Darwin - General Info
Where is Darwin?
Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory in a region that is known as the “Top End” of the country of Australia. It is a vibrant, multi-cultural city with a fascinating mix of Asian and European cultures, that was largely rebuilt after the devastation of Cyclone Tracy in December 1974. It sits on the eastern side of the large, 20-mile long inlet, known as Darwin Harbour and is a popular port for cruisers heading to or from Indonesia.
Darwin’s proximity to Southeast Asia makes it a key link between Australia and countries such as Indonesia and East Timor.
Entrance Notes and Cautions for Darwin:
The tidal range in and around Darwin can vary by up to 7.8 m resulting in complex and strong currents. The waters are also home to saltwater crocodiles and Irukankji jellyfish, one of the deadliest in Australia, so swimming is not advisable.
Clearance formalities are undertaken at the Cullen Bay Pontoon. Yachts are advised to stay clear of the left side which is only for ferries.
Cruiser Highlights for Darwin:
The combined presence of an active racing and cruising community and a large fishing fleet has resulted in an excellent range of repair facilities. Excellent provisioning for many local markets including the Mindil Beach Sunset Market (from April to October).
Position – Harbour Entrance:
12°24.93’S, 130° 47.45’E
Last updated: August 2024
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Related to following destinations: Australia, Darwin, Northern Territory (Australia)
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From Eric Sponberg on SY Corroboree
My wife and I are Americans on a 35’ monohull sailboat, Corroboree, having just sailed from Darwin, NT, Australia, where we left on 16 May 2022, to Bali, Indonesia, where we arrived on 29 May 2022. We stopped at Ashmore Reef in the Timor sea for 2 days along the way.
First, there are supposed to be public moorings for small craft at Ashmore Reef. Australia Border Force keeps a large patrol boat moored there, and they are quite friendly to talk to and deal with. However, their literature regarding the moorings at Ashmore Reef is incorrect and out of date. There are no small craft moorings anywhere at Ashmore Reef, there are only large vessel moorings with very heavy hawsers. Visiting yachts are allowed to use these moorings—check with the Border Force vessel first—but there are no small craft moorings. Apparently, they have been washed away. We reported this situation to Border Force, and they were quite surprised that none of the smaller moorings were there. I guess they had not inspected the anchorage there in a long time. The lagoon is a few miles long.
Eric Sponberg
SY Corroboree
Naval Architect, retired
Member, Noonsite
14th Oct 2019
Hi just found a great place for boat oil and diesel filters .
Cummins diesel sell a very wide range of filters .
They are in East Arm About 15 mins from Darwin central.
When clearing out, make sure to contact Border Security at least 24 hours before you wish to attend the office to get an appointment. We tried to turn up and clear out but were told to leave some paperwork and come back the next day.
The Darwin office has made this a local requirement so they can have your paperwork ready. Their email address is darwin.shipping@border.gov.au
The clearance by Aquatic Biosecurity is now down to 10 hours. May be completed at Cullen Bay pontoon or at anchorage in Fannie Bay.