cruising yacht club of australia fees

• Travel Ideas

Inside look at The World, a cruise so exclusive only millionaires can go on

To join, you have to be nominated by an existing member, pass a criminal record check, undergo a trial – and part with millions for a buy-in.

Unexpected detail in middle of huge ship

Silly mistake that cost me $500 in Bali

‘Insane details I never expected on cruise’

It’s one of the most exclusive clubs in the world: a rotating collective said to include Madonna, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Gina Rinehart and around 150 multi-millionaires and billionaires.

To join, one must be nominated by an existing member, pass a criminal record check, undergo a trial, part with millions for a buy-in and hundreds of thousands more on annual membership fees.

It’s called The World, a residential cruise ship with 165 studios, suites and apartments said to be the world’s most luxurious cruise ship (The World’s Fort Lauderdale-based management firm denies it is cruise ship, calling it a mega-yacht) that travels perpetually around the world, taking in exotic destinations like the Maldives, Antarctica, Vladivostok and Papua New Guinea plus special events like Wimbledon, Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival and the running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain. And it boasts the most extravagant on-board entertainment imaginable, including a jogging track, professional poker room, cigar room, a massive boardroom, a library with more than 5000 books, a helipad, a non-denominational chapel, a sound-healing studio, six restaurants and bars and the only full-size tennis court on a ship in the world.

I had the rare opportunity to visit The World while it was moored in Bali in August before it departed to Australia for a fortnight-long expedition of the Kimberley. The invitation came from an old friend from Sydney, Eddie Wong, The World’s residential director.

“This is nothing like regular cruise ships. I know that because I worked on them for a long time, that’s how I landed this job. Despite my heavy workload – I take care of the commercial interests of all the residents – working here is a lot easier than other ships because we’re a community,” he says over coffee at a bar in The World’s plaza and reception area, a voluminous hall with the look and feel of the lobby of an internationally branded five-star hotel.

“The residents and crew have personal relationships, both on-board and off-board – we get to explore the world together – so they treat us with a lot of respect. Whenever I come back to the ship – I work 10 weeks on, 10 weeks off – it’s like coming home.

More than just a club of really rich people who cruise around on a big boat, The World is a canny investment vehicle. When the ship was launched in 2002, studios sold for $US60,000 ($A88,226) while three-bedroom apartments were $US3 million ($A4.4 million), according to Cruisemapper, an online resource for the cruising industry, though The World’s management company refused to comment on these figures. Today, studios fetch $US2.5 million ($A3.6 million) while a three-bedroom Ocean Residence is currently listed for $US13.5 million ($A19.8 million). Annual maintenance and cruising fees start at $US220,000 ($A323,000) and climb up to $US1.2 million ($A1.7 million), and include $US35,000 ($A51,465) credit towards food and beverages.

Wong takes me on a tour of the ship. From the plaza, we stroll along an immaculately polished promenade, past a luxury boutique, a delicatessen and a grocery store to the Marina seafood restaurant at the front of the ship. There sits an indoor swimming pool used for scuba diving classes and a retractable water sports marina equipped with water bikes, jet skis, Hobie catamarans and more. We then circle back to the front of the ship, past a 300-seat auditorium, a hair salon, a series of rain mist rooms, an aerobics studio plus a glass-fronted fitness centre filled with Technogym exercise machines. We also walk through Clinique La Prairie, a 650 sqm day spa where a 60-minute aromatherapy massage costs $US286 ($A420) and a body scrub and wrap is $US317 ($A466).

We climb four decks to the sun deck, which is home to a swimming pool, oversized jacuzzi, a pool bar, an Italian restaurant and the ship’s most exclusive residences, including two forward-facing penthouses with wraparound balconies.

From there we climb a staircase to the upper deck to see the tennis court, a billiards room and the “Bali Beds” – pairs of semi-enclosed soft sun lounges where residents can spend the night stargazing while at sea. I am also shown the golf centre that includes two putting greens and a state-of-the-art golf simulator staffed by a golf pro who on this day has accompanied a few residents to the New Kuta Golf Club fronting Dreamland Beach.

Most of the other residents are also exploring Bali, though we do bump into a couple of big-hitting residents: Geoff Manchester, the Melbourne-based co-founder of Intrepid Travel, and John Demartini, a human behaviour specialist and one of the world’s leading inspirational speakers. Looking dapper in a double-breasted navy blue suit with a pink handkerchief in his pocket, Demartini has lived on The World for more than 20 years.

“In 1999, I found an advertisement for The World in a magazine at my dentist’s office, ripped it out and showed it to my wife, Athena,” Demartini says, referring to his late wife, Australian astrologer Athena Starwoman.

“She said, ‘that sounds amazing, it would suit us because we are jet-set gypsies and we love to travel’. But it was still a bit of a novelty and we were not fully sold.

“Two years later, when the attacks of September 11 happened, we were living in Trump Towers. After the attacks, Athena didn’t want to live in New York anymore and we moved to the Gold Coast where we already had a home. A few days later we met some friends who owned an apartment on the ship. They answered every question and we saw it would be perfect for us. We bought an apartment the following morning.

“After Athena passed away, I sold all my property and now spend about 90 per cent of my time on the ship. This is home.”

I ask Demartini about his most memorable moment on The World.

“One of our mottos is ‘what a great year we had today’ because what some people do in a whole year, we do day-to-day,” he says.

“I can’t possibly pinpoint one place or experience, but sometimes when we are at sea there is a thing called the ‘captain’s choice’ when we deviate from our itinerary to see something special, and we never know what it might be.

“Not long ago we were in the middle of the ocean and found a tidal island that does not exist on any map because it only pops up out of the ocean at certain times.

“We made an anchor, got onto the zodiacs, the staff brought picnic equipment and we spent an afternoon in paradise.

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“But just being in the company of the other residents is very rewarding. They are all creative and innovative people; I don’t know of a single resident who has not done amazing stuff, and most of them have served millions of people.

“I feel blessed to live with them. I say hi to them at breakfast, hear about what they are doing next and learn about their families. It’s the residents that make this ship the best address on Earth.”

Ian Neubauer is a freelance journalist

The chance to experience the “world’s biggest weekend”, including a crazy feature in the middle of the sea, left me astonished.

This Aussie traveller made a mistake in Bali that saw her fined $500 – but it could have been a lot worse.

Turns out there is an ultimate family holiday – a ship where you can skydive, rock climb and ride bumper cars while you travel to idyllic islands.

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BYS Hardstand – 2025 Strategy

• August 30, 2024

Dear Members,

As recently announced at the 2024 AGM, the Executive Committee has appointed a Hardstand Strategy Working Group to work through the Marina Committee, which in turn will report to the Executive Committee.

The primary objective of this working group is to develop a Hardstand Strategy that is primarily focused on sports boat activities, being the third stream of sailing at BYS between conventional Keelboats (KB) and Off the Beach (OTB) sailing.

BYS aims to optimise its hardstand facilities to ensure it continues to attract sailors and boats to this category of sailing and to complement the full range of opportunities at BYS, one of Australia’s most desirable sailing venues.

This appointment and the work to be undertaken is consistent with the survey work and recommendations made in 2015 regarding hardstand usage and occupants.

It is envisaged that participants in this project will come from most facets of the BYS sailing community and would include:

o Members of the Marina Committee, o Representatives of the Executive Committee, o General Manager and Marina Operations, o Flag Officers, o BYS Club Captain, o BYS Head of Sailing, o Sportsboat Owners (and relevant KB owners), o Skippers and crew participating in sportsboat sailing, o BYS staff involved in training activities and managing both club and external regattas, o Others as required.

It should be noted that engagement with participants will vary as the project progresses, where timing and the number of interactions with each participant or group will vary.

To ensure the working group achieves its set objectives, extensive data collection from a range of sources will be undertaken, including:

o Visiting other marinas with a hardstand, sharing and learning from experiences, o Conducting surveys within the BYS sailing community to gather information, o Engaging with the BYS sailing community via live forum and consultation as appropriate, o Providing regular update reports to the Executive Committee and membership, o Consolidating information and providing recommendations to the Executive Committee with budgets and timing for the implementation of recommendations.

The more detailed activities of the working group will also include:

1. BYS Hardstand Information to collate & review o Size range and maximum weight of boats. (currently underway), o Size of parking bays (possibly rationalising to a two-size model), o Establishing and identifying the true costs of the hardstand structure, ongoing maintenance and current and future projected outgoings, o Charging rates with the intention of being competitive with other facilities, noting the individuality of our marina and the handstand’s environment.

2. Handstand Facilities o Crane type, number and possible position(s). (currently under review), o Number of boat spaces – maximum to be determined, o Onsite secure storage facilities, o Toilets (currently one portable – ideally two permanent facilities and plumbed), o Increased security (fencing and cameras), o Electric tug with charging and storage, etc., o Rafting buoys – for regattas (yachts and coach boats), o Other?

