Tracy’s Twist – A Commemorative Cyclone Tracy Sunset Cruise

In the heart of Darwin, the memory of Cyclone Tracy lingers like a soft murmur in the air, and this year, we invite you to join us as we pay homage to a defining moment in our city's history. This unique sunset cruise has been aptly named "Tracy’s Twist”. It will offer a poignant and respectful commemoration of Cyclone Tracy’s 50th Anniversary. Framed by that stunning Top End sunset, it will weave together stories of resilience and community spirit.

Cyclone Tracy forever altered Darwin's landscape and its people. The catastrophic impact on December 25, 1974, saw around forty boats damaged, wrecked, or lost at sea, claiming sixteen lives in the Harbour alone. Prawn trawlers like the Bellbird and Bluebird serve as underwater testament to the storm's fury, resting on the seabed as silent storytellers of that fateful night.

"Tracy’s Twist" is more than just a cruise; it's a celebration of community resilience, featuring collaborations with two wonderful local businesses—Fin and Tonic and Willing Distillery. This cruise embodies the spirit of unity that Darwin experienced in the aftermath of Tracy, as we collectively cherish our shared history.

A Journey Through History and Flavour

Departing from Dock 2 at Stokes Hill Wharf at 5.30 PM on Saturday, 30 November  22024, "Tracy’s Twist" will take guests on a historical and sensory voyage. After boarding and with a complimentary beverage in hand, the first stop will be the historic site where the prawn trawler Bellbird rests. Here, you’ll witness the echoes of history through the vessel sounder, displaying the remnants of a bygone era.

Next, we will move with speed toward Cullen Bay to collect a delicious fish and chips meal from Fin and Tonic, a newly established destination restaurant that prides itself on using only the freshest Northern Territory catch. Our Sea Darwin - Sea Tiwi boats are specially designed for the tropical ambiance of Darwin Harbour. You will be able to feel the breeze on your face and have 360 degree views as we pause at Cullen Bay beach, where the crew will pick up the scrumptious meal which will be paired with the vibrant tropical light of a Top End wet season sunset.

A Toast to Resilience

To honour those who lost their lives during Cyclone Tracy, we'll offer a complimentary sundowner —a distinctive Gin and Tonic crafted with Willing Distillery’s award-winning Kakadu Plum and Quandong Gin. The ensuing toast will not be just a drink, but a tribute to the enduring spirit of Darwin and the beauty of the Northern Territory's natural ingredients.

Our partners in this commemoration, Willing Distillery and Fin and Tonic, are both small local businesses that embody the values of craftsmanship, community, and sustainability. Willing Distillery, the most northern commercial distillery in Australia, champions local flavours and traditional distillation methods, while Fin and Tonic showcase the best of local produce in a chic and welcoming setting.

"Tracy’s Twist" is an opportunity to connect deeply with Darwin's history and community, honouring the past while celebrating the present. Join us for a heartfelt commemoration that pays respect to the lives lost and the resilient spirit that continues to define our city.

Book your seat today and be part of a meaningful sunset cruise that intertwines memory, community, and the stunning beauty of Darwin Harbour. Together, let's honour Cyclone Tracy's legacy with local spirit, grace and warmth.

Cruise Details:

Tickets: $109pp

Date: 30 November 2024

Time: 5:30 - 7:30pm

Boarding:  Dock 2 Stokes Hill Wharf

Inclusions: 

• One serve of fresh, local wild caught fish’n chips from Fin and Tonic
• Complimentary drink on boarding (beer, wine, sparkling, cider or Willing G & T)
• Complimentary sundowner to toast lives lost (beer, wine, sparkling, cider or Willing G & T)
• Take home stubby cooler or Govino Glass
• Visit to the wreck site of the Bellbird
• 1.5 hour Darwin Harbour Sunset Cruise with real time commentary 

Book your ticket for "Tracy’s Twist" now and be part of this special commemoration.