I live in Mandurah Western Australia and have been looking at a Red Witch for trips to Penguin island, Garden island etc. I wonder how she would go in the estuary, Peel inlet and Harvey inlet. I've looked at the charts and being a novice it isn't clear to me whether the 1'3 metre keel would be problematical. Is there any one out there with experience in sailing the inlets in a boat that wasn't shallow draft. Thanks
Hi mate. I lived there and sailed and windsurfed extensively on Peel Inlet. I know it very well and it's awesome sailing but shallow. At 1.3 heading outside of the channels will be too shallow. That's the reason I sailed a Nacra cat on it. It's not to say you can't do it, it's just quite restricted. Dawesville bridge will be no problem just manage the tidal flow as it's quick. If you do sail peel inlet have a plan in place to haul yourself off (like lean her over and kedge etc).
There's some deeper areas between the end of main channel heading north and toward the science platform that'd be good for you. Best thing for you would be to zip around on a clear day and have a look. It's a fantastic place to sail. It's just super shallow a long way from shore.
Definitely Trailer Sailer/Cat Water,as would have to tow dinghy to get ashore .
Takes the pleasure out of it when constantly trying not to get bogged !
Myall Lakes similiar (? ),and went there with 2ft draft,and still on the outside,with trailersailers in under the trees .