3. Optimise the Hardstand Layout o Possibly two sizes, o Layout, o Emergency vehicle access, o Storage and toilets as per above, o Other?

It is important to acknowledge and reconfirm that this is a working group primarily focused on data gathering and providing detailed and relevant information to the Marina Committee and, ultimately, the Executive Committee.

The working group has a very clear directive and is not involved in making final decisions on the hardstand or the setting of fees or charges. The working group is also not involved in any BYS administrative processes.

The Executive Committee acknowledges that club volunteers will largely complete the undertaking of such an extensive project and sincerely thanks these members for their initiative, skills and commitment to BYS. Given the significant scope and complexities of this project, we ask all members for their patience and understanding during the various stages of this project.

In the meantime, if you have any initial questions regarding the project, please feel free to contact our General Manager, Andrew Cooper, [email protected], who will forward these questions to the most relevant member of the working group project.

Martin Kudnig Commodore On behalf of the Executive Committee

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Viking Polaris cruise ship review: A comfortable ship for adventurous cruising

Editor's Note

Viking Polaris is the ship that bucket list dreams are made of.

The sturdy, 378-passenger ship in the Viking fleet is rated Polar Class 6, so it can take you to the ends of the Earth, no problem. It's tricked out with Zodiacs, two submersibles, kayaks and a speed boat, so remote islands and narrow bays won't keep you from close encounters with wildlife and nature.

Checking off worldwide wish-list destinations like Antarctica, the Arctic and the Great Lakes also comes with style. The ship boasts four onboard restaurants and a breathtaking spa that's open to all. Cabins are cozy and spacious with seating nooks by floor-to-ceiling windows, large (for a ship) bathrooms with heated floors and thoughtful touches for the perfect adventure, like a drying closet and two sets of binoculars.

Public lounge areas are so inviting, with comfortable seating and light-filled spaces thanks to tons of windows, that you'll be glad to kick back with a book, a puzzle or a drink after an incredible experience ashore. And the crew members do all they can to make you feel right at home, remembering your name and greeting you warmly whenever they see you.

Viking might be inspired by Nordic sailors of yore, who explored the world in their bare-bones longships — or the rugged 20th-century explorers whose portraits line the walls of the ship — but Viking Polaris' creature comforts would make all those hardy men and women rethink their travel choices. You won't regret yours if you choose to make this gorgeous little ship your home base for vacation adventure.

Overview of Viking Polaris

At 30,158 tons, Viking Polaris is small by ocean ship standards. The biggest megaships are eight times larger. But it's actually the largest vessel in the adventure-focused subset of ocean ships known as expedition ships , and it holds an unusually large number of passengers for such a vessel: 378 spread across 189 cabins and suites.

This means that while you'll enjoy the intimacy and personalized service of a small ship when you're on board, not to mention the additional onboard venues the extra space allows, you will need to wait your turn when going ashore in some destinations such as Antarctica, where only 100 people are allowed onshore at each landing site at a time.

In addition, the ship is for adults only; you must be 18 years or older to sail. Not that you should expect a bunch of partying 20-somethings on board. Viking caters to a 55+ crowd, and the majority of its guests are retirees in their 60s and 70s. The cruise line also has a huge fan club. More than half the guests on my Antarctica cruise were repeat passengers who adore Viking's ocean and river cruises, and you'll find that to be true on most sailings.

Related: Viking Explorer Society cruise loyalty program: Everything you need to know

Viking positions its expedition vessels between the over-the-top, completely all-inclusive luxury ships that go to off-the-beaten-path places such as Antarctica and the hardier, no-frills classic expedition ships. It focuses on a comfortable onboard environment with accessible adventure options.

The ship is upscale, but not ornate or stuffy, and its public spaces are inviting rather than impressive. Think of the ship as the living room designed by your friend with good taste instead of the formal sitting area where you're afraid to touch the expensive decorations.

Many amenities are included in the fare — Wi-Fi; all dining, wine and beer with lunch and dinner; a gorgeous thermal suite with a pool and hot and cold therapies; kayak and special operations boat tours; two-layer jackets to keep; and boots and waterproof pants to borrow in polar cruise regions — but you will still need to pay extra for cocktails (either a la carte or with a beverage package), gratuities, spa treatments and submarine rides.

Of the 250-plus crew members on board, 20-plus are expedition staff: scientists, specialists (biologists, geologists, naturalists, etc.), mountain guides and kayak guides. They are on board to scout and set up landing sites, lead kayak tours, conduct science experiments from the ship, spot wildlife, and give lectures about the flora, fauna and geography of the area. They're generally helpful individuals, happy to answer your questions and take photos of both guests and wildlife to share.

The ship has seven passenger decks, with the lowest, Deck A, the Zodiac and special operations boat loading zone, and the highest, Deck 6, being an open deck. (The highest Deck 7 is off limits except during the weather balloon release party.) The ship is small and it doesn't take long to get anywhere, though it does take a few days to get the hang of where things are on board and how to get from point A to point B. Unlike on many ocean cruise ships, you might need to walk down passenger corridors to reach certain lounges.

The ship is unusual in that it has an operational science lab on board where the ship's research scientists collect data to share with its global partners (such as NOAA and the University of Western Australia). In addition to the Zodiacs and kayaks common on expedition ships, Viking Polaris also carries two six-passenger yellow submersibles (playfully named George and Ringo — get it?) and a Special Operations Boat (a 12-seater speed boat with surprisingly comfortable seats and easy boarding).

All these vessels are stored in The Hangar, a water-level storage area that speeds up the deployment time of all the ship's watercraft. Here, too, the cruise line has created a spacious and comfortable boarding area that functions without gangways and with the latest biosecurity technology, such as a boot washing machine. The setup makes it easier to both get on and off ships and keep Antarctica clean.

Related: The 3 types of Viking ships, explained

What I loved about Viking Polaris

The nordic spa.

You don't expect a full-blown gorgeous spa when you're adventuring to Antarctica, but Viking Polaris provides not only a beautiful facility but also one that brings the destination in. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the salon and thermal suite area allow you to watch for whales or seals as you enjoy a pedicure or soak in a hot tub.

Even better, the thermal suite is free for anyone to use, so if you get chilled on a wet kayak ride, you can warm up again in the heated pool or pamper tired muscles with a mix of hot and cold therapies. (If you've never dumped a bucket of cold water on your head after 15 minutes in a dry sauna or rubbed snow on your body in a steam room, I highly recommend trying it.)

The two-room fitness center is also larger than I expected for an expedition ship and enabled me to keep up my workout routine every morning.

Big kudos go to the spa staff, who are super sweet and helpful. Igor tailored my personal training session to my specific requirements and body needs, rather than giving me some standard plan. Joksim led a surprisingly intense (for a cruise ship) yoga session and then gave me an incredible massage a few days later, working out every knot from my neck to my feet.

If nothing else, stop by the spa reception desk daily to grab an inspirational quote — almost like a fortune cookie — from the bowl of colored cards. It will set the tone for your day.

Safety protocols

I admit I was a tad nervous about the thought of sailing to a place as remote as Antarctica. What if we got stranded ashore during a landing? What if the Zodiac broke down halfway back to the ship?

While any expedition cruise involves a certain degree of risk, the Viking crew members put me at ease with the knowledge that they've prepared for every possibility. Two of the expedition guides even led a briefing about the ship's safety protocols. We learned that the team brings ashore a ton of survival gear at every landing, including tents, thermal blankets, food and water rations, a desalination machine, a satellite phone, crevasse extraction equipment and even a portable toilet. (The latter is only used for true emergencies, so use your cabin bathroom before you head off the ship.)

Zodiac, SOB and submarine drivers are always in radio contact with each other and the ship, and they stay far away from marine animals and icebergs (which could potentially tip over and cause trouble). The crew gives guests clear instructions about how to get in and out of the ship's boats and someone is always there to give a hand.

All cruise ships in Antarctica follow the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators' rules for safe and environmentally responsible tourism. Viking Polaris's crew takes IAATO protocols seriously and works diligently to keep Antarctica pristine.

They sanitize boots going to and from shore, as well as the walking poles they provide, and advise guests against bringing anything unnecessary (snacks, tissues, etc.) to shore so nothing unsanitary ever touches the ground on landings. They even checked and vacuumed all the expedition gear we brought from home, including hats, gloves, goggles and camera bags.

The ship itself is built with all kinds of redundant systems, water-tight doors, and fire-detecting and -fighting equipment. It also carries "ice cubes," large floating boxes filled with group survival gear for up to five days should the ship have to be abandoned.

It's unlikely that something will go wrong on your cruise, but it's comforting to know that the ship and crew are totally prepared for nearly any emergency.

Every cruise line will tell you its crew is the best, but the friendliness and helpfulness of Viking Polaris' crew are palpable from the moment you step on board. Crew members you never met somehow know your name and say hello every time you pass them on board. My cabin stewards always pop out when we walk down the hallway and ask us about our day. They didn't even bat an eye when my travel companion and I had to try on five expedition jacket sizes to find the right fit.

