 May 2015 6:03pm
Fremantle sailing club have published a book which gives detailed information for the whole west coast including the Kimberleys covers everything about approaches and anchoring spots (around $75 but worth every cent) - a must have if your coming down the west coast. Unfortunately my copy is on my boat but can chase up name etc if required
In the meantime also check out this site
www.coastalcruising.com.au
-covers everything up there.
Envious as hell -one day

Toph
Toph
WA
1890 posts
WA, 1890 posts
5 May 2015 8:07pm
Is that book (back) in publication? I haven't been able to get hold of it for probably about 2 years.
RiffRaff
RiffRaff
WA
265 posts
WA, 265 posts
6 May 2015 9:45am
Thanks All
I have purchased the West Australian Cruising Guide and have now joined th Kimberley Cruising Yacht Club which has some very good information and Anchorage guides on the website.
I still do not have confirmation on depth at entrance of King George River but I will survey it when I get there.
Look forward to what should be a great trip.
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