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MYS 2023: Superyacht Australia on Booming Business and New Launches

By Sophia Spanton

Superyacht Australia’s CEO David Good joined us in the interview studio today to offer an insightful overview of how things have been going down under. We discussed a multiplicity of topics, from new launches to the current Australian job market, to how Covid affected their corner of the industry.

When our host Shari Liu, asked CEO David Good about Superyacht Australia’s domestic fleet, it was interesting to hear how,  ‘Covid benefitted the domestic fleet’,  as he went on to explain that they always knew there was a lot of live Australian yachts in the Mediterranean, but they could never quite gage how many. Until Covid came.

Due to the laws and regulations surrounding travel that occurred as Covid hit, if owners wanted to use their yachts, they had no choice but to bring their yachts home to Australia and start using them domestically. Good also later explained that this is the first year the industry has returned back to pre-Covid numbers.

WANDERLUST, 85m, by Silveryachts was launched last November, ‘we get to see her regularly, she’s a very very active yacht. She's been to the Maldives, Tahiti, and back to Australia a couple of times.’. Additionally to this, Echo Yachts recently launched the 56m Catamaran motor yacht, CHARLEY 2. Currently undertaking sea trials, she is on track to be delivered to her owner in the next couple of weeks. Good went on to explain that,  ‘Silveryachts have announced that they are gonna build another 79m Silveredge. So it's good to see how active they are, it keeps a lot of people employed, which is important’.

The end of Good’s answer sparked a thought-provoking conversation about how the boom in the Australian superyacht industry has been essential to the Australian economy as a whole.

Good explained, ‘we’ve grown the number of jobs in Australia by a remarkable amount, we did a study in 2017, it was about fourteen thousand jobs, it’s now twenty-two and a half thousand jobs’ . He explained how most of this increase comes from tradesmen working in shipyards and building yachts.

For more insight into what the future holds for Superyacht Australia, tune into the interview above.

"We’ve grown the amount of jobs in Australia by a remarkable amount...it was about fourteen thousand jobs, it’s now twenty-two and a half thousand." David Good, CEO, Superyacht Australia

"We’ve grown the amount of jobs in Australia by a remarkable amount...it was about fourteen thousand jobs, it’s now twenty-two and a half thousand."

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A premier global refit destination

Rivergate will put Australia on the world stage as a premier superyacht hub under plans for a major expansion of our multi award-winning shipyard.

Already recognised as Australia’s leading refit destination and one of the top three international superyacht shipyards, Rivergate is set to become the primary base for the Asia Pacific region.

Our $200 million repair, refit and maintenance centre will create around 2,000 new jobs in an employment windfall for Queensland and contribute close to $1 billion a year to the state’s economy.

It will meet global pent-up demand with increased service capabilities for superyachts and support the expanding Defence, Government and commercial vessel markets.

The expansion will see the creation of a state-of-the-art shiplift for vessels up to 90 metres and 3,000 tonnes and capacity for 8 to 12 vessels, making Rivergate the largest superyacht hub in the Asia Pacific region.

As the catalyst for a substantial increase in large superyacht visitation to Australia, the Rivergate expansion will also deliver a huge shot in the arm for the tourism industry through generous spending by owners, guests and crew.

Key Elements

10-fold increase in lifting capacity to 3,000 tonnes and up to 90m

Innovative $35 million syncrolift shiplift and vessel transfer system

3 refit sheds and hardstand capacity for up to 10 vessels

2 large in water service berths

5-storey trade centre with offices, training rooms, café and car parking

Australian-first on-site crew accommodation and resort-style recreation

The Benefits

Massive employment and economic boost for Queensland

Tourism spinoffs from increased cruising and chartering

75% of shipyard revenue flowing directly to SME’s

World-leading maritime industry skills and training

Estimated 60 additional superyacht visits per year

Sustainable maritime industry to service expanding superyacht, commercial and defence fleets

Vital support for growing domestic and foreign-flagged charter industry

The heavy lifting:

World-class Facilities and Technology

World class facilities and technology, premium offering for visitors.

The proposed Rivergate expansion will not only deliver the largest superyacht refit facility in the Asia Pacific region, but also premium offerings and services that will match or better anything else on the world stage.

Captains & Owners lounge

Captains studio accommodation

Crew outdoor recreation & pool

Meeting rooms

Crew lounge, kitchen and dining

Project offices

Gymnasium & sauna

Training rooms

Movie theatre

Cafe & restaurant

Innovative Superyacht Service

The expanded Rivergate shipyard will feature leading-edge technology with the latest platform shiplift and yard infrastructure to ensure safety for both vessels and crew.

Vessels will be transferred from the shiplift to the yard using a state-of-the-art Self-Propelled Motorised Transporter (SPMT) featuring a grid of computer-controlled and precision-guided axles. Enclosed refit sheds incorporating 10t gantry cranes will allow for 24/7 works to be carried out unaffected by weather. The shipyard will also deploy the latest safety environmental systems and showcase green-star and clean marina accreditation.

Why Rivergate

Perfectly positioned for the future.

When it comes to meeting the expectations of the world’s discerning superyacht owners, only the best will do.

Rivergate is the ideal location for a superyacht hub with deep water access on all tides, near perfect weather for year-round operations, an extensive world-class skills base and professional management.

Together with vibrant capital city services, including a 24 hour international airport, a favourable exchange rate and Australia’s enviable record of safety and security, many more superyacht visits and extended stays at Rivergate will be inevitable.

Midway between Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef, Rivergate is also the perfect launching pad for superyacht owners visiting the many delights of Australia’s east coast or cruising the stunning South Pacific Islands.

Australia’s current infrastructure is holding back the growth of superyacht visitation in the region.

The planned expansion will allow Rivergate to say “yes” to the many clients Australia has had to turn away in the past.

