Australia spans tropical, subtropical and temperate waters, so the best time to cruise depends on where you want to go. As a general rule, cruise the tropical north during the dry winter months (April to November) and head south to New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and southern Western Australia for the summer (December to March).
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is Australia’s national weather service and provides forecasts, warnings, observations and tide predictions for all Australian waters.
Cruising calendar
| Region | Best time to cruise | Things to know |
|---|---|---|
| Great Barrier Reef and North Queensland (Cairns, Whitsundays) | April to November | Dry season with south-east trade winds of around 15 to 25 knots, which can make the outer reef exposed. Whales migrate June to October and diving is excellent. November to April is calmer and warmer but humid, with tropical cyclone and marine stinger seasons |
| South East Queensland (Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast) | All year | Subtropical climate, south of the main cyclone belt. A popular base for refits and for waiting out the northern wet season. Humpback whales pass from June to November |
| New South Wales (Sydney, Pittwater, Port Stephens, South Coast) | All year, best December to March | Temperate climate, not cyclone prone. Summer averages 25 to 30°C. Whale watching May to November |
| Lord Howe Island | Summer, in settled weather | Subtropical. Visit when winds are from the east or north-east, which gives shelter on the western side of the island. Winters are wetter and windier |
| Victoria | December to March | Prevailing winds from the south-south-west in summer, so north-east facing anchorages are ideal. The Great Ocean Road coast is too exposed to cruise |
| Tasmania | December to March | Mild and temperate with four seasons. December to February is the warmest and driest period. The Roaring Forties blow strongest in spring |
| South Australia | December to March | Mediterranean climate on the coast, averaging around 29°C in January. Kangaroo Island and the Yorke Peninsula give shelter from the prevailing south-south-west winds |
| Southern Western Australia (Perth, Margaret River, Esperance) | December to March | Temperate climate. The Recherche Archipelago is best in December and March. Wildflowers bloom July to October |
| Northern Western Australia (Kimberley, Ningaloo) | April to November (Kimberley dry season) | Whale sharks at Ningaloo from March to July. Humpback whales calve in Camden Sound in July and August. Very large tides in the Kimberley. Cyclone season November to April |
| Northern Territory (Darwin, Arnhem Land) | May to October | Dry season with average daytime temperatures around 32°C and cool nights. The wet season (November to April) brings high humidity, storms and the risk of cyclones |
Captain’s Tip
Chase the temperate weather. Visiting captains recommend cruising south for the Australian summer, as the north can be unforgiving at that time of year, then heading back north as the weather cools. That said, the best season depends on what your guests want to do. The tropical summer can offer calm, warm cruising if you plan around the storm season.
Weather hazards
Tropical cyclones
Tropical cyclones can affect northern Australia from November to April, most commonly from January to March. Brisbane, the Gold Coast and areas further south are generally below the cyclone belt. Monitor BOM forecasts and warnings closely during the season and plan safe havens in advance.
Marine stingers
Dangerous jellyfish, including box jellyfish and Irukandji, are found in tropical waters, mainly during the warmer months (roughly November to May). Guests and crew should wear full-length stinger suits when swimming in tropical waters.
East Australian Current
The East Australian Current runs south along the east coast at up to 4 knots. Southbound yachts can use it by following the 100-fathom line, while northbound yachts should stay close inshore to avoid it.
Tides
Tides vary enormously around Australia. The Kimberley has some of the largest tides in the world, with spring tides of up to 10 metres creating strong currents and features such as the Horizontal Falls. Many NSW river entrances have bar crossings that should only be attempted at the right tide and in suitable conditions.
Southern waters
Bass Strait, the Southern Ocean and the Great Australian Bight can produce rough seas and fast-changing conditions. Plan crossings carefully and wait for a suitable weather window.
Crocodiles
Saltwater crocodiles live in the rivers, estuaries and coastal waters of northern Australia. Never swim in these areas unless local advice confirms it is safe, and take care when using tenders.
Forecasts, warnings and tides
The BOM issues forecasts for coastal, local and high seas waters, as well as warnings for strong winds, gales, storms and tropical cyclones. Warnings are issued as needed and updated regularly while they are current.
- Coasts and oceans: marine forecasts and observations for all states
- Warnings and alerts: current marine and weather warnings, including tropical cyclones
- Tide predictions: tide times and heights for ports around Australia
- MetEye: interactive wind and wave forecast maps
- Great Barrier Reef offshore waters forecast
- High seas forecasts
- Sea temperatures and currents
For charts and navigation information, see Maritime Safety & Reporting.
Common questions about weather and seasons
When is the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef?
April to November is the most popular season, with dry weather, good diving and whale migrations, although the trade winds can make the outer reef exposed. November to April is calmer and warmer but falls in the cyclone and stinger season.
When is cyclone season?
November to April in northern Australia, most commonly January to March. Brisbane, the Gold Coast and areas further south are generally below the cyclone belt.
Where should we spend the Australian summer?
Most superyachts head south for the summer, cruising New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia from December to March.
Do guests need stinger suits?
Yes, when swimming in tropical waters, particularly from November to May. Box jellyfish and Irukandji are found in northern waters.
Where can we find tide times?
The Bureau of Meteorology publishes tide predictions for ports around Australia. Local harbour masters and marinas can also advise on tides and bar crossings.
Last reviewed October 2026. Conditions change quickly: always check the latest Bureau of Meteorology forecasts and warnings before departure.
