REALISING that half of Port Stephens is water, I have always been of the belief that to experience everything that this magnificent part of the world has to offer you need – a boat.

My first piece of advice is not to rush into it.

There is much to consider and many have made the wrong decision which is evident by the number of boats on trailers that haven’t moved for years!

In no particular order, fibre glass or aluminium, other considerations include size of the boat and of the motor which will be determined by how often you intend to use the boat, where you intend to visit and how many of your family members are keen to be regular crew.

Will your boat be used for fishing or simply exploring or a combination of both?

Because Port Stephens is such a huge waterway there are many variables to take into account.

The options inside the port are far greater than in other estuaries and ports and these include Tilligerry Creek, the Karuah River and Myall Rivers, the extensive Myall Lake system, North Arm Cove, Fame Cove, Swan Bay, Carrington and Pindimar – just to name a few.

This place is a boating wonderland.

Once you have satisfied all the above there are more questions to ask, namely – do you intend to travel outside the heads into the open sea?

So many adventures await.

Broughton Island, Fingal, south to Rocky Point and Boat Harbour.

The outer islands Boondelbah and Cabbage Tree are unique and deserve your attention.

Lastly you need to take into account where you will be launching – Soldiers Point, Little Beach, Lemon Tree or Karuah.

At the end of the day your boat will require a shed or any safe place to be stored until the next time.

To help in your decision making it is a good idea to spend time with your local boat dealership who deal with these issues on a daily basis.

Good luck and happy boating.

I will see you on the water.

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE