Tides
There is only one High and one Low tide each day in the Gulf of Carpentaria, except for Neaps each fortnight, when we have Double Tides. The tidal variation can be up to 4 metres, with strong currents around headlands and over undersea channels. Strong Southeasterly Trade Winds in June-July can affect tide levels, sometimes resulting in high tide being half a metre lower than expected.
If you are planning to travel to Sweers Island in a private boat please ensure that the skipper is experienced in open waters, and that all regulation safety equipment is carried on board. Check tide times for Burketown as you may have to plan your trip carefully in order to be able to cross the shallow sandbars at the mouth of the river. Note that SE winds can result in lower than normal tides.
You can view/download Sweers Tide Tables by clicking on the links below.
Weather
Sweers Island's climate could best be described as 'Dry Tropics'. The average daily maximum temperature ranges from 24C in June/July to 35C in December. The most pleasant times to visit the Gulf Country are from early April until mid October. During this time, south-easterly winds prevail and can sometimes blow up to 25 knots in the morning and drop off to flat calm in the afternoon. These winds can be chilly at night, so from May to September it is advisable to bring at least a warm jacket & jeans for evenings.
The Morning Glory Roll Cloud is often seen in this area during September-October.
Gulf waters are dangerous as conditions can change rapidly. Glass calm at 5pm can turn to 25 knot gale conditions by 10pm. If you are planning to travel to Sweers Island in a private boat please ensure that the skipper is experienced in open waters, and that all regulation radios, safety gear and navigation equipment are carried. Please check BOM website for weather conditions and please phone us before departure to establish a SARtime.
Four Day Weather Forecast: CLICK HERE
Local Weather Observations: CLICK HERE