Ann – Page 2 – Captain Frank: Life, Fun & All Things Nautical

SWEET EASTER TREATS

Easter is a time when the phrase “calories don’t count” is definitely appropriate, so why not indulge in some sweet homemade Easter treats?!?

Here are two fun but simple recipes selected by Captain Frank, that are guaranteed to please and impress your guests. Created as single servings these treats are perfect for parties and gatherings hosted at any venue – at home, outdoors, or even on a boat.

TRIPLE CHOC EASTER EGG BROWNIES

This fun dessert is a great Easter twist on a classic sweet dish that is great for all ages. Delicious and rich, it’s perfect for those chocolate lovers and can be created within the hour!

Serves: 12. Prep: 15 mins. Cooking Time: 45 mins.

200g dark chocolate Easter eggs, roughly chopped
250g butter, roughly chopped
4 eggs
1 1/3 cups firmly packed brown sugar
1/3 cup cocoa powder, sifted
1 ¼ cups plain flour, sifted
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
100g small milk chocolate Easter eggs
100g small white chocolate Easter eggs
Icing sugar, to serve

Preheat oven to 160°c. Line a greased 22cm-square cake tin with baking paper.
Place dark chocolate and butter in a metal bowl over a saucepan of simmering water and stir until melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
Place eggs and sugar in a mixing bowl and whisk to combine. Add cooled chocolate mixture, cocoa, flour, baking powder, vanilla and salt. Stir to combine.
Fold through milk and white chocolate chunks. Transfer mixture to prepared tin and bake for 40 minutes or until cooked through but still slightly fudgy in the centre.
Serve dusted with icing sugar.

WHITE CHOC & PASSIONFRUIT MOUSSE

Served in an Easter egg shell, these treats take less than 30 minutes to prepare and are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Serves: 6. Prep: 5 mins. Cooking Time: 15 mins.

3 egg yolks
3 egg whites
¼ cup caster sugar
½ cup passionfruit pulp
150g white chocolate
300ml thickened cream
6 medium Easter eggs

Use an electric beater to beat 3 egg yolks and ¼ cup caster sugar until pale and creamy. Fold in ½ cup passionfruit pulp alternately with 150g white chocolate, melted and cooled slightly.
Beat 300ml thickened cream until soft peaks form, and in a separate bowl beat 3 egg whites until firm peaks form. Fold into the passionfruit mixture.
Break tops from 6 medium Easter eggs and sit eggs in serving glasses. Fill with mousse and refrigerate for 3-4 hours or overnight until set.
Optional: Serve with chocolate shards for dipping.

IT’S TIME TO INDULGE

To complement these fabulous dessert treats, consider a fabulous party venue! Why not try something different this year for your Easter celebration and take your party off dry land and onto stunning Sydney Harbour?!?

Include these dessert options into your Easter menu and share your ideas with Captain Frank and the team. Share your favourite Easter creations on Instagram.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #eastertreats #easter #boatfoodideas #yesimadeit #allthingsnautical

BOAT PARTY PLANNING TIPS

Having a party on a boat on Sydney Harbour is the ultimate way to have fun and take in the amazing sites. Let your planning process also be fun and stress-free, by following these simple planning tips!

TOP PLANNING TIPS

The Sea Sydney Harbour team spend their days planning and organising events on boats. Discover their top planning tips to follow…

1. Have an initial idea on guest numbers – All vessels have a maximum capacity that they must work within. Having a clear idea of your guest numbers is important for a boat party in your early planning stages, to ensure that you book the most suitable vessel for your group size. Where possible, leaving a little bit of leeway in case guest numbers change is a good idea, but remember when you confirm a booking you are locking in that specific vessel.

2. Keep it simple – Being on a boat is an activity in itself. Your group will be entertained for hours mingling and enjoying food and drinks, and will love the time on board. Don’t feel the need to fill up the schedule with lots of extra activities – one or two is fine but allow time for your group to just enjoy each other’s company and being on a boat on Sydney Harbour.

