When Darren and Nicky Vaux took over Marmong Point Marina five months ago, one of the things they were most excited about was co-hosting the region’s most vivid sailing event.

“It was one of the things that actually attracted us to the marina, just that progressive nature around boating and attracting more recreational sailing to the water is something we really wanted to be a part of,” Mr Vaux said.

A passionate boatie himself, Darren has sailed in idyllic waters across the globe including the Mediterranean Sea, the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays.

Despite travelling around the world, Lake Macquarie is one of his favourite places to get out on the water.

“I’ve been a boater my whole life, and so long as I am in or around the water, I am happy,” Mr Vaux said.

“But I’ve got to say my boating of choice is definitely some of the waterways around New South Wales and Lake Macquarie is right up there.”

Now, he needs your help to make Float Your Boat bigger and better than the festival’s previous events.

Darren, who is also President of the Boating Industry Association, is encouraging like-minded boaties to host their own theatrical yacht alongside him at the event.

Lake Macquarie City Council manager arts, culture and tourism Jacqui Hemsley said more than 40 boaties were invited to register, with the first parade held on Friday 24 June.

“Sailors dock their vessels at Marmong Point Marina, setting sail on dusk before skirting the western edge of the lake, passing Toronto and Coal Point on their way to Wangi Wangi,” she said.

“It’s a truly unique experience that lures thousands of visitors and surrounding residents to Lake Macquarie to watch, which is great for local tourism operators.”

The flotilla will then take to the water for a second night on Saturday 25 June, starting at Marmong Point before travelling to Warners Bay, Eleebana and Valentine before reaching Belmont.

All boats must be more than five metres in length and host more than 1,000 light globes to create a shining sculpture.

“In the past, we’ve had a flying dolphin, a champagne bottle and even a giant goanna created from LED lights, so the only limit is your imagination,” Ms Hemsley said. 

“We’re offering incentives of $400 to the first 20 people who register a vessel that will help cover the cost of things like lights and fuel.”

Cash prizes are also up for grabs during the festival.

For more information or to register, visit lakemac.com.au

Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.