Overview
Cockburn Sound is the premier sheltered cruising area for Perth sailors. Protected by Garden Island, the Sound offers multiple anchorages with sand bottoms, calm seas, and excellent holding.
It’s a favourite summer escape when the Fremantle Doctor makes offshore waters rough.
Anchorages
Popular spots include:
Mangles Bay (Rockingham)
- Good all-weather anchorage
- 5–12m depth
- Close to shops and services
Careening Bay (Garden Island)
- Stunning turquoise water
- 3–8m depth
- Sandy patches among reef
Stark Bay (Garden Island west side)
- Only in light easterlies
- Ocean swell can enter
Notes for Cruisers
Cockburn Sound is where many WA cruisers learn anchoring and overnighting. A perfect training ground with reliable conditions and many sheltered corners.