3. Try not to worry about the weather – Bring your positive vibes on the day and you will have a good time. While we definitely hope the sun is shining, rain or shine, you WILL have fun with your family and friends!

4. Decide on a boarding location that is convenient for you – Consider how you and your guests will be getting to the wharf on the day e.g. public transport or driving, and select a location accordingly. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your cruise is set to commence to avoid any delays. While generally boarding and disembarking does take place at the same location, if you have alternate plans after your cruise, a different location can be an option.

5. Plan adequate food for all – If you choose to BYO food and drinks, ensure there is a substantial amount for all. The simplest idea for food is pre-prepared platters or BBQ items, as this keeps preparation to a minimum when on board. If choosing to bring food for the BBQ, our friendly crew will cook this for you. All BBQ utensils and cleaning products are available onboard, so you just need to bring your food and drinks for the day.

6. Don’t forget your drinking water – A must for all boat charters, but something that is often forgotten. Don’t forget this!

7. Limit decorations and extra items – All vessels are well-maintained and where décor is used the look is modern and sophisticated. We understand that some events are planned with a specific theme in mind, however, limiting decorations and items being brought on board will make the boarding and disembarking process quicker and easier. Remember that planning an event on a boat is different to land venues, and bump-in time or pre-access cannot always be offered, so it is a good idea to keep it simple. At the end of your cruise, items brought on board will also need to be taken off or disposed of, so keep this in mind.

8. Communicate accurate details to your guests – To avoid stress and lots of phone calls on the day, ensure all your guests have accurate details, including cruise date and time, exact boarding location (with a link if possible), and advise them if you want them to bring anything with them on the day.

Use these simple tips to help you have a smooth, stress-free planning process in the lead up to your cruise celebration. The Sea Sydney Harbour team is always happy to help and assist with your planning too.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #eventplanning #partyplanning #boat #catamaran #privateboathire #floatingvenue #allthingsnautical

OUR FUR CAPTAIN, ‘SKIPPER’

We have a new fur baby in the Sea Sydney Harbour family, and he is a bundle of cuteness and joy! With a nautical-inspired name, he is set to be the head of the boat and he has already begun learning the ropes.

THE CUTEST MEMBER OF THE TEAM

INTRODUCING ‘SKIPPER’ !

Skipper is a black (and white) schnoodle and he is a handsome boy. He is extremely affectionate, gentle, and friendly, and he loves to play with other dogs and humans, particularly young children. He has a child-like spring in his little step that is adorable, and while he loves to play indoors with his toys (he is so small he sometimes thinks he is a toy), the outdoors is an exciting adventure for him every time – at just 3 months old, the world is a very big and exhausting place!

In his short time with us, Skipper has already begun his boating adventures! He has visited a number of marinas and taken walks along the berths, and he has ventured out onto boats already, so he finds his sea legs at a young age. Fleetwing II seems to be his favourite vessel, and he didn’t take long to find his seat on the boat – move over Captain Frank!

Captain Frank has fallen head over heels for our little fur Captain, Skipper, and their bond is growing every day. They love sharing special captain cuddles and kisses, and having fun together both on and off the water. We can only imagine what adventures they will be getting up to in the future…

Stay tuned for Skipper’s adventures and amazingly cute pictures (we are sure there will be many) to come! Follow Sea Sydney Harbour on Instagram and like our Facebook page for all the fur fun!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #skipper #furcaptain #dog #boatdog #puppy #schnoodleonsydneyharbour #boat #catamaran #floatingvenue #allthingsnautical

BIRTHDAYS ON THE WATER

Turning a year older and looking for a unique party venue?!? Why not celebrate on Sydney Harbour with Captain Frank and the team!

Birthdays come and go every year… some love to lap up the attention and others prefer to let the day slide under the radar… but big or small, we all deserve some kind of celebration. It’s the one day of the year that you can truly say is about you, you, you, and no one can tell you otherwise!

Whether you are looking to host a low-key, mid-week event, or make a day or night of it on the weekend, you can hire your own private floating venue for an intimate group of family and friends. Why share a space with others, in a restaurant or bar, when you can hire a venue privately on one of the most beautiful harbour’s in the world?

