Introduction
Welcome to the Clarence, an area of astonishing beauty with lush farmlands, rich rainforests and golden beaches.
One of the dominant features of the region is the mighty Clarence River, a river of adventure. With 100 chartered islands it is the second largest river in Australia with over 400km of pristine water from source to sea.
This guide will assist you to plan your adventure with suggested routes, points of interest and details of river infrastructure. It does not however, provide detailed navigation of the river and it is recommended that electronic C Maps or Chart No. 222 of the Clarence River and Approaches is obtained for accurate depths of the river system. Alternatively, the guide book Cruising the NSW Coast 6th edition by Alan Lucas contains some very useful information on depths and navigation of the Clarence.
Once used as a major trade route, the river is now used primarily for leisure. The broad waters of the lower river are ideal for sailing, boating or fishing where the upper reaches and the many tributaries offer excellent canoeing, kayaking and fishing opportunities.
The river becomes a focal point for the many river based festivals that take place each year including, the Bridge to Bridge Ski Race, Head of the River Rowing Regatta, the Bridge to Breakers Sailing regatta, Dragon Boat races and Pro Wakeboard Championships to name a few. Please check NSW Maritime website www.maritime.nsw.gov.au or call 02 6646 1852 for restrictions during these times.
The sailing guide details facilities such as, marinas, jetties, pontoons, boat ramps, fuel and the identification of hazards such as bridges and overhead cables.
For further information on activities, accommodation and events in the Clarence visit the various sections on our website:
