Categories: All Events / Cruises / Expeditions / Passages / Racing / Price List
Destinations: Australia / Fiji / New Zealand / Vanuatu / South Pacific
Yachts: Awen / Sea Breeze III / Silver Fern / Te Kaihōpara
Join us aboard Silver Fern, our 72-foot expedition yacht, for an unforgettable sailing experience. Whether it's a coastal passage, an ocean crossing, or an island-hopping adventure, we offer a range of voyages across New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. Our calendar is packed with opportunities for all experience levels, and full training is provided and sailors of all ages and experience levels are welcome to join the crew. Silver Fern is a true ocean-going yacht, purpose-built for safety and performance in all conditions—so you can sail with confidence.
OPUA TO TONGA / 1,260NM / 13 nights / ocean sailing EXPEDITION-passage
The ocean expedition from Opua, New Zealand to Raoul Island in the Kermadec Island Group to Minerva Reef and finally onto Tonga is a true adventurers expedition. We depart Opua in the Bay of Islands and head 540nm northeast to the Kermadec Islands. The islands are uninhabited and the northernmost outpost of New Zealand. They have been used as stopover points since as early as the 10th century.
We’ll sail past Raoul Island, before setting off on for the next stop 330nm further north to anchor for a stopover at the stunning Minerva Reefs.
kingdom of tonga / 500nm / 13 nights / sailing EXPEDITION
Embark on a 13-night sailing adventure through the breathtaking Tongan archipelago, a Polynesian paradise of 169 islands, only 36 of which are inhabited. Spanning 700,000km² of the South Pacific, Tonga’s three main island groups—Tongatapu, Haʻapai, and Vavaʻu—offer some of the world’s best blue water sailing.
With steady trade winds and warm tropical weather, this voyage takes you through a maze of secluded anchorages, coral reefs, and remote atolls, perfect for snorkelling, diving, and paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters.
TONGA TO tahiti / 1,600NM / 18 nights / ocean sailing passagE
The South Pacific Ocean beckons with its azure waters, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. Embark on an extraordinary 16 day sailing expedition that will take you through the heart of this tropical paradise, from the remote islands of Tonga to the secluded shores of Niue, the enchanting Cook Islands, and the bustling streets of Papeete, Tahiti.
FRENCH POLYNESIA / 500NM / 15 DAYs / sailing cruise
A French Polynesia expedition cruise around the islands within a 150nm radius of Papeete, Tahiti. Embarking on a sailing expedition from the bustling shores of Papeete, Tahiti, to the remote, idyllic islands of French Polynesia is a voyage of a lifetime.
This journey invites you to explore a region steeped in history, brimming with diverse cultures, and adorned with natural wonders. From Papeete's vibrant urban atmosphere to the pristine beaches of Bora Bora, each destination along the way offers a unique blend of experiences.
fiji to VANUATU / 510NM / 6 nights / ocean sailing passage
Set sail on a 510nm South Pacific voyage, journeying from Vuda Point, Fiji, to Port Vila, Vanuatu. This Category 1 ocean passage offers warm tropical sailing, steady trade winds, and stunning marine life, making it ideal for those looking to gain offshore experience in a relaxed and inviting environment.
Enjoy the deep blues of the Pacific, incredible bird and sea life, and excellent fishing opportunities along the way. For those new to international cruising, this passage provides valuable insight into ocean passage planning, navigation, and arrival formalities in a foreign port.