The dining staff goes above and beyond; Santosh asked us what food we liked on the first day, and had our Indian chickpea curry waiting for us the very next day. One member of the dining team not only fetched a specific flavor of ice cream from the galley for my friend but brought her a second bowl the following day without being asked. The restaurant manager personally reached out and sent me a plate of desserts the day I was sick and holed up in my cabin.

Whenever there are a lot of people wildlife watching on the outer decks, a crew member always seems to turn up with cocktails or spiked warm beverages. What seemed like the entire housekeeping team showed up to the cruise's dance party one evening and unabashedly boogied down to get guests on the dance floor.

The expedition team members are always happy to answer questions, take your photo or lend a helping hand, and their lectures are always funny and engaging, even if the topic is dry. I was also impressed at the way they set expectations and rules for the guests in a lighthearted, digestible way without getting preachy or patronizing.

The crew absolutely set the tone for a friendly onboard ambience and it makes the long trip that much more enjoyable.

What I didn't love about Viking Polaris

Lack of announcements.

I've been on enough high-end cruises to know that the nicer ships don't like to pipe announcements into your cabin. However, I'd love a bit more communication from the bridge on Viking Polaris.

We missed the captain's one daily announcement almost every evening because we were inside our room and couldn't hear it. It's only when one of us would say, "Is someone talking in the hallway? Oh, wait, it's the captain!" that we would make a mad dash across the room to open the door to catch the last 15 seconds of whatever he was saying about the weather and the sail ahead.

I'd love a bell or some kind of alert to open our door, even if the announcement itself isn't piped into the room.

I was also surprised to note that Viking crew members almost never make the "whales off the starboard bow" announcements to alert passengers to wildlife viewing opportunities. I was chagrined when I learned that I had missed some active whales because I was attending an indoor briefing and had no idea that anything interesting was happening out of doors.

Schedule feature in the app

I love a good cruise ship app ; it makes navigating a ship and the daily schedule so easy. Viking's app has many useful features, including your ship's deck plans, the daily activity schedule, the ability to make reservations and even a photo download section.

However, I heard the same complaint over and over about one aspect of the app: There is no schedule view that allows you to superimpose your reservations (spa, dinner, landings, boat rides) with the onboard activities.

That might not seem like a big deal, but expedition cruises are surprisingly busy. On any day, I might have scheduled a landing and a kayaking tour, but don't want to miss the science lecture back on the ship. I was constantly flipping back and forth between the two separate schedules, trying to time my bookings correctly.

Other cruise line apps have a "favorite" feature, where you can select the onboard activities you don't want to miss and add them to a personal calendar that also contains your bookings and reservations. I'd love to see Viking add this as a feature to its app.

Viking Polaris cabins and suites

On Viking Polaris, you'll either stay in a balcony cabin or a suite. Regular and deluxe balcony cabins are essentially identical, except that the deluxe version is on decks 3 and 4 and comes with additional priority reservations, while the regular version is on the lower Deck 2.

Lower-category suites (junior suites and penthouses) are also on Deck 4, while the top-tier suites, Explorer Suites and the one Owner's Suite, are on Deck 6.

The ship only has two Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant/wheelchair-accessible cabins; both are junior suites on Deck 4.

If you're accustomed to ocean cruising, you'll notice that the balconies on Viking Polaris are not your standard verandah external to the ship. Instead, they are a style employed by many river ships (and some new Royal Caribbean , Celebrity Cruises and Atlas Ocean Voyages ships), where the entire external wall of your cabin is made up of two glass window panes. With the touch of a button, the top pane slides down (like a car window) and your room becomes the balcony, with fresh air wafting in. You can even lean on the lip of the bottom pane of glass, or rest your coffee cup on it, as if it were a balcony railing.

Blackout shades can also come down at the touch of a button, but if you just need to block the sun a little, a gauzy curtain can be drawn across manually.

This style of room works well in cold polar regions where you are unlikely to sit out on a balcony for long, but do want to bring in fresh air from time to time or take a photo without a window in the way.

I was a big fan of our 215-square-foot Deluxe Balcony cabin because it felt cozy without being cramped. In Viking style, its design has Scandinavian influences with blond woods, fairly minimalist furnishings and a homey (rather than hotel-like) feel.

My favorite aspect of the cabin was the small L-shaped leather couch, tucked into a corner behind the shelving unit that separates the sleeping area from the sitting/desk area. Instead of feeling like the sitting area is smaller than the ones found on other ships, it becomes an inviting nook where you can curl up with a book while admiring the view. The coffee table comes in handy when you order room service.

The desk/vanity across from it looks like a simple tabletop but has two secrets. One is, the top lifts to reveal a storage area for jewelry and other small items, and two is that its X-shaped legs are useful for removing stuck-on expedition boots (move the chair so you can stick your foot through the top of the X and use it as leverage to pull the tight boot off).

The sitting area is smaller than you might expect because more space is smartly devoted to the dressing area on the other side of your bed. Here, you'll find an L-shaped wardrobe with two hanging racks, two large drawers, two small drawers, a top shelf, two small shelves, a cubby for shoes and the safe. A hair dryer, bathrobes and slippers are provided for your onboard use.

The two sides of the closet open from the middle and can be tricky to pull open. One cruiser reported draping hand towels over the top to keep the doors slightly ajar to make them easier to open with her arthritic fingers.

The wardrobe is spacious, but my travel companion and I brought so much extra gear for our two-week Antarctica cruise (more medicine than I usually bring, long underwear and thick wool socks, etc.) that we maxed out the drawer space in the cabin and would have been happy with an additional drawer or two. For example, I kept all my warm-weather accessories (hats, gloves, goggles, etc.) in a bag on the closet floor because I didn't have a drawer to store them.

Next to the wardrobe is a brilliant addition on Viking's part — a drying closet. Cruisers on Viking Polaris keep all of their Viking-provided outdoor gear (boots, waterproof pants, two-layer jackets) in their cabins. If they, or other items, get wet on outings, you hang them up in the drying closet and push a button to turn on the heat, and they dry out before your next adventure ashore.

Pro tip: Check the drying closet regularly to make sure the heating element is still on. It does turn off eventually, and you'll need to hit the button again if your drenched belongings aren't dry yet.

Other nice touches in the cabin include a carafe of water, a minifridge with complimentary soft drinks refilled daily, a Nespresso coffee machine, a corkscrew, small snacks (bags of nuts and milk chocolate), two pairs of binoculars for use during the cruise and a few books themed to polar exploration. The room's phone is on the desk, as are Quiet Vox headsets for use on tours (these aren't used much in Antarctica).

The twin beds can be pushed together into a king, and the woolen throw blankets at the ends are a nice touch, especially if you want to snuggle on the couch with the window open. The movable nightstands each have one drawer and an outlet with a 110-volt, 220-volt, USB and USB-C outlet, as well as a wireless charging station. Each side of the bed has a reading light and a bedside light on the leather headboard.

The 55-inch interactive TV is hung on the wall opposite the bed. It has live TV channels, as well as free on-demand movies, a Viking channel to watch lectures and briefings you missed, and information about your cruise, personal schedule and onboard account. You can also make dinner, spa and shore excursion reservations via the TV.

I would have loved a couple of metal hooks on the wall, but you can bring your own because the textured walls are magnetic (but not the wood veneers outside the bathroom).

The bathroom is lovely, both for the spacious shower with a long ledge for storing toiletries or propping up a foot when shaving and for its heated floors (good for warming your toes and also for drying wet gloves). The glass shelves are small, but two generous drawers and shelf space below should accommodate all your toiletries.

Viking provides its own Freya brand of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hand cream and body lotion in large 2.7-ounce bottles, as well as 30 SPF sunscreen, two sun-protection lip balms, shower caps, vanity kits and bar soap. In the bathroom, you'll also find a shaver outlet, tissue box, cups and a toothbrush holder.

Related: Viking cruise cabins and suites: A guide to everything you want to know

Viking Polaris restaurants and bars

Viking Polaris is a small ship with a big appetite; it features four distinct dining venues plus room service. Meals at all restaurants on Viking Polaris are included in your cruise fare.

The restaurants are inspired by the cruise line's Norwegian heritage, so you'll find more smoked fish and Scandinavian pastries than you will on most other cruise lines. For a true Norwegian dining experience, you'll want to spend time at Mamsen's, where you can nibble on Norwegian specialties, such as waffles topped with brown cheese and hot dogs on flatbread.

Note that while vegetarian dishes are available at every meal on board, Polaris is definitely a ship that focuses on meat more than vegetables and vegetarian proteins. Gluten-free diners appear to be well taken care of; the bakery even posts a list of all the gluten-free bread products available (including pancakes, waffles and pizza).

