TEA GARDENS BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Calm Catamaran Passage: Tea Gardens to Nelson Bay in an Hour
A one-hour, one-way crossing aboard the purpose-built Y-Knot catamaran — this guide explains timing, on-board features, and practical rules for gear and pets.
A Calm Catamaran Passage: Tea Gardens to Nelson Bay in an Hour.
Glide out of Tea Gardens on the Y-Knot, a locally owned, purpose-built catamaran with wide decks and panoramic, 360-degree views. In a tidy one-hour passage to Nelson Bay the vessel’s stability, generous open floor space, and attentive crew turn a short crossing into a comfortable, memorable outing any time of year.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Purpose-built comfort and stability
The Y-Knot is a catamaran designed for steady, roomy crossings: wide outdoor decks, open floor space, two bathrooms and a full galley and bar, with crew onboard to ensure smooth sailing.
360-degree panoramic views
The crossing offers uninterrupted vantage across the water from teak decks and observation points on the vessel — a short trip that still feels expansive thanks to the catamaran’s sightlines.
Gear-friendly and pet-friendly
Sporting equipment such as bikes and golf clubs travel free; the service is pet friendly provided dogs are kept on a lead and under control while onboard.
What the day feels like
What the crossing feels like
Boarding in Tea Gardens, you settle onto the Y-Knot’s open decks for a one-hour transit to Nelson Bay. The vessel’s design keeps motion steady while the crew manages the flow — an outing that balances casual comfort with the crispness of being on the water, suitable as a short commuter run or a leisurely mini-cruise.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this crossing suits — quick judgments based on rules and access.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Sporting equipment (bikes, golf clubs, etc.) is carried free of charge. If bringing a pet, be prepared to keep dogs on a lead and under control while onboard.
The Y-Knot is fitted with two bathrooms and a full galley and bar, offering basic facilities during the one-hour crossing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the crossing?
The trip takes approximately one hour each way.
What are the departure times from Tea Gardens?
Departures from Tea Gardens are scheduled at 09:45, 14:00 and 16:30 with corresponding arrivals about one hour later.
Can I bring bikes or sports equipment?
Yes — carriage of sporting equipment, golf clubs, bikes and similar items is free of charge.
Are pets allowed on board?
Yes. The service is pet friendly, but all dogs must be kept on a lead and under control while onboard.
Does the service operate year-round?
The operator runs services throughout the year except for Christmas Day.