Mackay Marina more than a safe haven

by Jennifer McGuigan on 6 Aug 2006 The first thing that strikes you at Mackay marina is how large the pylons are for the floating dock. With their colourful tips, a guide to boats navigating this large marina, the huge black pylons look to be vying with yacht masts in their stretch to the sky.

Their purpose is to deal with Australia’s biggest tide change which at its peak is six point eight metres, quite a change for those used to the waters of Victoria’s Port Phillip Bay. With a lowest depth of four point five metres at LAT (Lowest Astronomical Tide) even the largest yachts can enter with confidence.

The dock situated within its man made breakwater and within natures greatest breakwater, The Great Barrier Reef, offers a safe haven with hardly a ripple disturbing the mixture of boats housed here.

Just a short walk past the breakwater lays a lengthy sandy beach complete with surf lifesavers on duty, displaying their traditional red and yellow flags. Not that surf is an issue as none is to be found here protected as it is by the reef. The beach is broad and clean with turquoise waters stretching to a horizon dotted with tropical islands.

With currently 328 berths and another 162 planned, 20 of which will be in place by the end of September with the rest available from the end of December the marina caters for permanent residents with plenty of space for the transiting visitor.

The marina offers free wireless broadband from anywhere on the marina and has clean gated toilets, showers and laundries for use by their guests.

The palm tree lined marina boardwalk offers a wide variety of restaurants offering tasty and affordable food. You can eat at the Mackay Yacht club or sample the delights of the Thai, Fish or Steakhouse restaurants. Including the local Clarion Hotel restaurant and the Surf Lifesaving Club there are nine restaurants within easy walking distance. The dress code is relaxed and families are welcome. A general store is located on site for basic needs of milk water etc.

Those cruising with younger children will be delighted by the two playgrounds that are an easy walk from the marina. Set in lush palm fringed surroundings the playgrounds have bright and cheerful equipment to stretch small legs after a long sea voyage.

The Clarion hotel is available to those who feel they might like a little touch of luxury, 79 balconied suites that are comfortable and airy and a helpful and friendly staff.

With a new hairdresser and beauty salon to open next week the dishevelled yachtie is well catered for. Mackay city centre is accessible by bus or taxi for those that need to satisfy their retail needs.

As Mackay is a major port for the local mining industry it also offers Customs and Immigration services for those that have travelled further afield. Customs are ‘on call’ 24/7 as are Australian Quarantine and Inspection Services.

This modern marina clearly provides a very satisfactory alternative as a Queensland stopover for cruising and racing yachts, not just a safe haven but a most enjoyable one.

For details on Australian Customs requirements go to. www.customs.gov.au

For details and prices for Mackay Marina go to. www.mackaymarina.com