On Viking Polaris, beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner are complimentary. During special events, such as sailaway on embarkation day, or arrival at Antarctica, the crew might come around with trays of complimentary cocktails. You can choose to purchase the Silver Spirits beverage package if you plan to order more than a drink or two daily, or you can pay for individual drinks a la carte.

Restaurants

On expedition voyages, the World Cafe buffet venue is the most popular eatery. It's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is appealing for its variety of meal choices and its casual dress code. When you're in and out of cold-weather layers, sometimes you simply don't feel like dressing up for a formal meal.

Breakfast has everything you need to fuel up for the day, from healthy options like a made-to-order omelet station, yogurt, fruit and muesli to more decadent choices like pastries, breakfast bread pudding and pancakes. True to Viking's Nordic tradition, morning options also include a selection of smoked fish, deli meats and cheeses. Waiters will bring you tea, hot chocolate and juice; each table is already set up with coffee.

At lunch, you'll find a selection of hot food, usually including a carving station with a featured protein, a soup, pasta and some kind of fish and vegetarian option. The salad bar has a good selection of fixin's (though it's lacking in protein) plus a few cheeses daily.

Carbo-load at the bakery, where you'll find breads (including soft pretzels), pizza (try the Norwegian goat cheese version), daily hot sandwiches, cookies and other desserts. Don't miss the gelato stations with toppings bar or the made-to-order counter with new dishes daily, such as a fajita bar.

If you don't see what you're looking for, don't hesitate to ask one of the dining staff either behind the buffet counter or walking the seating area. Crew members brought us plain grilled chicken to top a salad, a vegetarian "meatball" when the meatless options were lacking and coconut gelato when it didn't appear at the ice cream bar.

Dinner is a similar affair with hot options, pizza, a made-to-order counter (often a noodle soup), a Caesar salad bar with additional pre-prepared salads and desserts, including a nightly warm option (like peach crumble or bread pudding) and Coldstone-style mix-in ice cream rolls. The main addition is a nightly sushi bar and seafood buffet (lots and lots of crab legs) in the back by the Aquavit Terrace on the port side of the ship.

I loved that if you're lingering over a meal toward the end of service, a waiter will come by and alert you that the buffet is closing, so you can grab seconds or dessert before it's too late.

On the far starboard side of the World Cafe is the Grill. It serves sandwiches by day (multiple types of burgers, veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches and tuna steak) and cooked-to-order meats at night (steak, brisket, burgers, swordfish). You can ask for sides from onion rings and French fries at lunch to roasted potatoes and asparagus at night, or forage for accompaniments from the rest of the buffet.

We spoke to a few diners who said the default is to cook the meats well, so if you prefer yours medium or rare, be very clear about that.

Viking Polaris' two sit-down restaurants are The Restaurant and Manfredi's, both on Deck 1 and only open for dinner. The Restaurant is a typical cruise ship main dining room with a menu split into always-available classics and the daily dinner menu that changes each evening. It's a three-course meal (though you could order more) with starters, mains with sides and dessert.

The daily menu might include leek and potato soup or beef tartare as a starter, seared sesame-crusted tuna or roasted veal medallion for a main, and peanut butter cheesecake for dessert. Note that many of the menu items at The Restaurant will also be available at the World Cafe upstairs.

Always-available dishes include Caesar salad and chicken soup, beer-marinated chicken and New York strip steak, an iced vanilla parfait and a cheese plate.

Manfredi's is the ship's Italian restaurant and the hottest dinner reservation on board. It's less accommodating of walk-ins so make your bookings early. If you have a special occasion to celebrate, you'll want to do it here.

The menu is divided into many sections and can be overwhelming at first, but it's not as complicated as it looks. Starters include antipasti, caprese salad, beef carpaccio and asparagus topped with a poached egg. You also have a choice of two soups. The pasta selection is not to be missed, especially the gnocchi in a gorgonzola cream sauce. You can ask for half or full sizes and enjoy the handmade pasta as a starter or main.

Main dishes come in two varieties. Piatti unici come as complete dinners with a protein and vegetable side, while secondi piatti are only the protein and you choose your sides. For example, I ordered the sliced grilled duck breast and it came plated with a salad, but if I'd ordered the Florentine steak or grilled tuna, I would want to also order some sauteed mushrooms or new potatoes with truffles and rosemary.

Don't worry — you can order sides even if you choose a pasta or pre-assembled dish as your main.

Desserts include tiramisu, panna cotta and pistachio cake, as well as a selection of gelato. I'd recommend the pistachio cake with a scoop of vanilla gelato.

Most cruisers can make one reservation at each restaurant prior to the cruise, but suite guests can make two to four pre-cruise reservations per venue, depending on the suite category booked. Anyone can make additional reservations online or try their luck with a walk-in if there's space available. We've heard it's easier to get seats at The Restaurant than at Manfredi's.

If you have a large group, you can reserve the private dining room between The Restaurant and Manfredi's. It seats 12 at one long table and is surrounded by racks housing the ship's wines. It's ideal if you want to have a rowdy group dinner without disturbing other diners, but it's a poor choice if you enjoy the scenery during dinner as the room has no windows.

Open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks, Mamsen's is a cute cafe serving Norwegian specialties inspired by the recipes of the mother of Viking's founder. The stars of the show here are the Norwegian waffles you can top with sweet brown cheese, berry compote or chocolate sauce, hot dogs served on flatbread, pea soup and open-faced sandwiches.

Viking's expedition ships do not serve a fancy afternoon tea like its ocean ships do, but you can find scones with clotted cream and jam served here in the afternoon.

As a special treat, the dining staff might host a barbecue lunch on the top deck (6) on a day when the weather is sunny. It's a fun, festive alfresco meal, but you won't get much notice and might have to adjust your landing times if you don't want to miss it.

Our barbecue was a meaty affair with chicken wings and pork ribs as an appetizer and a choice of steak or sea bass, with baked potatoes and cole slaw, as a main. We were initially told there was no vegetarian option, but the server came back saying they could get a veggie burger from the grill. If you're looking for something lighter or more vegetable-forward, the World Cafe remains open.

Room service is complimentary and available around the clock. Your room steward will leave you a breakfast card to hang outside on your door knob, for delivery between 6 and 10 a.m. Choices include beverages, fruit, yogurt, cereal, pastries and bread, cold cuts and cheeses, eggs, pancakes and breakfast meat.

The all-day menu is in a leather binder on your cabin's coffee table. It's a limited menu, which includes salads, soups, mains (steak, poached salmon, southern fried chicken), sandwiches (caprese, beef or veggie burger), spaghetti, a cheese plate and dessert (vanilla cheesecake or bourbon pecan brownie). You can call your order in on your in-room phone.

Everyone agrees that the fried chicken and the chicken noodle soup from the room service menu are not to be missed.

I'm not much of a drinker, but the bars and lounges on Viking Polaris are so comfy and inviting that I found myself looking forward to a pre-dinner cocktail or evening hangout in one of the ship's bars more than I do on other cruise lines. Viking guests can either purchase drinks a la carte or buy the Silver Spirits beverage package. All passengers can order complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner.

The cocktail menus at the bars are composed of standard drinks, but bartenders can make you your favorites off menu if they have the ingredients. We successfully ordered Pimm's Cups and Lemon Drops, but a Dark n Stormy and Moscow Mule were no-go's because the ship does not carry ginger beer. (And here I thought a Dark n Stormy would be a perfect Drake Passage drink!)

My favorite bar for atmosphere is The Hide on Deck 1. It feels like a speak-easy because you can only access it from Deck 2's forward stairwell or elevator.

You open a heavy door that looks like it belongs on a submarine to enter a dimly lit space with slanted windows on either side with views close to the water line. The clusters of couches and easy chairs invite confidences with newfound friends, while the oversized cushion chairs by the windows will tempt you into an afternoon nap, lulled by the rocking of the ship. The large columns at the front of the space actually house the anchor chains.

It also has a speakeasy-style bar, serving liquor-forward drinks (either your favorite liquor straight or on the rocks or with a light mixer, like soda water). You won't find wine, beer or daiquiris here. The small bar is only staffed for a limited time each evening after dinner.

For views, you can't beat the two-deck Explorers' Lounge on decks 4 and 5. Both levels face the front of the ship with floor-to-ceiling windows and wraparound views. When you want to look for whales but don't want to brave the wind, the Explorers' Lounge is a great choice. The bar is on the lower level, but both levels offer cozy seating, both facing the windows and in conversation nooks.

An equally cozy spot is The Living Room on Deck 5. It has a bar but serves more as a comfortable hangout space with a library, digital game tables, puzzles and a large TV showing Viking channels.

As is common on this ship, glass windows run the length of both sides of the space so you're never far from the scenic views. Events like team trivia take place here. The Living Room's bar opens early, should you be looking for coffee drinks from an espresso machine, and closes mid-evening.

The Aquavit Bar between the World Cafe and Aquavit Terrace serves diners at the buffet restaurant, as well as guests relaxing in the aft solarium space. It closes at the same time that dinner shuts down.

