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We create innovative coastal interactions and experiences

About CoastXP – a nature-based adventure tourism company operating along the stunning Newcastle and Lake Macquarie coastline. CoastXP’s Founder and Ocean Enthusiast, Dom, along with our team of experienced wildlife guides focus on the marine life that inhabits the coastline, local geology, Aboriginal heritage, and unique destination landmarks including wrecks, cliffs, islands, sea caves and ships.

Experiences begin aboard CoastXP’s custom-built boat and include coastal sightseeing, whale watching (Jun – Nov) and guided bushwalking.

At CoastXP, we have received wide recognition for our experiences including being finalists at the NSW Tourism Awards, Trip Advisor’s Travellers Choice Award winners, Excellence in Tourism award winners at the Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards and most recently Dom was recognised as Newcastle’s Young Citizen of the Year for his active contribution to Newcastle’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

CoastXP is both an accredited quality and sustainable tourism business as well as a licensed NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Eco Pass operator.

Dominic May - CoastXP

About our Founder

Hey! I’m Dom.

I’m passionate about everything to do with tourism and the ocean!

I grew up surfing and diving in Coffs Harbour, but now call Newcastle home. I love the community, coastline, beaches, surfing, cafés and restaurants. It is an evolving destination, and there are so many things to be excited about.

The Hunter Coast is a lifestyle hub, it is the perfect balance of a city and a relaxed coastal town. CoastXP is about combining my passion for the ocean with my skills in marine tourism to provide you with an authentic experience!

Meet the Team

Tracey Andrews

Tracey

Tracey is a true Aquaphile [a-qua-phi-le] (an enthusiast of all things relating to water).
She grew up in Newcastle and is an avid surfer and ocean adventurer. Tracey has intricate knowledge of our coastline and is passionate about marine wildlife. She has worked as an officer in the marine environment for many years and is skilled at ensuring guests’ comfort and safety on-board CoastXP’s adventure boat tours.

Troy Hardaker

Troy

Troy loves all things to do with the ocean. He grew up in Coffs Harbour and is passionate about fishing and diving. He’s an experienced skipper and marine industry professional working for a marine supply company when he’s not guiding CoastXP tours. Troy is also a marine studies research tutor at the University of Queensland’s Heron Island Research Station guiding school students around the island covering all aspects of marine ecology on the reef.

Ally

Ally is a local Novocastrian having lived her whole life in Lake Macquarie. Growing up, Ally spent much of her time exploring Lake Macquarie and its surroundings. Ally is passionate about the outdoors and regularly operates CoastXP’s guided nature walks around the Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area.

CoastXP Vessel Atmos

CoastXP has put every measure in place to ensure we provide the highest quality experience, this starts with our vessel Atmos. The design allows for unobstructed 360° views, with the result of a truly unique experience.

Atmos is our custom-built rigid inflatable. It is a modern ecotourism vessel, comfortably seating up to 20 passengers designed with sustainability in mind, by eliminating the need to antifoul. Atmos even has a toilet onboard.

It is constructed for a wide range of offshore conditions and features a large canopy providing shade and protection from the elements in hot, cold or wet conditions. Atmos is powered by two V6 Suzuki engines, giving a total 650hp to provide you with an incredibly safe and smooth ride, suitable for all ages.

Hydro is the perfect small-group vessel being able to cater for up to 12 guests at a time. Being close to water level, and having loads of spare room on board is an added benefit.

Hydro has been designed for a range of inshore and offshore tours and provides guests with a fast, safe experience. Powered by 600 horsepower, travelling on Hydro is a fast and comfortable ride.

Suitable for individuals, couples and families, Hydro is a fantastic tour vessel and even has a freshwater shower and marine toilet on board!

A boat with passengers on Lake Macquarie NSW

Accessibility Statement

At CoastXP, we actively cater for a range of abilities. Being a local tourism operator, it’s critical that we provide as many opportunities to locals and visitors as possible to enjoy our experiences. That’s why we provide the following to all guests:

  • A range of ways for customers to book our experiences online, over the phone or via email, whichever is easiest.
  • Different payment methods, including payment methods that don’t involve entering credit card numbers each time, such as PayPal, Google Pay and Apple Pay.
  • A pre-departure email that includes the closest parking suggestions, as well as parking locations that include disabled parking. Disabled parking spaces are listed here, in the notes of each red dot.
  • Storage of wheelchairs and walkers during your Newcastle experience (for guests with the ability to board and disembark with assistance).
  • The ability to contact our team through a number of methods including via phone, email, live chat, social media messaging, website enquiry form, Google Business messaging, or in person.
  • Interpreters or a support person for a companion cardholder can travel free of charge.
  • High-contrast fonts and backgrounds that make our web pages easier to read.
  • A written transcript of the tour commentary is available upon request.
  • Closed captions on our online tour and social media videos.
  • A marine toilet on board for all guests.

If you or someone you’re travelling with has any special requirements, please do not hesitate to contact our team.

Inclusivity Statement

At CoastXP we are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, including those from the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disabilities and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. We celebrate people who share a passion for nature and an eagerness to explore.

We value respect, empathy and understanding. Our team is dedicated to respecting the identity of every individual and providing a space where everyone feels safe and valued, so you can focus on what’s most important – connecting with nature and having fun!

While we are passionate about making nature accessible to everyone, some of our tours may have physical limitations. We strive to accommodate our guests’ diverse needs. If you have any concerns or special requirements, we encourage you to get in touch with us.

The Hunter Coast

Newcastle and the Hunter Coast is a changing destination. Our tours were rated as one of the best things to do in Newcastle as they embrace the rich industrial and maritime heritage within the region while opening guest’s eyes to the new and exciting aspects of the Hunter Coast.

Newcastle is a completely NEW city, with a buzzing cafe and restaurant scene, full of creative art spaces, innovation and surf culture. Lake Macquarie is a unique city built upon the largest permanent saltwater lake in the southern hemisphere; it is loved for its beautiful beaches, cafes, national parks and sailing culture.