Our ‘shovel ready’ expansion will release this pent-up international demand and immediately capture increased market share for Queensland and Australia.

Rivergate is also strategically located to tap into the expanding defence and commercial markets operating on the east coast of Australia.

Rivergate is highly popular with superyacht captains and crew, who are key influencers in refit and maintenance decision making.

Brisbane’s vibrant hotel, dining, shopping and nightlife are within a 15 minute drive of Rivergate. From strolling through South Bank, exploring trendy bars, discovering the delights of the Moreton Bay islands, visiting a theme park, or simply relaxing at a Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast beach, leisure activities for visitors abound.

For those wanting to travel further from the home port, Brisbane’s major international airport is only 10 minutes away from Rivergate to take guests anywhere in Australia or the world.

The Opportunity

Boom times for large superyachts, commercial and defence vessels.

More superyachts are being built than ever before, vessel size is increasing and our region has a critical shortage of infrastructure to haulout and berth these large vessels.

Recent changes in Government policy and increased commercial activities servicing the mining industry have also seen a boost in Defence and commercial vessel operations off the north-eastern coast of Australia.

Our expansion plans for Rivergate coincide with a period of strong growth in these industries and closely align with both the Queensland Government’s Superyacht Strategy and Australia’s new laws allowing foreign-flagged vessels to charter in our waters.

More superyachts are being built than ever before with the most recent research finding that 193 builds were underway or planned in 2019, a 26% increase on 2018. Industry body Superyacht Australia has reported the domestic superyacht fleet has doubled in the past two years, increasing local demand for a premium refit facility to service this growing market.

Together with close to 6,000 vessels already in service, and the Asia Pacific region increasing in popularity, this global growth will require a similar expansion in superyacht support facilities and Rivergate is ideally positioned to fill a clear gap in the market.

The attraction of large superyachts to the new 3,000t shipyard would trigger increased demand for the existing 75t and 300t shipyard to refit, store and support their tender vessels. A dramatic rise in the number of visiting yachts would also create new opportunities to redesign and upsize the existing marina berths, increasing the revenue yield and bottom line of the business.

Visiting our region

To visit Australian waters, a superyacht will travel more than 9,000 nautical miles from their traditional cruising ground of the Mediterranean or Caribbean, and 4,000 nautical miles from major Asian ports.

These vast distances mean visiting superyachts typically spend up to two years in our region with permanent crews while owners and their guests fly in to explore our coastline and the South Pacific.

All boats, regardless of size, encounter regular maintenance issues and require shipyard services. Large refit projects can take up to 6 months, are planned well in advance, and need certainty around lifting capacity and yard availability.

As the only location in the region with the capability to lift and service multiple large superyachts of up to 90 metres and 3,000 tonnes, Rivergate will be firmly on the radar of captains around the world.

Owning a superyacht

Not surprisingly, superyacht ownership is an expensive undertaking and one of the biggest sources of wealth redistribution in the world.

To ensure they meet regulatory, insurance and safety standards, vessels typically undergo annual out-of-water routine maintenance and survey certification every five years, which can represent several months on the hardstand or in a refit shed.

Full superyacht refits typically occur every 5 to 7 years, usually because of an ownership change or a current owner’s desire for a refresh.

Such refits can be significant, costing between $1 million and $5 million per month and taking on average about six months.

The Bigger the Better

The larger the vessel equates to exponential benefits....

DIRECT SPEND PER VESSEL BY VESSEL LENGTH ($M) SEQ

Note: Totals may not sum due to rounding. Source: ABS (2012), ABS (2017), ABS (2019b), ABS (2019c), Luxury Yacht Group (2019), TRA (2019), AEC (2016), AEC Rivergate Expansion Economic Impact Assessment 2020.

Commercial and Recreation

Rivergate is expected to increase its existing commercial vessel capability and capture a large segment of all maritime markets due to its proximity to the east coast and Pacific operating areas, location below the cyclone belt, ideal year-round climate, and flexibility of docking arrangements with the new platform shiplift.

There are hundreds of commercial vessels greater than 40 metres actively operating on the east coast of Australia. This market is expected to continue its growth on the back of robust resources, tourism and transportation industries.

Defence and Government

The Australian Navy is undergoing transformative growth in its Pacific fleet. Rivergate will be best placed to provide overflow support to Defence contractors based in northern Australia facing capacity and trades constraints for existing and new vessels such as the Arafura Class and Mine Hunters.

The expansion would eliminate the need for vessels having to steam to Perth to undergo routine and unplanned maintenance.

In addition to the Defence opportunities, the Queensland Government recognises Rivergate’s excellent refit capabilities, having recently completed three extension of life refits on Police and Fisheries vessels.

Economy and Jobs

An export income and employment bonanza.

Superyacht refit and maintenance work is high value, export-oriented and labour intensive, generating enormous economic and employment benefits.

The Rivergate expansion will make a significant contribution to the economy and jobs during the construction phase and an even greater ongoing contribution once fully operational.

An economic impact assessment report by leading advisory group AEC found the Rivergate superyacht hub will generate $154.6 million for local businesses during construction and create a total of 433 direct and indirect jobs.

Post-construction, Rivergate will contribute an estimated $459.4 million a year to the local economy, including around $167.3 million in direct revenue from 60 superyachts undertaking repair and refit works. The regional tourism and provisioning benefits will be up to $525 million, making a total of up to $984.4 million.

Our research also shows that 75% of the shipyard revenue will flow directly to small and medium-sized marine businesses in the local area, creating a huge economic boost and fostering new training and apprenticeship opportunities.

AEC found the overall increase in spending from superyachts would support 1,457 new fulltime equivalent jobs, consisting of 525 direct positions and 931 flow on jobs.

