The 52^nd Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (RSYS) Annual Cruise attracted a fleet of 65 boats this year as they set sail from Sydney Harbour on Easter Monday to return a week later. Every year, the Annual Cruise travels five to six hours up the coast, north of Sydney and to the pristine waters of Pittwater, Cowan Creek, Smiths Creek and beyond. The landscape is unspoiled and the hills are covered in gum trees which come alive at dusk with wild birdsong. The waterways are extensive and offer countless beaches and bays to explore. Moorings are plentiful and it’s easy to find a quiet anchorage.

The program of activities includes passage races there and back, three inshore races and numerous social gatherings. The welcome party at Halletts Beach on Monday evening was themed “1962 America’s Cup” to mark the 60th anniversary of RSYS launching a challenge with Gretel for the America’s Cup. Participants channelled Newport, Rhode Island chic by wearing stylish caps, headscarves, big sunglasses and white on white.

During the week, Cruisers enjoyed dinner at nearby yacht clubs, held stand-up paddle board races, fished, swam and explored the bush trails on foot.

Cruisers love the challenge of cooking onboard, no more so than in the popular Galley Gourmet Challenge cooking competition which only allows for dishes to be prepared on board with no atypical boat equipment. A Canapé Party at Refuge Bay brought the fleet together to socialise and sample each other’s fare. On another evening, intrepid judges RIB-hopped from boat to boat tasting entrées, mains and desserts.

The Annual Cruise is the highlight of the year for many Members, families and friends – some have been enjoying this event for decades! RSYS would be delighted to welcome Cruisers from fellow ICOYC clubs in April 2023.

View more RSYS Cruising information HERE.