There’s a new hotbed for Nordhavn cruising these days – so to speak. Nordhavns can be found in every ‘corner’ of the globe, but we’ve been noticing a trend recently in cruising the Near Oceania region; specifically we’re talking about the number of Nordhavns opting to head Down Under to explore the unique wild life and take part in the laid back lifestyle the area is known for. So with all the Nordhavn-related goings on in the part of the world where no place is further than 625 miles from the coast, we've decided to dedicate this issue of the e-newsletter to the land of Oz.
It’s true there have always been Nordhavns in and around Australia, but lately it’s been the choice for lots of Nordy adventurers. Who can blame them? From where we sit, it seems like a heck of a fun place with insane snorkeling and fishing, untouched nature preserves and amongst the friendliest, interesting characters you’d ever want to meet.
Just read the blogs put out by the likes of Egret, Ice Dancer II, and Special Blend and you’ll get a taste for what mixing with the Aussies and Kiwis and Tazzies is like. Aside from lots of sweet anchorages and quaint harbors, there’s actually some serious cruising to be done. Nordhavns have stuck out of the pack of mostly sailboats that take part in the 800-nm Van Diemens Land Circumnavigation around Tasmania, but they’ve been welcome additions not only for their camaraderic efforts but for satisfying some major curiosities of the other boaters. Then there are those Nords who are preparing to circumnavigate Australia itself – no small feat in its 7,500 nm of coastline, but something a little more viable than attempting to circumnavigate any other of the continents.
This spring also marked the very first Nordhavn rendezvous Down Under. Nothing says quality cruising grounds like the site of a three-day Nordhavn party. As Karen Davidson, owner of N43 Opal Lady so eloquently stated: “At every opportunity, a glass is raised when any Aussie Nordhavns get together.” Make that, any Nordhavns, so long as they are in Australia.
Finally, if you need more proof of the Nordhavn influx to the area, you need look no further than to the brand new office opening up in Australia’s Gold Coast. Nordhavn Australasia is launching a second branch in Scarborough. Centered in a marina rich with boating resources, the new Scarborough office is sure to draw upon Nordhavns looking for service or anyone in Australia looking for Nordhavns. Speaking of looking for Nordhavns in Australia, don’t miss the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show happening May 20-23, where we’ll be featuring a 43 and 47, perfect boats from which to be raising a glass with your new mates.
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