Mackay Marina

Nestled in the heart of Queensland’s tropical coastline, Mackay Marina is a beacon for boating enthusiasts and tourists alike. Offering a comprehensive blend of top-tier berthing facilities, maritime services, and local attractions, this marina stands out as an excellent coastal gateway to the stunning Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands. The marina’s harmonious integration with the surrounding community and landscape makes it a true Australian gem.

Having twice been named Marina of the Year, it is a certified Clean Marina, and the only marina in Queensland to have qualified for Fish-Friendly Status. More than just a marina, Mackay Marina Village also offers accommodation, food and drink, and shops and services, surrounded by a residential village of townhouses and apartments.

Location

Mackay Marina is conveniently located on Mulherin Drive, Mackay Harbour, Queensland, in northeastern Australia. Mackay Marina is situated on the well-renowned stretch of coastline in Australia, often referred to as the “100 Magic Miles”. With its prime location, the marina serves as a convenient base for exploration of the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and the myriad unspoiled tropical islands that form the Southern Whitsundays.

Marina Entry and Navigation

Navigating into Mackay Marina is relatively straightforward due to the well-maintained channel markers guiding the way. It’s always advised to consult updated nautical charts and tide tables to ensure safe navigation. Once inside the marina, the tranquil waters and organised layout provide easy access to allocated berths. Built in 1998, the Marina was designed to accommodate the 6.5m tides with a breakwater made of large rocks. The top of this sea wall forms a two-lane roadway that has become a tourist attraction in its own right for marina tenants and locals alike.

Specifications of the Marina

The Marina boasts over 400 berths, catering for monohulls, catamarans, power, and sailboats ranging from 10m up to 49m. There are six Mega Berths with a 55-metre capacity, 12 Big Boat Berths for 30m+ monohull and 25m+ multihull, and 32 commercial fishing berths. All these facilities make it a versatile marina capable of accommodating a broad spectrum of marine vessels.

Infrastructure, Services, and Facilities

Mackay Marina is designed for vessels with a 3.5m draft at the lowest astronomical tide. It’s a Port of Entry into Australia with Australian Customs and Border Protection & D.A.F.F. on site. The Marina provides secure car parking, with two secure carparks located at the northern and southern end of the marina, accessible only to marina patrons. It also offers a comprehensive array of facilities such as refuse and recycling, gas refills, refuelling, laundry services, and shore power.

Amenities in the Marina and Nearby

Every end of the marina hosts an amenities block that provides toilets and hot/cold showers, accessible to marina patrons 24/7. The marina offers accommodation, food and drink options, and shops and services, creating a vibrant and diverse marina village. The Mackay Region also has a lot to offer, including the Mackay Airport, the Blue Water Lagoon, GoWake Cable park, scenic areas like Finch Hatton Gorge, Eungella National Park, and Cape Hillsborough, and a good range of shopping at Canelands Central.

Events in the Marina

Mackay Marina is often buzzing with a variety of events, including fishing tournaments, sailing regattas, and social gatherings, making it a vibrant hub for the local and visiting maritime community. Residents and visitors alike come together to share knowledge and stories of their adventures, contributing to a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

How to Get There

By Air:

Mackay Airport is the primary gateway to reach the marina by air. The marina is a short 15-minute drive from the airport. Taxis and ride-share services like Uber are available at the airport for the onward journey to the marina.

By Road:

If you’re planning a road trip, Mackay Marina Village is well-connected to the highway network. It’s easily accessible whether you’re driving from within Queensland or from other states. Once you reach Mackay, follow the signs to Mackay Harbour, where the Marina is located.

By Sea:

For sea voyagers, Mackay Marina’s coordinates are 21°06.10’S and 149°13.85’E. Please be mindful of the tide timings and navigation instructions to ensure a smooth entry. The marina is a Port of Entry into Australia with Australian Customs and Border Protection & D.A.F.F. on site.

Rent Yacht in Australia.

Attractions Nearby

Mackay Marina is surrounded by numerous attractions. These range from the stunning beaches of the Mackay region to the Eungella National Park. Moreover, the marina serves as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse marine life.