Batavia Coast Replica Boat Association

Take a voyage back in time aboard the Batavia Longboat.

Learn about one of the world’s bloodiest mutinies as you sail aboard a full size replica of the original 17th century boat that carried survivors from the wreck of the Batavia. You can help to tack the sails, handle the lee boards and even steer the boat, or you can just relax and enjoy an afternoon on the water.

The Longboat sails most Sundays throughout the year from the front of the Museum in Geraldton’s Batavia Marina, and is regularly seen beating out to the point Moore lighthouse or tacking up into the harbour.

Sailing is free (donations are helpful). Children are most welcome but must be over the age of six years and accompanied by an adult.

Upcoming Events –

Sailing this sunday the 20th May will be at 2.00pm. All welcome and we will see you there.

Many thanks to John and Phil and the Geraldton Fishermen's Co-op who generously haul and hardstand the Longboat each year.
Thanks also to John at Max Marine for the discount we receive on materials.
Chris Anderson of Batavia Marine Spraypainting applied the antifouling (allways a horrible job) with paint generously supplied by Paint'n'Quip.

Our insurance falls due in June and it would not be possible to operate the Longboat without the support of the City of Geraldton-Greenough, Nexus, and QBE Marine.

Without this support from the community to Longboat could not continue to sail.

The Abrolhos Islands voyage was a great success, though due to light winds we didn't get to all the places we'd hoped to. It took the Longboat almost 44 hours to sail the 42 miles to Little Rat Island - 2 days at sea looking for wind. We delayed our return voyage by a day due to a forecast 5 metre swell, and then rushed back in less than 12 hours with a following wind.

The voyage was a commemoration the life and work of Max Cramer who had such a long involvement with the Batavia story. Max was was also involved in getting the Replica Longboat Project off the ground, and so we partly have him to thank for being at the islands at all. Vale Max.

On our last voyage to the island we made a documentary film that is available from the WA Museum Geradton. To watch a short Youtube video search for Longboat to the Islands.

Our Usual Sailing Program –

Last Sunday of the month: Community Sailing Day, usually at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. (1.5 - 2 hours)
First Sunday of the month: Members' day for training and staying out late.
Other Sundays: Visitors and Guests welcome. Usually 2pm. (3 - 4 hours).

We also sail at other times during the week, sometimes for schools or the Musuem, and sometimes by request from members or visitors. All sailing is subject to weather and the availability of our volunteer crew.

To find out more about the Batavia mutiny and the Longboat click here.
Or visit the Western Australian Museum Geraldton.