During the lockdowns of COVID-19, we decided to take a different kind of journey - by boat. It seemed like the perfect way to explore Australia’s stunning coastline, and an ideal prequel to our adventures by air. With the world on pause, we set sail, making the most of our lockdown in the best possible way.

Over several weeks, we cruised from Sydney to the Gold Coast, discovering hidden gems only accessible by sea. One of the highlights was Broughton Island, just off Port Stephens on the Barrington Coast - a pristine, untouched paradise that was only a short distance from home. The crystal-clear waters offered incredible snorkelling, and the boys even had a thrilling shark cave adventure with an old sea dog. I was relieved to see them return unscathed a few hours later!

What made these boat journeys so special was the freedom to visit remote locations where the bigger tour boats couldn’t reach. We spent hours snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, with not another boat in sight. The underwater world was absolutely breathtaking - I'd thought the fish had all left the reef, but it turns out they just know how to stay away from the crowds.