Cruisin’ Down Under: Exploring Sydney's Boat Show

For travelers who prefer to see the world by water, the view doesn’t get much better than down in Australia.

For as wild and expansive as the continent’s interior may be—from the outback to the bush and every spot along the way—the coasts are just as alluring, marked by famous cityscapes and on-the-water thrills that are sure to satiate your thirst for adventure.

They’re pristine destinations that effortlessly blend culture with nature—and this season, an exciting boat show gives you the chance to enjoy them with ease. Starting with the big Sydney International Boat Show on the first weekend of August, there’s much to do and see in the months ahead. Read on for a few of our favorite highlights and area must-dos!

Sydney International Boat Show

We’re heading over to Sydney for the next stop on our Australian boat show tour. Starting on August 2^nd, Sydney’s Darling Harbour will transform into a hub of boat show fun. This year’s show is filled with opportunities for boaters of all skill levels to learn about new ways to enjoy the water. There will be an Australia International Dive Expo, where you can learn about the sport of diving or simply pick up some underwater photography skills, as well as an Event Deck where demo pools will serve as the backdrop to exciting new displays and technology demonstrations (plus here, there will even be some bumper boats for the kids!).

Our favorite stops along the way

Of course, you can’t travel to gorgeous waterfront cities like Sydney and not soak up some fun on the water! Our favorite rec stops along the way include…

Port Phillip Bay: As mentioned earlier, this is an expansive marine oasis. You don’t have to go far from shore (and the familiar cityscapes you love) to enjoy some quality time on the water, whether you’re enjoying a fast-paced cruise on your Vortex or getting in some time on the jet skis.

Lake Eppalock: Victoria’s Lake Eppalock is a drive up from the Melbourne coast—but it’s a worthwhile one, too. For here you will find one of the region’s most beloved places to bring the family for a day of boating, tubing or wakeboarding along the tree-lined coast. Bring a picnic to the sandy shores and cap off the day with a vividly painted sunset.

Murray River: Another top destination if you love towed water sports, especially waterskiing for which the river is especially well-known. Australia’s longest river is a great way to see nature, too, putting you right at the heart of an aquatic escape, shaped by scrub-covered crags and pristine water throughout. The Murray actually separates Victoria from New South Wales, running along the border between the two, so it’s a great spot if you plan to spend some time in each of the states.

Sydney Harbour: If you’re attending the Sydney show, you won’t have to travel far for this boating gem. You’ll want to hit the water for the best view of famous spots like the Sydney Opera House, but heading offshore and out to nature will offer you an equally enjoyable adventure—one where you can fish for big catches like tuna and marlin, or simply watch for the majestic (yet playful!) humpback whales. They call the region “home” during their migration from their icy Antarctic digs, since this time of year is winter for the southern hemisphere.

Crave adventure? A trip to any of Australia’s beautiful coastal cities is sure to do the trick. Be sure to stick around for boat show fun, and visit with Chaparral Australia, for a warm welcome and local insights that are sure to come in handy on your journey.