Anchorage: Portarlington VIC  

Hidden behind beachfront Cyprus trees on the Bellarine Peninsula, Portarlington is the perfect weekend getaway from Melbourne.

Mussels Direct From the Boat...Dining...Village Lifestyle...City Views

  


A fleet of fishing boats, particularly mussel boats, are based on the pier at Portarlington.Although they do not advertise the fact, often, with the right approach, the fishermen will sell seafood product direct from their boat.
 
The Bellarine Peninsula is quietly developing a reputation as a destination for fine dining, not only for its fresh seafood, but also for the vineyards and olive groves springing up throughout the peninsula.		  
Portarlington township sits peacefully beneath the enormous Cyprus trees on the waterfront.Historic hotels and public buildings, many of them beautifully restored, provide for interesting walks, wandering through this quiet seaside township.

Jutting well out into Port Phillip Bay, just a short distance from Geelong, Portarlington has stunning night time views across the bay to the big city lights of Melbourne on the horizon.  Why not take an evening stroll along the beach and enjoy this little seen aspect of Melbourne. 		  
Anchorage
Portarlington is untenable with winds from a northerly quarter, but is quite sheltered in SW-SE. Anchorage can be taken to the west of the Portarlington pier, which is often bustling with fishing boat activity.Temporary berthing may be available on the pier itself, just be aware that even if space appears to be available, don't assume it is available to visitors. Understandably, fishermen are unimpressed upon returning to the pier to find a visitor occupying their berths.

Mariners should be aware of the major shipping channel leading into Corio Bay, with its busy industrial port at Geelong. Upon approach keep the Portarlington pier to port and drop anchor over a sandy bottom.The anchorage is generally shallow well out from the beach, with approx 2mts of water adjacent to the pier on the western side, staying well away from the yellow special purpose beacon.

Anchorage location: Lat 38 deg 07S  Long 144 deg 39E

  
Checklist
Best Time to Go Conditions on Port Phillip Bay can change extremely quickly at any time of the year.It is not unusual for a quiet day sail to change dramatically as a southerly buster blows through from Bass Strait.During the summer months, with the seabreeze generally coming in from W-SW, Portarlington can be a pleasant overnight anchorage in light conditions.
During Spring, or even during the Winter months, when Melbourne weather is between Bass Strait systems, the breeze is often light and this is the best time to scoot south down the bay.Although the air can be bracingly brisk, and serious warm weather gear is required, often this is when the best sailing conditions are enjoyed on the bay.
How Long to Get There Portarlington is approx 20nm SW of the mouth of the Yarra River and Williamstown.Port Phillip Bay, with its large expanse of relatively shallow water can quickly become quite rough, which can make for a rather long, uncomfortable journey.Conversely, with light conditions, cruising on Port Phillip Bay offers sensational, fast, flat water sailing with the towering buildings of the Melbourne city providing a stunning backdrop.
Fuel & Provisions Water is available on Portarlington pier.Visitors should not rely on fuel being available to casual visitors.Portarlington township has basic provisions, as well as many takeaway food options.Nearby Geelong has fuel and water available at the Yacht Club, plus shopping malls and supermarkets.
Cruising Guide Creeks and Harbours of Port Phillip by Richard Hawkins
Charts: Paper AUS157 Geelong Harbour & Approaches
Charts: C-Map Apollo Bay to Port Albert
Destination Info Bellarine Tourism
 
 

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