Annual Economic Contribution of Rivergate Expansion Project Construction and Operationally to SEQ

Notes: Totals may not sum due to rounding. Source: ABS (2012), ABS (2017), ABS (2019b), ABS (2019c), Luxury Yacht Group (2019), TRA (2019), AEC (2016), AEC.

Rivergate — opening Asia Pacific to the world superyacht fleet

The benefits of a large superyacht refit centre at Rivergate will extend to every corner of Australia, especially the tourism sector.

Our expansion will be as much a tourism initiative as it is a marine industry initiative. It will allow vessels to spend more time in the region, staying for up to two years before or after works have been completed.

An additional 60 vessels coming to Rivergate will generate direct expenditure of approximately $150 million, assuming they also undertake cruising activity. The flow-on effects from this in terms of provisioning, travel, shopping and other spending will see a further $325 million to $375 million annual boost to the Australian tourism economy.

In total, the direct and indirect economic contribution to tourism will be up to $525 million per year and felt mostly in the popular regional cruising grounds from the Gold Coast to Cairns. This level of spending will create an estimated 520 new fulltime equivalent jobs.

Rivergate will be marketing Brisbane, Queensland and Australia to the world, including high net worth individuals who will become ambassadors for our region with the potential flow-on of international investment in Australia as a result of this visitation.

News that Brisbane will host the 2032 Olympic Games, and recent reduction in red tape now allowing superyachts to charter in Australia will place Brisbane on the world map for tourism and result in even more superyachts visiting Rivergate.

Tourism and economic contribution pre and post REFIT works

Notes: Totals may not sum due to rounding. Source: AEC (2016), AEC.

Skills and Training

An industry centre of excellence.

The Rivergate expansion will create opportunities for Queensland and Australia to become an international training hub for the superyacht industry.

Already well known around the world for our highly skilled workforce, Rivergate will become an incubator for innovation and excellence in more than 25 marine-related trades and professional skills.

Ongoing training and apprenticeship programs will be vital to our long-term sustainability with AEC forecasts indicating there will be 36 apprentices or trainees employed at any one time.

Our plans include a 5 storey Trade Centre with dedicated apprentice training rooms and the potential for Rivergate to establish a new Superyacht Centre of Training Excellence located within the facility, attracting students from around the world.

About Rivergate

Rivergate is recognised as Australia’s premier superyacht facility with an enviable track record that has placed us among the top three shipyards in the world and earned numerous industry awards. In November 2020, we were named Superyacht Industry Service Provider of the year at the Australian Maritime Industry Awards and in May 2021 inducted into the Marina Industries Association Hall of Fame.

Established in 2006 to create a world-class superyacht refit centre, Rivergate reflects the vision and values of a family with a genuine passion for the marine industry, boating and the ocean. These passions, coupled with a strong work ethic and deep commitment to community, underpin Rivergate’s commitment to excellence in service delivery.

Our prime location on the Brisbane River, Queensland, Australia provides deep water access on all tides and an ideal climate for year round refit and painting projects. Rivergate is also moments to a 24-hour international airport, close to all capital city services and offers easy access to the beautiful cruising grounds of eastern Australia and the South Pacific.

Led by a management team with more than 200 years of combined experience, we deliver a wide range of world-class marine services. Rivergate has approximately 320 contractors across 20 trades onsite and many more experienced workers just a short drive away from the precinct.

Our commitment to safety and security is second to none. Rivergate has Clean Marina Level 3 accreditation and scored an incredible 99 percent in our most recent independent audit.

Apart from the quality of the work we perform on some of the world’s most prized superyachts, the Rivergate team is known for its excellent hospitality, organising social activities and recommending local tourism sights to make visiting captains and crew feel right at home.

To find out more about Rivergate, please view our Capability Statement.

Marine Industries Association 2021 Hall of Fame

Australian Superyacht Industry Business of the Year Service Provider

Australia Superyacht Industry Business of the Year Service Provider

Australian superyacht industry champion — steve fisher.

Marine Industries Association 2017 / 2018 Best Boat Yard 20 plus Boats

Marine industries association 2017 / 2018 marina of the year.

Australian Superyacht Industry Business of the Year Manufacturer

Australian Superyacht Industry Service Provider of the Year

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The Australian Superyacht Rendezvous is back at GCCM!

Australia and asia pacific region on show to the world of superyachts: australian superyacht rendezvous 2024.

Australia and the broader Asia Pacific region’s growing superyacht movement will be celebrated when the fourth edition of Australian Superyacht Rendezvous is staged on 17 and 18 May 2024 at Australia’s most awarded marina, Gold Coast City Marina and Shipyard (GCCM) in Queensland, Australia.

Trenton Gay, CEO of GCCM and organiser of the 2024 made the announcement today at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in Florida – the largest in-water boat show in the world – where he is attending with a contingent of Australian representatives and businesses all highly committed to the international promotion of Australia’s unrivalled charter experiences and world-class marine refit and repair services.

“We are delighted to announce the fourth edition of Australia’s leading event for superyacht enthusiasts will be staged over two memorable days in May 2024 to showcase why Australia and the Asia Pacific region is such an ideal choice for global superyachts,” Mr Gay said.

Australian Superyacht Rendezvous will assemble an elite and diverse fleet of around 20 of the finest superyachts for charter or sale currently in Australia along with international and Australian guests with a personal or business interest in what Australia and the Asia Pacific region can offer superyachts.

“Past editions of Australian Superyacht Rendezvous have attracted international guests from Monaco, Hong Kong, Tahiti, New Zealand, Thailand, UK, USA, Canada, Vanuatu, Cook Islands, Indonesia and Singapore and we look forward to welcoming an even bigger contingent of international attendees in 2024,” he said.

