Once clearance formalities have been completed, there are several options for berthing; both marinas and anchorages around Darwin.
The most popular anchorage is Fannie Bay (approximately 12º25S 130º 50'E), off the Darwin Sailing Club (which offers temporary membership). Good holding in mud. Possible to leave the dinghy directly in front of the sailing club buildings.
A second anchorage is located east of Darwin Wharf (approximately 12º28'S 130º51'E), but this is exposed to the southeast winds that prevail in July and August and there are no facilities nearby.
Due to the very large tides (up to 8m), all Darwin marinas have tidal sluice gates to lock the water in the marinas.The majority of tidal sluice gates have restricted width on entering which can be a problem for larger catamarans.
The marina is accessed via the Lock which operates from 0600 to 2300 every day. Vessels wishing to enter the Marina should seek instruction from the Cullen Bay Lockmaster on VHF Channel 11 prior to arrival. Max vessel sizes: LOA 25m – Beam 8.5m – Draft 2.5m. All tides access.
The external waiting pontoon is for Border Force/Biosecurity/Aquatic Biosecurity operations and has an independently managed (Ausfuel) 24hr self-service fuel dock. This is a strict “bump & go” facility.
Bayview Marina is conveniently situated just under 5 kilometres from Darwin CBD and has 128 secure floating berths for local and visiting vessels to a length of 21 metres, beam of 7 metres and draft of 2.5 metres.
Access is via a lock (open 06:00 to 21:00 local time every day). Contact the Lockmaster on VHF: Channel 68 for instructions before entering and exiting the Lock.
Located on Frances Bay between the Mooring Basin and the Bayview Marina. Access is via a lock - contact the "Tipperary Lockmaster" on Channel 8 for instructions.
Also known as the "Duck Pond' this area is managed by the Darwin Port Authority (DPA) and is the only other option for catamarans in Darwin. This is a commercial basin where heavy engineering maintenance of the fishing fleet is conducted. The DPA allows larger cruising yachts and wide beam catamarans into this marina when space permits (generally when the prawn trawlers are at sea).
The Northern Territory Government publishes a handy guide to Marinas and Mooring Providers in and around Darwin.
Marinas and Mooring Providers - Darwin
Last updated: July 2024
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