The Viking Bar on Deck 1 is your pre-dinner drink spot when you have a reservation at The Restaurant or Manfredi's. It's only open during dinner hours, from 5:30 (half an hour between the restaurants open) to 9 p.m.

If you need a quick cuppa or to refill your water bottle, self-service coffee/tea/water stations are located around the ship. You'll find them on Deck 2 outside The Aula and outside Expedition Central and in the World Cafe.

Viking Polaris activities and entertainment

As the crew likes to say on Viking Polaris, the ship has no official entertainment staff because the outdoors is providing the main entertainment on an expedition cruise. The ship's Grand Central station for outdoor adventure activities is The Hangar. That is where you will board the ship's Special Operations Boat or Zodiac boats (rigid inflatable motorized rafts) for cruises, landings and to be taken to waiting kayaks and submersibles (named Ringo and George because the subs are yellow).

The Hangar is arranged so it's as easy as possible to board the Zodiacs. No gangways are employed. Instead, you step from an open door onto a step in the Zodiac and then into a boat, with at least two crew members assisting you in and out every time. The Hangar also employs a state-of-the-art boot brushing and sanitizing machine (imagine walking your feet through car wash bristles) to make it easy to clean boots on the way to and from polar landings.

Viking does not schedule polar plunges for safety reasons (both yours and Antarctica's), so you will not cross that activity off your bucket list on a Polaris sailing.

Even though your focus will be on shore and sea excursions, you'll still find plenty to do on board.

Viking puts an emphasis on enrichment and education, and you'll find yourself often in The Aula, the theater based on a famous Norwegian lecture hall. It has a giant video screen that can roll up like a garage door to uncover the huge windows behind it. Warm throw blankets in every row are a cozy touch.

Here, the expedition team will give daily briefings about weather conditions and upcoming landing sites, give talks on the area's wildlife or culture, and show documentaries and videos related to the destination.

Some talks (including an entertaining one on nautical superstitions) are held in the Hide. Arrive early because seats are limited, and latecomers might have to stand in the back or sit on the floor.

The ship also has a science lab, and guests can participate in real experiments and data collection during their voyage. You can find an interactive map and often an expedition team member to talk to at Expedition Central on Deck 2.

But it's not all serious edutainment. A dance party with some complimentary cocktails is held in The Living Room one evening and a music variety show takes place in The Aula.

On the more relaxing side, Viking Polaris has a world-class Nordic Spa with a gorgeous thermal suite. The thermal suite features numerous hot and cold therapies (including a snow room, sauna and a hot tub with an open window to the polar breezes outside), a therapeutic pool and stunning views through floor-to-ceiling windows. It's the perfect place to warm up after a cold Zodiac ride or landing, so it can get crowded in the afternoon.

Book a mani-pedi or style session at the salon, and you'll also be able to take in the views while you're pampered.

Spa treatments have a Nordic twist, but you'll find all the massages, facials and body treatments you could want. Try the Hygge massage in a warm "sand" bed — it's a Viking specialty. My Nordic stone massage was one of the best massages I've ever had, and my masseur, Joksim, knew what my stressed-out body needed and worked out all my knots. Ladies should note that many of Viking's spa therapists are men if that's something that makes you uncomfortable.

The two-room fitness center is small by big-ship standards, but it still manages to fit three treadmills, two elliptical trainers, two stationary bikes, an erg, resistance machines and weight benches with free weights. In the group exercise space, you can take classes, use the yoga and bosu balls on your own, or access a range of digital exercise classes on the large-screen TV.

The gym is most crowded early in the morning before the day's briefings, lectures and expedition activities get going. If you want to work out with the crew, time your workout for prime dinner hours.

The ship has multiple outdoor spots for nature gazing and alfresco relaxation. The Bow on Deck 3 is a great forward-facing spot to look for whales or watch the ship's arrival at a landing area. It's adjacent to the Shelter, a covered spot to take refuge from the wind or rain (and occasionally snag an Irish coffee on a special occasion).

The Finse Terrace on Deck 2 aft, outside The Aula, has two fire pit areas for serious chilling.

The Aquavit Terrace on Deck 5 aft has a warm pool surrounded by lounge chairs and covered by a retractable glass roof. The glass window at the end of the pool opens up, so you can swim out to an uncovered section of the pool. On either side are two outdoor tubs — one hot, one cool. There's nothing better than soaking in a hot tub on a sunny Antarctic day with snow-covered mountains and icebergs all around you.

The promenade on Deck 5 is a lovely place to walk, though you'll have to go down to Deck 4 and back up again at the front of the ship to complete the loop. Deck 6 is an open deck where you can lounge on warmer itineraries or scan for wildlife on cold ones.

If you want to buy gorgeous Norwegian sweaters like the expedition crew wears, adorable penguin beanies and the softest stuffed puppies, visit the Nordic Shop on Deck 3 midship when it's open. It also sells items you might have forgotten, such as toothpaste or hand warmers. The hottest items here are the Antarctica patches you can attach to your Viking-provided jacket. If you want one, come when the shop opens as they can sell out.

Guest services include a medical center on Deck A, a travel consultant (to book your next Viking river, ocean or expedition cruise) on Deck 3 across from the shop and guest services desks on Deck 1 outside Manfredi's.

Guest launderettes on decks 3 and 4 have washers and dryers, irons and ironing boards, and detergent is provided. Be sure to set a timer and remove your items promptly. The launderettes are popular on long cruises.

Viking Polaris itineraries and pricing

Viking Polaris currently spends the North American winter in Antarctica and the summer in the Great Lakes , transitting between the two in the spring and fall. The one-way repositioning voyages take passengers along the coast of Chile, through the Panama Canal, along the Eastern Seaboard of the U.S. and Canada then into the St. Lawrence Seaway.

In 2026, the ship will spend the summer months sailing Iceland and Greenland cruises in the Arctic instead of the Great Lakes.

Viking expedition cruises tend to be long, and many itineraries are combinations of multiple cruises that could be booked separately. Travelers pressed for time can book a seven-night Great Lakes sailing, but the shortest Arctic and Antarctic cruises are at least 12 nights. Many itineraries are two weeks or longer. To sail between Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in the Great Lakes to Ushuaia, Argentina, at the southern tip of South America takes just over 60 days.

A 12-night Antarctic Explorer cruise starts at $11,995 per person in the lowest-tier Nordic balcony cabin. A weeklong Great Lakes cruise starts at $5,995 per person. A 12-night Arctic sailing starts at $13,995. Fares go up for more popular sail dates and for larger and higher-category cabins.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking ship

What to know before you go

Required documents.

Required documents will vary depending on your cruise destination, but you will definitely need a passport.

If you're traveling to Antarctica or the Arctic, you will need a medical form signed by a doctor, clearing you to travel. Submit that at least 30 days prior to sailing. You must also fill out a form pre-cruise to request the correct size of jacket, pants and boots for your expedition.

Viking automatically adds a $17 gratuity per guest, per day, to your onboard bill. It is shared among the room stewards, waiters, galley staff and housekeeping. If you must change the amount, you can do so at Guest Services; you're always welcome to leave additional tips in cash or hand them to your favorite crew members.

I asked, and it is acceptable to tip expedition staff, in addition to waiters, bartenders and room stewards. Spa treatments do not automatically add a gratuity to your bill, but you can leave a tip when you're signing after your treatment.

Wi-Fi is included in the cost of your cruise. Viking uses a VSAT satellite terminal to provide the connection, and it was impressively good. I was able to make several WhatsApp Wi-Fi video calls back home from Antarctica, and though the image wasn't perfect, I could still show my kids penguins swimming off the side of the ship.

Carry-on drinks policy

Viking has a generous alcohol policy. All passengers are allowed to bring alcohol and other beverages on the ship with them, and they won't be charged a corkage fee, regardless of whether they drink their beverage in their room or in a lounge or restaurant.

Smoking policy

Viking Polaris is a nonsmoking ship, and you cannot smoke indoors or on most outdoor decks. The only place you're allowed to smoke cigarettes, cigars and e-cigarettes is in the designated smoking area outside on the starboard side of Deck 6.

If you're cruising in polar regions, you should also be aware that smoking is not allowed ashore anywhere in Antarctica or in Svalbard in the Arctic.

Viking Polaris has two self-serve launderettes on decks 3 and 4. Each features multiple washers and dryers you can use free of charge; detergent is provided. Irons and ironing boards are also available, but you can only use them in the launderette.

Alternatively, you can send out clothes to be washed and dried, pressed or dry cleaned for a fee. A bag is provided in your room, and you can select regular two-day service or same-day service for a 50% surcharge. Prices are per item, not per bag.

If it's been a while since you've used communal laundry rooms, you will need to dig deep and remember your college laundry etiquette. Set a timer on your cellphone so you can switch your laundry promptly. Fail to do so and another guest is likely to dump your wet laundry onto the ironing board.

