RAND boats combine sleek Scandinavian craftsmanship and design with cutting-edge technology and sustainable principles unlike anyone else.
Through intensive research, innovation and real-world testing RAND are able to offer a truly viable and practical 100% electric solution across their entire range. RAND models are available from 18 to 30 feet.
Every RAND is constructed with materials developed from recycled plastic bottles, all wooden trim elements are obtained entirely from certified sustainable forests, and the luxurious ‘leather’ upholstery options are cruelty-free alternatives. Compared to similar mainstream boat manufacturing techniques, RAND uses only half of the material when producing boats.
Uniquely, for those not yet ready for the electric revolution RAND’s iconic design, style and advances in sustainable production can also be configured with the latest highly-efficient internal combustion engines.
2022 was a strong year for yacht sales and there is no sign of slowing down in 2023 with demand outweighing supply. We are looking for quality pre-owned yachts to meet that demand. Contact us if you would like to achieve the best price in the shortest amount of time.
BOAT GOLD COAST
So here we are, heading towards the colder months, and looking forward to another exciting international boat show right in our own backyard. This year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) promises to be another spectacular event, both for boating enthusiasts and also “lifestylers”, who enjoy all the good things the Gold Coast has to offer: sun, sand, sea, and also food, shopping, and leisure experiences - catering to everyone from all walks of life.
Our April-June issue is filled with boat reviews that highlight the new models now available, with many of these boats on show at SCIBS. There is also exciting news about new brands of boats and products entering the Australian marine market to cater for the increased demand and tastes of the Australian boating public.
For the Gold Coast though, one major event is not enough. This is also the season when the marine and maritime industry players take the time to sit together, reflect, and discuss the future. The ASMEX (Australian Superyacht and Marine Export) Conference is being held in May on the Gold Coast, immediately prior to SCIBS, and provides a space for those working in the industry to share experiences, exchange insights, and offer opportunities. Conferences like ASMEX and Marinas24 (which takes place next year in Brisbane) are very useful for marine businesses and service-providers, as they promote the delivery of better experiences for the industry and, most importantly, boaters and their communities.
While the Gold Coast community recognises a so-called “winter” season, our South East Queensland climate offers an environment for all-year round boating. From the Broadwater in Southport to Moreton Bay, and up the coast to the Sunshine Coast and beyond, the waters are generally calm and clear. It is one of the best times to take family and friends out for fishing or just cruising. Inside this edition, you can read about what you can catch around this time and even where to go, including some inland fishing options.
What is also great about the cooler months, in our part of the world, is that we enjoy quieter moments on the waters. The holiday crowd tapers off during this time, and boating is a less crowded experience. But this does not mean that boaters can just ignore safety precautions. We must always remain vigilant on the waters, even when there are fewer water-users around.
And always — always! — be mindful of what is underneath in the waters. It is always worth emphasising that we need to respect the life below us; not only visible life, like the dolphins, dugongs and turtles, but also all the marine life that contributes to the health of our waters. In this edition, you will read about shellfish reefs, and (re)discover the importance to our waters of rebuilding and preserving them.
Lastly, we are close to the humpback whale migration season too. So, while the Gold Coast enjoys close proximity to the migration path, we should be mindful that the path is theirs to take. We should not intentionally be in their way; rather allow them the space to travel freely, not only for their safety, but also ours.
As always, I will leave you these pages to enjoy reading at your leisure. Have fun on the waters!
Roselle
editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au
BoatGoldCoast
PUBLISHER DIRECTOR EDITOR
ADVERTISE
Competitive Brands Pty. Ltd.
Andy Kancachian andy@boatgoldcoast.com.au
Roselle Tenefrancia editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au
Sales Enquiries sales@boatgoldcoast.com.au
CONTRIBUTORS Marcel Priest, Ian Anderson, Paul Burt, Nic Welch, Andrew Bedggood, Karla Herbert-Evans, Capt. John Kavanagh, Mick Godwin, Matthew Palmer, Craig and Melody Freestone, Bruce Bell
COVER PHOTO - Sporting looks, all-water sports cockpit, sports performance, and big motor yacht design features. The new Riviera 46 Sports Motor Yacht is the latest yacht to join the exceptional five model SMY collection. Proudly crafted in Australia, the SMY range of yachts are in a league of their own.
Please address all communication to:
Boat Gold Coast, P.O. Box 7441, G.C.M.C 9726 info@boatgoldcoast.com.au (07) 5679 0833
Acknowledgment of Country
Boat Gold Coast acknowledge and pay respects to the traditional custodians of our waterways, the Kombumerri people (Gold Coast) and the Quandamooka people (Moreton Bay), and also acknowledge the many Aboriginal people from other regions as well as Torres Strait and South Sea Islander people who now live in the local area and have made an important contribution to the community.
GOLD COAST, distributed via 550+ participating local businesses, is Queensland’s most-read boating magazine with 18,000 printed per issue and 300,000+ Australia-wide readers annually. The magazine is also available in NSW & VIC via a further 70+ participating businesses, including marinas, yacht clubs, dealers, brokers and chandleries from Ballina to Melbourne. Riviera Boats
SAIL PARADISE IS NOW Saturday 30th September – Monday 2nd October 2023
An action-packed three-day event of magnificent yacht racing on the GOLD COAST
With the new date, this event is expected to attract even more boats over the long weekend, making it a ‘must-attend’ for all Gold Coast families and sailing enthusiasts alike...
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Australia’s premium luxury motor yacht builder, Riviera, will proudly host a World Premiere and their exclusive owners Festival of Boating as part of a spectacular 11-model showcase at the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show beginning on May 25.
Riviera Australia owner Rodney Longhurst said: “This expansive showcase at Sanctuary Cove will be Riviera’s only boat show display in Australia in 2023.”
The exhibition will feature the World Premiere of a yet-tobe-announced new motor yacht at the show together with many of Riviera’s latest motor yacht releases.
The magnificent 11-model display represents the very latest world-class engineering, design, and handcrafted luxury from Riviera.
The collection from 39 to 78 feet today includes the magnificent Riviera Motor Yacht, five long-range and luxurious Sports Motor Yachts, four sophisticated Sport Yachts, seven adventurous SUVs and the elegant Belize collection.
Mr Longhurst said: “Our showcase will provide the exclusive opportunity this year for visitors to fully appreciate Riviera today, our exceptional quality, practicality and luxury across our magnificent range; all powerful demonstrations of Riviera’s continuing refinement and all in one amazing location in Australia.”
The Festival of Boating, exclusive to Riviera yacht owners, will be held on water aboard multiple Riviera yachts while seminars will be held aboard a floating superyacht hub that will also be the social heart of the festival located within this year’s brilliant showcase.
Riviera owners are invited to participate in a comprehensive program of boating educational and training workshops, including ladies’ skippers, mastering knots lines and hitches, offshore seamanship, understanding radar, navigation, and onboard power systems management, all created to encourage owners and their families to enjoy their ultimate boating experience with Riviera.
The spectacular owners’ social events are always a highlight of the festival and include the Riviera owners’ ladies’ luncheon and a series of evening celebration events and more.
Owners can consult their Riviera Dealer representative for more details.
Discover more at RivieraAustralia.com
THE RIVIERA FLEET IS HEADING TO SANCTUARY COVE, THEIR ONLY AUSTRALIAN BOAT SHOW APPEARANCE FOR 2023.
Experience world premiere celebrations, the largest Riviera showcase for 2023 and the exclusive Riviera owners Festival of Boating May 25 to 28, 2023.
This is your invitation to enjoy Riviera today. Be inspired by a new world premiere motor yacht and the exceptional 11-yacht showcase from 39 to 78 feet. Riviera owners will enjoy exclusive access to a superb boating educational program and special social events at the Festival of Boating held within the grand Riviera showcase at Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
Discover more at RivieraAustralia.com
Returns 25-28 May
T he Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) will again feature a showstopping lineup of exhibitors across everything from superyachts and trailer boats to the latest marine gadgets and must-have technology, as well as a raft of exciting new launches when it returns from May 25 – 28.
Each year more than 45,000 visitors attend the show, which features over 330 exhibitions, 600 boats and 1000 marine lifestyle products.
The Sanctuary Cove Marina will play host to some of the world’s most recognised and sought-after marine brands.
Among the premium brands taking prime position on the water for the 34th annual SCIBS event are Axopar, Grand Banks, Horizon, Maritimo, Multihull Solutions, Ocean Alexander, Palm Beach, Princess, Riviera, Short Marine and Sundance Marine.
Bringing the latest and greatest in trailerable boats, watersports and inflatable craft are the likes of AMC, JSW Powersports, Northside Marine, QMC, Sirocco Marine, Suzuki, TR Marine, Volvo, Whittley Marine Group and Yamaha, all already on board for SCIBS 2023.
Taking their place in the Pavilion, showcasing the latest in marine gear, gadgets and hightech innovations are industry leading brands including Akzonobel, Boating & RV, Club Marine, Dometic, Garmin, Navico, Quality Marine Clothing, Raymarine, Stella and Vetus-Maxwell.
With the ever-growing interest in alternative, electric and hybrid power in the marine industry, SCIBS 2023 is also showcasing a host
of companies investing in alternative power sources, with a range of cutting-edge marine industry e-technologies on display, from luxury electric and hybrid yacht s, to electric engines, to must-have outdoor ‘toys’ such as jetboards and electric underwater scooters.
As well as the place to find the latest and greatest the marine world has to offer, SCIBS also offers the Gold Coast’s hottest VIP and Corporate Hospitality experience at The Lagoon Lounge. A ticket to The Lagoon Lounge offers guests a luxury social haven and the perfect vantage point to enjoy the show.
An all-inclusive Lagoon Lounge Pass includes: Exclusive all-day access to The Lagoon Lounge, Premium beverages including beer, wine and bubbles, all-day grazing menu, bespoke tasting experiences from our beverage partners, access all areas of the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, live music & entertainment.
And of course, there is a host of family fun and entertainment, as well as exciting live fishing and cooking demonstrations, great food, and an atmosphere you just can’t beat.
“SCIBS brings together the very best of the boating lifestyle we love in one very special location,” Mr Hasser said. “Mulpha continues to invest in SCIBS and Sanctuary Cove, with additional marina berths, venue upgrades and an enhanced VIP offering. We are again expecting a sold-out exhibition and bumper crowds."
Whether you’re a die-hard boatie or looking for the latest boating and marine products, you’ll find it all at the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. Tickets on sale now! Scan the QR Code to book now and secure your tickets at early bird prices PLUS go in the draw to WIN a luxurious Hayman Island escape valued at over $5,000.
OUR TIP - For the ultimate Boat Show experience, book a VIP Pass to The Lagoon Lounge!
IMPORTANT - Tickets are only available onlinethere will not be a Box Office at the show. Kids under 16 FREE with a paying adult.
The 34th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) is on from May 25-28, 2023. For more visit sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au
Since its inception over three decades ago, SCIBS has grown to become famous the world over, and is considered to be the most glamorous and unmissable boating lifestyle event in the Southern Hemisphere.
Mulpha Events, General Manager Johan Hasser said after the phenomenal success of the 2022 event, SCIBS has seen an enormous demand from premium boating brands lining up to showcase their vessels and products at the 2023 Show.
boat, either out wide, in the Broadwater, or throwing muddy pots up the Pimpama River,” Matthew explains.
Matthew has owned many boats over the years, starting with a 3.55 Quintrex before he was able to get a licence. Since then, he has had a Quintrex Topender, Stacer, Buccaneer Billfisher, and most recently a 500f Haines Signature. He likes to upgrade each time the hour meters are well into triple digits.
An advocate for local fishing, Matthew says, “It just happens to be one of the cleanest and most easily accessible fishing grounds in the country. It’s not just great fishing but fantastic living to go with it. As for location, a swift 4-5 hours up the M1 and you are on the fringes of the reef, with fantastic river bream and jacks up the Nerang river. The Broadwater is an angler’s paradise, and the offshore grounds produce quality catch all year round.”
of water, or between the 24s and the 36s, where the bottom is sandy and clean,” says Matthew.
He goes on, “I will always start with live baits at 1mile then, depending on currents, usually to the 36 line. But if conditions are favourable, straight to the 50s, either off the pin or south near the traps. Along the way out I will throw spanner crab pots out and leave them soak until it is time to return, hopefully with a feed of fish and crabs.”
Matthew Palmer is a professional horse racing jockey, with 18 years of Australian and international races under his belt. He relaxes and unwinds by going fishing - all kinds of fishing, inshore and offshore, from Queensland down to NSW, he has fished it all.
“Fishing and boating are a great escape to get away from the pressure and demands of racing. If I’m not racing or riding you can usually find me out on the
“This a great time to head offshore as the water temp comes back down and the snapper and pearl perch really pick up, as well as the king fish along the 50s. There are still a few marlin around spot x if bait is present but the main rush has finished. Not many chase them, but the spanner crabbing is exceptional in 56-66 m
Matthew’s advice is to keep it simple - bigger is not always better, especially for snapper and pearl perch. “A snelled double hook rig, (5/0 – 7/0) 20-30lb leader onto a swivel with a running snapper sinker clipped onto 30lb braid is suggested. This way you can change your bait size easily and, with a snell rig, big bait and small bait is easily adaptable, the same as the sinker clip quick change to adapt to currents. With soft plastics, I’ve always had my best fish on big jig heads, 30lb leader and the gulp grub style in either nuclear chicken or pink shine. Spanner crabs are easy, spanner crab pot, fish frame from last trip, long rope, and a BIG float!”
His best strategy is to sail to a mark or GPS position and throw out a chute to slow the drift. “This is the most critical part when you start to sort everything out, have a beer, and get the bait and tackle out. Concentrate on the angle, drift speed, etc while doing this. This will show you the exact way you are going to drift on your area. A parachute or drift sock will allow you to drift at a
slower rate and allow for smaller sinkers to get to desired depth. Always keep an eye on the sounder and mark bait. The 10-15 minutes it takes to get organised should save you hours of trying to work out strategies if you pay attention to your drift. This way you can precisely pick and drift the exact lines you wish by pulling up N or E of the desired marks and hit the point each time.
"The 50s is my favourite, N or S. When the weather is not so kind the 36 will still produce. Just fish lighter if you can; the closer you fish the lighter LB you use! Trust me, the lighter the rod and leader, the bigger the fish.”
“When it comes to buying a fishing boat, everyone’s needs are different. I bought the new Haines when the kids came along, and before that I had a side console Quintrex. I like the fibreglass boat on a trailer as it offers protection and safety for the kids and the versatility of being able to be stored in a garage. A reliable engine is a must, so order your new boat with the highest recommended hp on the back. With the amount of gear we take out, plus people, you need that extra horsepower, especially crossing bars. Dual batteries are probably the most critical requirement,
boat with the best motor you can afford, then you can build on what you have. The boat, motor, and trailer are the 3 main components, and the most expensive. Start with a bare shell and work on it over time. Save up, do research, and gradually add to it. I have done this with every boat I’ve owned and, although it can take some time, it is definitely worth it in the long run.
“To get started, buy specialty fishing tackle, start small. Go see your local tackle shop, and they will happily help you.”
Matthew with pearl perch and snapper, 2-3kg, soft plastic Gulp pink shine, 50 fathoms off Pin bar.