VANUATU ISLANDS / 500NM / 12 nights / sailing expedition-cruise
The name Vanuatu means ‘Land Eternal’ and is recognised for its diverse landscape and variety of distinct cultures and is made up of 83 islands which stretch over some 450nm of the Pacific Ocean, half way between Australia and Hawaii. It’s renowned for its lush and vibrant nature, clear warm waters, friendly people and fascinating culture. Like the land above, the underwater terrain is mountainous, with huge cliffs, caves and intricate tunnels and is abundant with sea life, such as corals, sponges and thousands of fish. Numerous wrecks provide a wonderful snorkelling playground to explore.
tahiti to Fiji / 2,100nm / 25 DAYs / ocean sailing expedition-passage
Join the crew for an extraordinary 25-day voyage through the breathtaking islands of the South Pacific. Departing from Papeete, Tahiti, this adventure takes you across crystal-clear waters to Rarotonga, Niue, Tonga’s Vava’u Islands, and b, uncovering some of the most remote and stunning destinations in the Pacific.
Experience the thrill of open-ocean sailing, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse marine life, and explore untouched island landscapes. Immerse yourself in rich Polynesian and Pacific Island cultures, where warm hospitality and ancient traditions await.
Vanuatu to Gold coast, Australia / 1,100 nm / 13 Nights / ocean sailing passage
Embark on an extraordinary 1,100NM voyage across the South Pacific, sailing from the charming harbour of Port Vila, Vanuatu, to Southport, Queensland, with a stop in Nouméa, New Caledonia. This 13-night adventure blends offshore sailing, cultural exploration, and breathtaking ocean scenery, offering a true passage-making experience. Sailing westward, we’ll arrive in Nouméa, a city known for its French influence, vibrant markets, and stunning coral lagoons. After exploring this South Pacific gem, we continue across the azure waters of the Coral Sea, where the open ocean, marine life, and ever-changing horizon create an unforgettable journey.
Southport to Sydney / 820nm / 10 nights / ocean sailing expedition-passage
This offshore passage is a 820nm expedition from Southport on the sunny Queensland Gold Coast, to Middleton and Elizabeth Reef’s, 300nm to the east, Lord Howe Island 100nm to the south and finally 420nm to Sydney.
We’ll sail the coast of the notorious Middleton Reef and (weather permitting) stopover at Elizabeth Reef. These are two of the southern most platform reefs in the world and the 6nm long reefs rise up from the 4,000 metre deep Tasman Sea floor and are both visible at low tide. They have claimed more than 70 vessels in the past 100 years with some wrecks still visible on the reefs.
ROLEX SYDNEY HOBART yacht RACE / 630NM / 8 nights / offshore race
The Rolex Sydney Hobart Race is one of the toughest and most respected Category 1 ocean races in the world. It’s the only major race that starts in a harbour, takes in a passage and finishes in a river. With a fleet in excess of 100 yachts ranging from 36 to 100 foot in length, the electric pre-race village atmosphere at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) followed by the excitement of the build-up to the start on Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day is hard to describe.
SYDNEY TO SOUTHPORT / 420 NM / 21 nights / Australian 2-yacht eXPEDITION
Embark on an extraordinary sailing adventure along Australia's breathtaking east coast. From the iconic Sydney Harbour to the golden shores of Southport, this voyage promises spectacular scenery, diverse marine life, and unforgettable ocean experiences.
Further offshore, we pass the towering Balls Pyramid, an awe-inspiring volcanic monolith, before reaching Lord Howe Island, a World Heritage-listed paradise known for its coral reefs, pristine beaches, and lush forests. Continuing to the Elizabeth and Middleton Reefs, we discover one of the world’s southernmost coral reef ecosystems, teeming with colourful marine life.
sOUTHPORT TO MACKAY / 550NM / 14 nights / Australian 2-yacht eXPEDITION
Embark on a sailing adventure exploring Australia’s tropical coastline from Southport to Mackay. This journey blends adventure and breathtaking natural beauty, taking you through pristine islands, vibrant reefs, and secluded anchorages.
Departing from Southport, we sail north to Mooloolaba, known for its golden beaches and fresh seafood, before reaching the tranquil shores of Double Island Point. Continuing offshore, we explore the stunning coral reefs of Lady Elliott and Lady Musgrave, where manta rays glide through crystal-clear waters.
