Lord Howe Island, Australia

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Destination: Lord Howe Island, Australia

Introduction

Lord Howe Island is a UNESCO World Heritage island and one of the most beautiful and ecologically significant islands in the Pacific — a narrow crescent of volcanic rock surrounded by the world's southernmost coral reef, set against the dramatic backdrop of Mounts Lidgbird (777 m) and Gower (875 m). Visitor numbers are capped at 400 at any time. The lagoon on the western side of the island provides reasonable shelter and one of the Pacific's most spectacular anchorages.

GPS Coordinates

31° 33' 11.880"S 159° 4' 55.200"E

31 33 11.880S 159 4 55.200E

Protected Anchorages

The lagoon on the western coast is protected by coral reef and provides the main anchorage area, in 3–8 m over sand. Entry to the lagoon is via the channel at the northern end — check depths carefully as the channel is shallow (approx 1.5 m). The southern entrance near Comet's Hole is suitable for shallow-draft vessels. The anchorage is sheltered from the SE trades but exposed to westerlies. A permit and prior notification to the Lord Howe Island Board is required before visiting.

Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts

Lord Howe Island is an Australian territory. Australian customs and biosecurity regulations apply. Pre-arrival notification to Australian Border Force and the Lord Howe Island Board is required. Biosecurity is especially strict due to the island's extraordinary endemic fauna.

Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity

  • No yacht club or marina. A small jetty at Settlement serves fishing vessels. Fuel (diesel) is available by arrangement. Provisioning at the island's store is limited but adequate for basics.

Renowned Attractions

  • Ball's Pyramid — the world's tallest sea stack (562 m), visible 20 km from Lord Howe, dramatic sailing landmark
  • Lagoon snorkelling — world's southernmost coral reef with excellent fish and coral diversity
  • Sea bird colonies — thousands of mutton birds (shearwaters) and Providence petrels nesting across the island
  • Kentia palm forest — the elegant Kentia palm is endemic to Lord Howe and exported worldwide
  • Lord Howe stick insect — recently rediscovered giant stick insect, thought extinct for 80 years, found on Ball's Pyramid

Currency and Exchange Rate

Currency: Australian Dollar

Exchange Rate to USD

Nearby Yachting Destinations

Summary

Lord Howe Island is a UNESCO World Heritage gem — a dramatic volcanic island with the world's southernmost coral reef, extraordinary endemic wildlife, and a spectacular setting that makes it one of Australia's most remarkable offshore destinations for adventurous sailors.