The fishing weapon is Cookie Monster, with Suzuki 90 (white colour) hydraulic steering, anchor winch, dual batteries, deck wash, plumbed bait tank, 9” Lowrance sounder, dual tacho, under water lighting, LED strip lighting, toilet, 4.5 m outriggers, rocket launcher, Waeco fridge
Matthew with snapper, 9.5kg, Gulp plastic, 50 fathoms traps
Matthew with spanner crabs, 500g-750g, 66m water east of Seaway
Piper and Maci Palmer with dad Matthew, with boat Cookie Monster at Tipplers Passage
Matthew with coral trout, 62cm, squid bait, Gladstone
South East Finance are ready and waiting to approve your boat finance now. With a combined 30 years of experience in marine, automotive and finance industries, the team at South East Finance understand every aspect of the purchase process, from the search for that perfect boat to obtaining that right financing fast. The aim is to provide exceptional service and fast approvals that will ensure a finance package that is tailored to your needs. It is the South East Finance team’s customer-focused attitude that sets them apart from the rest.
The team not only comprises finance gurus, they are also nuts about boats (and cars too!). So, if you want feedback and advice on the make, model or style of the boat you intend to buy, they can walk you through the pros and cons. This firsthand knowledge of the onwater realities of owning a boat is the reason why you can trust
South East Finance to assist with your decisionmaking, and your finance requirements.
POINT OF DIFFERENCE
They have a large range of lenders from major banks, finance companies, credit unions and non-conforming lenders. Securing your boat loan at the right rate is their priority. So, if you are looking for a low interest rate and quickest answer, they will meet your expectations. Even if you may not have the best credit history, they will still endeavour to secure the right loan for you.
Regardless of your income, you can expect South East Finance not to judge you or your decisions. They are respectful and helpful, and guarantee absolute confidentiality.
The team at South East Finance provide several specialised extra services on request. They can communicate with sellers on your behalf and
negotiate with your boat broker to get you the best deal, or simply just point you in the direction of a trusted and preferred boat supplier.
It is very easy to complete the application form. As soon as you submit an application, the team will call to discuss your loan requirements in more detail. You will be surprised at just how little income and documentation is required when applying for loan approval.
Call the friendly team today and book an obligation-free consultation regarding your loan requirements. Ph: (07) 3299 5553
www.southeastfinance.com.au/apply-now/
Traditional in style, abundant in state of the art technology, Alaska Motor Yachts deliver a high level of sophistication for the discerning boat owner.
Alaska Motor Yachts are the pride of the Leigh-Smith Yachts team, a pride that each owner shares and takes with them long after the sales process. With every new Alaska the previous owner's direct input with the Leigh-Smiths, further refines and evolves the future product. It’s this willingness to listen & learn from the end user that ensures the designs, performance and finishes in the Alaska Range continues to astonish buyers.
Natural ergonomic flow is the focus on each new design From the moment you enter each vessel an Alaska Motor yacht will give you an uncluttered warm feeling of quality and superior boat building that enhances the liveability whilst onboard. You will feel the thousands of man hours in every vessel as you pass through each carefully designed purposeful area of the boat.
Softened by carefully chosen premium fabrics that are hand stitched to lighten the feel combined with large panoramic windows bring your secluded outdoor environment inside. Natural light and ventilation are always present in any Leigh-Smith design.
Whilst traditional in style, the Alaska Motor Yachts are abundant in technology. Cummins common rail diesel power plants, Onan ultra-quiet low revving Genets, bow & stern thrusters to make for easy docking, custom Sheridan bedding and linen packages, LED TV’s and lighting throughout, Italian hardware, Raymarine integrated navigation packages are all standard inventory that offer a reliable, user friendly minimal maintenance package. This high level of specification, finish and willingness to remain traditional ensure excellent resale and high demand on the used boat market.
alaskamotoryachts.com.au
Sophisticated timeless design exceeding all expectations
THE TRUSTED NAME IN SALES OF NEW AND USED MOTOR YACHTS. AGENTS FOR: VICEM, HAMPTON, ENDURANCE AND ALASKA MOTOR YACHTS.
Utilizing Axopar's knowledge, and the time and effort spent developing the larger siblings in the range, Axopar are introducing a true crossover between comfortable day boating and extended island-hopping, where the renowned Axopar seaworthiness and handling comes to the fore.
The Axopar 25 strictly adheres to its proven awardwinning legacy and DNA. For anyone looking for something more than just a straightforward dayboat – Axopar’s foray into the thriving world of cuddy cruisers, and another leap forward in terms of value for
money; now offers more space, more overall comfort and more all-round capability.
The ultra-cool looking Axopar 25 has a raised ‘cuddy cabin’ sleeping accommodation, where the cabin defines the character of this remarkable new boat. A full width cushioned sundeck is positioned atop the cabin roof, with a sloping backrest that follows the rake of the front screen.
Axopar 25 Performance Review - Hull Design, Fuel Consumption and Offshore Handling. The verdict is in; the boat handles 2 metres of messy swell and surface chop incredibly well, thanks to the twinstepped hull and cutting bow. With a planing speed of 13kts, cruising speed of 27kts and a max speed of 41kts, it is safe to say this versatile cuddy cabin Axopar is an absolute weapon.
The Axopar 25 hull features a very sharp entry reverse bow – designed to slice the surface of the water. The two large chines – keep the boat dry by reflecting spray straight back down into the water. The two hull steps form channels which suck air underneath the hull so, at planing speed, the boat is actually sitting on a layer of bubbles reducing the friction which in turn reduces the power required to push the boat. This in turn reduces the fuel consumption and dramatically improves the performance and ride of the vessel.
Trim and Ride - the well balanced hull rides effortlessly with little to no input required from the Trim Tabs.
Trimming with engine trim only, the hull rides the surface chop well, with little spray coming over the bow or entering the cockpit. Protection from the wide windscreen and bimini provide a secure feel when at a range of speeds in a range of conditions. With the driver positioned in the middle of the boat, handling is easy and predictable with hydraulic/electric steering.
Axopar Boats together with the Norwegian highperformance electric motors system company Evoy, have released an early-stage prototype that explores functional e-mobility for the future.
KEY STATISTICS (250HP TESTED)
Idle Speed = 3.5kts, Planing Speed = 13kts
Cruising Speed = 27kts
Top Speed = 42kts
Fuel Efficiency = 16-27kts at 28L/h, 35kts at 51L/h, 41kts at 85L/h
RANGE @ 27kts with 230L = 220nm
For more information on the Axopar Boats, go to www.eyachts.com.au or contact boats@eyachts.com.au
25 CROSS BOW
25 CROSS TOP
no need for wind to cruise in silence
tel: 07 3004 7604
www.eyachts.com.au
boats@eyachts.com.au
The new generation Greenline 45 Fly is a faster and more powerful yacht which sets exemplary standards including standard 1.2KW solar panels.
With the largest flybridge in her class, the extended cabin roof gives full protection from the sun, rain or wind.
The boat offers a perfectly balanced interior layout featuring a full-beam midship owner cabin with king-size bed, with the VIP guest cabin in the bow, both equally comfortable offering private bathrooms with separate showers. With both cabins featuring walk-in wardrobes, the 45 Fly is really the most comfortable yacht in her class.
Integrity Motor Yachts are excited to announce the world premiere of a whole new pace of Integrity at the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
Join us on the marina to inspect the popular 380SX and the all-new 470CE PLUS which represents an evolution of tried and tested motor yacht design, with all the style, safety, comfort, and reliability that are hallmarks of Integrity.
The all-new Coastal Express range features a new contemporary look and feel to appeal to a new generation of boating families whilst maintaining the core Integrity DNA of spacious entertainers’ zones, covered cockpit, side walkways for safe, easy access, and now, owners can opt for genuine higher speed cruising.
Phone Integrity today on 1300 798 735 for more information or Discover More at www.integrityboats.com.au
The unique patented design offers a low maintenance and compact lift, powered by either a 12 or 24 volt winch with 2 models to choose from. The lift features a versatile platform made from fibreglass, which can be coloured to match your vessel, either teak or white slats, and adjustable cradle mounts. Once your tender is launched, the cradles can be removed and lift lowered into the water to create a swim platform. The rear rail on the tender lift can be fitted with a range of custom accessories, including a bait board, BBQ, rod holders and a Euro awning. The lift has the capacity to lift 400kgs, easily lifting a wide range of tenders and PWC. The tender lift has no parts that are permanently in the water. Once the lift is raised all parts are dry. The Easy Tender Lift offers a simple ‘lift and go’ tender solution giving boat owners the freedom to relax and enjoy the water!
RB Marine Covers, GC Antifoul and Bullet boats form a unique all-inone boat service centre at Runaway Bay Marina. Conveniently located on the Broadwater, it’s the ideal place to refresh your boat with any minor fibreglass repairs, annual antifouling and repair or replacement of your boat's marine covers and upholstery.
ANTIFOUL BOTTOM PAINTING - The application of a special type of paint used on the bottom of boats is designed to protect from micro-organisms that can eat away at your boat hull and reduce the efficiency of your vessel. Boat antifoul will provide a protective layer between your boat and the marine life, which usually lasts between 12 and 18 months depending on your location. In high-flow tidal areas, boat antifouling will need to be done a little more regularly than in a slow-moving tidal area due to many more micro-organisms passing by and attaching to the boat. Gold Coast Antifouling is also an agent for Propspeed propeller antifoul, which can improve your boat’s performance and economy.
MARINE COVERS AND UPHOLSTERY - The marine environment is harsh, and good quality covers will protect your boat when you are out at sea, moored, on a trailer or even in a storage facility. As a reputable marine trimmer, they only use top-quality UV-stable canvases, such as Sunbrella or Weather-Max 80 with a lifetime PTFE thread brand like Profolin, Healius or Tenara. The machinist will sew reinforced edges, finishing with a waterproofing spray to ensure there are no leaks. The team are capable of repairing or replacing; biminis, camping covers, clears, zippers, midge screens, window shields, hatch covers or even a cover for the entire boat. They can also repair or replace indoor and outdoor upholstery and bedding, throughout the boat.
HULL POLISHING - The professionally trained team also specialises in boat detailing and cleaning. All detailing packages include washing the boat from the waterline, cleaning under hatches, and all grooves and tracks. They will remove salt, bird droppings, water stains and grime. They can then buff and polish the gelcoat using a proven method of hull restoration to bring back the shine, while ensuring a protective coating.
FIBREGLASS REPAIRS - The team are skilled fibreglass repairers, able to undertake minor repairs and major boat repairs. The company is able to repair, restore, and build just about anything with fibreglass, from hulls to custom fibreglass parts. This includes minor scrapes from dock damage, to rebuilding after a major accident, and the restoration of old but reliable hulls, transoms, floors and stringers, and they are also experienced with bow thruster installation. With spray-painters on hand, the right paint work can be applied, so your boat will look good again with new gelcoat.
The team members pride themselves on delivering fast and extremely professional service from quality tradesmen, taking care of all your boat maintenance needs. For a free estimate on all these services, call Paul Tuesley Ph: 0417 173 257
The Spectrum Marine team is anticipating a massive 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
At this year’s show, 25 to 28 May, Spectrum Marine dealer principal, Gavin Ward and his team Jason Chipp and Kevin Hooper, will be joined by Whitehaven Group brokers from all over Australia to present a top line-up of new models across the brands: Whitehaven, Aquila Power Catamarans and Integrity Motor Yachts.
“We have strong representation all over the country,” says Gavin. “Sanctuary Cove is the country’s premier boat show and our customers attend from all parts of Australia.
“SCIBS is unique for its location, atmosphere and its B2B and consumer focus. Visitors have the opportunity to see the latest developments from manufacturers from all over the world.
“Every year, brands demonstrate new and better ways to use space on board to create a better living environment and better full boating experience. It’s all about optimising the interiors and deck space, and understanding how people use boats.”
At SCIBS 2023, Gavin and his team are looking forward to showing several new models including the all-new Integrity 470CE PLUS.
“This will be the first of a new breed of Integrity,” he explains.
“The first in a series of planing hull motor yachts in the Integrity Plus series. The new 470CE PLUS is a high-speed alternative with two unique features: a forward facing windscreen and a completely different planing hull structure which will deliver fast cruising performance, a maximum speed of 22 and extended cruising from 16 knots.
“A lot of research, planning and design went into the new series, and we’re looking forward to being able to show it off to visitors at SCIBS 2023.”
The Integrity 380SX will also be on show; an 11.7-metre for our enhanced SX range of motor yachts designed to suit a new generation of boating families.
In the Aquila Power Catamarans range will be the feature-packed 54, 44 and 36 models.
“The Aquila 54 will be on show for the first time in Australia,” says Gavin. “It’s the third A54 in the
country and is enjoying phenomenal success. We have a total of seven on order and they will be arriving throughout this year.
“The A54 is a massive platform, capable of extended cruising or entertaining family and friends,” he continues.
“It’s a great offshore, long-distance cruiser that will accommodate large groups with ease and comfort. The enclosed flybridge skylounge option is one of its many unique features, offering guests a protected, comfortable living and social space whatever the conditions or climate. It’s very ergonomically designed for the person at the helm, with good 360-degree vision, and plenty of room for guests.”
Also on show, the Aquila 44 is a new demonstrator boat. “This model in a very short time has become the fastest selling power cat in the world, and for good reason,” states Gavin.
“For a boat this size to provide the accommodation and features unique to Aquila, such as a full-beam forward master stateroom and one level living and entertaining is really a superyacht sense of space and style in a 44-foot boat!”
For discerning owners seeking an entirely bespoke, luxury motor yacht, the Whitehaven 6000 Flybridge will provide inspiration for their own personal journey.
“Redefining the Flybridge Motor Yacht market, the Whitehaven 6000 is a perfect example of the custom-crafted vessel that can be tailor-made to suit her owner’s requirements – whether that’s as a long-range cruising holiday home for exploring the east coast, or a luxurious live-aboard apartment for enjoying time on the Harbour.”
This year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is the ideal opportunity to inspect any or all of these exceptional motor yachts, with four brilliant days of SCIBS that combine a great family day out with every aspect of the boating lifestyle.
“We look forward to reconnecting with our colleagues and customers, socialising with owners and speaking with them about their cruising adventures.”
To arrange an appointment to inspect these impressive models at SCIBS 2023, get in touch with Spectrum Marine: gavin@spectrummarine.com.au
Tel: 1300 872 006.
spectrummarine.com.au
A wallets when it comes to new luxury pontoon boats in w hich to cruise our waterways – and a longestablished Brisbane company is leading the way.
Runaway Bay Pontoon Boats of Burbank/ Rochedale successfully manufactures and sells quality pontoon boats, proving that anything an overseas manufacturer can do an Aussie company can do as well, if not better.
The company proudly and justifiably describes itself as “Australia’s Premier Builder of Basic to Luxury Pontoon Boats”.
HERE TO STAY - Company manager Neil Stapleton attributes the strong demand to their boats’ build quality and easily customisable design, as well as the company’s excellent customer service and reliable local back-up.
“Our parent company is Highgate Engineers, a division of Holmwood Highgate, a privately owned Australian company,” Neil said. “Holmwood Highgate was established in 1985, and today we have more than 200 employees. Buyers can have confidence that we will still be here for many years to come, which cannot be said of some companies who import boats from overseas.
