Deck the Decks: The Yamba Iluka Christmas Boat Returns
Who needs a sleigh when you’ve got a solar-powered boat? For eight years, Yamba locals Jamie and Deb have been putting Santa’s ride to shame with their Yamba Iluka Christmas Boat, a floating masterpiece of lights, carols, and good vibes. This isn’t just a boat—it’s a mission: to spread joy (and maybe a little envy among landlubbers).
It all started with one lonely strand of lights—a modest beginning for what’s now a spectacle brighter than Rudolph’s nose after one too many eggnogs. Back in 2019, amid bushfires and skies that looked more apocalyptic than festive, Jamie and Deb decided to up their game, crafting a dazzling display to lift everyone’s spirits. What began as a temporary pick-me-up turned into an annual tradition that grows more dazzling (and time-consuming) every year.
This year’s display? A whopping 172 hours of combined blood, sweat, and tinsel—not that they’re counting or anything. But don’t let the festive glow fool you; it’s not just for show. The boat’s entirely solar-powered, proving that holiday cheer doesn’t have to leave a carbon footprint the size of Santa’s sleigh.
Each evening, the Christmas Boat either anchors in an easily accessible spot or glides through the water like a festive cruise ship. Just after 8 PM, Santa himself pops out to serenade onlookers with his favourite carols—because nothing says “holiday magic” like a man in a red suit belting out Jingle Bells. As for the lights? They’ll twinkle until around 10 PM—later as Christmas approaches—because even the North Pole’s most famous resident needs his beauty sleep.
The best part? Most of the display is handcrafted from recycled, repurposed, or upcycled materials. Jamie and Deb aren’t just decking the halls—they’re decking the decks with some serious eco-friendly flair. It’s all about creativity, sustainability, and a healthy dose of “how on earth did they make that?”
And let’s talk about the vibes. Whether you’re gathered with friends, corralling the kids, or just enjoying a quiet moment of wonder, the Yamba Iluka Christmas Boat is guaranteed to deliver all the warm and fuzzy feelings of a perfectly toasted marshmallow.
So, why do Jamie and Deb keep doing it? Simple: the joy. The squeals of delight, the carol-singing crowds, and the collective “wow” from onlookers make all the late nights and glitter-covered everything worth it.
This isn’t just a Christmas display; it’s a love letter to the community. So, grab your favourite people, head down to the water, and let the Yamba Iluka Christmas Boat remind you that the best things in life are handcrafted, solar-powered, and just a little over the top.