FLOATING VENUE OPTIONS

Sea Sydney Harbour specialises in intimate gatherings on the harbour and the team host a range of functions, including birthdays of all ages. With vessels currently ranging in capacity and different vessel styles available, there will undoubtedly be a vessel that you will love. Opt for an open one-level sailing catamaran, or a luxury motor catamaran with two levels and a range of internal and external deck spaces, perfect for all weather conditions.

CUSTOMISATION

One of the best features of Sea Sydney Harbour’s private charters is that the team customise the experience to suit your needs – it’s your birthday so the day should be about you, you, you! While we recommend cruise durations of 3-4 hours to allow time to enjoy your time on the water, shorter cruise durations are available if preferred. There is also the option to select from catering and beverage packages (selected vessels only), or the option to BYO food and beverages onboard. Pending your budget, the team can tailor a package to suit your requests, making each celebration unique and your birthday extra special!

ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

Want to go that extra step and add some fun activities to your cruise? The team have a range of optional extras that can be organised including:

the hire of water equipment
an onboard DJ
a drag queen hostess
a cocktail masterclass
laser clay pigeon shooting

PLAN EARLY

In the present time of writing this post, there is no denying that the world is moving through an evolving and unfamiliar situation. However, it is important that special occasions still be recognised and celebrated (with some precautions). Despite any external impacts on events, every individual has a birth date and this remains certain each year, so there is no reason why the planning for birthday celebrations can’t start early.

Captain Frank and the team would love to have you onboard and what better way to celebrate another year of life, than by enjoying your time on the water, with some food, drinks and an intimate group of family and friends. You will create memories that will carry you through the year, until your next birthday and beyond!

Don’t just take our word for it… Check out these testimonials from birthday events Captain Frank and the team have hosted…

______________________________

“I booked the Enigma X for a dozen friends and myself for a friend’s first birthday in Australia.
We were picked up at 3:30 and celebrated on the boat until 6:30 including watching the sunset over the harbour. Both of the crew were a lot of fun to chat with and handled every need/request with (the) utmost professionalism.
Thank you so much for making our friend’s birthday a memorable one! We’ll most definitely be back again!” – Natasha

“Unforgettable day ! From the moment we stepped on the boat Captain Frank and Tye could not do enough for us. They were AWESOME ! Everyone had a day that they won’t forget. We set sail at 3, returning at 7 so got to see the best of everything on our amazing harbour. I can not fault the Catamaran – there was plenty of room for everyone to spread out, yet we were still altogether. It’s a great layout for socialising. Everything about the day exceeded our expectations and was PERFECT !
Thank you again, Captain Frank and Tye – We will definitely be back !” – Narelle

Further reviews and testimonials can be found on the Sea Sydney Harbour website, Trip Advisor profile and Facebook page.

______________________________

To find out more information contact the Sea Sydney Harbour team – email info@seasydneyharbour.com.au or phone +61 452 188 739.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #birthdays #partyvenues #boat #catamaran #floatingvenue #allthingsnautical

AN A-Z DESCRIPTION OF SEA SYDNEY HARBOUR

26 LINES THAT DESCRIBE SEA SYDNEY HARBOUR AT IT’S BEST

A ll round A team
B eautiful vessels with views
C aptain Frank – our main man
D edicated team
E nigma X – our growing star
F leetwing II – affordable luxury
G roup celebrations
H arbour tours for visitors and locals
I nnovative approach
J oy of being on Sydney Harbour
K irralee – our first born
L ove what we do
M emories are created
N evaeh – like heaven on the water
O pportunity to experience Sydney Harbour
P rivate charters
Q uality cruising experiences
R ange of water experiences
S ydney Harbour – our home and place of operation
T alented and passionate team
U nique cruising experiences
V ivid Sydney harbour cruises
W ell-maintained vessels
X ceptional and professional team
Y es, we customise your event
Z est for boats and the water!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #boat #catamaran #floatingvenue #allthingsnautical

A ROMANTIC IDEA WITH A DIFFERENCE

Are you searching for a unique way to spend a treasured date with your loved one? Planning a proposal, special anniversary celebration or a romantic surprise date? There has never been a greater time than now to celebrate love and each other! ❤️

While some of the regular celebratory venues that first come to mind, may be limited in their operations due to the extraordinary events of 2020, why not embrace an idea with a difference and host this special moment on a floating venue on Sydney Harbour? Being a private venue and with passenger numbers of just two, the Harbour Romance package adheres to all health and social distancing guidelines.