“Our pontoon boats are built by Australians for Australian conditions and that really shows in the build quality and their toughness. They are also built to Australian standards and even international standards, if required, and designed to be within standard towing width, so there are no issues towing them.”
FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE - Neil knows all too well how important dealer and manufacturer back-up is, because it was after buying an imported pontoon boat for his own family that he came up with the idea of building an Australian-made version
cruise in freshwater in the USA and did not take kindly to constant immersion in corrosive salt water here in Australia,” Neil said.
He found it difficult to get satisfactory dealer and manufacturer support for the problems that cropped up. Eventually, the dealer shut down and he was left on his own. Frustrated, he decided to build a pontoon boat himself, using his own ideas and the extensive expertise of the team at Highgate Engineers.
The resulting two prototypes hit the water in 2008 and the rest – as they say – is history. Sales have continued to grow year on year, and their only issue is keeping up with demand, which is a wonderful issue to have.
THE BEST - Company salesperson Craig Winch has been part of the success story since the beginning and his enthusiasm for the craft shines through in his comments.
“We have some pretty special waterways in Australia and our boats are the perfect way to get out there and enjoy them,” Craig said. “Our pontoon boats can be built to survey, and we also offer various lengths and widths including many popular designs between 16 and 28-feet, all trailerable. Customers can choose their own colour scheme and customise their internal fit-out to some extent, so the boat layout truly reflects your personal preferences and usage.
“They are all-day boats, designed for enjoying local waterways with your family and friends, whether that is fishing, water-skiing or wake-boarding, or just sitting back and taking in the world as you leisurely cruise on by. We work with clients to offer them the very best in sports fishing pontoon boats and leisure pontoon boats.”
THE PURSUIT OF PERFECTION - Neil noted that one of the aspects potential buyers appreciated the most was being able to visit the factory and see boats under construction, and observe first-hand Highgate Engineers’ meticulous attention to detail and build quality.
“The company prides itself on a policy of continuous product development and improvement, while utilising the highest quality materials and keeping abreast of the latest technologies in the pursuit of perfection at a competitive price,” he said. “Those are big words and that is an ambitious goal, but it’s what we strive for, and I think our sales show how well we are achieving it.”
In keeping with its underlying commitment of ongoing customer support, the company is also happy to repair and modernise older pontoon boats with new furniture.
Neil said the reputation of the company is also reflected in the resale price of the boats, because owners often resell their boats for almost what they paid new, even after years of happy usage.
Want your own dream boat? Call Craig at Runaway Bay Pontoon Boats to discuss your ideas. Prices start at $70,000 for a base boat excluding engines and trailer.
You will find Runaway Bay Pontoon Boats at Highgate Engineers at 155 Ford Road, Burbank/Rochedale QLD. Office: (07) 3440 9000. Craig’s Mob: 0417 646 711
craig@runawaybaypontoonboats.com www.runawaybaypontoonboats.com
FIXED-PRICE WATERFRONTHOMEANDLAND PACKAGES AVAILABLEFROM$3.45M
OWN YOUR PIECE OF
The Whitsundays’ first major marina development in over a decade – Shute Harbour Marina is a tropical paradise for those wanting to live, work and play in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Incorporating leading-edge environmental design, Shute Harbour will offer the finest resort-style living, private accommodation for yachts and cruisers, premium retail and commercial amenities, all in an exquisite waterfront setting.
Our home is on the waters of Lake Macquarie in NSW and I regularly go boating with my wife Mel and daughters Audrey (4) and Hazel (2).
We were in the market for a new small boat for fishing and general running about when I first noticed the JOMO. Lake Macquarie is a large body of water connected to the ocean which is rough and windy often, so safety and capability were key. I have owned and operated several small (and large) boats both for work and play and the JOMO is by far the best allrounder I have come across.
Small aluminium boats whilst nice and light can be unstable and give a harsh, noisy ride. In my experience they are also prone to cracking and corrosion. Inflatable boats have excellent stability but typically minimal storage or freeboard, and require constant care / maintenance in regards to the tube materials. Other poly boats I have operated in this size have a high level of stability but are prone to a wet, rough ride in adverse conditions, do not corner well and have minimal storage.
Our JOMO has the inherent stability / buoyancy of the poly material combined with a relatively deep v hull design, meaning it handles choppy conditions with ease and corners like a speedboat. I love that the hull feels solid as a rock and never bangs or rattles even in very rough water, the high freeboard and long shaft transom height also give an added sense of security and ensures you don’t take water over the back.
It is a very well thought out design, with loads of built-in storage and the flush mount accessory attachment points. With the 20hp four-stroke outboard installed, our JOMO planes quickly with four people on board and it is extremely economical. I enjoy using it in all conditions and love that it is designed to be “virtually indestructible” and it will always float level, no matter the situation.
In all it is just a hassle free, very fun boat that brings our family many happy memories.
Adam Shaw has 13+ years of boat ownership experience, in that time he has owned 20 various boats. His current boat is the Jomo 300.
ABOUT JOMO - The JOMO is an Australian designed, developed and made polyethylene boat that eliminates the anguish and irritation commonly associated with small boats. Designed by a naval architect, the hull was created to be stable both at rest and on the move. The boat is roto-moulded using the latest materials and techniques. This creates a double skin that makes level flotation possible and provides a soft enjoyable ride.
Very little hull maintenance is required due to the sheer durability of the material. The JOMO hull has the world’s highest safety rating. The JOMO can plane quickly and easily due to the unique hull design. With the rear tabs, steering is smooth and precise even in choppy conditions. The JOMO is legally allowed to use up to a 20hp motor, and it planes with a 6hp motor, making it ideal for young water enthusiasts.
There is plenty of leg room and handles that are positioned to ensure easy reach by passengers when underway. The large cockpit has a solid, non-slip floor, the gunwale is flat rather than round, providing a stable surface to step on when boarding or disembarking. There are also steps at the stern to assist with boarding from the water. Available as a tiller steer, side or centre console.
The JOMO is extremely versatile and can be modified for almost any use, from a tender to a fishing boat, it’s an all-rounder. The JOMO comes with a five-year warranty for private use and one year for most commercial uses.
To find out more, visit www.JOMOboats.com.au Me Tender Boats at Coomera Marine Precinct
QLD - Wynnum Marine (07) 3396 9777 www.wynnummarine.com.au
NSW - Johnson Bros Enterprise Marine (02) 9999 5558 www.jbem.net.au
FEATURES
• Tiller or forward steer
• Licensed to carry four people
• Solid level non-slip floor
• Built-in lifting points
• Two large areas for dry storage
• Dedicated space for fuel tanks
• Anchor locker with cleat
• Easily accessible handles
AVAILABLE IN 12 EXCITING BOAT COLOURS
I ts name is evolving, and now the Merry Fisher Sport - Jeanneau Merry Fisher Marlin line has been redesigned to strengthen its promise of adventure, incarnating a new spirit of adventure, with boats adapted to multiple outdoor activities and to the discovery of new landscapes.
The new decoration of the Merry Fisher Sport line, young and energetic, conveys this new image.
The priority is given to greater exterior space and more comfortable cruising, sheltered from the elements. The latest of this generation is the Merry Fisher 795 Sport Serie2, which benefits from major innovations.
The Merry Fisher 795 Sport Serie2 is designed to facilitate sporty outings at sea. The vast, modular cockpit enables you to clear the space entirely, with numerous storage lockers and
attachment systems for fishing or other marine activities requiring the handling of equipment. Even the cockpit roof is designed without supports, in order to facilitate movement on board and avoid obstructions while casting. In just minutes, the cockpit changes into a saloon with removable bench seating and tables.
This boat also features a U-shaped saloon in the forward cockpit, with two atmospheres that can be perceived from one side or other of the wheelhouse. The new hull shines in her versatility, compatible with engines starting at 150 HP and up to 250 HP maximum engine power, for even more fun.
Merry Fisher 795 Sport Serie2 is now available for viewing in Queensland from Northside Marine. Contact David on (07) 3265 8046 or email your enquiry to davidc@nsmarine.com.au
Thinking of an alternative way to get to the boat show in May? Why don’t you and your friends just FLY to the boat show? Gold Coast Helitours offer direct helicopter shuttle flights from their new terminal at the heart of Main Beach to Sanctuary Cove. Ideal for corporate attendees or just fun-seekers looking for a stress-free way to visit the premier boating event, your transfer to and from the boat show will take just 6 minutes each way at an altitude of 1000-1500 feet.
Gold Coast Helitours operate several large helicopters that can transport up to 6 passengers, and smaller ones for up to 3 passengers. With a crew of experienced pilots and ground staff operating the fleet of luxury helicopters, the company will be assisting up to 400 return passengers every day of the event.
There is always ample parking available at Marine Mirage and Mariners Cove. Just follow the Mariners Cove Marina high-side jetty to the awesome floating Heliport Passenger Terminal, the only floating heliport in Australia, and one of the most high-tech TSAcompliant airports in the world.
Upon arrival, you will be automatically weighed while you self check-in using an iPad terminal. After a 4-minute video briefing, you will immediately depart for Sanctuary Cove and begin enjoying the view from above. The helicopter flight takes a direct path over the western channel of the Broadwater, above Harbour Town, over Hope Island and onto Sanctuary Cove.
Although there is no need to book and usually no waiting, a booking is strongly advised to avoid being separated from friends on the flight. The Sanctuary Cove helicopter pad is directly outside the Pavilion entrance. A return booking, with estimated time, will ensure an aircraft is immediately available. It is ok to carry your boat show purchases onboard, but it will definitely not be possible to carry your new boat on the helicopter!
also handy toe rails to slide your feet under for comfort and plenty of room to store your prized catch in dual kill tanks. The standard model includes a bait board and a handy deck wash. The soft top is fitted with six alloy rocket launcher rod holders, and the gunwales can be fitted with 3-way rod holders. The helm is large enough to install a 12-inch sounder on the dash.
The FF 1950 OB is a purpose-built family fishing boat offering modern comfort and style. It’s a tried-andtrue offshore boat, big enough so you can sleep aboard in The Broadwater, then at first light head 30km offshore. This boat will provide a soft dry ride and perform really well all day.
As the entry level offshore boat of the Whittley range, the FF 1950 OB will eat up any chop out on the water. Much bigger internally than you would expect for a 6.2m boat with a 2.3m beam, the FF 1950 OB is based on the John Savage Mako hull. The model boasts many of the larger SL features, in a proven affordable Whittley package. It’s got all the bells and whistles, including a step through transom door, and transom pods either side of the engine well which add buoyancy and stability at rest. The front of the boat is ideal to get your family comfortable while out on the water. A large cabin with optional bunk infills make it a large volume overnight boat which comes fitted with a toilet, while the bimini with clears protect everyone from the elements. The FF 1950 OB has plentiful cabin storage with a double shelf nearly all the way around the hull, so you can carry loads of gear.
Anchoring is easy, with the convenient walk-through configuration allowing excellent forward access to the separate anchor locker and large bowsprit with lazy anchor system, and dual batteries. The floor is fitted with high quality rubber matting which covers the underfloor 150L fuel tank.
The boat has heaps of storage space under the floor, under the bunks, and has two shelves in each of the gunwales. Each boat has a pair of eskys under the steel framed ergonomically positioned pedestal seating, which can be moved to the transom to make a reading lounge. The back part of the boat is set up for fishing, featuring one of the largest fishing cockpits in its class thanks to the unique folding outboard door in the engine well. There are
Easily powered by outboards in the standard 135 Mercury 4 stroke Outboard, or optional 150, which makes it an on-water rocket, the FF 1950 is an efficient sports fishing platform that slices through chop and delivers excellent steadiness when drifting or at anchor. The hull grips in the turns and rides nicely in choppy waters. Depending on conditions, the boat will average better than 2 km per litre which is very economical for a 6m –1300 kg boat on water.
At a steady cruising speed, you can travel 300 km on a tank of fuel or approximately 10 hours running time, making it possible to stay out all weekend. The boat is capable of a top speed at 5800 rpm, of 65 km/h and 1.2 km/L, and economical cruising speed at 3500 rpm, of 36 km/h and 1.9 km/L.
The FF 1950 is delivered on a dual-axle easy drive-on/ drive-off trailer and is light enough to tow with a large family sedan or smaller SUV. It’s built to tackle rough conditions without breaking your budget. It also comes with many standard features which other comparable boats charge extra for and is backed by a 5 year hull warranty supported by the Whittley Marine Group.
The FF 1950 packaged with a Mercury 135 4 stroke and dual axle Mackay Trailer, is available from $88,888, drive away from the Whittley QLD dealership located inside The Boat Works at Coomera.
To find out more, call Laurie Jackson at Whittley Sales QLD Ph: 0409 830 078 whittleyboats.com.au
The FF 1950 Cuddy Cabin is made from fiberglass which offers many benefits over aluminum, including;
1) SPRAYED AND ROLLED FOR STRENGTH: no alloy fatigue or broken welds to repair, plus the option of foam filling for added strength.
2) NO CORROSION ISSUES: drop a coin or sinker into an alloy hull and the corrosion process starts and can be quickly visible with electrolysis occurring.
3) GELCOATS SPRAYED FOR LIFE: gelcoat is part of the moulded process unlike alloy paint that can fleck off and is prone to peeling with electrolysis.
4) FULL LENGTH MOULDED CHINES: strategically located throughout the hull to slice through the water with ease.
5) BETTER & SOFTER RIDE: nothing rides better than a fiberglass boat!
6) LESS NOISE: fibreglass boats are quieter than alloy boats when at rest and on the move.
7) INCREASED FUEL ECONOMY: the hull design shape is more slippery through the water which means less money spent at the bowser.
8) EASIER TO DRIVE: solid high sides and sure footed on the water, with a quick transition onto the plane.
There’s always something in the air when it comes to fishing the backwaters of tributaries, streams and inlets. The thought of walking the tree-lined banks knowing that fish inhabit the waters lapping the edge of your feet. But what sort of fish are we talking about? Various fish species need water flow from mountains, drains, hill sides, and in general just rain to help them move from one stretch to another for in dry weather times, fish can become stuck in land-locked waterholes ready for your picking.
Surprisingly, species can consist of both fresh and saltwater species that can adapt to brackish waters often found in these situations. Bream, mangrove jacks and bass are the three main fish that I regularly catch. The Gold Coast is big on boating. The highest amount of registered boats per capita in the southern hemisphere, the fastest growing region in Australia and combine these together and it equals pressure and loads of it. To me the waterways here are still like the wild west, very little control when it comes to policing the activity in a narrowing waterway but all of
this fades away when you slip upstream to where boats can’t go and people don’t venture.
