Southeast boating charter offering Christmas lights tour like no other
Homeowners at Patterson Lakes believe they erect the best Christmas displays in the southeast and a fishing charter company is offering festive lights lovers the best view of them from the water. Here’s how to get on board.
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A local fishing charter is swapping snapper for Santa this December, offering a Christmas lights tour like no other.
Forget bumper-to-bumper late night drives- The Reel Thing Fishing Charters Melbourne is taking the beloved summer pastime off the street and into the water, offering guests an exclusive look through the dazzling waterside display at Patterson Lakes.
Spirited marina residents have been busy decking out their waterfront backyards ahead of the festive season, with some neighbours draping their homes in $30,000 worth of brilliant bulbs.
Boat charter operator and resident Mark Ratchford, who launched the unique tour in 2007, says the show has never been so extravagant.
“Neighbours seem to compete a lot more than they used to … we’ve heard some residents have been spending up to $30,000 on their displays,” he said.
“It’s quite a beautiful night. Adults can bring along champagne and the kids love it as well.”
The father-of-two picks up guests from Patterson Lakes shopping precinct for the two hour charter, which is set to kick off at 8.30pm each night between December 10 and January 2 2020.
The schedule includes extra special tours on Christmas Eve, Christmas night and New Year’s Eve.
“As far as we know, we’re the only boating group to offer this tour,” Mr Ratchford said.
“It’s a really special time of year … it’s great to see all the kids so happy. We’ve never had any bad feedback.”
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Patterson Lakes resident Monica Azzopardi, who has been decking out her waterside home for over a decade, said the unique display at Patterson Lakes was “one of Melbourne’s best”.
“It’s beautiful to see all the boats drift by...some of the drivers even decorate the boats,” she said.
“The water really makes all the difference.”
Tickets are priced at $40 for children and $50 for adults, with early booking encouraged to avoid disappointment.
To book, visit thereelthing.com.au/xmas-lights-tour or phone 0412 366 664