Paradise defined
THE vast and often tempestuous Indian Ocean covers over 70 million square kilometres, while the remote and idyllic coral atoll that makes up the Cocos Keeling Islands covers just 14 of those. Described as “heavenly and hypnotic” by Sir Charles Darwin in 1836, these low-lying islands and mid-ocean sanctuary are a rare find and appreciated anchorage for global cruisers.
As a child, when my mind conjured up an image of a perfect tropical island, this Robinson Crusoe style image was of the 27 tranquil tropical islands that make up the Cocos Keeling group. Unspoiled white sandy beaches, coconut palms swaying under the consistent trade winds and crystal clear warm water.
Located just over 1,500 nautical miles north west of Perth or around 700 nautical miles south west of Jakarta, these dream-like islands have a glorious tropical climate with year round temperatures sitting at a comfortable 24 degrees Celsius to 30°C. The consistent tradewinds ensure there is always plenty of ventilation flowing through the cabin.
The anchorage known as Port Refuge is located on the leeward side of Direction Island and offers fantastic holding in a sandy bottom. Direction Island, or ‘DI’ as it is known to the locals, is home to the best beach in Australia: Cossies Beach. Gazing from the bow, you find yourself trying to comprehend if it is really possible for there to be that many shades of blue and turquoise.
A short dinghy ride from the anchorage and your arrival on DI will immediately showcase the magic amalgam of coral reef, coconut palms, sand and saltwater.
On Direction Island itself you will find fantastic facilities for cruising boats. There are several shelters with picnic tables scattered along the length of the beach as well as male and female long drop toilets. Located near the main shelter is a wood-fired barbecue that is a fantastic central point to share a meal or pot luck dinner as the sun descends below the horizon.
“IN THE LAGOON, BANDS OF LIVING CORAL DARKEN THE EMERALD GREEN WATER.”
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