Use of drones these days is so beneficial when fishing these backwaters. Often the grass and banks are so thick you can’t even see the waterholes from the ground but taking a birds eye view changes everything. Yes you still have to trudge through the tree and grass lined banks to get there but you have a vision, a line of sight, a mark where to get to. A recent film shoot we did encompassed all of the above and the result was phenomenal, one of the prettiest, quickest film shoots for Step Outside and shot literally twenty five minutes from the heart of the city. I was told of this spot from a mate of mine, not a big fisherman more of a hunter (not that he hunts in these areas but just likes to escape and walk through the bush, kind of weird but I get him). He mentioned these small holes that had fish darting around, they would sun themselves in the shallows before scooting off into the timber and deeper water on the other side of the creek which was only 8 feet away. Sounded
narrow but we were up for the challenge. The gear we armed ourselves with consisted of a light 1-3kg Shimano Jewel spin rod matched with a Shimano graphite Exsence 3000 spin reel. Line class, 5kg Kairiki Braid and a rod length of 3kg fluorocarbon leader. My lures of choice had to suit the surrounds. Knowing there had been zero rain recently I knew surface frog lures wouldn’t work the best, deep diving lures weren’t going to cut it either for it
sounded very snaggy where we were about to head to. Soft plastics, I thought; nope, they sink, and although a weedless plastic probably would’ve worked, I needed something that stayed on the surface then dived down shallow enough not to get snagged but enough to pull past the logs and rocky banks. The RMG Scorpion was the lure of choice, colour Christmas Beetle. This lure could be cast an easy 20 metres, it would float on the surface before being cranked back - perfect.
My mate, we’ll call him Luke, already had a track into the desired area where he wanted to take me so the next morning, nice and early, we were off. Thankfully, he knew the track for me. I couldn’t see anything from the heavy cover in front of me. Launching the drone on the crack of dawn, finding the right hole with minimal overhang, was the easy part. Now it was just a matter getting through the scrub to wet a line. The creek bed sank 3 metres down from the top of the land, waterholes were situated every 30 metres or so. It was just a matter of sliding down into the creek bed and walking up or downstream for a fish.
One of the first things we heard was the deafening sound of the cicadas in the surrounding bush and I knew my choice of lure was spot on. The first cast was laid up beside a log, the lure hit the water, I let it sit for a few seconds before not retrieving but just slightly twitching the rod tip so the lure would slowly move on the surface to imitate a bug that had fallen from the tree and was now in distress on the waters surface. Then bang a solid fish smacked the
lure and it was on for about three seconds before ripping back into the log and gone. Fortunately, the lure got caught on one of the branches on his way back in pulling the lure out of the fishss mouth and leaving me to sneak on in and retrieve the lure, perfect - but unfortunately walking in and moving around the log also spoiled that hole, the fish were spooked so we walked up to the next and laid the second cast with a similar action and, yep, within a few seconds, a similar hook-up this time, we were ready and the fight began. So many snags right to your feet and this fish wanted to be in every one of them. It was an Australian bass, a native fish found along the eastern seaboard from the sub tropics of Queensland right down into Victoria. A tough fighter making them a brilliant sportfish on the right tackle.
One thing I learnt whilst fishing previous holes like this is not to let the fish go where you are fishing. They’ll instantly shut down. So after a quick walk back to the previous spot, the fish released. We ended up pulling another five from there before moving upstream, and like t he previous holes the fish were on, thick and hungry, eating the lure within the first few seconds of landing on the water. The country was getting thicker and heavier making it harder to cast so we ventured back downstream using the drone to find a shortcut back to the lower reaches before carving a track through the scrub. The water seemed brackish at the next spot, some waterlilies and some mangroves and, yep, loads of covers, trees laying across the creek bed, debris from last year's floods, but now it was 100% the opposite. These land-locked honey holes had
become a fish's prison but an angler's dream. The next cast around what looked like a dam wall made of tree trunks and debris pulled a mangrove jack. Nothing big but it was still a jack in his 30’s weighing around 700 grams, good fun on light tackle.
If you have the urge to capture moments like this for yourself, be aware that snakes inhabit the banks around these areas. We saw a few and fortunately for my hunting mate he made me aware of them before I even knew they were there.
This goes to show that even in a heavily populated area, fish holes like this still exist and fishing in general is still first class.
Award winning agency TMG Yachts has been announced as the sole distributor for luxury powerboat manufacturer Prestige Yachts – As a part of the Groupe Beneteau, the French based manufacturer is positioned at the top end of the luxury market and is renowned for producing four different lines of powerboats, including the world-famous F-line, the flybridge yachts, the recently-launched M-line power catamarans. The 40-80ft range also includes sports sedans and crossover vessels.
Announcing the appointment Erwin Bamps, V.P Prestige Yachts explains, “Australia is an important yachting destination and a key market for Prestige. The widening product portfolio, with the recent introduction of our M-Line family of multihull motor yachts, is offering an opportunity to grow our presence in the Australasia market. With our partner TMG Yachts, we look forward to further expanding our existing footprint with a clear focus on customer experience and service.”
The recently launched M-line of power catamarans from Prestige has already set the
standard in this segment and will be the industry reference that o thers now follow. This new M-line rounds out a very complete offering for Prestige who dominates the 40ft-80ft powerboat market across the world. The X-line with her modern trawler style and added space, courtesy of the full beam main deck interior, is a wonderful complement to the F-line, where Prestige continues to innovate and lead with their traditional sleek flybridge range.
Commenting on the partnership, John Cowpe, TMG Yachts Managing Director says, “In line with our growth strategy, we are very pleased to announce that we have accepted the opportunity to represent one of the global powerhouses in motor yacht manufacturing, in Prestige yachts."
Prestige Yachts are headquartered in France with production on the French west coast and on Italy’s Mediterranean coast. These vessels are a fantastic fit for the Australian boating community. For those wishing to explore Europe before shipping over to Australia, there are lots of exciting options available.
"The DNA of Prestige sits well within our company, the French Art de Vivre (Art of Living) delivers discrete elegance. An unpretentious yet luxurious product. Allowing easy owner operations and delivering experiences and memories in an escape from the everyday.”
“We strongly believe that TMG Yachts is the right partner to promote and represent the full Prestige product line in such a key market. Australia has always been a demanding market and looking for space on board, comfort, and luxury, which our F, S, X and M-Line are offering,” says Tanguy Tertrais, Sales Director Asia Pacific.
TMG Yachts conduct viewings over at the factory in Italy and France for clients who would like to look through the factory. Prestige Yachts will be available in Australia towards the end of the year, starting with the M-Line.
If you are interested in the range, please contact tmg@tmgyachts.com or visit www.tmgyachts.com/prestige-yachts
Boats International are excited to announce the location of their new home. The experienced team is now anchored at Hope Harbour Marina –Pier P, 9 John Lund Dr, Hope Island.
Boats International are pleased to be now offering pre and post purchase vessel management services. Their longstanding relationships within the marine sector enable them to offer vessel maintenance, preventative care, detailing, servicing and much more. They assist in ensuring your vessel is ready for market, as well as providing ongoing post purchase care.
“Boats International are proud to continue to be the Queensland distributors of the Island Gypsy brand. Island Gypsy’s luxury motor yachts are taking Australia by storm, with 90% of their sales being made in our sunshine state,” explains Paul, who has been involved in the launch of Island Gypsy boats; an iconic brand recognised around the world.
Hope Harbour is centrally located on the Gold Coast waterways. A short cruise south and you’ll find yourself frolicking with the dolphins at Wave Break Island, while heading north you’ll soon run into the world-famous white dunes of North Stradbroke Island. Hope Harbour Marina is the gateway to everything boating. Boats International brokerage division has experienced unprecedented demand over the past 24 months. This growth led to the expansion of the new Hope Island headquarters, providing a larger, better suited location and infrastructure. The team at Boats International are thrilled to have this new place to call home.
Paul believes they are the future of boating. He comments, “The Island Gypsy is going to please a variety of boaties, from first time boat buyers who are looking to dip their toe in the water, to the retired couple who are wanting to downsize into an easy to handle, economical, low maintenance, fuss-free and family-friendly boat.”
BIG THINGS are on the horizon with the unveiling of the Gen2 Island Gypsy 40 at this year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show held from 25th-28th May. Boats International are thrilled to be showcasing this vessel, as well as the latest Newport 460. The Boats International display at this year’s boat show is set to wow the boating public.
Fred Atallah. Fred has joined the ranks and brings many years’ experience and professional insight to his role. Fred will be joining forces with his brother Paul in operating and expanding Boats International with many new ventures on the horizon. The team has welcomed Fred, with all his passion and knowledge of the marine industry, and he is already an enthused member of our team.
“I’m excited to be joining Paul and the team at Boats International and representing such a reputable brand as the Island Gypsy. I’ve been boating all my life, and I’m eager to share my passion and knowledge,” says Fred.
Boats International are looking forward to the years ahead and invite you to visit the new location – right beside the coffeeshop. SO, stop by and have a chat with the friendly team.
“We have many past and new clients eager to get into a quality used boat. If you are considering selling or upgrading, please get in touch. The team at Boats International pride ourselves on outstanding customer service and industry knowledge, along with our reputation for achieving the very best results for our clients,” says Paul.
Boats International are also unveiling the all-new Island Gypsy 50 and 65 later in the year. The IG 50 will showcase the latest in interior design, featuring a twin cabin layout with twin ensuite, along with a powerful 800hp Scania engine and the latest in electronics and navigation. The IG 65 is set to make waves, being the very first Island Gypsy to be powered by the latest twin engine design. This model boasts a 3-cabin layout including a full beam midship master cabin and full beam ensuite.
Boats International are pl eased to announce the arrival of the newest member to join the team,
Hope Harbour Marina Pier P, John Lund Drive, Hope Island. PH: 0421 859 273 | 0401 726 371 www.boatsinternational.com.au
The training started at Hope Harbour Marina at Hope Island on the Gold Coast.
“We sought Karla out after purchasing a Riviera M370. Craig has been boating since he was a kid and the family have been on the water regularly in bowriders, before upgrading late last year. While Craig is competent in many vessels, always having operated our boats singlehanded, docking a larger vessel in a marina meant the family might be required to help out. We hoped Karla could instruct us on docking and crewing the boat safely and with confidence,” explains mum Melody.
“Investing the time to learn from Karla was definitely worth the effort. We highly recommend her to anyone who might need a similar service. Her patience with green ‘boaties’, while catering to a seasoned ‘Captain’, showed her adaptability to provide information and instruction in a comprehensive manner. We were all surprised at how much was covered in our day together. Karla happily shared her vast knowledge and experience, leaving us confident to handle a vessel that we can now enjoy as a family on the waterways we love.”
Local Gold Coasters, Craig and Melody Freestone have recently purchased a 37ft Riviera boat. To allow them and two daughters, Ellissa and Asha, a chance to better understand the new family boat and maximise their enjoyment and safety, they engaged the services of Karla Herbert-Evans from Nautical Training and Marine Services.
“It was a pleasure working with the Freestone family. I was so impressed with everyone’s enthusiasm to get to know their vessel, crewing so well together to learn more about knots, spring lines and hitches, docking, anchoring, safety systems, vessel handling and maintaining good lookout, with situational awareness of wind, tide and traffic,” says Karla.
“I think the highlight was the first time we docked without Karla’s help. Realising we could do it together as a family was a moment of accomplishment that gave us a glimpse into many days and nights ahead on this new Riv. Also, watching our girls throw big ropes and tie knots successfully was a fun venture. The entire day was very rewarding.”
Melody says, “We learnt so much! Setting ropes was a great lesson for us girls, along with learning about our roles for docking, so we could aid Craig and not hinder him (lol). We loved the sit-down training with Karla, studying mapping and plotting a course, evaluating fuel consumption, refreshing marine signage and reviewing boat safety. From dropping anchor to mooring, Karla covered it all!”
The family plans to utilise Karla’s services again, both in preparation for their ‘big’ trip and when the time comes to upgrade to their next vessel.
Karla’s sessions are always detailed and are a fun way to improve your boating skills, allowing new boat owners to gain confidence with all aspects of boat handling.
For further education about your boating, Karla recommends Advanced Practicals and Offshore Navigation Courses.
To book these courses, or boat licence and jet ski licence training and assessment, as well as AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 practical, contact Karla directly at karla@nauticaltraining.com.au
Ph: 0412 550 570
BUYING USED OUTBOARDS If you do decide to purchase instead of repair outboard, there are many things to consider. Picking the right engine for your boat is very much a case-by-case decision. But the key factor is budget. A new engine will naturally give you the best reliability, but not everyone can afford a new engine. That is when a used outboard is a good option. This is especially true for the owners of the very powerful, high horsepower engines; brand-new replacements cost tens of thousands to purchase.
Obviously, the main concern when buying a second-hand engine is that it might turn out to be a lemon. This is why it is good to buy from a reputable dealer so you get a warranty and can go back to them with any problems.
How many engine hours are too many? The healthy amount of hours can vary a lot depending on the model because each brand tends to have a different lifespan. Generally, you can have more confidence buying the used newermodel engines because they have computers in them that can give you an accurate breakdown of the engine’s history. In older models, the engine hour gauges are less reliable.
You can also make some general assumptions about engines, namely that 2-strokes will give you more power, but 4-strokes will use less fuel, and can and give you twice the engine lifespan.
Engine checks. It is essential to get any used engine mechanically assessed before you buy it. We offer pre-purchase inspections that check everything top to bottom, including the important compression test. It is critical to do a compression test because it checks whether an engine is mixing air and fuel at high enough pressure. A low rating on this test shows you there are wornout engine parts that are leaking. Normally you would pay separately for these checks on a used engine but we’ve already done it on all our engines before you buy them.
Test-driving an engine. It is tough to properly check an engine on a test-drive unless you are a mechanic. However, if you are going without a mechanic, you want to make sure the engine operates well. To conduct your own
engine check, begin by holding it at full throttle for a couple of minutes and ensure no overheat alarms come on. Make sure it changes gears smoothly and generally performs well. Take it for a good run, because problems will not often show themselves immediately.
REPAIR OR REPLACE? Often the best way to judge whether an engine needs a tune-up is the boat owner’s own experience with it. It is pretty common sense. But if the engine fails to start or cuts out on you more than a few times, then it is time for a check-up. After you find out the repair cost then you can weigh that up against the engine’s age and value. In that way, you can make an informed decision about repairing it or buying a new one.
Re-building your outboard is a great option that is getting used less and less these days in today’s more throwaway society. The key questions when deciding whether to rebuild an engine are the outboard’s age, value and general condition. A rebuild will only fix the mechanical parts, so you are still left with your old electric parts, which can be a concern with older outboards. A recent model is often worth rebuilding. But the flipside is new engines are more expensive to rebuild than the older ones.
Some people are very attached to their engines too and just love them. If you are one of them, you know exactly what engine you are working with and can feel very confident in rebuilding it, versus buying a used engine with an unknown history.
Engine use is key. While options are always available when your engine conks out on you, it is important that you keep your outboard well-maintained regardless of whether you have rebuilt it, or have bought a replacement.
The best way to keep your engine tip-top is to take the boat out regularly for good runs. Leaving your boat out of the water for lengthy periods can cause a big problem because the petrol inside the engine will eventually evaporate and leave sediment in the tubes that can cause a lot of damage. Use your boat regularly to avoid damaging the engine.
Gemini Marine has designed and manufactured the most comprehensive range of RIBs and inflatable boats for many of the world’s rescue, military and patrol entities for over 35 years. These organizations all recognize the resilience, reliability and durability in even the most extreme and dangerous operations.
The Gemini Waverider 650 with its very sleek lines and ultra-modern hull shape has taken the boating market by storm. One of the ‘newer’ designed RIBS in the Waverider range, the WR 650 with polished 316 stainless steel T-Top (sun protection) with integrated stern navigation light, has quickly become a best seller.