We overheard several heated discussions about who had rights to which dryers and when. Don't wait until the last day of your trip to do your washing, as that's when the launderettes are the busiest.

Electrical outlets

Viking Polaris is a 21st-century ship, so you can expect more than just one outlet. Each nightstand features a three-part power strip with a U.S. 110-volt, European 220-volt, USB and USB-C outlet, as well as a wireless charger, should your phone have that capability (mine did not). Note that when you plug a charger into the 110-volt outlet, it blocks the regular USB outlet, but not the USB-C.

The desk area has two 110V and two 220V sockets. There's also a 220V outlet outside the bathroom, should you wish to plug in your own nightlight, and a shaver outlet inside the bathroom.

The onboard currency is the U.S. dollar. You won't be paying for much — mainly souvenirs, drinks and spa treatments. You'll be asked to provide a credit card, and your onboard bill will be charged to that account.

Drinking age

The drinking age on board is 21, regardless of where Viking Polaris is in the world.

Expeditions are casual affairs. You will be so anxious about bringing the correct polar gear that onboard attire is almost an afterthought.

Daytime attire on the ship is a mix of casual outfits based on the weather (jeans, slacks, sneakers, etc.) and adventure attire (leggings, fleece vests or jackets, athletic pants). One guy on our Antarctica sailing was often seen in a tropical shirt and shorts. The spa's changing areas are small, so you'll also see people walking the ship in their bathrobes or workout wear on their way to and from the Nordic Spa.

If you don't want to change for dinner, your casual daywear is appropriate at the World Cafe in the evening. No one will blink if you show up in a fleece jacket and hiking pants or athletic leggings and a top. Only swimwear, PJs and true exercise attire (like a sports bra with bike shorts) would not be acceptable. And, yes, we did witness a guest being ever-so-politely encouraged to leave the World Cafe when he showed up in his bathrobe.

Related: Antarctica gear guide: What you need to pack for a trip to the White Continent

If you wish to dine at The Restaurant or Manfredi's, you are supposed to step it a notch. Viking considers evening dress in the restaurants "elegant casual" — aka, no jeans. The suggested attire is slacks and a collared shirt for men and nice slacks, a skirt or dress for women. However, we saw diners dressed more casually (fleece jackets and jeans) in both restaurants, and no one said a word.

Viking Polaris does not have any formal evenings, so leave your cocktail dresses, suits and neckties at home.

Bottom line

If you want to visit the ends of the earth without giving up creature comforts, Viking Polaris is the perfect ship for you. Its large-for-expedition size means the ship is loaded with attractions, from multiple restaurants and lounges to an expansive spa, spacious cabins and dedicated spaces for enrichment activities. Its state-of-the-art Hangar allows travelers of all abilities to access off-ship adventure and its expedition team to set up water- and land-based activities as quickly as possible.

However, if you want to spend as much time as possible off the ship in polar regions, you might do better, especially in Antarctica, with a ship that carries closer to 100 passengers. The trade-off is that you might have to choose a ship that has fewer frills and amenities than Viking Polaris.

Plus, it's unclear that any expedition ship has a crew as friendly, knowledgeable and helpful as the folks who work aboard Polaris. They make the trip more special than any ship designer or rare penguin could ever do.

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Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) is Australia’s premier yacht club and home to what is considered yachting’s ‘Everest’ – the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.

Members and visitors to CYCA enjoy being part of an active Club in a superb location with state-of-the-art facilities and an international reputation that attracts yachts and crews from all over the world.

Nestled along the beautiful Rushcutters Bay foreshore, the Club enjoys stunning harbour views and world-class facilities and offers its 3,500+ Members and many visitors many reasons to visit regularly. Just three kilometres from Sydney’s CBD, a short drive or beautiful comfortable stroll, CYCA’s stunning location is a major drawcard for the Eastern Suburbs community.

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Yacht Dreaming

Yacht Clubs in Sydney: A Comprehensive Guide

The History of Yacht Clubs in Sydney

Yachting has a rich history in Sydney, Australia, dating back to the early 1800s when ship captains would race their boats for sport. The first organized yacht race was held in 1858, and the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron was established in 1862. Today, Sydney is home to many prestigious yacht clubs, each with its unique history and culture.

The Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron

The Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron is one of the oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs in Australia. Established in 1862, the club has a long history of hosting international regattas and events. The club’s stunning clubhouse is situated on the shores of Sydney Harbour, providing members with stunning views of the city skyline.

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia was established in 1944 and is located in Rushcutters Bay, Sydney. The club is best known for hosting the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, one of the world’s most challenging offshore race s. Members of the club are active in cruising, racing, and social events, making it a popular choice for yachting enthusiasts.

The Benefits of Joining a Yacht Club

Yacht clubs offer many benefits to members, both on and off the water. Here are just a few of the advantages of joining a yacht club in Sydney:

Access to Facilities and Equipment

Most yacht clubs provide members with access to a range of facilities and equipment, including boat storage, maintenance services, and training. This can be particularly beneficial for new yachting enthusiasts who may not have access to their equipment or expertise.

Networking Opportunities

Yacht clubs provide an excellent opportunity to network with other like-minded individuals who share a passion for yachting. Members of yacht clubs often form close bonds and friendships, both on and off the water.

Social Events

Yacht clubs are not just about racing and sailing. They also provide members with access to a range of social events, from formal dinners to casual barbecues. These events are a great way to meet new people and expand your social circle.

Choosing the Right Yacht Club in Sydney

With so many yacht clubs to choose from in Sydney, it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a yacht club:

The location of the yacht club is an essential factor to consider, particularly if you plan to sail regularly. Look for a club that is close to your home or workplace and has easy access to the water.

The facilities offered by the yacht club should also be a consideration. Look for a club that provides members with access to boat storage, maintenance services, and training.

Every yacht club has its unique culture and atmosphere. Some clubs are more focused on racing, while others are more social. Consider what type of club culture will suit you best.

Yacht Club Membership Fees

Membership fees for yacht clubs in Sydney can vary significantly, depending on the club’s facilities and services. Some clubs offer different levels of membership, with varying fees and benefits. It is essential to review a club’s fee structure carefully before joining to ensure that it is within your budget.

Joining a yacht club in Sydney can be an excellent way to connect with like-minded individuals and explore your passion for yachting. With so many clubs to choose from, it’s important to consider the location, facilities, and culture of each club before making a decision. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or new to the world of yachting, there is sure to be a yacht club in Sydney that is perfect for you.

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The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) is Australia’s premier yacht club and home to what is considered yachting’s ‘Everest’ – the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. Nestled along the beautiful Rushcutters Bay foreshore, the Club enjoys stunning harbour views and world-class facilities and offers its 3,000+ Members and many visitors plenty of excuses to visit regularly. At just three kilometres from Sydney’s CBD, a short drive or beautiful comfortable stroll, CYCA’s stunning location is a major drawcard for our community.

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Over the past 77 years, the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race has become an icon of Australia's summer sport, ranking in public interest with such

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North Haven Boat Ramp

The Cruising Yacht Club operates a launching ramp for the use of the general public, which is located adjacent to the Club off of Southern Myth Drive.

The cost per launch is $12. Alternatively, yearly passes can be obtained from the Club. A copy of the certificate of registration of your car must be provided in order to obtain a pass.

(Please be advised that the ticket price increased from $10 to $12 effective 1st January 2023. This was the first price increase since 2019).

We are aware of some users having two cars and therefore requiring two passes. To obtain two passes, Certificates of Registration of both cars in the same name must be provided.

Fees can be paid in person at the Cruising Yacht Club any day of the week, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and 9am – 2pm on the weekend or by returning a completed Ramp Permit Application Form (Below) with payment to: Cruising Yacht Club of SA Inc. PO Box 1020, NORTH HAVEN SA 5018

Permit stickers can be collected from Reception or forwarded by return mail. Ramp Permit Application Form .

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North Haven Boat Ramp Regulations

North Haven Boat Ramp Regulations NOTICE – PRIVATE PARKING AREAS ACT (UNDER PRIVATE PARKING AREAS ACT 1986) Use of the boat ramp and parking area are subject to the terms and conditions specified on the signage at the Southern Myth Drive entrance into this facility. Restricted Area – Only vehicles involved in the launching and retrieval of watercraft are permitted beyond this point.

• You may not launch or retrieve your watercraft from the boat ramp or park your vehicle in the car park, unless you have first: (a) Purchased a 24 hour permit (ticket) from the ticket dispensing machine located in the car park and displayed that ticket in on the passenger side dashboard of your vehicle so the expiry time is visible from the outside of your vehicle. The cost of a 24 hour permit (ticket) is $10; or (b) Purchased a yearly permit from: Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia Lady Gowrie Drive, North Haven PO Box 1020, North Haven SA 5018 Ph. 8248 4222 Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm and weekends 9am – 2pm. The Yearly Pass must be correctly affixed to the front window of the vehicle and is not transferable.
• You use the boat ramp at your own risk.
• The vehicle speed limit on the boat ramp and in the car park is 10kph.
• Rigging of your watercraft may only be conducted in the area provided within the trailer park and not on the boat ramp or the apron of the boat ramp.
• You may not fish, swim or dive from the pontoons or in the boat ramp area.
• The ‘Marina West’ facility is private property and trespassers to this area will be prosecuted. Please see the plan defining the Marina West exclusion zone.

