Coastal Cruise Of Newcastle

OVERVIEW

Settle in for a leisurely cruise along the coast south of Newcastle with an entertaining guide that will describe the history and significance of the landmarks. As you leave the harbor, you will see countless coal loaders as the port exports more coal than any other place in the world. The lighthouse at beach-rimmed Nobbys Head has been guiding vessels into the port on the Hunter River since 1854. Not every ship has been successful as you will see at Stockton Beach, where the remains of the Adolphe still rest against the rocky shore after shipwrecking there in 1904. You will hear more about Newcastle’s maritime heritage while passing Bogey Hole, an oceanside swimming pool that hundreds of convicts hand-chiseled out of the rock shelf there in 1819 – solely for the personal use of the commandant. The nearby beaches that you will cruise past are known for their surf culture and scenic beauty.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Hear about Newcastle’s rich maritime heritage while cruising along its southern shore.
• Pass a 19th-century lighthouse and the rusted remains of a ship that wrecked in 1904.
• See an oceanside swimming pool that convicts hand-carved out of sheer rock.
• Watch for surfers off Bar Beach and learn about Newcastle’s flourishing surf culture.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.