The WR 650 adheres to a wide variety of customer needs, is popular as a family leisure RIB, but also transforms quickly into a very capable workhorse. Today the brand is actively in use in customs patrol/ protection, policing and in rescue applications worldwide.
The rounded deep ‘V’ shaped Gemini hull offers great performance, comfort and excellent handling at top speeds, especially in heavy seas. They are built using the latest technology and techniques, ensuring quality and reliability. The overall length is 6.5 metres with a width beam of 2.4 metres, and a cockpit depth of half a metre. The Waverider 650 is designed to carry 9 passengers and fitted with the 130hp outboard is capable of 37knots. A power upgrade is possible to 200hp. Complete with windscreen, stainless steel grab rail and large internal dry locker, and a cushioned bow seat on forward side of console with stainless gas struts. The design has a self draining non-slip deck with stainless large flow drains and a unique motor splash well suitable for heavy reversing and rough conditions.
The helm is fitted with flatscreen GPS chart plotter, digital engine multifunction gauges and a 13.5” premium stainless steel wheel and steering knob. Easy to maneuver, the engine is controlled with hydraulic steering and fuelled by a 140L under floor pressure tested aluminum fuel tank. Built for reliability, the Waverider comes with LED navigation lights, electrical circuits all fuse protected, internal console lighting, and stereo system with Bluetooth phone connection and twin speakers.
The twin driver bolster seat with rear facing bench seat or twin helm bolster seats make the ride comfortable for everyone onboard. There is also a full width removable forward facing lounge seat with internal dry storage and hinged back rest The hull tube material is1100 Dtex HYPERLON, featuring 5 separate air compartments complete with pressure relief valves, and heavy duty dual side rub strips. An anchor rope bow protection, aluminium keel protection, waterski towing eyes, forward and rear stainless steel towing and launching eyes, make it rugged under all usage. The customised rig can be delivered on a galvanised multiroller trailer with winch and LED lights.
All Gemini Marine boats have been arduously tested on some of the most treacherous coastlines and sea conditions in the world. By ordering a Gemini, you are guaranteed quality, measured to the most exacting international standards that ensure that you have total confidence in all our products.
FULL FLOOR RESIDENCES
Belvue brings you a new height of waterfront luxury living on the Gold Coast Broadwater, the last high rise waterfront opportunity in Runaway Bay.
A boaties haven, offering full floor absolute waterfront living with worldclass marinas close by, bridge-free access and only 3 minutes to the Pacific Ocean.
Residences are also gifted with unrivalled resort style amenities including a waterfront pool, central pool, gym, steam room & sauna.
Gold Coast Canvas bring you the very best in eye catching custom marine covers and upholstery. We can help you bring your boat back to life. All of our work is completed to the very highest standard using only the best materials sourced from around the world. We are your exclusive Gold Coast Seadek certified fabricators.
We supply quality canvas products, from super yacht interior fitouts, marine trimming including bimini tops, boat canopies and awnings, also camper, storm and cockpit covers. We also repair or replace boat seats, helm chairs, clears and flybridge clears, and side curtains. Match or compliment your existing structure with customised colours in all materials for interior upholstery refits.
Gold Coast Canvas are proud to be from the Gold Coast and are dedicated to bring the best canvas products to the Gold Coast and surrounds.
www.goldcoastcanvas.com.au
We bring you the very best in eye catching custom marine covers and upholstery. We can help you bring your boat back to life. All of our work is completed to the very highest standard using only the best materials sourced from around the world. We are your exclusive Gold Coast Seadek certified fabricators.
When only the very best will do.
The Boat Works is Superyacht Ready, adding Gold Anchor accreditation and Superyacht Ready status to its credentials, passing both with flying colours and achieving a milestone in the dedicated superyacht yard.
Suzanne Davies, MIA CEO, said The Boat Works attaining Superyacht Ready accreditation was a well-earned milestone for the yard.
“The Boat Works has been an industry leader in the services and facilities it provides to superyachts and it’s great to see the marina join the Gold Anchor and Superyacht Ready program,” she stated.
“The Boat Works successfully satisfied the program’s assessment standards with strict criteria based around the suitability of the marina’s infrastructure to accommodate superyachts, accessibility for superyachts, security measures and service availability. As the latest Gold Anchor and Superyacht Ready accredited marina, they will be high on the list of destinations for superyacht captains to consider.”
The most recent visitor to The Boat Works, 44-metre Sanlorenzo, AIX chose the yard for its pre-season cruising service and maintenance. The impressive superyacht arrived in Australia in November 2022 and will soon join the Australian charter fleet as one of the largest and newest long-range cruising motor yachts.
“Lifting AIX is testament to our reputation catering to superyachts across the facility with marina, hardstand and within the multiple Super and Mega Sheds which were purpose-built at 20m in height,” explained Shane Subichin, Marina Manager.
“This superyacht’s requirements were very specific and our team worked around the clock to ensure we met their schedule and expectations.”
The Gold Anchor and Superyacht Ready certification formalises what visiting owners and superyacht Captains already know – The Boat Works is the region’s premier facility for vessels of all sizes, makes and models. Providing a comprehensive choice of skilled marine professionals teamed with superior marine infrastructure and facilities, defining The Boat Works as a prime location for superyacht activity.
At the helm of AIX is Captain Danny Leonard. Over his 25-year career in superyachting, Danny has skippered superyachts of the size of AIX and larger in Europe, South America, the Caribbean and the US East Coast.
“I have visited multiple yards and this is clearly a standout, worldclass facility,” Capt. Leanard stated.
“Having been to numerous superyacht yards around the world, I can say The Boat Works Shipyard and Marina is by far the best I have ever experienced. The leadership from the very top
and right throughout with all involved including all contractors, has been second to none.
“No job for them has been too big nor too small, with absolute attention to detail to what has been requested. We reduced our dry dock period from two weeks to four days due to unexpected circumstances and they moved heaven and earth to get the work done, with outstanding results. I would not hesitate to recommend The Boat Works to other owners and Captains in this region.”
Mauro Rosi at Superyachts Consulting, which works with the Sanlorenzo factory, was equally effusive in his praise.
“I would like to thank you on behalf of Sanlorenzo Yacht company and myself for the professionalism with which your team has taken care of AIX . My hope is to bring more yachts to The Boat Works and continue the collaboration well into the future.”
The Boat Works is world recognised as a major superyacht hub in the Asia-Pacific region preparing now for the next phase of development investing in additional major marine infrastructure.
For more information review our website www.theboatworks.com.au
ABOUT THE BOAT WORKS: Australia’s cleanest, greenest shipyard and marina facility founded in 1980s has recently expanded with the only purpose-built New Superyacht Yard complementing the already resort like boatyard.
At 55 acres (21.8 hectares) The Boat Works is the largest Shipyard & Marina facility in the Southern Hemisphere. With two complementing Yards featuring Gold Coast’s largest boat hoist at 300 tonnes the North Yard facilitates the white boat - Superyacht 50m vessels with the expansive Southern Yard featuring the Catamaran specific hydraulic Sealift, 70 and 100 tonne lifts. The facilities operate at full capacity, with a haul out rate of 50 vessels out-of-water per week, 80+ marine trade professionals, onsite chandlery superstore all set within the epicentre of the Gold Coast’s Marine Precinct.
Service capabilities extend to all aspects of vessel refit, repair, restorations, maintenance, berthing and dry storage. The Boat Works is a ‘one stop shop’ for all boating requirements and is the ideal pit stop destination.
The yard of choice for local boat owners, Australian charter fleet and foreign-flagged.
Rod Twitchin Marine (RTM) has started 2023 similarly to the way we ended 2022, VERY BUSY! RTM’s suite of Professional Services has been well received by many boat owners with varied engagements as follows:
RTM has five projects currently in our care, ranging from minor repairs and maintenance to quite extensive refit works, with three vessels having works conducted as they are entering into AMSA Commercial Certification. Many past and current clients are based interstate and welcome our professional approach to their projects as we have their best interest in mind with timelines and budgets.
This service has proven to be very positive for our local and international clients, providing savings of time and money. RTM’s procedure is to visit the vessel to conduct a preliminary inspection and diagnostics, with the view of offering a remedy of required repairs. RTM can then also assist with arranging the repairs and overseeing or putting our clients in touch with a preferred repairer.
Being based onsite at the Boat Works, RTM is the convenient choice for many boat owners who require an “out of water” Insurance Condition Appraisal. Our reporting style has been well received by all insurers for the past 11 years. Given our onsite relationships with varied repairers, we can also offer our clients a preferred repairer to conduct any possible remedies to defects identified at the time of the inspection, while its on the hardstand and prior to going back to water.
Boat sales still appear to be constant, and RTM have travelled locally and interstate this year to assist with many Pre-Purchase Surveys. Our clients have been from all over the globe ranging from local to Victoria, NSW, California, Indonesia, and Italy. Our inspections have covered all types of vessels from smaller boats to larger superyachts, and we approach every survey with the same enthusiasm and professionalism.
There has been a steady stream of requests this year for Condition & Valuation Appraisals for various reasons including importation of vessels into Australia reflecting Australian Customs, Insurance & Finance purposes and Legal matters. RTM is certified as Vessel Valuers and has assisted many clients over the years.
FORT LAUDERDALE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW
RTM will be travelling to FLIBS in late October 2023 and reaching out to our international colleagues. If you are thinking of purchasing a vessel from the USA kindly contact RTM to discuss an inspection of that vessel.
Owned and operated by marine professionals Rod and Renee Twitchin, RTM specialises in delivering the highest quality marine surveys and professional services to clients with vessels of all types & sizes ranging form smaller vessels to larger superyachts
With a mechanical trade certificate, AMSA Engineering, vessel Master and professional Surveyor accreditation, combined with over 35 years of experience in the commercial and leisure sectors of the marine industry, Rod from RTM has an unrivalled ability to expertly assess your requirements and professionally meet your needs.
● Trade Certificate – Mechanical – 1987
● Commercial Boat Licence - 1993
● AMSA Coxswain: 1997
● AMSA Engineer - 1999
● AMSA Master - 2000
● AMSA Surveyor – 2012
● Ships Valuer – 2014
Proud Members of:
● Marine Surveyors Association Inc
● Boating Industry Association
● Australasian Institute of Marine Surveyors
Contact RTM for all of your marine inquiries on 07 5556 0035 or email rod@rtmarine.com.au
Millennium Abrasive Blasting is new to the coatings removal scene. MAB has been trading for 3 years, and worked extremely hard to maintain a high level of workmanship. We cater for...
-Antifoul & Coatings removal & reapplication
-Coatings System removal & re-application
-Coatings Diaries are always avaliable and provided on request
-All Coatings will be to custom Specifications
Our Specialty is Commercial & Industrial Refinishing, MAB are completely mobile and have offices at Rivergate Marina | Bisbane and also the Boat Works | Coomera.
We carry four complete units that include 425H Sullair machines, 400 Air Preps, and Blastone Schmidt 6.5 cuft Blast units. Our pricing is competitive and will complete all projects in the time allocated.
about our newest division...
ULTRALIGHT for kayaks and canoes
TRAVEL for tenders and dinghies up to
CRUISE for motorboats and dinghies up to
Diesel fuel is often contaminated with microbes, like bacteria and fungi, which feed on hydrocarbons and water (from condensation, rainwater, or adsorption of water molecules from air). Biodiesel is especially good at attracting and absorbing water molecules. Microbes will usually grow on fuel tank walls or at the interface where the diesel floats on the water. If left untreated, the microbes quickly multiply and create a type of ‘sludge’ which interferes with the efficient operation of the diesel engine, initially by blocking filters and injectors. Engine performance suffers, fuel consumption increases, and engine maintenance becomes more expensive. Blockage of the fuel system, causing engine failure, becomes a real possibility.
PFM Blue is a non-toxic, eco-friendly, world first technology fuel treatment system designed to destroy the ‘diesel bug’ microbes without the use of harmful chemicals.
PFM Blue fuel conditioning units use a combination of UV light, which interferes with the microbes’ ability to reproduce, and magnetic fields to completely destroy the organisms. The units also remove water from the diesel, preventing further contamination, and improving fuel efficiency.
PFM Blue fuel improvement products are available in two different types of units:
INDIVIDUAL INLINE UNITS These units are installed between the tank and engine along the supply lines. They will improve fuel quality, as it flows, directly to your engine. There are several units (from the GP04B to the GP32B-BKC) which cater for engines that range in power up to 10,000hp.
RECIRCULATION UNITS FOR CONDITIONING OF BULK FUEL STORAGE TANKS
The recirculation units have been developed for two different purposes: The first range is designed for maintaining a variety of new or cleaned tanks of up to 28,000L capacity. The second range (commercial units) is designed for cleaning a variety of tanks of up to 57,000L capacity.
All recirculation units condition and clean the fuel, improving its quality, while maintaining the ISO 4406:2017 Standard for Diesel Fuel.
Options are available for remote operation and additional systems monitoring, BMS (battery management system) interconnection and SMS text monitoring.
Count on us for fuel quality, protection and reliability in all environments
Just arrived, the OKEAN Yachts factory in Brazil has delivered the new 52 Fly. The performance, design and refinement combined with sophisticated navigation systems creates an overall innovative and superior vessel. The boat captivates you with its highquality construction, open and integrated layout, stable navigation, and extendable sides that integrate the exterior and interior bringing the outside in and creating extra entertaining areas.
“OKEAN Yachts is a 100% Brazilian owned and built company with a great reputation in the open market niches across the world. The company has grown from strength to strength over the past 5 years producing vessels ranging from 50 feet up to 80 feet. This new model in the portfolio will certainly surprise with its comfort, constructive technology, prestigious navigation, with an open design that connects the interior of the boat with the sea,” explains Roberto Paião, CEO of the OKEAN Group.
Discover OKEAN 52 - An impressive and striking design, the OKEAN 52 Fly, with its 15.14 meters of length, and over 6 meters width, with extended balconies, draws attention from the distance for its unique design that combines “adventure and elegance”. Italian architect Paolo Ferragni is the accredited designer and responsible for the creation of the entire OKEAN line. Mr Ferragni has made his mark with panoramic windows and glass doors that surround the boat and provide a 360° view from the inside to the outside area and can be enjoyed from anywhere within the vessel, from the kitchen to the dining table or at the main helm station. Another point of difference is the curved stylish furniture throughout this vessel, providing the comfort of a home and safety whilst navigating, and a retractable hide-away 50-inch built-in television in the main hall.
The OKEAN 52 also stands out with its large external decks, including extended side balconies on both port and starboard sides and a large hydraulic swim platform at the stern that further expands the beach club area and is also equipped with a grill and sink as well as a large sofa that connects to the kitchen located in the cockpit at the rear, making it ideal for socialising. The flybridge is a large “terrace over the water” with a second helm station, couches, and sun bed for relaxing and sunbathing. The bow offers a charming private lounge area, with sofas, a dining table and sun protection in the form of a custom awning. Downstairs to the lower deck are three very comfortable cabins, with capacity for seven people for overnight stays, with a master cabin amidships, a double bed forward in the bow and another double bed with a bunk to the port side. The combination of colours, quality materials in high gloss, and a refined finish complete the interior design of the yacht.