“As more superyachts across the globe look to migrate to the southern hemisphere – our ongoing message to the world is that Australia is superyacht ready with pristine cruising grounds and marine refit and repair infrastructure that is second to none in the world.

“Australia offers affordable and high-quality marine skills, expertise and reputation to ensure that superyachts can be safely, securely based, and serviced while accessing cruising grounds across the Asia Pacific region.

“It is also widely anticipated that Australia will welcome an influx of superyachts when it hosts the Olympic Games in Brisbane, Queensland in 2032 so now is an ideal time for superyacht internationals to learn more about Australia as a superyacht host destination.”

There are expected to be more than 6600 superyachts worldwide by 2025 and currently, around 200 are based in Australia (*).

In 2023, globally it is believed there are 1203 new superyacht project builds underway (**) according to Boat International’s 2023 Global Order Book.

Superyacht Australia have forecast that by 2025, Australia’s superyacht industry will be valued at $4.346 billion and support 33,186 marine jobs, the highest concentration of which will be in Queensland (***).

For further information about Australian Superyacht Rendezvous 2024, click here .

About Australian Superyacht Rendezvous

The Australian Superyacht Rendezvous is a showcase of the leading superyachts in the Asia Pacific region available for sale and charter. In and around the yacht showcase is a two-day event program for industry professionals, charterers and yacht owners to mingle and celebrate yachting in Australia and her surrounding waters.

About Gold Coast City Marina and Shipyard (GCCM)

Australian Superyacht Rendezvous will proudly be hosted at Australia’s most awarded marina and one of the largest superyacht refit and repair facility of its kind in the southern hemisphere – Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard (GCCM).  Since opening in January 2000, Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard, fondly known as GCCM, has gained a global reputation in its superyacht capabilities.  GCCM is a vital part of the thriving 250-hectare Gold Coast Marine Precinct and attracts yachts from around the globe for all aspects of marine refit, maintenance and construction.

Visiting GCCM superyachts have direct access to over 90 on-site businesses employing in excess of 700 top-quality marine contractors and world-class superyacht facilities including superyacht work basin with full on-water work capabilities, refit sheds, fully enclosed superyacht sheds, hard stand, covered stand and haul out facilities catering for vessels up to 300 tonnes with a 10-metre beam.

GCCM was the first shipyard in the Asia-Pacific region to be awarded 5 Gold Anchor Global Marina Accreditation.

GCCM is located 20 kilometres from Surfers Paradise and 60 kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD.

REFERENCES:

(*) Queensland Superyacht Strategy (updated May 2022):

(**) Boat International

(***) Superyacht Australia 2025 industry forecast

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New age yachting – who’s coming to Australia?

Last month saw the second edition of the Australian Superyacht Rendezvous (ASR) held at Gold Coast City Marina and Shipyard (GCCM). Not a yacht show open to the public but a series of events targeted to different audiences involved in yachting, ASR expanded its activities this year to include an Industry Roundtable for the Captains and senior industry players. 120 participants joined in the hearty discussion and for me, there was an epiphany – we are on the cusp of the Australian decade of new age yachting.

Yachting in Australia

So firstly, I have a vested interested and a bias to yachting in Australia, yet my epiphany is not without evidence to support it. The room was not just Australian captains and industry preaching to the converted, so to speak, but also experts from Europe and Asia as well as those in the luxury travel, private aviation, accommodation industry and destination promotion. As a group, we covered four topics – Global Trends, Australian Charter Trends, Operations and Industry, and the Future. There was no formal presentation but instead, facilitators asked audience members questions to ignite conversation and it did just that; sparked a conversation which is likely to extend beyond the four-hour forum itself.

Owners and charterers are looking for more

Coralyn Tracey from MYBA and Peter Mahony from Benetti Asia told of charterers and yacht owners looking for more experiences which require seabobs, dive equipment and other adventure toys to explore new and remote destinations. The same people are looking for yachts which multiple generations can enjoy as yacht designer, Misha Merzliakov , explained.

Dean Gould from Destination Gold Coast and Joachim Howard from Ocean Alliance explained that Australia was not immune from the experience travel revolution and in fact, is extremely well placed to capture that market. We are growing our domestic fleet of chartering superyachts, the latest of which is Oneworld whose crew and owner were in the room to outline their plans to bring a touch of the Mediterranean charter service to Australia. The consensus was that unique, sustainable and authentic experiences are key to attracting the future affluent traveller, yacht charterer and yacht owner. And Australia has that in spades.

We do face obstacles

Yet it was not the yachting equivalent to an evangelical convention. Yes, we have all seen the light but there are still obstacles in our way. Obstacles in the form of Australian survey standards which, in some cases, are more stringent than others more widely used on charter yachts. The regulator of these standards, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (ASMA), were in the room and very keen to impress on captains and crew that they are open to consultation which is encouraging.

And of course, Australia still has our punitive GST (VAT) regulations for foreign flagged yachts chartering in our waters. Yet, Superyacht Australia advised progress is being made as proposed legislative changes are before the Australian parliament and the group was cautiously optimistic.

We want the adventurers

Onto the Future and the question remains that if the demand from affluent travellers, charterers and yacht owners for new experiences and the supply of Australian-based chartering superyachts (most of which were on display at ASR) is increasing, why aren’t we the destination de jour?

As though I had been touched by the yachting gods, I realised; we talk about it all the wrong way. Yes, we are far away; this is a good thing. No, we don’t have the ‘scene’ you find on the French Riviera; again, this is a good thing. For Australia is not a destination for those interested in being seen or who are keen on dining in a different restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is a vast, untamed, spectacular and challenging destination for those with strength in their conviction and not faint of heart. For those intrepid, true exploring yachting enthusiasts, we are well and truly open for business. And for those who can’t or don’t want to rise to the breathtaking, awe-inspiring and transformative experience of cruising Australia, we highly recommend St Tropez!

