Just south of Tangalooma Point on the western side of Moreton Island, Lucinda Bay is a quieter cousin of the famous wrecks anchorage. Named after the steam yacht Lucinda — once the Queensland Governor’s vessel and a frequent visitor in the 1800s — it offers clear, shallow water over white sand, protection from much of the ship wash that rolls into Tangalooma Roads, and room to breathe when the wrecks are packed.

How to get there

Access is from the western side of Moreton Island. Heading out from the leads at Manly Boat Harbour, the most direct routes are passing between Green and St Helena Islands or through the more southerly channel between Green and King Islands via the Lockyer Light. Sail north-easterly toward Moreton; Tangalooma and the wrecks are the obvious landmarks, with Lucinda Bay sitting just south of Tangalooma Point.

Caution is needed when crossing the East Channel — cargo vessels and tankers regularly transit the area. Allow a proper weather window for the open-bay transit and return — time on the water depends on boat speed, tide and route (often in a similar ballpark to a Tangalooma run for many Yachtshare yachts).

Anchorage Overview

Best winds: Easterlies (east / south-east / north-east)

Depth: Typically shallow — often only a few metres over sand; sound carefully

Bottom: Sand

Getting into the anchorage

Large sandbars lie to the north, south and west, which is what gives Lucinda its shelter and its clear, lagoon-like feel. Work in on a rising or mid tide if you are unsure of the banks, watch your sounder, and do not push too close to the beach on a falling tide.

Tidal flow is generally kinder here than in the main Tangalooma Roads, but you still want plenty of chain and a good set. Westerlies leave you exposed — as with Tangalooma, this is not the place to sit through a strong westerly. Unlike the wrecks, you will often find only a handful of yachts, which is part of the appeal.

What to do there

Crystal-clear water and a sandy bottom make Lucinda ideal for swimming, paddleboarding and a lazy beach afternoon. Dolphins are regular visitors along this stretch of Moreton, and the beach is open enough for a walk or a game of cricket when the tide is out.

Fishing from the yacht or beach can be worthwhile — check Moreton Bay Marine Park zones first. If you want the snorkelling of the wrecks or a look at the resort foreshore, Tangalooma is only a short hop north; remember that Tangalooma Island Resort grounds are private and casual visitor access is restricted.

Lucinda Bay is an excellent day-trip lunch stop and a peaceful overnight in easterly weather. It’s a favourite with Yachtshare owners who prefer clear water and fewer neighbours than the wrecks on a Saturday.

Planning a Moreton Bay weekend from the marina? Browse boat shares, read how Yachtshare works, or contact us.