MACKAY TO CAIRNS / 450NM / 14 nights / Australian 2-yacht eXPEDITION
Embark on a sailing adventure exploring the pristine waters and islands of Queensland’s coast. Departing from Mackay, the voyage takes you through the breathtaking Whitsundays, beginning with Brampton Island’s sandy shores. Along the way, discover secluded beaches and vibrant coral reefs at Scawfell, Goldsmith, and Haslewood Islands, perfect for snorkelling and marine encounters.
Sail onward to the tranquil Thomas and Shaw b before arriving at the world-famous Whitehaven Beach, where pure silica sands and turquoise waters create an unforgettable backdrop.
CAIRNS TO THURSDAY ISLAND / 500NM / 14 nights / Australian 2-yacht eXPEDITION
Embark on a sailing adventure journeying through the breathtaking waters of Australia’s far north. From Cairns to Thursday Island, this voyage offers a blend of natural wonders, cultural encounters, and pristine seascapes.
Setting sail from Cairns, our first stop is Michaelmas Cay, a haven for birdwatchers and snorkelers, surrounded by a thriving coral reef. Nearby, Cairns Reef provides an incredible underwater experience with the vivid biodiversity of the Great Barrier Reef.
Sailing north, we reach Cooktown, where history comes alive with tales of Captain Cook and Australia’s early explorers.
THURSDAY ISLAND TO DARWIN / 900NM / 21 nights / Australian 2-yacht eXPEDITION
Join us for a 21-day voyage through Australia’s remote northern territories, from Thursday Island to Darwin. This journey blends cultural discovery, rugged landscapes, and pristine seascapes, offering an adventure like no other.
Departing from Thursday Island, the heart of Torres Strait culture, you’ll explore a region rich in storytelling, music, and tradition. Nearby, Horn Island’s WWII relics provide a poignant connection to Australia’s past. Sailing south, the Cape York Peninsula offers untouched wilderness and breathtaking scenery at Australia’s northernmost point.
In Gove Harbour, crystal-clear waters teem with marine life, perfect for diving, fishing, and exploration.
DARWIN TO BROOME / 650NM / 21 nights / Australian 2-yacht eXPEDITION
Set sail on a remarkable 21-day voyage navigating from Darwin to Broome through Australia’s breathtaking northern coast. This journey explores the remote beauty of the Kimberley, where ancient landscapes meet pristine waters.
Departing from Darwin, rich in Indigenous and wartime history, the voyage takes you to Ashmore Reef, a haven for seabirds and marine life, and Scott Reef, renowned for its world-class diving and snorkelling. Sail onwards to St George Basin and Collier Bay, surrounded by ancient rock formations, and witness the stunning King Cascade and Cathedral Falls.
BROOME TO EXMOUTH / 900NM / 23 nights / Australian 2-yacht eXPEDITION
Embark on a 23-day sailing adventure, exploring the remote and breathtaking coastline of Western Australia, from Broome to Exmouth. This journey blends natural wonders, rich history, and world-class marine experiences, offering an unforgettable voyage through some of the world’s most pristine waters.
Starting in Broome, where the Indian Ocean meets the Outback, sail past the endless white sands of Eighty Mile Beach, a perfect setting for serene sunsets. Journey to Rowley Shoals, a trio of remote coral atolls boasting extraordinary diving and snorkelling, with vibrant underwater canyons teeming with marine life.
Exmouth TO DARWIN / 1,400NM / 21 DAYs / Australian 2-yacht eXPEDITION
Set sail on a remarkable 21-day voyage from Exmouth to Darwin, exploring Australia’s breathtaking northern coast. This odyssey takes you to the Montebello Islands, once a nuclear test site, now a thriving marine sanctuary. Sail through Dampier and Depuch Island before arriving in Broome, where red desert meets the Indian Ocean, rich with pearling history.
Cruise along the Kimberley Coast, discovering the towering cliffs and waterfalls of the King George River, the tranquil beauty of the Berkeley River, and the ancient rock art of Bigge Island.