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By SuperyachtNews 23 Apr 2018

The Australian Superyacht Rendezvous

Owners and industry professionals gathered on the gold coast last week….

The second edition of the Australian Superyacht Rendezvous, hosted and organised by Gold Coast City Marina (GCCM), was seen as an opportunity to bring together the primary stakeholders in Australia’s superyacht market, as well as individuals from further afield. The format of the event this year included an interactive roundtable-style discussion, with various members of the audience being called upon to answer questions and offer opinions on different subjects, from emerging markets to the new trends in luxury experiences. In addition to the industry roundtables, the event dedicated time to owner, crew and industry networking, as well as a showcase of all the yachts in attendance.

Much of the discussion centered on the charter regulatory framework that many believe is currently holding back the region’s superyacht activity. The association Superyacht Australia – among others – has been working to change the current charter regulatory framework, which (as it stands) means that any foreign flagged vessel coming into Australia is subject to high taxation on the value of the yacht itself, which has to be imported under customs for home consumption. This, as well as meeting stringent safety regulations from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), the industry argues, limits the number of yachts in the region. Currently Australia only has one per cent of all the world’s superyachts.

Trenton Gay, CEO of GCCM and the organiser of the event, echoed many comments when he said that educating the Australian government on the importance (and beneficial impact) of the superyacht industry throughout the country is key. When this happens, he believes that the infrastructure needed to support larger vessels (50m+) will receive more investment, opening up the areas to more and more yachts. Further, the attendees agreed that Australia must market itself as a destination in its own right, promoting the cruising regions that are unlike anywhere else in the world.

The event saw a large lineup of Australian superyachts, including the debut of M/Y Oneworld , a 32m built by Gulf Craft and delivered just four weeks ago. Oneworld ’s owners, Kylie and Rod Salmon, attended the event and took part in the discussions. “It is a disjointed industry here in Australia,” said Rod Salmon in a conversation with SuperyachtNews . “In Europe, everybody seems to have a collaboration or association. We don’t have that in Australia and I think bringing all these people together from all over was really useful to bring the focus in.” Oneworld will be based in Sydney and available for charter, with capacity to hold over 100 people for day cruises. For Salmon, he sees the Rendezvous as an opportunity to meet industry professionals and fellow owners, as well as educate him further on the wider superyacht world. “I think there has been a lot of networking and as I am new to the charter market, I have found it really useful.”

“In Europe, everybody seems to have a collaboration or association. We don’t have that in Australia and I think bringing all these people together from all over was really useful to bring the focus in.” Rod Salmon, M/Y 'Oneworld' 

Although many in attendance saw the changing charter regulations as the route to more a successful superyacht market in Australia, a number of individuals also stressed the importance of building a fleet of domestic yachts available for clients. Jo Howard, managing director of Ocean Alliance agrees with this viewpoint, “We need to focus on how to get more traction with the domestic fleet that is here already,” he explained. “We’re seeing quite a number of 30m+ yachts on the charter market every year here in Australia. We have already seen two already this year, so that growth will continue and then we will have the largest permanently based fleet in this whole region.” Ocean Alliance, a Sydney-based brokerage firm, represented five of the yachts present at the Rendezvous.

The Australian Superyacht Rendezvous offered industry professionals, particularly those from Australia, an opportunity to gather together to share their views, with the aim to improve an industry with so much potential. Trenton Gay sees the event as an way to truly encourage change at the highest levels: “A lot of people enjoyed it and got a lot out of it. Now we have just got to put that together and feed that information back out to the industry and the senior government. We will go to them and say, ‘This is what we have gathered, from an industry group sitting together over a number of hours, hashing out some questions and issues, and these are some of the pressure points’.”

The event aimed to be a platform for the international superyacht community to gather together to discuss the Australian market and its place in the global industry. The number of Australian superyacht owners, and the presence of stakeholders from the region (and from across the world) secures the Rendezvous as a must-attend event in the Australian superyacht calendar.

Don’t miss in-depth interviews with Rod Salmon, the Ocean Alliance team, a roundtable discussion with the Great Barrier Reef marina managers and more, in the coming weeks on SuperyachtNews …

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Australia: The Ideal Yachting Destination

With amazing scenery on every shore and world-class service facilities available, Australia has a lot to offer Superyacht owners.

Posted on October 29, 2018 November 1, 2018 by Seal Superyachts

Words: Trenton Gay & Ben Reeves

Australia has 410,000 sq km of marine sovereignty. With such an expanse of sea, it makes for a year-round yachting destination with an impressive range of choice and diversity available. No matter when you visit, there will always be a port or safe anchorage, with each offering a unique experience unlike anywhere else. As remote a yachting destination as the country may be, the distance is part of the charm, and adds to the memorable experience.

The Great Barrier Reef

Of course, the star attraction of cruising down-under is the Great Barrier Reef. It stretches for 2,300 km, from the very tip of Australia right down to Bundaberg. It is not one reef but 2,500 individual reefs which link together. As the name suggests, it provides a barrier from the Pacific Ocean, protecting countless islands, anchorages, towns and cities – the most well-known being Cairns and the Whitsunday Islands.

The Great Barrier Reef offers exceptional cruising, diving, fishing and island destinations along its whole length, starting at the northernmost point of the Australian continent – Cape York. It’s where the Torres Strait meets the Coral Sea, and is a great spot for fishing for barramundi. This area of the world has little to no development, so you’ll be seeing it as it has been for thousands of years.

Cairns, The Whitsundays and Gold Coast

As you head south, you will find Lizard Island close to Cairns. It’s a mecca for black marlin fishermen and has a six-star resort for those looking for some land-based activities and fine dining.