Australian distributor www.nauticalimports.com.au
Contact sales team Phone: 0490 364 633
SPECIFICATIONS:
Total length 15.14 m
Normal beam | Extended 4.50/ 6.31 m
Propeller Draft (IPS) 1.35 m
Light displacement 22 tons
Dead Rise 12°
Water Line Top Of Hard Top 5.50m
Fuel Capacity 1,600 L
Water Capacity 700 L
Holding Tank Capacity 244 L
Staterooms 3
Beds up to 7 persons
Bathrooms 2
Air conditioning 7 units
EQUIPMENT HIGHLIGHTS:
Twin VOLVO PENTA IPS 700 powered by inline 6-cylinder D8, 7.7-Liter common rail diesel with supercharged turbos. Matched with IPS steerable pods, twin counterrotating propellers, electronic vessel control (EVC) system and joystick maneuvering. VOLVO electric IPS power steering and DPS system at upper helm.
Designed by Italian architect Paolo Ferragni and crafted in Brazil, the OKEAN 52 luxury cruiser has just arrived in Australia. Ready for immediate delivery nationwide.
EXCLUSIVE AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTOR NAUTICAL IMPORTS - RETAIL & WHOLESALE ENQUIRIES
Chris: 0490 364 633 chris@jrnautical.com.au www.nauticalimports.com.au
New for 2023, the LX Sport has sleek lines and sporty accents that bring the look and feel of the popular RX Sport into Bennington's mid-level lineup.
Engaging performance meshes with a captivating sporty style to produce an unmistakable presence on any waterway. With a long list of new standard features that matter. We make sure everyone is accommodated. At the top of our L Series, the LX Sport features a sleek styled exterior & sporty integrated docking lights that give this boat a premium look and feel with an attractive price tag.
Attention to detail, and rich, luxurious finishes are found throughout the interior of the LX Sport with distinguishing embroidery and custom winged logos.
Sporty integrated docking lights bring the look and feel of the popular RX Sport into Bennington's mid-level lineup at an attractive price.
Every detail matters. That's why stainless steel pop-up cleats are standard on the LX Sport. Not only does the low profile look great, the cleats are there when you need them for docking but much easier on the feet when enjoying the water from the deck.
There’s a timeless charm found within the L Line boats, a blending of superb craftmanship, rugged build quality and premium finishes that are familiar, yet distinctly a cut-above. Nothing beats time on the water with family and friends,
make every minute count with Bennington. The L Line includes pontoon boat models from 19'-26'.
Offering luxury and sophistication, and customisable to make it yours Bennington pontoon boats are available in a range of floor plans with many possible configurations, so you can choose the layout that fits you best.
Whether you are looking for a family-friendly boat for the occasional fishing outing or a full-time fisherman there is a floor plan for you. Every floor plan includes bass seats, livewells, rod holders, with options to fit your specific needs.
To find out more about Bennington L Line of boats, contact Jared Lee at Bennington Pontoon Boats of QLD Ph: 0406 332 830.
jared@cobaltqld.com.au
We have become accustomed to being surrounded by information, whatever we are doing in life, from using a home entertainment system, laptop or smartphone, to driving a car. We typically respond well to graphical symbols and intuitively work with mouse-like pointers and touch screens without a second thought.
That level of easily managed monitoring and control is provided on boats by Multifunction Displays, or MFDs as they are commonly abbreviated. Used singly or in multiples, MFDs offer a similar kind of graphically driven information and control hub to that experienced by drivers of modern cars and pilots of the newest generations of aircraft.
Using an MFD-equipped driving position, you can select precisely the single or multiple information windows that you need for any given situation, exercise control and check essential data, all in one place.
An MFD-equipped boat is much more visually satisfying, reducing the physical clutter of instrumentation and providing information in a way that is more accessible to smartphone owners familiar with graphical interfaces and touch commands.
Multifunction Displays are the control hub of your boat. They serve as the interface for marine electronics and other digitally-enabled equipment and bring all of that together in an easily accessed way.
By their nature, MFDs vary in size and complexity. Taking the Simrad® NSSevo3S™ range as a classleading example, its core abilities include:
● Built-in chartplotter (electronic charts with navigation capabilities)
● Built-in advanced fishfinder/sonar depth sounder (as well as the option to add a variety of transducers such as 3-in-1 Active Imaging™ and ForwardScan™.
● Integrated radar display and control
● Integrated autopilot display and control
● Video display from onboard CCTV cameras
● Performance and fuel consumption information from many modern engines
● Control and monitoring of other integrated onboard equipment from selected solutions partners spanning electrical systems, cameras, lighting and entertainment systems (see our Integration page for examples).
This wealth of information can be tailored with userdefinable windows and controlled by touch screen commands and simplified controls.
Integration is made possible by using the latest marine networking capabilities, including NMEA 2000® and Ethernet.
In most cases, the computing power is built right into the MFD itself (a little like an all-in-one computer). You can also specify a black-box solution – the Simrad® NSOevo3S™ Processor, which connects to dedicated monitors to enable discreet, sophisticated multidisplay installations.
There's a Simrad® MFD to meet the needs of everything, from the smallest motorboats where a single screen will manage essential functions, to superyachts where an array of screens is typical on the bridge.
Taking the NSSevo3S and NSOevo3S ranges as an example, you have a choice of MFDs ranging in screen size from 7in-24in. You can place MFDs singly or in multiples at the driving position. The greater the size of screens, the more flexibility you have to tailor your at-aglance dashboard precisely as you want it.
It is possible to go further by installing further MFDs throughout the boat, such as at a co-pilot or navigator seat, out on the deck and in the cabin spaces. Here they can serve many purposes, from providing localised control of the boat and the ability to monitor its safety to informing guests on board of your location and providing access to entertainment and domestic equipment control options like interior and underwater lighting.
The fully integrated glass cockpits and system controls of some leading boat builders are powered by Simrad® MFDs. However, you can experience the same level
of engagement by specifying MFDs on new boats or retrofitting on vessels of any age. The range of capabilities available depends on the other equipment already installed or that you plan to add.
TYPICAL CONTROLS ON MFDS INCLUDE:
● Function selection – icon-driven and menu access to the key features.
● Screen view – controls to define how you want your display to look. MFDs typically enable custom arrangement of the screen to suit user preferences. For example, you may choose to split the screen in half with radar on one side and a chart on the other, or perhaps with half a screen on the chart, a quarter on a rolling road navigation screen and the other quarter on autopilot control.
● Function control – contextualised control of current functions.
The majority of Simrad's MFD range utilise stateof-the-art touch screen technology and icon-driven navigation, making the controls very intuitive for anyone familiar with smartphones and tablets.
WHAT WOULD I USE MY MFD FOR?
● Boat navigation
● Fish finding and high clarity depth monitoring
● Radar monitoring and control
● AIS (Automatic Identification System) monitoring
● Autopilot monitoring and control
● Engine monitoring
● Management of other integrated equipment such as power control, entertainment systems and lights
To learn more or to request a SIMRAD installation, contact www.aseamarine.com.au
As the name suggests, the new SeaPen Platinum has some stylish upgrades over previous model SeaPens –
•Black rope mat gives a very clean look
•Pump out fittings through the hinge gives a neater effect
•Corner gussets add strength and make the SeaPen more aesthetically pleasing
•Walkways have been upgraded for easy installation and a better finish
•And many minor changes making this the best and most stylish SeaPen ever - ‘Platinum’
Square front design acts like a catcher – makes docking your boat is so safe and easy!
Easy to put on the boat covers Easy to wash down the hull Easy to flush your motor
Remote Control operation makes it easy and convenient - you’ll be out boating within minutes.
THE ANSWER IS THE LITTLE AUSSIE LAP.
Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard are proud to announce our sponsorship of a daring young Aussie sailor, Xavier Doerr, who is undertaking an extraordinary project –and aiming to break various sailing records in the process.
At only 21 years old, Xavier is a two-time veteran of the Rolex Sydney to Hobart yacht race. In addition to being a member of home club Southport Yacht Club, he is a member of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) and their prestigious world class youth match racing program in Sydney, which has produced some of the world's best offshore sailors.
Xavier has a passion for sending high performance carbon fibre race yachts down the face of huge waves. Through his work as a rigger, passion for match racing and self-learnings on the carbon fibre construction and shipwright work, he is making a name for himself as a prominent youth offshore sailor.
Xavier is self-sufficient out on the open oceans, being able to repair any mishaps or breakages that come his way and he’ll need to be on his next big voyagecircumnavigating Australia on a 21 ft yacht!
‘The Little Aussie Lap’, sponsored by GCCM, will be a solo, nonstop, unassisted, circumnavigation of Australia in a 21ft high performance carbon fibre race yacht that will make and break several Guinness World Records.
In one of Australia’s most daring and extreme record attempts, the trip is the equivalent of completing 12 consecutive Sydney to Hobart races, or 1/3 of the total distance of a lap of the globe. It’ll mean 200 freeze dried meals for Xavier and only 15 minutes of sleep at a time so that he can maintain a constant lookout to achieve maximum performance.
In order to facilitate his journey, Xavier has spent the past two years planning and refitting a 21ft high performance carbon fibre offshore racing yacht; a Mini Transat 650 class yacht. The Mini Transat - a boat specifically designed for high performance solo sailing across the Atlantic Ocean forms the perfect platform to complete such a record attempt.
GCCM and many of our Marine trades are proud to be supporting Xavier in his attempt to break these records (Southern Seas Marine, Hybrid Composites, Wrap It Marine who did the boat’s new blue wrap, etc.).
Andrew Chapman, COO of GCCM, had this to say when asked why GCCM became involved with this project. “The Little Aussie Lap is such an exciting project but to be undertaken by such a young Sailor is amazing. At GCCM we believe in supporting Australia’s Youth particularly those with a water-based focus. Honestly, when Xavier delivered his bid for us to be involved it wasn’t a matter of yes or no but how many ways can we help him with the amazing GCCM network to ensure all he needs to worry about is sailing and breaking the records. We here, at GCCM are 200% behind Xavier on the project and you should be too."
Xavier Doerr plans to depart Southport Yacht Club on the Gold Coast in April 2023 and when his voyage is completed, he’ll be the fastest, youngest sailor to complete the journey on the smallest boat. Xavier plans to complete the journey in under 50 days.
This will mark his second attempt to claim the record, with his first attempt coming to a halt due to electrical failure within a howling, multiple day 60 knot storm.
As a group of boaties supporting boaties, GCCM are proud to be sponsoring Xavier’s not so little journey around Australia. We’ll be watching his progress closely and so can you!
At each major port around Australia, a flotilla of boats and news crew will be there to trail Xavier as supporters follow his journey on social media from their home cities. With access to a custom built 24/7 online tracker, fans can track Xavier's progress in real time, all the time, from anywhere in the world.
The tracker may be viewed at:
www.thelittleaussielap.com/tracker
As Xavier is working hard towards the preparation of his departure, there are still opportunities to partner with The Little Aussie Lap. This is a great opportunity to align your company with GCCM and support the adventure. We wish Xavier all the best on his journey, and we look forward to updating you on his progress.
Go further. Go faster. Go diesel.
To suit your boating lifestyle, comprehensive protection is important. Pantaenius Insurance has just the right boat insurance for you and your vessel – including easy to understand policy wording that covers all important aspects. Unlike many other insurers, Pantaenius don’t simply insure market value, instead you will know exactly what sum you will receive beforehand. Pantaenius Yacht Hull will protect you from financial burdens resulting both from partial damage and total loss. Pantaenius Insurance has compiled this list of most common claims.
COLLISION - Whether it be with another boat, a log or even a whale, collisions occur a lot. Collisions are definitely the claim we see most and the damage suffered as a result can range from minimal to extreme. You may be lucky enough to get away with a scrape but you could also end up with a decent sized hole. On the other end of the spectrum you may also be held responsible for the damages to another person’s boat or property.
WEATHER/WAVES/STORMS - The perils of the sea are often unavoidable and subsequently we see this type of damage frequently. Typically damages resulting from the weather can be greatly minimised by securing your vessel appropriately (removing any loose items, removing covers and awnings, adding additional lines and fenders, etc.). In most cases weather warnings are in place the days prior to an event, giving you ample time to protect your asset as best you can. Wave damage can be more unpredictable but it goes without saying, if you’re encountering treacherous conditions, be sure to secure everything as best you can in order to minimise damages.
LIGHTNING - This damage is the nemesis of our diligent claims team. Why? Because lightning claims commonly take the longest to resolve due to the meticulous testing that is often required. This is of course not always the case and is largely dependent on the electrical system on a boat and the
unpredictable nature of lightning strikes. It can however cause frustration for both the client and our team when the extent of the damage can’t be identified in quick manner. Further, lightning claims can be scary! A direct strike at sea is incredibly loud and if you’re far from land and your navigation system fails it’s definitely not a fun situation. This is another reason why we are so adamant about the necessity for paper charts on board, you never know when you may need them. Adding to this, lightning strikes are becoming more and more common both at sea and on land, therefore it’s wise to unplug electronics whilst the vessel is not in use.
GROUNDING/STRANDING - Groundings are again an incident we see far too often and are largely avoidable. Most of the time the damage we deal with results from hitting the bottom or temporarily stranding on a bank at low tide. Here the damage is typically suffered by the prop or shaft, abrasion to the antifoul, or even impact to the keel or rudder. In other cases however, a vessel may end up completely stuck on a reef or come off its mooring and get beached. In these instances a substantial salvage operation may be required which can become wildly expensive, all depending on the size, type and location of your vessel as well as the damage suffered. The burden of these costs can be life altering, it’s a time where most are really grateful that they have insurance. The best way to avoid groundings is to become familiar with the area you’re travelling through, zoom in on maps, ensure your anchor is fit for purpose and secure when dropped, regularly servicing your mooring.
THEFT/VANDALISM - While we haven’t encountered many vessel thefts, we see the theft of personal belongings or equipment regularly. Most of the time the thefts are a result of belongings being left within easy reach of thieves. It may be fishing rods left loose on the deck or a tender tied by rope to a public jetty. So our advice to you, don’t make life easy for thieves! Vandalism on the other hand is another degrading situation. Whether it be teenagers breaking onto your boat to have a party or criminals throwing rocks at the windows of your vessel.
SINKING - Submersion is certainly far from ideal and just like with groundings the salvage operation can become an expensive exercise. Again, submersions happen for a variety of reasons but unfortunately they often result from a lack of maintenance which insurance does not cover. The extent of loss resulting from a sinking can often be avoidable, however, due to a lack of operational bilge pumps being on-board of some vessels the damage is exacerbated. Submersions are also incredibly daunting for those on board if the incident happens out at sea! Always be sure to carry the required safety equipment to protect yourself and your crew should the worst case scenario occur.
ENGINE FAILURE - Engine failure is a tricky one as in many instances it is not actually covered by insurance. The determining factor will always be the cause of the loss. If your engine fails as a result of an accident such as a grounding, lightning strike, collision, etc. then it is covered however if the damage results from wear and tear, lack of maintenance, faulty workmanship or the likes then it is likely not a claimable event. That being said, should you require an emergency tow due to an engine failure we will always try to accommodate and in most cases won’t even charge you your deductible. Now what is the best insurance for your engine? Not skimping out on having it serviced by a reliable mechanic!
