Port Phillip Heads Rip Tour

by John Curnow on 23 Mar 2010 No matter whether you're an avid yachty, casual fisherman, dedicated beach walker, interested surfer, summertime boaty, keen historian or local resident (say all that in a hurry), the Ocean Racing Club of Victoria's Rip Tour has been a highlight for years because it is informative and truly educational. The next Rip Tour is set for April 18, 2010 and it always sells out, so getting in early would be my thoughts on the matter.

The Heads of Melbourne's Port Phillip is made up of Point Nepean in the East and Point Lonsdale in the West. It is from the latter that Lonsdale VTS govern the Heads and more importantly, the narrow stretch of water in between, known around the world as the Rip. Victorian maritime law requires that you wear a PFD on and have storm boards in place when traversing this interesting area. Prudent navigators will also have the diesel fired up and check in with Lonsdale VTS on VHF Channel 12 before exiting or entering, as Melbourne is the country's largest and busiest container port. There can often be a queue of ships and they do move at speed to keep steerage, so keep well clear.

The Rip's world-famous status is a result of the narrow passage, the significant tidal flows, the strong SW breezes that can blow in the area and the often, large Southern Ocean swells that stem from the fact that it backs onto Bass Strait proper. As if all that wasn't enough, there is also the very tumultuous underwater terrain that plays havoc with the mass of water trying to move around. In certain conditions, the relative heights of the water can show a distinct differential, which is measured in tens of centimetres. The interval in between the changes of ebb and flow is named Slack Water and this is when all ORCV races are timed to leave the Heads, as it offers the minimum amount of issues for mariners to deal with.

You could well understand that ships have had a hard time of this place over the years and this is exactly why the ORCV conducts the ‘Rip Tour', to ensure you make many a safe crossing of this notorious stretch of water. In addition to a great day out, what you get included in the whole deal are:
• A copy of the ORCV's handy Rip Guide
• Identification of major beacons and marks
• Queenscliff lead lights and shipping channels
• Information on tides and tide signals
• The ability to identify favourable conditions and dangers
• Performing correct passages out of and back into Port Phillip.

Please remember that the course is weather dependent, so ensure you fill one form out for each passenger and give us your contact information, in case of postponement. The only other thing you need to work out is if you are boarding at Queenscliff (no doubt most likely before a stellar lunch) or Sorrento (in which case you're better off driving up to the vineyards afterwards, for a smashing round of tastings before dinner).

Now it's not just us that think it's a great little excursion. Here's what others have had to say over the years:
...I want to thank the ORCV for the Rip Tour. My family and I had a great time. The kids are still talking about it! It was a great buzz to for them to learn a bit about navigation and also to see some wildlife (dolphins in particular). Please pass on my appreciation to all the organisers for an excellent job. Regards, David Johnson

Your tour is practical, Informative and eloquent. Well organised too – great job! Tony and Anne Gibson who own ‘Rendezvous'

To book and reserve your spot on this great tour, as seats are limited by boat size, Please see
http://orcv.org.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1574:2010riptour&catid=55:safety-news&Itemid=445
for details and to enroll in this sell-out event. Please also remember to use a separate form for each person attending the course.