THE WESSELS
&
the GULF of CARPENTERIA
NORTHERN TERRITORY
The Wessels is a group of islands positioned roughly mid way on a passage from Darwin to Cape York, Queensland. They offer a number of anchorages for a well deserved rest. Marchinbar Island topped by Cape Wessel is the biggest of the islands and most comfortable for those that intend to cross the Gulf of Carpenteria over Cape Wessel. Further south are Guluru and Raragala islands. They are separated by a “Hole in the Wall” Gugari Rip, a narrow pass with strong currents. Being further south, it is a good crossing when Gove Harbour is the destination. However, the most convenient stop for a passage to Cape York is Marchinbar Island.
The distance of some 700 nautical miles can be covered without breaking the journey. Only the beauty of this remote part of the Northern Territory would be missed. The area is not accessible by air, there are no airports or resorts here. Just nature at its best that can be experienced by yachts sailing the region. Most amazing is peace and quiet, relaxing atmosphere.
Miles of sandy beaches with greenery of local flora, that means no coconut palms, and variety of rock formations scattered close to the water edge are typical natural scenery at the Wessels. The colors change at sunset,time to observe the beach for crocodiles. None sighted.
