by Jacqui Thomas •
No matter who we spoke to in 1770, the question was the same, “Have you been on the LARC yet?” It seems these iconic vessels are attracting as much attention as the fishing in the area. It’s hard to miss the bright pink vessels traversing the sand and sea, and its popularity with tourists (and locals) had us eager to give it a try.
It wasn’t hard to convince the crew we needed a trip out on the LARC. A quick visit to the office had us booked on to the Afternoon Cruise departing at 4pm.
The LARC stands for Lighter Amphibious Resupply Cargo. Being ex-military, its versatility and reliability are ideal for transporting passengers up and down the Bustard Bay coastline. The premium excursion, Paradise Tour, consists of a full day’s adventure to the historical lighthouse at Bustard Head. Along the way, there are various stops for morning tea, wildlife spotting, picnic lunches, fishing and, for the adventurous, sand-boarding down a towering 35m sand dune. This all culminates in a visit inside the historical Bustard Head Lightstation, Queensland’s only open operating lighthouse. Other options include a shorter ‘LARC and Lunch’ tour; a ‘Walkabout Tour’ (learning about local indigenous culture of hunting, gathering and a guided bushwalk), and the Afternoon Cruise.
Boarding the LARC, we were greeted by Blake, our skipper/tour guide for the trip. His warm and friendly demeanour was welcoming, and his ‘Aussie’ appearance of khaki clothing and akubra hat were lapped up by the foreign tourists (and, let’s be honest, domestic tourists as well).
The tour began with a safety spiel and introductions. Sitting in rows of four, the plastic chairs were modest but comfortable and, more importantly, everyone was afforded a view. We were warned that ‘some’ of us may get a spray of sea water, which instigated squeals of anticipation from the kids on board.
Bumping along the soft sand, Blake entertained us with stories from the past and recent local happenings. There was plenty to see with beautiful scenery set behind a stunning sunset backdrop. Along the way, Blake pointed out the wildlife and provided knowledgeable information including some interesting historical facts of 1770 and Bustard Head Lightstation. I recommend you pay attention as it’ll come in handy later…
The LARC’s first dip in the water was surprisingly smooth, and it transformed a sand buggy ride into a boat cruise in the bay. Despite its cumbersome appearance, Blake had full control and maneuverability over the vehicle, which is reassuring for the elderly and parents with young children. We had plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos and get our feet wet on the sand.
Heading home was what the littlies were really waiting for – the chance of getting sprayed! Spirits were high as we sped up and launched into the sea. It was a lot of fun, and not just for the kids – everyone on board had a fit of the giggles. A few deft sharp turns from Blake, and encouraging cheers from the passengers, and we were back on land for another go. A few more dips and sprays into the ocean and then we finally headed home. On the way back, Blake decided to hold a pop quiz on what we’d learnt on the tour – I told you to pay attention! Naturally, the kids out-smarted the adults, but I was pleased that I got a few right.
Overall the experience was light-hearted and fun; a perfect end to a busy day. The Afternoon Cruise was just a ‘taster’ of the tours on offer, but it certainly whet my appetite to try the full day Paradise Tour next time I visit 1770.
Tour prices start from $38 for an adult, and children under 4 go for free. For more information you can visit www.1770larctours.com.au and book online, or take your chances of availability and book at the office located at the marina.