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Sailors recognised in Queen’s Birthday Honours

From Australian Sailing

Three members of the sailing community have been recognised for services to sailing in the Queen’s Birthday 2020 Honours.

Mr Glenn Bourke AM, [CYCA Member] Mr Patrick Bollen OAM and Mrs Jean Wilmot OAM all from New South Wales were among the list of notable Australians recognised on this year’s list.

“We are overjoyed to see Glenn, Patrick and Jean recognised on the list of recipients this year,” said Australian Sailing President Daniel Belcher. “All three have given so much to the development and promotion of our sport, and today we thank them for everything they have done. The awards are all thoroughly deserved.”

Olympian Bourke has dedicated his life to sailing, and has been recognised for his significant service to sailing at the elite level as a competitor, coach and administrator

On the water, he was one of Australia’s premier sailors across the late 1980’s and early 90’s. He was selected to the 1980 Moscow Olympic Team but missed the opportunity to compete due to the boycott. He won three consecutive Laser Class World Championships from 1988-90 before switching to the Finn where he represented Australia at the Barcelona 1992 Games. He also won back-to-back Yachting Australia Yachtsman of the Year awards in 1989-90, sailed in three Admiral’s Cup campaigns and in the 1987, 1992 and 1995 America’s Cups.

After retiring from professional sailing he has forged a career in the sailing industry. He did a four-year term with the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games culminating in a role as competition manager for sailing at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. He then held CEO roles for the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia and Germany’s Illbruck Challenge team for the Volvo Ocean Race and was also CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race. In 2008 he commenced his current role as CEO of Hamilton Island, home to Hamilton Island Race Week.

In that time he has also contributed to the development of the sport. He was a Coach at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games and has been a member of the Olympic Nominations Committee for Australian Sailing for the past three Games.

Patrick Bollen OAM has been recognised for his service to the community, and to sailing. A long-time member of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, Bollen is one of the most credentialled sailing journalists and has done so much for the promotion of our sport.

Over the years he has covered sailing for the Sydney Morning Herald, the Australian, 2UE, 2GB, News Corp, Fox Sports and the Macquarie Network. He has reported on the America’s Cup, the Pan Am Clipper Series and the Sydney to Hobart every year since 1974.

Jean Wilmot OAM received her honour for service to sailing, and to dance education. Wilmot has dedicated her life to the sport and is a member of the well-known sailing family from Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

Her time and dedication led to the successes of her son Bob (multiple Windsurfing World Championships), daughter Amanda (first female to win a World Championship in an open class at the Cherub World Championships in 1974), grandson Nathan (2008 Olympic Gold Medallist) and son James (multiple World Champion across classes) among others. She has been a long-time member of Middle Harbour Skiff Club and Middle Harbour Yacht Club. We thank her for her support of past, current and future sailing champions.

CYCA Principal Sponsor

Cyca official sponsors, helly hansen, club marine, sydney brewery, lgt crestone, the luxury collection, winnings appliances, roads and maritime services, cyca youth sailing academy sponsors and supporters, helly hansen, forecasts.global, vibe hotels, network marine, sun foundation.

cruising yacht club of sa

2023 SA Sailing League; 2023 Maughan Thiem Cup; Training. Course Dates & Bookings; Learn to Sail; ... Make our Club, your Club! Become a member of the CYCSA today and get ready to enjoy a great range of benefits. ... The AS Keelboat Scheme is an exciting development for sailing in Australia and offers the perfect Adult Learn to Sail intro to ...

Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia. 7,931 likes · 151 talking about this · 13,747 were here. The Cruising Yacht Club of SA is one of Australia's premier yacht clubs &...

The Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia is one of Australia's premier yacht clubs and caters for over 1200 members with a diverse range of sporting and social interests. Located on the Le Fevre Peninsula at North Haven, the Club was incorporated in 1973. Just 5 minutes from Semaphore, 10 minutes from increasingly thriving Port Adelaide ...

The Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia is a dynamic Club offering a wide range of off and on water activities for our members. Whether your interest lies with yacht racing, powerboating, fishing, cruising or simply making friends in a social atmosphere, then the CYCSA is for you. We have a range of membership categories to suit your interests.

CYCSA Est. 1973, SA. The State's Premier Yacht Club.Racing & Twilights. Fishing, Cruising, Socialising. RYA / YA Marine Academy Training. Award Winning Funct...

The Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia is the State's premier yacht club and caters for over 1200 members with a diverse range of sporting and social interests. Located on the Le Fevre Peninsula at North Haven, the Club was incorporated in 1973. Just 5 minutes from Semaphore, 10 minutes from increasingly thriving Port Adelaide, and 15 ...

The @harkenaustralia Fred Neill Trophy is shaping up for an epic finish with more round-robin racing today ahead of a condensed finals series this afternoon. Finals racing will be broadcast live via the DUS Facebook page, as well as on the Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia and Fred Neill Regatta Facebook pages.

cruisingyachtclubofsa on August 17, 2024: "Next up, we're eagerly anticipating the 2024 Australian Cape 31 National Championships, which kicks off tomorrow at Hamilton Island Race Week We'll be cheering on CYCSA's own Julian Newton and his boat, Game On 31 ⛵ @cape31aus . . #sailgram #sailingaustralia #cape31 #sailing #sailgrammers #sailzone".

The Cruising Yacht Club is conveniently located along the pristine coastline of North Haven and offers extensive secure car parking, stunning indoor and outdoor facilities and panoramic marina views. Located within the marina, it offers breath taking views, outstanding menu options, an award winning wedding venue with exemplary customer service ...

The Cruising Yacht Club of SA hosts many events throughout the year, ranging from fun social gatherings to family events and fiercely competitive racing events and everything in between! Event dates are subject to change, please contact Reception for up-to-date information.

The Cruising Yacht Club of SA is a unique wedding venue located in North Haven, South Australia, just 30 minutes from the city. The venue is situated among several yacht marinas along the shore and features stunning indoor and outdoor facilities, making it the perfect spot for both wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia Opening Day. It's great to be back at the Cruising Yacht Club for the opening of the 2022-23 sailing season. I was delighted to be here earlier this month to present trophies at the inaugural South Australian Women's Keelboat Regatta, an extraordinary event of 300 women, coming together, vocally and ...

Cruising yacht club of sa Review Reviews 9. 4.1

What would you like to do? Contacts. [email protected] 08 8248 4222

Cruising Yacht Club of SA Wedding Ceremony. The Cruising Yacht club of SA is a well kept secret of Adelaide wedding venues, nestled along the shores of the north-western Adelaide beaches, the marina and club rooms are hard to spot unless you are looking out for the venue as you drive past.The main draw of the venue for weddings would be the views of the marina and exclusivity of the space ...

Will be leaving on a river cruise 9/5 - 9/16/14 from STP to Moscow on MS Zosima Shaskov, totally unfamiliar with boat and area, any info will help. Ive been warned about what to do and not to do as far as food and water, which has already frightened me. We are a group of 12.

The Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia Inc | ABN: 63 536 595 624 Address: Lady Gowrie Drive, North Haven SA 5018 AUSTRALIA Postal Address: PO Box 1020, North Haven SA 5018 AUSTRALIA Phone: +61 8 8248 4222 Email: [email protected] CYCSA Emergency Contact number: 04589 CYCSA (0458 929 272) Office hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm / Saturdays 9am to 3pm / Sundays - closed

Coordinates: 43.3969° N, 72.0634° W. Phone : 603-763-5961. General Email : [email protected] . MEMBERSHIP INQUIRIES: [email protected] . Commodore: David Goddard. Email: [email protected] . Please note that LSYC is a seasonal club so the phone is not manned during the winter months. Use an email address above during the off season and we ...

New Carnival Cruise Line Itineraries Include Cuba from New York & Norfolk in 2020 ; Regent Seven Seas Cruises Enables Early OBC Access, Debuts New Casual Dinner Experience

The first resident moved to the city in 1958, according to documents from The Cape Coral History Museum. From there, the original Yacht Club opened its doors on June 10, 1962.

Please phone 8248 4222 to make a booking or book online. MAKE A BOOKING HERE. VIEW THE BISTRO MENU HERE. Follow us on social media. Admiral's Bistro @ the Cruising Yacht Club of SA is excited to be a finalist in the 2023 Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence - SA in the category of: Seafood Restaurant.