The heart of the reef is where you will find the Whitsunday Islands, including Hamilton Island and the beachside town of Airlie Beach. Hamilton Island is the home of the famous Hamilton Island Race Week with Airlie Beach popular for its coastal bars, restaurants & nightlife. Naturally, The Whitsundays has two great ports for Superyachts at Abell Point Marina & Hamilton Island, with both providing plenty of first-class facilities on the doorstep to the 74 islands of the Whitsundays.

The iconic Whitehaven Beach is a jewel in the crown of the Whitsundays. Stretching over seven kilometres it boasts brilliant white silica sand that is among the purest in the world. At the northern end of Whitehaven Beach is Hill Inlet, a stunning inlet where the tide shifts the sand and water to create a spectacular fusion of colours. Many people claim Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach are the most beautiful places they’ve ever seen.

A few days’ cruising south gets you to the southernmost tip of the reef. Locals call this the Bunkers, and the stars are Lady Musgrave, Lady Elliot and Herron Islands. They are islands within coral cays which are reminiscent of the Caribbean. The famous Gold Coast is a further few days of sailing away.

The Gold Coast is a beach-side city stretching over 57 km. It’s Australia’s sixth largest city, with a resident population of 570,000 people, which is significantly added to by the arrival of 13 million tourists each year. They come for the very same reason that superyacht crews love the city – the world-class surf, the great weather, leading golf courses, and great theme parks, all framed by World Heritage-listed rainforest.

The West Coast

On the opposite side of Australia from the Great Barrier Reef is Ningaloo Reef – Australia’s other reef. At 260 km long, it’s the longest single fringing reef in the world, and one of the few places you can swim with whale sharks. Like the Great Barrier Reef on the east coast, the west coast’s Ningaloo Reef is UNESCO World Heritage listed. It’s a marine nursery for manta rays, turtles, fish and dolphins, so it makes for an outstanding diving and fishing location.

Further up the same coastline is the Kimberley. This vast region of Western Australia has been the focus of international attention recently after it won the Voyager Awards at the World Superyacht Awards in 2017. It’s about the size of Germany, but populated mostly by beautiful canyons and gorges. It is one of the most remote parts of the Australian coastline, so hiring a local guide is virtually a must. There is an 11-metre tidal range, which creates spectacular but challenging horizontal waterfalls. Careful planning is required to get the most out of this relatively unknown area, but it is worth the effort. As it has very little in the way of development, it is full of native wildlife.

North and South

The north of Australia is for the truly intrepid, and is best cruised in the cooler months of May to October. By contrast, the southern parts are more popular in the warmer months – November through April.

The mega star of Australian yachting destinations is Sydney Harbour, though more for its glamour and cosmopolitan atmosphere than the natural environments of other parts of the country. It’s a busy harbour and has the iconic bridge and opera house, which are at their best when illuminated by the amazing New Year’s Eve fireworks displays.

Finally, there is Tasmania. Sitting off the southern coast of the Australian mainland, it’s severely underrated as a yachting destination, although that is changing. Over half of the island is dedicated to national park and the pelagic seafood you will find here is amazing. Along the east coast, there are many natural harbours in much-desired locations, such as the Bay of Fires, the Freycinet Peninsula, Wine Glass Bay and down to Hobart and Bruny Island. The west coast can be unforgiving, but the challenges are completely smothered by the raw natural beauty.

Superyacht Facilities

If you are going to cruise to Australia then you need to feel confident in the support network. You need to know there will be marinas, yards and trades who can meet the standards you expect. Fortunately, Australia has generations of experiences with boats and yachts, which has produced Jon Bannenberg, Sam Sorgiovanni, Oceanfast, SilverYachts and, more recently, the world’s biggest tri-hulled yacht – White Rabbit from Echo Yachts. It should come as no surprise to learn that well over 12,000 Superyacht crew members around the world hail from Australia.

Currently, the yachting industry in Australia supports 14,500 shore-based jobs and contributes $1.97 billion to the country’s economy. The largest proportion of that economic activity is delivered in South East Queensland, where you will find Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard (GCCM) – East Coast Australia Agent for Seal Superyachts.

Australia is perfectly located on regional or world cruising itinerary for maintenance, refit and service work, and is a lower cost yet efficient marine service location. Yachting projects are delivered with noteworthy speed and efficiency. This comes from the concentration of contractors creating healthy competition and a thriving industry. GCCM alone has over 80 companies onsite, employing in excess of 700 individual tradespeople. There is more than one contractor for any given trade, so the yachts visiting this facility have the convenience and flexibility of options.

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Footnote : Contact Seal Superyachts Australia for detailed information about cruising around Australia, superyacht charter regulations and about how we can support your visit. Principle agent Andrew Chapman is proud to have worked with many of the World’s largest Superyachts and has extensive knowledge of Australia and the surrounding area. Andrew Chapman Phone: +61 402 484 888 Email: [email protected]

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Superyacht Recruitment and Superyacht jobs since 1997, we specialise in placing qualified superyacht crew in Australia, Pacific and worldwide

Our goal is to meet the growing demand for experienced and professional Superyacht Crew in Australia and around the world. Placing Superyacht Crew worldwide, we have been Australia’s Leading Superyacht Recruitment Agency since 1997, understanding both the requirements of owners and the concerns of crew. From ensuring we find suitable, qualified candidates for your yacht or residence to advising crew with their next career steps, we will assist every step of the way.

A branch of Major Yacht Services, Australia’s leading Superyacht agency we have assisted more than 750 visiting superyachts to Australia. Being ex-crew members ourselves we understand the complexity of the roles on board and will appropriately match candidate’s skills and personality to ensure that perfect fit for both Owners and Crew alike.

