No matter whether you're an avid yachty, casual fisherman, dedicated beach walker, interested surfer, summertime boaty, keen historian or local resident (say all that in a hurry), the ORCV's Rip Tour has been a highlight for years because it is informative and truly educational. The next Rip Tour is set for April 18, 2010 and it always sells out, so get in early would be my thoughts on the matter. I went on the last Rip Tour and it was great to see people really understand what you we're showing them, like the standing wave off Point Nepean.

This aerial view may help you get an idea of why it is critical to be in the correct sector as given to you by Point Lonsdale Light when making you approach through The Rip at Port Phillip Heads. Point Lonsdale Signal Station (Lonsdale VTS) on Ch12 VHF is the correct way to reach them.

Remember of course that it is weather dependent, so ensure you fill one form out for each passenger and give us your contact information in case of postponement or cancellation. The only other thing you need to work out is if you are boarding at Queenscliff (no doubt most likely before a stellar lunch) or Sorrento (in which case you're better off driving up to the vineyards for lunch). In addition to a great day out, what you get included in the whole deal are:

• A copy of the ORCV's Rip Guide
• Identification of major beacons and marks
• Queenscliff lead lights and shipping channels
• Information on tides and tide signals
• The ability to identify favourable conditions and dangers
• Performing correct passages out of and back into Port Phillip.

Now it's not just us that think it's a great little excursion. Here's what others have had to say over the years:

...I want to thank the ORCV for the Rip Tour.  My family and I had a great time.  The kids are still talking about it!  It was a great buzz to for them to learn a bit about navigation and also to see some wildlife (dolphins in particular).  Please pass on my appreciation to all the organisers for an excellent job.

Regards, David Johnson

Hi there ORCV,

Just a quick note to let you know that I, and four of my crew, really enjoyed the Rip Tour on Sunday.  We all thought it was a very well worthwhile day.  The commentary and explanations were excellent.  A1.

Many thanks, Dennis Hambleton

The Rip - delightful one day... and not so flash the next. Come and find out how to pick it and where to get up-to-date information from.

Come and learn exactly where these four fingers are on the satellite pic at the top of the story and why they're as crucial as the ones on your own hand!!!

Not just out in the drink as sunbeds for seals and perches for birds, they have a mission. Learn what that is on the April 18, 2010 ORCV Rip Tour or you may end up steaming along like the lads in Weekend at Bernie's below...

So now to book and reserve your spot on this great tour, click HERE for the training page, which contains the enrolment form and then get it to the ORCV office pronto... You'll be placed on the wait list in case of a cancellation or other event.

By John Curnow