Anchorage: Apollo Bay

Where the Otway Ranges roll down into the heaving ocean swells of Bass Strait

Bass Strait Sailing...Walking Trails & Waterfalls...Great Ocean Road...History

VIC Marina, Apollo Bay Sailing ClubSailing the south coast of Victoria, in Bass Strait waters, can be an exhilarating thrill for sailors who revel in a challenge.With its reputation for rough weather, big seas and generally tough conditions, the opposite can be also be true for mariners who plan their journey carefully and make weather conditions their number one priority. There is nothing quite like the thrill of surging down rolling ocean swells as you sail past the imposing cliffs and headlands of the southern Victoria coastline.

The Great Ocean Road and its more energetic cousin The Great Ocean Walk traverse the southern Victorian coast, with Apollo Bay having a starring role in these two great adventure trails. Many guided overnight walks start or finish at Apollo Bay, with transport included to move walkers luggage each day. Accommodation options vary from simple cabins to luxurious homes tucked high into the ranges with ocean views peaking between the eucalypts.
VIC Marina, Apollo Bay Sailing ClubThe stunning Otway Ranges comprise heavily forrested rolling hills concealing waterfalls and lakes with abundant wildlife. The timid platypus can be found in this region.
  
The construction of the Great Ocean Road from the cliff face is a story of triumph over adversity along with some good old fashioned Aussie spirit and mateship. Returned soldiers constructed the road, which was conceived as a memorial to those who died while serving their country in the First World War.It was a huge engineering feat to connect the early whaling and logging coastal communities that had sprung up between Barwon Heads and Warnambool.

VIC Marina, Apollo Bay Sailing ClubAnchorage
Approach is from the northeastern side of the breakwater, lining up leading beacons to enter the harbour. If approaching from the south, give Pt Bunbury a wide berth as shallow ground and reef penetrate well off the point.

Anchorage can be taken anywhere within the harbour, keeping well clear of the fishing fleet that moor here all year round. Casual moorings may be available for visitors. Contact the Apollo Bay Sailing Club for more information. The ABSC holds races each Saturday from October to April and welcomes visiting yachts.

Arrival location: Lat 38 deg 45S  Long 143 deg 41E

Checklist
Best Time to Go Because of Apollo Bay's location on the south coast of Victoria, it is subject to the weather systems that roll through Bass Strait. While it is possible to visit in the winter months, between low pressure systems and the subsequent strong winds generated, the best weather is generally found between December and March.
How Long to Get There Cruising to Apollo Bay requires much forward planning because of its location and the possibility of encountering tough weather and sea conditions. It is quite some distance between safe harbours for mariners who find themselves caught out on this stretch of coast known as the shipwreck coast. To the east, it is approximately 21nm from the open anchorage at Lorne, just north of Pt Grey. To the west, around Cape Otway, it is 85nm to Port Fairy. The closest Tasmanian landfall is approximately 70nm to Currie harbour on the western side of King Island.
Fuel & Provisions Fuel and water is available from the jetty inside the harbour.A good selection of shops, takeaway food and cafes are available in the main shopping strip, about 10 mins walk from the harbour. Fresh seafood is available direct from the harbour seafood store.
Cruising Guide There are currently no Cruising Guides that incorporate Apollo Bay. Contact Apollo Bay Sailing Club for local information.
Charts: Paper AUS141 Apollo Bay
Charts: C-Map Apollo Bay to Port Albert
Destination Info Visit Apollo Bay and Otway Coast Tourism
 
 

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