MAST BREAKAGE - Masts can come down for many reasons and they have the potential to cause huge amounts havoc on their descent. Sometimes it can be a result of a large collision, at other times it can be caused by a faulty or weathered component of the standing rigging. Riggers worldwide recommend the replacement of the standing rigging every 10 years and the regularity of mast breakages from old standing rigging is one of the many reasons why. If you are at sea and your mast breaks, firstly do your best to not panic and then try secure the mast and as many components as possible. After that, motor to your nearest port and get in touch with the Pantaenius team.
FIRE - This can start for various reasons and we have truly seen it all! The unfortunate thing with fires is that they are tremendously destructive, often leading to total losses. They also typically take longer to solve as fire investigators are involved to determine the cause of the damage, the determining factor in the cover available. If the loss is as a result of another party's negligence, such as an electrician who undertook faulty installation work, then this individual/company would become liable for the loss. Like any claim, fire damage can be minimized if prompt action is undertaken. Do not hesitate to call for professional help if a fire breaks out, after getting yourself to safety of course.
www.pantaenius.com
As any ship’s captain will tell you, Good seamanship is most noticeable when it is absent. No proper planning, poor training, miscommunication, rushed decisions, not following procedures, the lack of basic sailor’s commonsense, can all cause injury, death and disaster.
It seems to me that these same principles can be applied to buying a vessel. In the same way that a vessel’s crew must have good seamanship and good teamwork, buying and operating a vessel means that an owner must also follow the principles of Good Ownership.
As maritime lawyers, we regularly see what happens when vessel buyers fail to exercise good ownership. Our files are full of owners who have experienced unpleasant surprises, expensive repairs, marine incidents, unexpected regulatory action and litigation. The main goal of good ownership, like good seamanship, is to avoid the perils of the sea and return safely to port. We would much rather assist you to exercise good ownership than face the often expensive and heart-breaking process of managing yet another maritime disaster. Prevention is always better than cure.
When I was learning my trade as a master mariner, Seamanship was at the core of our training. seamanship is the art and science of safely taking a vessel from one place to another in a manner that protects the vessel, and all on board, from the perils of the sea. Seamanship begins with the art of choosing the right vessel for the voyage, through to a vessel‘s propulsion and engineering, working at sea, navigation, maintenance, preparedness for emergencies and so on. Good seamanship (and perhaps a little good luck) is always required to take a vessel to sea and safely return to port.
Seamanship is also about teamwork. No single crew member knows everything about seamanship, and specialist roles are a familiar concept. Crew lists are filled with navigators and watchkeepers, engineers and technicians, deckhands and lookouts, cooks and stewards, and other specialists. Under the watchful eye of the captain, all play their part to ensure the vessel is safe and comfortable (weather permitting) at all times, whether at sea or in port.
Good ownership, like Good seamanship, requires specialists with a range of skills all operating together as a team. The principles of good ownership begin with selecting the right vessel for you, followed by inspections and surveys, working with a reputable sales broker, setting up the right structures to own the vessel, obtaining the right finance product, seeking taxation and accounting advice, selecting the right flag, insurer, and crew. Of course, we mustn’t forget the maritime lawyers who ensure you actually get what you pay for. All these specialists have a role to play in ensuring that you are exercising good ownership in one of the most significant decisions in your nautical life.
At Pacific Maritime Lawyers, we work daily with our colleagues in accounting, corporate law, insurance and marine surveying, amongst others. We are accustomed to working as a team with our fellow professionals to ensure that when you are buying or selling your dream vessel, you exercise good ownership to prevent buyer’s regret or worse.
We have existing relationships with many professionals who can assist you with good ownership, and we look forward to becoming part of your team.
Capt. John Kavanagh Principal Lawyer – Master MarinerPh: 0481 170 373 john@pacificmaritimelawyers.com.au
•Do you need help with risk assessments, audits, regulatory compliance and licensing and registration advice?
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The newly revamped design Stejcraft 610 Monaco is one of the best-looking six-metre family cruisers on the water, with a level of performance, ride and stability few others can match. Not only is the Monaco’s performance better for a given horsepower, the construction design is ahead of the competition, being completely wood-free and built with the latest high-tech laminates and composites. For many families, this compact cruiser has a wonderfully smooth and dry ride, amazing stability underfoot, and a lovely deep cockpit.
The Stejcraft Monaco 610 Cruiser is fully adaptable in all environments, including choppy open seas. It will give you confidence to head out into the open water for those memorable cruising and reef fishing trips. It comes with premium vinyls, STD H2O Grip Flooring, deep-reach swim ladder, and stainless steel cleats. Stejcraft's
cutting edge fibreglass boat manufacturing technology will give you many years of safe boating pleasure.
These features are just some of the reasons why so many families and fishers have made the Stejcraft 610 Monaco their number one choice in family boats.
Like all the other boats in the Monaco range, the 610 Fisherman is built on the exclusive 21-degree vee hull that provides maximum safety in almost all water conditions. If you go fishing offshore on a regular basis, there is no doubt that the Monaco 610 Fisherman is the right Stejcraft for you.
Step on board of the Monaco 610 Fisherman to get the WOW effect! Every interior component is designed and built with no compromise to make your boating experience cosier and classier.
With the Monaco range, Stejcraft wants to satisfy the most demanding boat enthusiasts and everything you can expect from a luxury cruiser boat is included.
The Monaco boat range has a flat floor all the way. First, a fully flat floor helps in eliminating tripping hazards that might cause any accidents to anyone onboard. And there is no doubt that a
fully flat floor will make your boating experience better on a day-to-day basis.
At Stejcraft, one of our priorities is to ensure that all boat owners can buy a boat that is totally suitable for them. When you buy a new Stejcraft, you can choose your colours, flooring design, extras and many more. You can add or remove any accessories that you see fit and make your boat perfect for your liking.
Our signature wood-free construction and composite-moulded stringer liner makes the Stejcraft boats some of the toughest Australianbuilt boats in their classes. Our hulls have 11 layers of fibreglass working together, and every layer has a purpose: to provide long-lasting shine, prevent blistering, increase stiffness, dampen vibration, reduce weight and add strength.
Go for a worry-free boating experience! When you buy a new Stejcraft boat, you benefit from one of the finest protection plans in the industry: 5-year warranty on the structural components of the hull and the deck and 1 year on non-structural parts and components.
The Fjord brand’s exclusive Scandinavianinfluenced style and functionality continues to attract more enthusiastic converts here in Australia, with their numbers sure to be boosted by the release of the new Fjord 41 XP.
Fjords’ signature design elements of a nearly vertical plumb bow, high freeboard, bold horizontal sheer line, frameless windshield, spacious flat deck layout and open transom are shared by the 41 XP, as well as big walk-around decks and versatile relaxing alfresco day spaces.
Equipped with twin 600hp V12 Mercury Verado outboards, the 41 XP is the first production boat to be powered by these revolutionary new duoprop outboards that feature two industry firsts - a steerable gear case and a two-speed transmission. Along with substantial weight and efficiency savings, there’s the prospect of exhilarating 45 knot performance.
Deck: The 41 XP’s helm station can be configured with four pilot seats. All engine and vessel performance is displayed on twin Simrad custom glass bridge 12" screens.
There are various galley options available with BBQ grill, sink, and fridge plus more drawer fridges in the seating area. Two electrically lowerable tables can comfortably host eight people, while the large sun lounge on the aft deck offers the perfect place to dry-off after a refreshing swim. There’s also a big storage space under the electrically opening sun lounge that can be used to store water toys.
Deep walk-around side decks, a long time Fjord safety feature, lead to another large sun lounge on the foredeck that can be shaded with an awning.
Interior: With 20 layout combinations, the accommodation space on the Fjord 41 XP can be personalised to suit your individual tastes and requirements.
The Owner’s cabin can be furnished with a vanity or desk and can be closed and completely darkened with a soundproof sliding door that is recessed into the bulkhead to save space. The Owner's cabin, Owner's bathroom and the optional guest cabin enjoy lots of natural light thanks to the large hull windows. A galley or a second toilet are also possible.
The 41 XP joins a range of dayboats recognised for their substance and style designed by Patrick Banfield and incorporating clever modular seating layouts for the cockpit and cabin that maximise space and comfort.
T he sumptuous 53 XL, launched at last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival is the flagship of the Fjord fleet, followed by the 44 Coupe, 44 Open, 41 XP, 41 XL, 38 Xpress and 38 Open.
Every model boasts spectacular one-level boating lifestyle amenities with high-quality Scandinavian influenced interiors and are certain to impress.
Windcraft Yachts are the exclusive dealer for Fjord in Australia and New Zealand and will be located on the marina at this year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
A maximum draft of only 1.19 metres means the Fjord 41 XP can easily access your favourite beach or shallow anchorage. There’s excellent manoeuvrability via the joystick controller and lifting the engines allows the XP to nudge right into shore where inboard boats can’t.
Once you’re there it’s a seamless conversion to entertainer mode under the XP’s expansive T-top, the biggest in its class and a must for protection from the sun and fast-changing weather conditions.
The interior is offered in four different design styles, each with an understated elegant colour palette and a selection of high-quality fabrics, woods, and colours.
The Fjord 41 XP and the Fjord 41 XL represent a new generation of Fjord boats that lift this iconic brand to the next level in style, luxury and practical entertaining space. The first Fjord 41 XL powered by a pair of Yanmar 370hp V8 sterndrives and capable of reaching 33 knots, was recently handed over to new owners in Sydney where its stunning dark blue hull (the colour is Royal Nights) turns heads wherever it goes.
You can find more information on the Fjord line at windcraftyachts.com/fjord
Sirocco Marine is the sole distributor of Zodiac boats in Australia. All Zodiac models imported into Australia will have tubes made of Hypalon, chosen for its resistance to UV, chemicals and temperature extremes and its air tightness.
Ryan explains, “Zodiac is the pioneer of the rigid inflatable boat and the biggest manufacturer in the world. They invest heavily in R&D and innovation. There are some exciting developments coming out this year.”
Located within a superyacht shed at Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard, Sirocco Marine Queensland is packed to the gunwales with RIBS from 2.2 to 12 metres, including the full range of Zodiac inflatable boats, Northstar, Sirocco brand, Williams Jet Tenders and BRIG.
The 900-square-metre ground floor of the showroom presents the larger models, including the all-new Zodiac Medline 9, while the mezzanine level showcases the smaller vessels.
Since October last year, Ryan Slater, Director of Sirocco Marine Queensland, has received nine containers of the latest model Zodiac boats, from 4.2 to 9 metres, and he has already equipped dozens of Queensland customers, from as far as Cairns and the Whitsundays, with new Zodiac RIBS and engines, as well as tenders for Horizon, Riviera and Maritimo motor yachts.
“We have close to 300 RIBS in the showroom – a RIB for every use and every budget. It’s great to welcome new customers to the Zodiac brand, as well as many existing Zodiac owners who are now upgrading to larger models or buying options for their existing boats to make them more versatile. Our repeat Zodiac customers are happy they now have a dedicated national distributor in Sirocco Marine, with all the after sales support and service we provide,” said Ryan.
Fitting neatly between Sirocco and BRIG RIBS, the Zodiac RIBS will appeal to owners seeking a sturdy, reliable, stable RIB tender, or a stand-alone day boat for diving, fishing and safe family boating.
“We carry Zodiac tenders and bigger boats from 4 metres to the Medline 9-metre model which has a cockpit kitchen and centre console with cabin and toilet – popular with families and adventurous owners wanting to stay out on the water longer. We are looking forward to this year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show where we will have 20 different Zodiac models on display, from four to nine metres, including the Australian launch of the all-new Medline 9, an 8-metre Northstar Orion 8 performance RIB, three of the latest model Williams Jet Tenders, two BRIG Eagle 8s and several RIBS from the Sirocco range – both aluminium and fibreglass hulled,” Ryan announces.
For more information, contact Ryan on Ph: 0490 864 694 siroccomarinequeensland.com.au
Sirocco Marine supply and fit engines by Honda, Yamaha and Mercury and have close connections to their service technicians.
A Naval Draftsman and Marine Diesel Mechanic by trade, Ryan’s background includes a two-year stint with Liam O'Halloran at Sirocco Marine South and several years aboard superyachts as an Engineer. He also lived and worked in Germany employed by Volvo.
ILIAD Catamarans will stage the global premiere of its new ILIAD 53S at the 2023 Sanctuary Cove Boat Show from 25 – 28 May.
The new ILIAD 53S is set to be a major drawcard for visitors to the event with the first model already sold and the sales team enjoying an extremely strong level of enquiry. Signalling a departure from the flybridge design that distinguishes its current models, the ILIAD 50, 62 and 75, the new 53S features a sporty sedan silhouette making it ideal for unrestricted cruising throughout the world’s waterways.
With a comprehensively optioned model priced from USD$1.795M, the ILIAD 53S is expected to enjoy strong demand from buyers seeking a semi-custom motor yacht that features outstanding space, economy and performance.
The ILIAD 53S has outstanding interior living space, including a huge forward lounge, helm station and dining for 6-8 people, and the entire area is bathed in natural light courtesy of a large skylight that is included as standard. Accommodation onboard is generous and beautifully designed with the master suite encompassing an entire hull and featuring an oversized island queen bed, panoramic windows, an expansive ensuite, and more storage and space than any other boat in its class. The two guest cabins also enjoy an abundance of natural light courtesy of the generous windows, and each are equipped with their own designer ensuite.
Featuring the finest European appliances, the galley is sleek and practical with its island bench, full-size refrigerator and freezer, and well-designed storage areas. The motor yacht boasts exceptional outdoor space for entertaining and relaxing, and the cockpit features a bar area and dining setting for up to ten guests, barbeque, ice maker and refrigerator, with all waste bins concealed in cleverly designed cabinetry. The tender platform is ideal for safe sea access when swimming or diving and makes a superb sunbathing spot when the tender is deployed.
The forward-facing bow deck lounge features generous lounge seating for enjoying a drink at sunset and has convenient direct access into the main deck lounge. Bulwark side walkways with handrails around the entire vessel make movement around the decks while underway exceptionally safe.
The motor yacht on display at Sanctuary Cove is powered by 440hp engines delivering a top speed of 24 knots, and cruising long range at low speeds will afford more than 3,000 nautical miles. Engine options from 400-550hp are also available. The standard model is comprehensively optioned with air conditioning, generator, full electronics, water maker, washer/dryer, lithium batteries, solar panels, entertainment system and much more.
The ILIAD 53S has been constructed with all the brand’s renowned DNA, including being beachable in emergencies, a full vinylester hull, foam core throughout, exceptionally high bridge deck clearance and premium safety features that see this new model classified in a class of its own.
ILIAD Catamarans continues to make its mark on the motor yacht scene with the ILIAD 62, released in 2022, recently nominated for the prestigious Multihull of the Year award in the MultiYacht category. The highly anticipated ILIAD 52F (Flybridge version) will be arriving in Australia for the 2023 Sydney International Boat Show.
ILIAD Catamarans now has forward orders stretching into 2024 and is finalising plans to open a new state-of-the-art shipyard to facilitate increased production across its range.
Inspections of the ILIAD 53S at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show can be booked by contacting +61 0499 989 559, emailing info@iliadcatamarans.com or visiting the website at www.iliadcatamarans.com
THE FIRST THING I NOTICED WAS
— Marty Wise, Boat Captain
Are you tired of replacing messy gels and disappointed with useless chemical sprays?
