Overview
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.