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As far as sailing destinations go, Gippsland Lakes is just terrific. It's just a few hours easy drive from Melbourne. This makes it a perfect long weekend sailing destination and the opportunities for diverse interests are absolutely wonderful.

Hiring a yacht or cruiser from Riviera Nautic at Metung is a breeze. Friday night on board is free so it's well worth making the effort to leave as soon as the week is over and settling in before bedtime. By Saturday morning you feel like you've already had half a weekend relaxation at one of my favorite sailing destinations.

The pre-departure briefing is excellent and tailored to meet your particular desires. Whether you want action or nature, or anything in between, the shore crew will ensure you know exactly where to go. You're then set free to revel, relax & recharge in your own way, peacefully alone or with a few friends. The on-board charts are excellent and a little navigation is required if you wish to avoid running aground.

For a bit of activity, Paynesville is a leisurely day's sail away and an excellent sailing destination. Tucked in between the mainland & Raymond Island this makes for a perfectly protected mooring and berthing is easy to find. The town is quite quaint & has everything you could want including a jetty-side restaurant which serves a great meal or a pint so you can unwind as you watch the passing parade. If you time it right, you'll be there for the jazz festival - meander from venue to venue and savor not only the talent but the local wines too. It's a terrific spot to hole up after a day's sailing.

For those who prefer a more nature-based adventure, head south to one of the several jetties, take an easy stroll over the sand dunes and experience the most beautiful, deserted, unending Ninety Mile Beach. You'll be forgiven for thinking you're the only person on earth as you eye runs as far as it can see along the untouched beauty of the deserted seascape.

One cannot help but be awestruck by the amazing bird life here. Two national parks border the lakes. One of the few mainland-based Pelican rookeries is quite easily accessed and so close you can virtually pull their tail feathers. The variety of bird life is extremely wide so you'll never be bored, constantly finding another of the 140 species in the area. You'll also find kangaroos, koalas and other native animals if you look hard enough.

If you're just after peace & tranquility, well, there's nothing much to beat one of the many tiny, secluded, romantic bays like Boxes Creek or Duck Arm. When the day is done, you can't help but soak up the fresh air and refresh your soul.

For anyone who has a bit more time to spare, Gippsland Lakes is definitely one of the most restful and interesting places to spend a sailing vacation. With more time you'll be able to visit Johnsonville & Swan Reach and explore further west beyond McLennan's Strait. The marina crew will advise you on suggested itineraries for up to 7 glorious days.

No matter what you like to fill your weekend with, Gippsland Lakes will definitely delight. Awake from a perfectly calm night's sleep in a sheltered cove to amazing bird life or arise to a hot shower at the marina after a great night out ashore - the choice is yours and it's all here. Gippsland Lakes is certainly a gem.