Sea Buoys Ocean Charters

Experience Lord Howe Island from the water with local fisherman Scott Wilson aboard MV Fin.

Scott has spent his life on and around the waters of Lord Howe Island working as a fisherman, supplying fresh local catch to island restaurants. Sea Buoys brings that experience to small-group fishing charters and scenic cruises, offering guests the chance to explore Lord Howe with someone who knows these waters as part of everyday life.

Lord Howe sits at the world’s southernmost coral reef, where the East Australian Current pushes warm water against the island and forces deep upwellings close in. Tropical and temperate species overlap as a result, and the reef gives way to deep water surprisingly close to shore, so you are fishing offshore within a short run of the lagoon. Kingfish are the main event, with wahoo, yellowfin tuna, trevally and deep-water species off the drop-offs depending on the season and the day.

MV Fin is a 9.4 metre White Pointer, built and set up for Lord Howe conditions. With space for up to six guests, an enclosed toilet and plenty of room on deck, Fin is equally suited to a serious day of fishing or a relaxed trip around the Island. All rods, tackle and bait are supplied on fishing charters, although experienced anglers are welcome to bring their own gear.

Four trips, and who each one suits

Offshore Fishing Charter

A full eight-hour day exploring Lord Howe Island’s outer reefs and more distant fishing grounds. Scott fishes on rod and reel year round, using jigs, poppers and stickbaits, live baits, deep drops and trolled lures depending on what the day calls for. This private charter suits anglers looking for a dedicated offshore experience, with heavier fishing gear supplied. Up to six guests can join the charter, with four fishing at a time, making it possible for non-anglers to come along for the day.

Whole boat charter: $3,300

Day Fishing

Six hours fishing with Scott. He takes the boat as far as the time allows and works the best water he can reach on the day, rather than staying on one patch close to home. Where you end up depends on the conditions and what has been happening out there. A good option if you want a proper day’s fishing without committing to the full offshore day, and don’t mind sharing the boat with others.

$660 per person. Minimum three, maximum four anglers.

Scenic Cruise

Enjoy the scenic Lord Howe Island from a completely different perspective on a two-hour scenic cruise. Cruise the lagoon and, conditions permitting, around the island, taking in its mountains, coastline, seabirds and landmarks from the water.

$275 per person, or $1,100 for a private charter. Minimum two, maximum six guests.

Private Charter: Balls Pyramid and Around the Island

Balls Pyramid rises 552 metres out of the ocean about 23 kilometres from Lord Howe Island, and it is the tallest sea stack in the world. This private charter runs out to the Pyramid and back around the Island, taking in the coastline, the Admiralty Isles and the seabirds along the way. Conditions decide whether the run to the Pyramid is on, so Scott makes that call on the day.

Whole boat charter: $2,200. Maximum six guests, 3 hours.

All prices are in Australian dollars and include GST.

Sea Buoys does not offer snorkelling, swimming or other in-water activities.

As conditions around Lord Howe Island can change quickly, Sea Buoys sets its operating days for the week ahead each Sunday based on the latest marine forecast. Get in touch before you arrive with your travel dates and group size and we will add you to that week’s list. You will receive an email on the Sunday with the trips running, the times, and a link to book.

Contact

Email (best): office@seabuoys.com.au
Phone: 0447 184 998
Website: seabuoys.com.au
Instagram: @sea.buoys
Facebook: facebook.com/seabuoys.fishinglordhowe