Wavesailing at Newport on the Northern Beaches can be an exhilarating experience, but recent coastal erosion has made it trickier than before. With exposed rocks in areas that were once safe for launching and exiting the water, it’s essential to stay informed about the safest practices. In this post, we’ll share key tips to help you make the most of your time on the water while ensuring your safety. Its recommended you are confident with handling your gear in waves, and can waterstart in fickle wind. As the wind off the beach can be light to gusty in seconds, due to the way it moves along the beach from the headland.
Finding the Right Launching Spot
The Keyhole Entrance
One of the safest locations to launch is the Keyhole Entrance, situated at the southern end of Newport Beach, right by the Rock Pool swimming area. This spot has proven to be reliable when conditions are favourable.
Preparation Steps:
- Gear Transport: Walk your gear up to the swimming pool area.
- Rigging Equipment: Set up your equipment near the pool for easy access to the keyhole.
Exiting the Water Safely
Avoiding Hazards
When it comes to exiting, safety is paramount. Here are a few tips to ensure a safe return:
- Timing Your Exit: Don’t rush through the keyhole entrance. Wait for a break in the surf to prevent being washed back into the rocks.
- Control of Gear: Always keep a firm grip on your equipment to avoid costly accidents.
Best Practices for Exiting
- During High Tide: Aim to exit approximately 25 to 30 metres south of a large drain pipe located on the beach.
- If planning on just windsurfing when there is no swell in the area you will be able to pick your way out easily from the main beach, just be careful of the the rocks on fins. High tide will be your friend when there is no swell. However in a big southerly blow the swell can start to pick up within a hour easily, making a exit point tricky with the rocks.
- Consistent Safe Option: Whether it’s high tide or low tide, the area directly in front of the Surf Club remains a reliable exit point since it currently has no exposed rocks.
Wavesailing and windsurfing at Newport Beach on the Northern Beaches can be enjoyable, but awareness of your surroundings and proper safety measures are critical. By following these guidelines, you can enhance your experience while ensuring your safety and hopefully not breaking equipment on the water. There has many many masts sacrificed at newport over the years. Enjoy your time at Newport and sail safely!