Our Head office is based in Sydney and being a proud member of the AYSS we have worldwide representation & partners.

What positions do we recruit for?

We Specialise in Superyacht Recruitment for the following core Superyacht Jobs

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We also provide Superyacht Recruitment for such specialty positions as Dive Instructors, Nurses, Beauticians, Masseuses, Private Jet Hostesses, Private Residence Staff, House Managers, Housekeepers, Private House Chefs, Personal / Executive assistants, Gardeners, Project Managers and New Build Engineers

Our company uses the MLC ( Maritime Labour Convention ) as its guideline when undertaking all its recruitment services.

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From Australia to Europe, New Zealand to the Caribbean our positions and candidates span the globe and are ready to assist with all your superyacht recruitment needs.

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Billionaire team owner caught out in viral double nose picking moment

A billionaire owner of the LA Dodgers has gone viral for all the wrong reasons after an awkward moment was caught on camera.

Players awestruck as pitch goes viral

Aussie signs mega-deal with US behemoth

Star threatened lover’s daughter after deaths

Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner owner Todd Boehly appeared to let his nerves get the best of him during the 2024 MLB Seoul Series.

The billionaire businessman appeared to pick his nose and eat it when his team was trailing the San Diego Padres in the eighth inning of Game 1 at the Gocheok SkyDome in South Korea, according to a video that surfaced on social media, the NY Post reports.

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ESPN cameras caught the moment during an at-bat by Dodgers outfielder James Outman — and a nervous-looking Boehly was seen slouched in his seat behind home plate with what appeared to be two fingers in his nostrils.

Boehly owns 20 per cent of the Dodgers as part of the Guggenheim Baseball Management group, which bought the team for $1.5 billion in 2012.

He is also the co-controlling owner and chairman of English Premier League soccer team Chelsea F.C.

The Dodgers ultimately scored four runs that inning to erase a one-run deficit and beat the Padres, 5-2, in the Seoul MLB opener, which marked the start of the Shohei Ohtani era.

The reigning American League MVP reached a 10-year, $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers in December after he played the first six seasons of his MLB career with the cross-town Angels.

Ohtani’s two hits, an RBI and a stolen base had the international crowd rocking in Seoul with his wife, basketball player Mamiko Tanaka, in attendance.

Cameras captured the 5-foot-11 Japanese centre giving high fives to a few women in nearby seats after one of her husband’s hits.

My man with the double booger meal at Padres Dodgers game lol. #SeoulSeries pic.twitter.com/TbS8G6RQkk — Fuego Blanco (@Fueg0_Blanco) March 20, 2024

Ohtani, who will turn 30 on July 5, won’t be available to pitch in 2024 as he recovers from surgery to repair his right UCL in October 2023.

Wednesday was a headline-filled day for the Dodgers as they began the regular season with this brief two-game international set against the Padres.

Earlier in the day, South Korea police received a reported bomb threat via email, which targeted Ohtani, but found no explosives Gocheok SkyDome.

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Later that night, the Los Angeles Times published a report which claimed Ohtani’s interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, had perpetrated a “massive theft” of millions of dollars of the star pitcher’s money to place bets with an illegal bookmaker.

The Dodgers promptly fired Mizuhara.

This article originally appeared on the NY Post and was reproduced with permission.

A popular South Korean actress had the full attention of the LA Dodgers dugout in a moment that quickly went viral on social media.

He’s a three-time All-Star and has overcome leukaemia now this Aussie baseball star has also joined one of the biggest clubs in world sport.

Shocking details have emerged about the street race deaths of two children with a socialite’s daughter coming forward with a new claim.

The owner of a $3.4 million Lamborghini yacht screamed 'I will kill you' and threw $100 bills into the water when told he couldn't use a private dock

• The owner of a Lamborghini yacht threatened a private dock employee, per CBS8.
• The employee said Ajay Thakore mooned and threw cash at him after being told he couldn't use the dock.
• Thakore, the CEO of Doctor Multimedia, issued an apology through his public relations team.

The owner of a $3.4 million Lamborghini yacht threatened a private dock employee after being told he couldn't be there, the San Diego-based broadcaster CBS8 reported on March 11.

Joseph Holt, a 21-year-old employee at Marriot Marina in San Diego, told CBS8 that he spotted the yacht sailing into the private dock. The owner, whom CBS8 identified as Ajay Thakore, tried to pick another person up at the dock, Holt said.

"I told him respectfully that he couldn't be there, and I honestly was hoping to have a conversation with him about his cool boat," Holt told CBS8.

In a YouTube video posted by @SM-wc9eq on March 10, a dark blue Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 is seen sailing out of a dock. A man in a gray T-shirt, a pair of jeans, and a cap was shown standing on the yacht. The man appeared to be Thakore, per CBS8.

Thakore was shown shouting at Holt. "I will kill you, you know I will kill you!" he can be heard saying multiple times in the video

Thakore was later shown pounding his fist on his palm and pointing his thumb down before telling Holt: "To your face!" Holt was shown responding by pointing his middle finger at Thakore.

"I really was trying to restrain myself from getting fired from my job or stepping out of line. The only thing I did was give him the bird," Holt told CBS8.

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Holt said Thakore then took $100 bills from his wallet and threw them at him. He added that Thakore mooned him. This exchange was not shown in the video.

"He was saying I'm nobody, I'm nothing, I work a silly job. He said that he knows people, he has connections, he can change my life and ruin it," Holt said. Holt did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

The San Diego Harbor Police arrived at the marina 10 minutes after Thakore's yacht exited the dock, per CBS8.

The Harbor Police told Business Insider that Holt decided to press charges against Thakore and that they are investigating the incident.

