Hire a boat in Port Stephens, Australia’s blue water paradise. Port Stephens is a large tide-dominated, valley estuary, and forms a natural harbor. With access to the Pacific Ocean, and also part of the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park, there are boating options out at sea, and inside one of the many serene lakes that form the coastal region of this part of eastern Australia.
Port Stephens is two-and-a-half hours north of Sydney, and is accessible along the Pacific Highway.
At Nelson Bay in Port Stephens, many operators rent out boats. No licence is necessary, and you can hire one of the self-drive boats for your own exploration.
This is great for wildlife-spotting, and famous features around Port Stephens include dolphin watching, turtle watching, and viewing the Fairy Penguin colonies on shore.
In addition, if you rent from Nelson Bay Boat Hire, they will provide you with a free fishing licence, and relevant equipment.
There are several other boat hire operators to choose from in Port Stephens. For example, if you head to Soldiers Point on the southern side of the estuary there is a marina and reliable establishment there.
All their boats have the latest GPS and tracking equipment for added safety, included in the hire costs. For an additional fee, they can provide bait, fishing outfits, ice, and refreshments, to make your trip more enjoyable.
Port Stephens is also a great place to go kayaking. Many operators, including the one at Soldiers Point, have kayaks for hire. Renting a kayak is a great way to explore some of the inland waterways, as well as the coastal area.
From Port Stephens you can take your kayak via an inlet at Corrie Island on the north banks, and then paddle up the Myall River until you reach the lake. The entire area is protected national park, home to endemic flora and fauna.
When there, be sure to check out the Grandis, which is a 76 metre flooded gumtree, and one of the tallest trees in Australia.