Royal Yacht Club is the center of yachting life in Moscow, imbued with European spirit and combines a modern yacht port, a unique coastal restaurant, spacious spectator stands, a cozy business center and the DoubleTree by Hilton Moscow - Marina. Luxury recreation on the water within the city limits, berth for vessels from 6 to 40 meters, one of the best restaurants of Arkady Novikov ...

The Top 50 Most Exclusive Yacht Clubs In The World Honored With Platinum Status

The rich and famous are not merely looking for the best place to anchor their yachts; they are also seeking out exclusive memberships in stunning destinations, all offering luxury amenities and, of course, bragging rights. These exclusive yachting clubs with often outrageous initiation fees, provide luxurious clubhouses, and provide accommodations for yachties who want to get their land legs. Most of them provide high-end concierge service to its members as well as Michelin-star quality restaurants and more.

Yacht Clubs have been recognized in the Platinum Clubs of America elections for more than 20 years. According to the Platinum Club, “Recognition in the following categories is important in the selection of Platinum status; Tradition, history, and heritage, a respected membership, excellence in amenities, exceptional service, adapting to changing times, and overall experience.

I spoke with the President of Club Leaders Forum, David V. Smith, about the selection, and he says, “we created an alphabetical selection this time as opposed to by rank because we felt that it was challenging to compare a yacht club in Ireland with a yacht club in Singapore, as amenities, location and facilities do vary quite a lot. The yachting and boating world is a different and unique culture, typically a little more relaxed and not as formal as country clubs and golf clubs. However, many of the world’s finest yacht clubs have wonderful history and traditions, with a great sense of camaraderie among their members. Certain yacht clubs were selected by the Panel not necessarily for their facilities and amenities but in their recognition of hosting world class sailing regattas and events.”  

Here are the top 50 most exclusive yacht clubs worldwide being awarded the ultimate Platinum Status for 2021.

Annapolis Yacht Club

Surrounding the Spa Creek Bridge in Annapolis, the Club boasts over 75 wet slips and dry dockage. The club began in 1886 as an informal canoe club, and today has 1600 regular members active in social, racing, and cruising programs.

Beach Point Club

Beach Point Club is a member-owned, family-oriented private club. The elegant and spacious clubhouse was built in the 1890s by an industrialist as a private home. In 1925 the property was purchased by the founding members with the purpose of establishing a club on the water. The club now has more than 600 members with a full service marina.

Chicago Yacht Club

Founded in 1875, Chicago Yacht Club is one of the oldest and most respected yacht clubs in the world. The Club is home to more than 1,400 members, including a winning America’s Cup skipper, and Olympic medalists.

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club

Grosse Pointe offers a 261-slip certified Clean Marina, state-of-the-art Marine Activity Center, newly renovated Bowling Recreation Center and Family Recreation Center, new Fitness Center, and Olympic-sized pool. The 75,000-square-foot Clubhouse features Italian Renaissance architecture and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2015. Initiation fees can go as high as $12,500 with $650 monthly dues

Larchmont Yacht Club

Located in Westchester County, New York, the Club has been in existence since 1880 when it was purchased by Benjamin A. Carver, a railroad magnate. The original Carver residence was much smaller than the present clubhouse – the east and west wings were added following the purchase. The Junior Clubhouse was the Carver stable: the basement was the cow barn, while the first floor housed the horses.

Lauderdale Yacht Club

Founded in 1938, Lauderdale Yacht Club is invitation only and host to 65 dock slips that wrap around the marina. The club is also home to one of the most elite junior sailing programs in the nation.

Naples Yacht Club

Founded in 1947 and situated on Naples Bay, the Club has the proud distinction of being the city’s first and oldest private club and its marina has 75 concrete floating docks. Membership has grown from three founding yachtsmen to over 530.

Newport Harbor Yacht Club

Established in 1916, the club is located on the Balboa peninsula in Southern California. A newly remodeled clubhouse was also created to replace the original building. Initiation fees range upwards of $20,000

Palm Bea ch Yacht Club

Founded in 1890, the marina has 45 slips to accommodate boats up to 150 feet. All annual dockage contracts (from $1 per foot per day), include a membership to the prestigious Yacht Club.

Pelican Isle Y acht Club

With 190 wet slips and direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, the club can accommodate vessels up to 55 feet. Equity social membership is by invitation only with an initiation fee as high as $15,000, and annual dues at $5,500.

Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

Founded in 1959, the club has been part of the Boca Raton landscape for over 50 years with membership by invitation only. The state-of-the-art Marina boasts a TimberTech floating dock system, accommodating vessels up to 130 feet. 

Sailfish Club of Florida

The Sailfish Club of Florida was built in the early 1900s. It is the oldest continuously operating private club in the town of Palm Beach.

San Diego Yacht Club

In June of 1886 a group of local boating enthusiasts joined together to found what has become this cornerstone yacht club. With 600 wet slips and 100 dry slips, initiation fee is upwards of $24,000 plus $200 monthly dues.

San Francisco Yacht Club

In the summer of 1869, a group of active, local yachtsmen formed the San Francisco Yacht Club. The oldest yacht club on the Pacific Coast, it’s one of the most elegant and exclusive yacht clubs in the U.S. The harbor consists of 190 berths and 50 dry-storage spaces, as well as a large youth sailing dock. Membership is by sponsor referral only.

Saraso ta Yacht Club

Sarasota Yacht Club was organized in the summer of 1907 and located on the north end of Siesta Key. Facilities include a 110-slip marina, fitness center, heated pool, two indoor bars, a pool bar, multiple meeting rooms, a grand dining room, waterside terrace, and lunch dock. Membership is by invitation only.

Savannah Yacht Club

The Savannah Yacht Club was originally organized on June 14, 1869. The private, members only club is by invitation only with only 1,000 members. Amenities include a figure 8 pool, an Olympic size swimming pool, as well as floating docks.

St. Francis Yacht Club

This club was founded in 1927 when the members of the San Francisco Yacht Club decided to move their clubhouse out of San Francisco to Belvedere, California. The 2,300 member club is considered to be the most prestigious yacht club in the western U.S. and has hosted over 40 regattas on San Francisco Bay. The Mediterranean Revival-style clubhouse is in close proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge and enjoys views from the Bridge to Alcatraz Island and beyond.

Tampa Yacht & Country Club

Founded in 1904 as a place to race sailboats, ride and show horses, the marina now holds 31 covered slips and 50 open slips. Membership is sponsored and by invitation only.

Circolo Canottieri Aniene

Circolo degli Esteri

Compagnia della Vela

Yacht Club Costa Smeralda

Playing host to 10 prestigious regattas this year, including the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, the Yacht Club Costa Smerelda has been tied to the Italian Sailing Federation since the 1960s. Offering a wellness center and spa, the clubhouse overlooks the Marina and the Italian coast. The club has a panoramic pool terrace, al fresco dining, and a member’s lounge and bar. There are also 24 residential suites, including the popular Presidential suite that opened in 2016.

Yacht Club Italiano

Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club

Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron

Royal Perth Yacht Club

The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron

Raffles Marina

Republic of Singapore Yacht Club

Real Club Nautico de Vigo

Royal Bermuda Yacht Club

The Royal Bermuda Yacht Club has its marina close to the bustling Front Street at the heart of the historic city of Hamilton. It began as a meeting place for British military officers and Bermudian sailing enthusiasts.

Membership in the club extends to over 850 resident and non-resident members. The 130 berth marina has a full-service staff and can accommodate vessels of up to 150 feet in length.

Nassau Yacht Club

Royal Bombay Yacht Club

Royal Canadian Yacht Club

Royal Vancouver Yacht Club

Royal Victoria Yacht Club

Royal Cork Yacht Club

Royal Irish Yacht Club

NEW ZEALAND

Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

Royal Southern Yacht Club

Royal Thames Yacht Club

The Royal Thames Yacht Club is the oldest in the world, founded in 1775. The exclusive Knightsbridge Clubhouse has two bars, an acclaimed restaurant, and accommodations for those staying overnight. Anyone looking to join must be recommended by current members.

The Royal Western Yacht Club of England

Royal Yacht Squadron

Royal Yacht Club Moscow

Société des Régates du Havre

Yacht Club de Monaco

Founded by Prince Rainier III in 1953, the Yacht Club De Monaco is a prestigious club that holds a unique position on the international yachting scene with more than 1600 members drawn from 66 nationalities.

The reigning Club President since 1984 has been His Royal Highness, Prince Sovereign Albert II, and a suitably formal dress code for day and evening wear is enforced at all times. Membership is limited and very, very exclusive: prospective candidates must submit an application form to the club committee and be introduced by two sponsors, both of whom must be existing members. The successful applicant will be welcomed with an ice-breaking cocktail party and gala dinner in their honor.

The futuristic clubhouse was redesigned in 2013 and overlooks Port Hercules, it offers up very popular cocktail bar and Mediterranean restaurant.

Yacht Club Santo Amaro