According to Thakore's LinkedIn page , he's the CEO of Doctor Multimedia. The company's website shows that it's a healthcare marketing firm based in San Diego. Thakore appears to go by the name Ace Rogers on Instagram and TikTok, where he's noted as being a professional gambler.

Thakore, through his public relations team, told CBS8 in a statement that his altercation with Holt was "regrettable."

"What started as a minor misunderstanding escalated into an argument, and I apologize for my actions and to those who witnessed the unfortunate exchange," the statement said. Thakore did not immediately respond to a request for comment from BI.

Thakore isn't the only CEO who's been called out for threatening another person. In November 2021, an Activision spokesperson told BI that its ex-CEO Bobby Kotick had previously apologized for telling his assistant he would have her killed. The spokesperson added that Kotick's threat was "obviously hyperbolic and inappropriate" and that "he deeply regrets the exaggeration and tone."

In June 2020, Lisa Alexander, the CEO of LaFace Skincare, a cosmetics company, apologized in a statement to the media after she had threatened to call the police on her neighbor for writing "Black Lives Matter" on his property. Alexander said in the apology that she was "disrespectful" and "should have minded my own business."

March 21, 2024: This story has been updated with Harbor Police's comments.

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• This New 262-Foot Superyacht Lets You Mix and Match 3 Interior and Exterior Designs

Damen's new Xplorer 80 is reinventing the rigid, research-vessel look of expedition yachts.

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It’s time to throw out the idea of an explorer vessel having to look like Arnold Schwarzenegger in the first Terminator movie—a muscle-bound package that’s all straight lines and sharp angles.

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Rose Damen, managing director of Damen Yachting, calls the 262-footer a “crossover superyacht” that throws out the idea that an explorer yacht has to look like a modified research vessel. The exterior of the new 80M, depending on the designer, can range from a slightly rounded superstructure to extreme curves.

The three exterior choices come from Azure Yacht Design (pictured), Harrison Eidsgaard, and Espen Oino, while the interiors are by Harrison Eidsgaard (pictured), Winch Design, and Reymond Langton. The designers all worked independently with Damen to create designs that would fit into a core platform.

The Dutch builder then pre-engineered the different interiors and exteriors so they can be interchangeable, depending on how the client wants to design it—another trait that is new to the rigid explorer design. The stern area can also be configured in multiple ways, from an enclosed helicopter hangar (with a helipad on top), to double tender garages, to a gym and wellness center, or even a dive center.

Ben Harrison, cofounder of U.K. designer Harrison Eidsgaard, presented his firm’s interior concept, a sprawling New York-loft-style design that makes use of the tall ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, open-plan spaces, loose designer furniture, and even a fireplace. “We can play with the spaces and reallocate them according to the owner’s wishes, without having major implications for the technical design of the yacht,” said Harrison.

The new 80 also has some shared un-explorer-like features, including an enclosed observation lounge and open nook on the bow, as well as a crow’s nest that stands nearly 100 feet above the vessel. “It’s an intimate space that allows for 360-degree views of the water,” said Tintore.

Despite the unusual exterior and interior offerings, says Tintore, the 262-footer retains the Xplorer line’s DNA. The vessel is designed to stay off-grid for 40 days at sea. Tintore noted that the original concept of these vessels being solely polar explorers has also been thrown out the window. Since the first was launched in 2015, Damen owners have visited tropical destinations with their expedition yachts.

The flexible layouts, adds Tintore, allows owners to configure their boats to match the conditions where they’ll be cruising. The new design should prompt competitors to reexamine their own explorer concepts and hopefully inject more flexibility—and fun—into their creations.

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Mascot Towers sale deal to end five years of ‘purgatory’ for owners of defect-riddled Sydney apartments

A majority of owners agree to deal, which will give them a share of the $30m building price and support from the NSW government

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Five years of legal headaches may soon be over for many apartment owners in the defect-riddled Mascot Towers in Sydney , with a deal allowing them to sell their homes and walk away debt-free.

A majority of owners have agreed to a deal struck by the New South Wales government, which allows them to sell to a third-party commercial consortium rather than having to sell as a collective.

Apartment owners will now get a share of the $30m building price and means-tested support from the state government. The state’s building commission has also negotiated with banks to let owner-occupiers move out “debt free”.

Under the deal, lenders have agreed to reduce loan balances by up to 40%. The state government will then resolve any remaining debt. But this option is only available for owner-occupiers, who were living in the property before being forced out due to defects in 2019.

Owner-occupiers and some investors will also be eligible for $120,000 in government support, provided they have a taxable income of less than $156,000 and assets - excluding their Mascot Tower apartment - of less than $1m. Those experiencing financial hardship or who have a disability support pension could receive up to $360,000.

While the deal will wipe debts, owners will receive vastly less than the original purchase price due to the fallen value of their apartments.

The NSW minister for fair trading, Anoulack Chanthivong, said the deal would “close the book on one of the darkest chapters in building in this state”.

“After half a decade stuck in this nightmare, it appears that 75% of owners have now agreed to sell to a third-party buyer and move on,” Chanthivong said.

“Owners have been stuck in a purgatory of legal challenges and remediation costs for too long, this is finally a chance for them to break free.”

A state government spokesperson said work would now begin on determining how much government support owners would receive and to ensure lenders deliver on the agreement.

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Residents of the tower block in Sydney’s south were evacuated in 2019 after engineers became concerned about cracks in the primary support structure and facade masonry of the then 10-year-old building on Bourke Street.

Despite being unable to live in their homes, owners have had to continue paying levies, mortgages and remediation costs. The towers have 132 residential and nine commercial lots.

The 132 families evacuated from their homes have spent the past two years lobbying the state government via a Change.org petition to improve construction regulations and hold developers responsible for defects in buildings.

To date, the NSW government has provided $21m in accommodation or investor support to affected owners.

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