WHERE THE ROMANCE HAPPENS

Enjoy uninterrupted views of one of the world’s most beautiful harbours in the world, from onboard a private 10.5-metre catamaran. The vessel contains a large internal cabin and cockpit area with easy access to the front bow area – the perfect spot for some private couple time and to share some love and romantic words, while you enjoy the seclusion and serenity of Sydney Harbour.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Sea Sydney Harbour’s ‘Harbour Romance for Two‘ package includes two hours exclusive vessel hire with boarding and disembarking from Darling Harbour. There are two options to select from – opt for a picnic lunch cruise or a sunset seafood dinner cruise, each served with a bottle of sparkling wine. Both options are breathtaking and are sure to be remembered for years to come.

CREATING MEMORIES

Be spoilt with the best views of Sydney on this private catamaran cruise for two. This is the perfect idea for proposals, anniversaries, romantic dates, Valentine’s Day, and will be a date that you and your loved one will never forget!

Discover more and book online today or contact the team for further information or to customise your experience.

To find out more information contact the Sea Sydney Harbour team – email info@seasydneyharbour.com.au or phone +61 452 188 739.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #harbourromance #romance #romanticcruise #romanticideas #love #boat #allthingsnautical

FUN FAMILY WATER ACTIVITIES

SPECIAL EDITION 3 - NAUTICAL FUN FOR ISOLATION

As we navigate new waters in this extraordinary time, Sea Sydney Harbour has created a special cruise package to combat those isolation feels, while adhering to government and social distancing guidelines – the ‘Sail, Paddle, Fish Family Cruise‘.

While staying at home and social distancing has now become the norm for Australians and much of the world, there is no doubt that if you are working from home, homeschooling children and also spending your spare time at home, it might all become a little overwhelming at times and you might need to get out of your four walls for a short period. With Australia showing positive signs towards the road of recovery and restrictions starting to ease, the Sea Sydney Harbour team are keen to share their passion for boating and the joy of Sydney Harbour.

This special ‘Sail, Paddle, Fish Family Cruise‘ has been designed to keep you and your family/household active, healthy and safe on the water with a 2 or 3-hour private cruise on Sydney Harbour. Enjoy 360° uninterrupted views of the most beautiful harbour in the world, participate in sailing, paddleboarding and/or fishing in a quiet cove, and enjoy the fresh Sydney air and sunshine.

Each of these water-based activities are currently permitted under the Public Health Order. To maintain the highest level of safety and hygiene and adhere to social distancing guidelines, the cruise is limited to residents of one household (family or friends) and caters for up to 6 people. Bookings are available 7 days a week for a limited time.

Discover more and book online today or contact the team for further information.

Best Day Out – Guaranteed!
“Have been out many times on Sea Sydney Harbour’s boats and it is the best day out! The team is super professional and are guaranteed to create the best vibe for any celebration. Thank you team! Cannot wait for my next cruise.”

Alina L

To find out more information contact the Sea Sydney Harbour team – email info@seasydneyharbour.com.au or phone +61 452 188 739.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneyharbour #sailpaddlefish #familycruise #staysafe #isolation #wateractivities #boat #allthingsnautical

THE BOATIE QUIZ NIGHT

SPECIAL EDITION 2 - NAUTICAL FUN FOR ISOLATION

Themed pub trivia quizzes are much-loved pass times, so with pubs and bars currently closed, who said you can’t create your own quiz fun at home? Quizzing on a video call is a great way to connect with friends (and show off all of your boatie knowledge), so for your next virtual catch up, Captain Frank has you sorted with a boatie trivia quiz night.

