The town of Darwin has changed enormously since the early 1990’s, and now has the feel of a busy industrial city, very different to the rather sleepy town of previous times. Population has grown by some 20,000 in the last 5 years, and there has been plenty of new development, including two marina housing complexes. On arrival in Darwin yachts will be required to go through a number of pest control procedures before locking into the Port of Darwin’s Town Basin. Conveniently situated close to the centre of town and the marine repair facilities the Town Basin will make an ideal place for the berthing of all the World ARC yachts.
 Darwin has much to offer the visiting yachtsman, with plenty of exciting tours and excursions of the Northern Territory. Nearby Kakadu National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Centre), is well worth a two day trip, and closer at hand is Litchfield National Park. Darwin itself has plenty to offer with several evening markets and an unusual outdoor deckchair cinema! There is also a selection of international cuisine throughout the town, and a great welcome at the Dinah Beach Yacht Club and Darwin Sailing Club.
For yachts wanting to haul out at what is close to the midway point of the Rally it is hoped that the excellent facility offered at Sadgrove’s Quay will still be available. Currently under offer from new owners, due to the retirement of the existing proprietors, it is unclear what their intentions are for the future of the yard, which sits on prime coastal property ripe for redevelopment.
Saltwater crocodiles and Box Jelly Fish are the most dangerous things in Darwin, and depending on the season there are plenty of them! Swimming is a no-no most of the year round, and only ever with good local advice. East Point Reserve north of Fannie Bay has a safe salt water lake for those that feel the need for a relaxing swim, but even there signs warn of Box Jelly Fish!
Darwin is well served with flights from Singapore, making it a good choice for crew changes.
Useful websites:
www.tourismtopend.com.au
www.darwinaccom.com
www.kakadunationalpark.com
www.dinahbeachcya.com.au
www.dwnsail.com.au
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