Glad to hear you are interested in coming to Refuge Cove this Weekend, 1-4 November 2025.

We will review the weather forecast issued on the Thursday before and make a final decision on the cruise early on Thursday evening. A contact mobile number would be appreciated to call you after we decide. We only go on a reasonable forecast and will not go if a strong easterly is forecast.

The cruise is in open Bass Straight waters & as you are aware additional offshore safety equipment must be carried viz red parachute flare, EPIRB & marine radio – preferably VHF. Aust. Charts Nos 181 & 802 are applicable.

The anchorage in Refuge Cove generally has some swell so excellent anchor tackle must be carried including a stern anchor.

There are no provisions at Refuge Cove so you must bring all food and supplies for the 3-4 days plus some spare. Also enough fuel for the 12 hours motoring in case we have to motor both ways. An inflatable dinghy is great if you have access to one, otherwise we use each others’to get ashore.

For safety reasons, SINGLE HANDED sailors are not welcome on this cruise.

Should the weather be unsuitable for Refuge we will probably for Gippsland Lakes & the coordinator will advise details on the Thursday evening phone call.

The Refuge Cove cruise leaves from Port Welshpool with the aim to depart by 9:30 am as the trip takes around 5 hours. This allows adequate daylight for setting anchors and some time ashore for ‘a happy hour or 2’

Please note that parking at Port Welshpool boat ramp is now free.

 

Regards

Dave Smith

Port Albert Yacht Club

Yellow Sabre 22PA 87 "Jenny Kay"

Mobile: 0411 715 087