Take the quiz yourself and check your answers at the bottom of the post, before testing the knowledge of all your boatie friends!

BOATIE TRIVIA QUESTIONS

Q1

If you are on the water, and you see this iconic landmark, what harbour are you in?

Q2

If someone were to say they are on the starboard side of the vessel, where are they positioned?

Q3

A catamaran will always have two of these, as a distinguishing feature?

Q4

Where is the ‘bilge’ on a vessel?

Q5

What is the name of the process, where you join or connect (a rope or ropes) by interweaving the strands at the ends?

Q6

If someone was to say that they are going ‘aft’, where are they going?

Q7

What is the main purpose of the navigation lights on a vessel?

Q8

When is it COMPULSORY to carry an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon)?

(a) When crossing a coastal bar
(b) When operating a vessel less than 5 metres in length on enclosed waters
(c) At all times
(d) When operating a vessel 2 or more nautical miles off the coast

Q9

Someone asks you, “How much does she draw?” They want to know your boat’s… ?

Q10

If a vessel sounds three short blasts, what does this signal mean?

Q11

At night, a vessel at anchor MUST display:

(a) Sidelights
(b) Masthead light forward
(c) All-round white light
(d) No lights are required

Q12

What channel on a VHF radio is the distress channel?

Q13

When crossing a bar, do life jackets need to be worn by all people on board?

Q14

Where should you drive a vessel when in a channel?

(a) On the port (left-hand) side
(b) In the middle of the channel
(c) On the starboard (right-hand) side
(d) On any side – it does not matter as long as a collision does not occur

Q15

What is an anchor used for?

Answers: 1. Sydney Harbour / 2. On the right side when facing forward / 3. Two hulls / 4. The lowest compartment at the boat’s bottom / 5. Splice / 6. Going towards the rear of the boat / 7. To indicate a vessel’s position to other vessels between dusk and dawn / 8. (d) When operating a vessel 2 or more nautical miles off the coast / 9. Draft / 10. Vessel manoeuvring astern (reversing) / 11. (c) All-round white light / 12. Channel 16 / 13. Yes, this type of crossing can be dangerous so life jackets are compulsory for all / 14. (c) On the starboard (right-hand) side / 15. It is used to secure the vessel to the sea bed.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #stayhome #isolation #boat #boatiequiznight #trivia #boatgames #allthingsnautical

THE BEST BOAT MOVIES

SPECIAL EDITION 1 - NAUTICAL FUN FOR ISOLATION

Moving through the days in isolation and staying home, Captain Frank is undoubtedly experiencing some boating withdrawals, so together our team has collated a list of memorable boat movies to help everyone stay entertained and on the water from the comfort of your very own home. There is no better time to binge-watch some boat movies and feel like you are cruising the waters with a bowl of popcorn in hand.

With movies from a diverse range of genres selected, there is sure to be a title suitable for everyone in your household.

BOAT MOVIES WORTH THE WATCH

Captain Ron – a comedy that follows a family Caribbean vacation onboard an inherited vintage yacht. With Captain Ron’s “anything-goes” attitude it is no surprise that the family run into plenty of trouble along the way.

Pirates of the Caribbean (film series) – a series of fantasy films that see pirate alliances formed to fight battles. Set in an era when villainous pirates scavenged the Caribbean seas and loosely based on Walt Disney’s theme park attraction, this series is perfect to watch with the whole family.

Titanic – an epic romance and disaster film that takes place on board the infamous luxury British steamship ‘Titanic’, which tragically sinks during its maiden voyage after striking an iceberg. A movie that most have seen before, this award-winning film is well worth another watch!

Jaws – a thriller filled to the brim with terror, as a white shark terrorises a quiet island and unleashes chaos on a beach community. This is the film that included the infamous line “You’re gonna need a bigger boat”, and it is a lasting classic in American cinema. Watch if you dare!

