Waterfront dining reimagined at Nautica Dining
Photo credit: Newy Digital
Situated on the waters of Newcastle Harbour in Wickham, the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club (NCYC) has long been a harbour icon. It’s home to bustling marina arms, a working boatyard, a commercial centre, and the Club House’s very own hospitality gem: Nautica Dining.
Having celebrated its 30th anniversary in early 2024, NCYC has grown from humble beginnings into a thriving community hub. Since the Club House opened in 2008, and later expanded in 2021, it’s become a welcoming space for both the sailing community and the wider Newcastle crowd.
“A big portion of why it is so successful is the strong sailing community that has been built here,” says Ethan Tucker, NCYC’s Marketing Coordinator.
While sailing remains at the heart of the Club’s purpose, its hospitality arm has evolved into a destination all of its own, attracting locals year-round. The Foredeck makes the most of NCYC’s stunning waterfront views, offering the perfect spot to relax over lunch or dinner, enjoy a drink, and take in the lively atmosphere of the marina.
A New Wave of Dining
Nautica Dinings new direction is led by Operations Manager Cameron Burns and brought to life by Executive Chef Luke Carpenter. While the kitchen team remains the same, the menu has been completely reimagined, blending coastal sophistication with fresh Mediterranean flair.
Chef Luke’s philosophy is simple: premium produce and sustainable sourcing.
“Luke is really passionate about produce and sustainable practices. A lot of our seafood is hand selected by Luke and he is particular about where he sources his beef ensuring that it’s ethically processed,” Ethan explains.
Expect dishes like Pan-Roasted Etty Bay Barramundi served with heirloom tomatoes, basil, and blue swimmer crab-stuffed zucchini flowers, or Andy’s Seafood Chowder, brimming with mussels, prawns, squid, and smoked ling.
The Seafood Tasting Plate is another standout and is a celebration of the ocean featuring oysters, scallops, prawns, and Balmain bugs.
For something to share, the Salt and Szechuan Pepper Squid or King Prawn Tacos with mango salsa hit just the right note.
Spritz Season and Summer Sounds
To complement the new menu, Nautica Dinings drinks list has also been given a sunny refresh. There’s a distinct focus on spritzes – light, zesty, and beautifully balanced. Sip on a Limoncello Spritz featuring local Earp Limoncello, or try the floral Hugo Spritz, the aromatic INK Gin Spritz, or the ever-popular Aperol Spritz as the sun dips over the masts.
Adding to the coastal charm, live music fills the marina air every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, creating the perfect backdrop for sunset drinks and seafood feasts.
Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, Nautica Dining is the kind of place that feels like a mini holiday, whether you’re lingering over a long lunch, catching up for spritzes in the sun, or dining under the glow of the marina lights.
With its revitalised menu, relaxed luxury, and unbeatable waterfront location, Nautica Dining at Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club captures the essence of summer on the harbour.