Life of PI – an adventure that follows a young man who survives a disaster at sea and is hurtled into an epic journey of discovery and hope. While cast away, an unexpected connection is formed between the man and a fearsome tiger.

Captain Phillips – an action film with a storyline focussed on pirates attacking a container ship, while it is on course to Kenya. The captain of the ship (Tom Hanks), uses his wits to negotiate for his crew’s safety.

The Perfect Storm – an intense drama that is based on a true story, which sees some commercial fisherman caught in “the middle of a monster” – three great storm systems colliding together out at sea. This movie will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Moby Dick – a classic story of revenge that revolves around the tale of a captain’s self-destructive obsession to hunt the white whale, Moby Dick. Determined to seek revenge and kill the whale due to an incident years before, the sacrifices are high, including life, crew members and his ship.

Pick just one or two movies to watch, or better yet, have a boat movie marathon to pass your time! Watch them solo or with company – either way, you’ll be cruising on the water and across the seas from your very own couch, as you get caught up in these storylines!

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #stayhome #isolation #boat #boatmovies #movies #allthingsnautical

SYDNEY BARS – OUR TOP PICKS

With Sydney lockout laws set to change in early 2020, the city is set for a party vibe return and there is some fun to be had both on and off the water.

Our team has picked their favourite bars in Sydney to have a drink or two. Why not check out one of these venues before or after your harbour cruise? You never know, ask nicely and your friendly Sea Sydney Harbour crew might join you at the after-party!

OUR TOP BAR PICKS

Manly Wharf Hotel, Manly – What better way to soak up the sunshine and enjoy views of Sydney Harbour, than at the iconic Manly Wharf Hotel. This venue has something for everyone – three different bars as well as a large sports bar for the sport fans out there, and an extensive food and drinks menu. Opening from 11:30am each day, and closing around midnight, there’s plenty of time for fun, before or after a harbour cruise!

Opera Bar, Sydney – If you want to extend your uninterrupted views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House – go no further, Opera Bar will deliver! Open from 10am (its wine o’clock somewhere), Opera Bar is an all-rounder should you need a venue for breakfast with incredible views, somewhere to begin a night out in Sydney, or somewhere to continue your laughs with friends. You will find good food and a buzzing atmosphere at Opera Bar.

The Glenmore Hotel, The Rocks – Did someone say ROOFTOP?!? Boasting 180-degree views of Sydney Harbour, this rooftop is one of the best in Sydney. Thanks to a retractable roof, this desirable section of The Glenmore can be enjoyed rain, hail or shine. In the event that the rooftop is at maximum capacity upon your visit, the venue has three levels to choose from, with the second level playing host to a beautiful cocktail lounge and three formal dining areas, and the ground level offering a public bar for casual drinks and food. Our team love the vibe of this rooftop bar!

Gallon, Pyrmont – A hidden little gem – from the street Gallon looks like your average bar or cafe, but inside you will find two trendy courtyard areas and two separate bar areas to enjoy. With a mix of tasty food and beverage selections, it’s a favourite for locals and also one to keep up your sleeve for your next night out. Just a short stroll from two local Pyrmont wharf locations makes it an ideal venue to continue drinks with friends after your time on the water.

Cricketers Arms Hotel, Balmain – Located just outside the city, and an 8-minute stroll from Balmain Wharf, this pub makes a great beginning or end to your day. On the street level is the venue’s traditional pub, or head downstairs to a beautiful Italian Restaurant. Alternatively, you also have Balmain Burger Co. conveniently located within The Cricketers Arms. A diverse offering all in the one location, and uncrowded wharves for boarding and disembarking your Sea Sydney Harbour vessel!

YOU’VE HEARD OURS… LET’S HEAR YOURS…

Do you have a favourite or local bar that you would love to share with Captain Frank and the team? We would love to hear about them in the comments or share your party pictures capturing your Sydney fun on Instagram.

#seasydneyharbour #onaboat #sydney #sydneybars #partyvenues #afterpartyideas #partyideas #toppicks #allthingsnautical