Look no further than Kingpin Bamboo Charcoal Eco Packs. The Biochar contents in the linen bag attract all unwanted elements of damp and smells – think fuel funk, smelly head, damp rope lockers, galley areas, tackle tubs and mildew or mould often associated with upholstery on board.
Nature’s Eco Packs are not only a handsome accessory on board, but they will purify the air in your personal spaces without any artificial fragrance.
Not forgetting the WOW factor – Eco Packs placed outdoors for an occasional sunbake will permit the UV rays to disperse all unwanted elements, recharging the bamboo pores ready for action again and again.
Don’t let unpleasant odours stink your boating experience. Upgrade to nature’s way with Kingpin Activated Bamboo Charcoal Eco Packs and set sail with confidence.
QUALITY QUALITY VEGAN VEGAN FRIENDLY FRIENDLY AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN WINE WINE
WHERE WILL YOU TAKE YOURS?
WHERE WILL YOU TAKE YOURS?
FRESH, DRY & ODOUR FREE THE WAY YOUR BOAT IS MEANT TO BE.
Versatile & durable, the APEX A24 Tender is stable and secure. Made with heavy duty military grade Hypalon pontoons and reinforced fibreglass hull, the boats are customisable. Fitted with a centre console with enclosed toilet facilities, and fresh water, a 250hp 4-stroke Honda with bow thruster as standard, hard top, natural teak flooring, electric anchor, 2x12inch Garmin touch screens and custom storm cover.
The APEX A15 Tender is ergonomically designed to ensure stability, performance, comfort and complete security. Fitted with side console, teak accents, 60hp Honda, bimini cover, rear arch with integrated swim ladder, rod holders and towing post, aft lounge and forward sunbed.
APEX boats are globally renowned for exceptional quality. Hand crafted in Costa Rica using high grade Hypalon, APEX is available in Australia exclusively through Nautical Imports. EXCLUSIVE AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTOR NAUTICAL IMPORTS - RETAIL & WHOLESALE ENQUIRIES
The APEX A13 Tender is a strong and durable deluxe small boat. Made with high quality Hypalon, this tender has been tested in the most extreme conditions. Fitted with side console, natural teak accents, rear arch for towing and rod holders.
Chris: 0490 364 633 chris@jrnautical.com.au www.nauticalimports.com.au
Australia's marine industry is a thriving and diverse sector with a wide range of opportunities for investment and expansion; for entrepreneurs and investors wishing to capitalise on this expanding market, purchasing a company in this industry can be both lucrative and exciting. This article examines a few advantages you can leverage when buying a marine business in Australia. If you want to see what opportunities I have listed right now, contact me using the details at the bottom of this article.
1. INCREASING DEMAND
Australia's population growth, rise in recreational boating, and demand for commercial and military vessels have contributed to a steady increase in the demand for marine goods and services. The recreational boating sector in Australia is estimated to be worth over $12 billion annually by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, and growth is anticipated to continue in the years to come. In addition, given the rising need for ships, equipment, and services, the commercial and retail sectors provide tremendous expansion potential.
2. A ROBUST AND VARIED MARKET
The marine sector in Australia is broad and includes several subsectors, such as recreational, world-class sailing, aquaculture, commercial, manufacturing, retail and other maritime services. This diversification offers a wide range of growth and investment options and the capacity to insure against market volatility in any sector. The marine industry in Australia is also wellrecognised and trusted, with an established supply chain, a competent and skilled workforce, plus a motivated industry growing through research and development.
3. SKILLED WORKFORCE AND RELIABLE SUPPLY CHAIN
Engineers, designers, retailers and tradesmen with indepth knowledge of the marine sector and its requirements make up Australia's highly qualified and experienced personnel. This knowledgeable workforce offers a strong
base for companies working in the industry, ensuring the calibre and dependability of goods and services. In addition, a robust supply chain supporting the workforce includes raw materials suppliers and Australian-made parts and equipment, giving you a choice to find parts and manufacturers locally.
4. CAPITAL AVAILABILITY
Australia's economic landscape generally provides those looking to purchase a marine business with access to various financing options, including, but not limited to, Government financing, assistance programmes, and private investment opportunities. This access to financing can support continuing operations and expansion while funding new projects and growth efforts.
6. FAVOURABLE GOVERNMENT POLICIES
The Australian government is committed to assisting the marine sector and has implemented several laws and initiatives to promote development and innovation. The government consults with the industry on various policy measures, including amendments to liability and insurance standards for the maritime industry and tax incentive operations for Australian corporations with eligible Australian-registered vehicles. In addition, the department provides functions to uphold its commitment to continuing a vibrant and efficient maritime industry through the Coastal Trading (Revitalising Australian Shipping) Act 2012. This assistance may come from grants, loans, tax advantages, and access to specialised facilities and resources.
Given the rising demand for marine goods and services, purchasing a business in the maritime sector in Australia offers substantial growth potential. Australia relies on sea transport for 99 per cent of its exports, with a considerable proportion of our domestic freight also depending on
coastal shipping. Reliability of this size ensures new efforts and programs are available to help companies enter new markets, continuing to drive this expansion. Additionally, there are many prospects for innovation and growth, given the industry's diversity and stability.
Locally, the Gold Coast has established itself as a solid and dynamic economic centre for all types of marine industries, supporting what is happening nationally, thanks to its strategic location. Additionally, the region's maritime sector is expanding, primarily due to population expansion. The area continues to see an increase in interstate migration and tourism, bringing a professional workforce that benefits from the year-round, ideal climate and way of life, helping to drive the recreational boating industry to ever-higher levels. As a result, the city offers investors and operators a unique chance to develop their businesses and be successful in this booming and dynamic sector. Purchasing a marine business, either right here on the Gold Coast or the broader Australia, is a smart move for those wishing to capitalise on a dynamic industry. This industry offers many prospects for growth, and thanks to a solid and experienced workforce, access to financing, and long-term economic conditions, the sector provides a substantial opportunity for investors and business owners. So whether you want to invest in leisure boats, commercial vessels, retail, manufacturing or any other marine subsector this great industry offers, you can do so while living in Australia's best place!
If you have a business in this industry and wish to talk about what exiting looks like, or how you can get into the marine industry, then phone or email me now.
Mick Godwin Ph: 0416 638 154 mickgodwin@benchmarkbusiness.com.au
After months (or sometimes years) of searching, you’ve found your perfect boat. All the time and research to get you to this point are great steps towards realising your dream, but have you considered who can assist you in ensuring your purchase is all as it appears. Engaging a quality marine surveyor will help to ensure your investment, and the safety of those onboard, are protected.
more detailed report of not only the features of the vessel but also the condition including any evident recent repairs or future maintenance requirements. A pre-purchase survey will cost you more, but its value is worth every cent.
Don’t be afraid to ask the qualifications and experience of your surveyor. What is their professional background that led them to marine surveying? Have they undertaken any marine surveying specific qualifications? Do they have the expertise to provide a mechanical report as part of their survey? A quality surveyor can answer these questions to confirm their suitability for your survey.
Is your surveyor covered by Professional Indemnity Insurance? Ask for evidence of their insurance coverage before you begin, you want to make sure all bases are covered in the event things don’t go as planned.
The marine survey industry can be a minefield for the first time purchaser to navigate, but the good news is you’re not alone in your journey. The Australasian Institute of Marine Surveyors (AIMS) has a membership of over 400 surveyors around Australia helping consumers connect with and make an informed choice in their surveyor. When engaging a marine surveyor for the first time, take the time to ask a few questions.
Do you know what type of survey you need? A prepurchase and insurance survey are often not one and the same. An insurance survey is primarily for the needs of insurance companies to assess their insurable risk while a pre-purchase survey is a
Make sure that you as the buyer, appoint an independent surveyor of your choice. An owner may already have had a survey prepared and offer you the report. Or perhaps the seller or broker is adamant about you using a particular surveyor. To ensure your surveyor is working for you and no one else insist on obtaining your own independent survey.
Armed with all this knowledge, you can move forward in confidently getting the survey you need with the surveyor of your choosing. There is no better way to proceed on the adventure of boat ownership than with peace of mind.
The Australasian Institute of Marine Surveyors is the peak industry body for marine surveyors in our region. With over 400 members throughout Australia, and levels of membership reflective of a surveyor’s skills and experience, AIMS believes in the importance of transparency with consumers and the importance of providing access to a quality surveyor.
If you are looking for a surveyor in your area, you can search the AIMS database at www.aimsurveyors.com.au or give our team a call on 02 6232 6555 and we can connect you with local surveyors.
Planning on attending the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show for 2023? Drop into the pavilions and say hello to our team and some of our surveyor members who will be there over the 4 days.
The wrong surveyor could cost you more than a new boat.
Getting out on the water is a favourite Aussie past-time and we want to help you make sure that the boat you purchase is suitable for you and what you want it to do.
Purchasing a boat is a big investment and things can and do go wrong so you want the best advice possible.
Engaging a Certified Commercial Marine Surveyor™ to help you buy a boat makes a lot of sense. A quality condition survey is the best investment that you will make as part of the buying process.
Getting it right the first time may just save your life.
So how do you choose a surveyor that is right for you?
There are no Government controls that regulate the minimum qualifications or experience required by a marine surveyor in the recreational boating industry.
The Australasian Institute of Marine Surveyors encourages boat owners to only engage a Certified Commercial Marine Surveyor™.
We care passionately about getting you out on the water because we love it too – but more than that we care about your safety and that means we care about your boat.
Check your marine surveyor’s qualifications yourself or talk to us before you purchase a boat or engage a marine surveyor.
It's our profession, not our part time job.
To become a Certified member of the AIMS, surveyors must provide evidence of their qualifications and experience that support the areas of specialisation they advertise.
AIMS Surveyors also commit and adhere to the AIMS Code of Professional Practice giving you, the boat owner, greater peace of mind.
Avoid that sinking feeling, pick the right marine surveyor.
Volvo Penta will now offer its unique Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) across its twin V6 and V8 propulsion packages. With this expansion, DPS is now available in the company’s complete marine leisure offer. The update will roll out across global markets, delivering the widest footprint of this automated feature in the marine industry. With this latest advance in bringing more automation into everyday boating, more boaters can experience closer control and peace of mind on the water.
Volvo Penta is on a mission to give boaters unforgettable experiences on the water, enabling complete comfort, ease, and peace of mind. The DPS system, initially launched back in 2009, allows boaters to have total control on the water, at a touch, by automatically keeping the boat’s heading and position despite wind or current. It is easy to activate through the press of a button on the Volvo Penta joystick control, which is integrated into the DPS solution.
Through DPS, preparing for docking, waiting to refuel, or waiting for a bridge or lock to open becomes safe and straightforward. It is also easy to disengage through the simple press of a button or shift of the control levers. Now, the benefits of DPS will be available on all Volvo Penta boats with electric steering from 20ft to 120ft.
Anders Thorin, Electronics Product Manager at Volvo Penta, comments, “We are proud to champion automated features which aid the boating experience. Through a step-by-step evolution, we’ve been able to continuously help more boaters gain confidence in some of the more stressful aspects. Now, a wide range of boaters from water sports enthusiasts all the way through to superyacht owners can benefit from our DPS feature. This is just one of the many steps we are taking to enable more boaters to enjoy and experience life on the water.”
usually make these kinds of manual operations difficult. This allows boaters to avoid stress and relax, giving them the freedom to plan routes and hold positions, whether they are inshore, offshore, or in the harbor.
Volvo Penta’s DPS feature is enabled for twin, triple, or quadruple solutions across the company’s marine leisure range worldwide. An additional pre-requisite is electric steering. To access DPS, a software update and installation of an antenna are also required.
With an inbuilt, state-of-the-art repositioning feature, more control is given to the boater at the simple tap of a button. This feature means that boaters can automatically keep the boat in position and make slight adjustments with ease, even when weather conditions would
The antenna houses twin GPS receivers, which allow the system to determine the position of the boat and heading through sophisticated software. This data is then transformed into steering angles, gear shifts, and throttle positions.
Volvo Penta’s unique Dynamic Positioning System is a key innovation for today – and tomorrow. That’s why the company continues to invest in its evolution, with the ultimate experience of boaters in mind.
For more information on DPS, visit www.volvopenta.com/marine for more details.
Introducing a new generation of our D4 and D6 propulsion packages, from 150-480hp. After having spent years refining and developing the proven platform ever further, this complete system delivers new exciting features – from helm to propeller. All to offer you the ultimate boating experience.
Learn more at: www.volvopenta.com/en-au
Travelling throughout remote Australia, Jase Andrews – the host of Australia’s number one four-wheel-drive and adventure show All 4 Adventure – needs reliable products to keep him moving on his journeys.
That’s why Jase has been using Mercury outboards to ensure he can tackle whatever Australia’s waters throw at him. Jase explains, “We’ve been running Mercury engines for three years and they haven't missed a beat. Reliability is the main thing for me; I need reliability because without it I'm screwed. I don't travel with anyone else - there's no backup.”
Jase has just finished filming the 14th season of his show, with this season based in Cape York and Tasmania. The All 4 Adventure crew used the 60hp EFI four-stroke outboard on the back on of their 4.28 Sea Jay Side Console Avenger Sport.
“It was a late wet season in Cape York so there was plenty of water around. We had really solid flat, glassy conditions so we were able to get out in the Sea Jay and get some really cool footage driving and catching fish up there while also heading to the surrounding islands.When we came back, we headed to a secret destination on the west coast of Cape York, where we fished the river system and it was nuts - there were Barramundi everywhere,” Jase said.
Jase’s fleet of Mercury engines also includes two 20hp four-stroke outboards, twin 150hp EFI four-stroke outboards and twin 250hp Pro XS outboards. Having to constantly transport his 20hp engine from the back of his car to the transom, the lightweight nature of outboard is what impresses Jase the most.
“What I have found is the 20hp motor is a lot more ergonomic, lighter and has better power to weight ratio than what I'm used to with other brands. It's a massive weight saver; that's the one thing I’ve noticed when transporting the motor from the back of the canopy to
the back of the boat. It's a shortshaft four-stroke and it can push my 3.7 Sea Jay up on the plane with four people in it, while with other brands I had to muck around with propellers to try and get it to plane with three of us,” Jase asserts.
Jase has his twin 200hp Pro XS outboards on the back of his custom 9.5m landing barge where the power the engines gives him is critical, having to navigate fast changing weather conditions in Northern Australia.
“We can sometimes spend multiple days on the barge so it’s important that it’s reliable especially with the unpredictable weather conditions we face during the wet season. I recently travelled from Karumba all the way around to Cairns using the 250hp Pro XS in the middle of the wet season and it was able to get me there with no issues. The 250s just like the smaller motors are also ergonomic but the power is just nuts. I've had 250 horsepower motors before, but the Mercury motor just seems to have so much more grunt and it has really good fuel economy and reliability. The barge is a four tonne vessel and even when you add a tonne of fuel and half a tonne of payload the power is just on tap – it does 42 knots flat out whether it's full or empty,” Jase conveys.
To watch Jase’s new season of All 4 Adventure or catch up on a previous season, check out Unleashed TV. If you want to learn more about the amazing engines Mercury has on offer you can find out more at www.MercuryMarine.com.au
Avator is Mercury’s first in a series of electric outboard products to be released in 2023 as they advances on their commitment to be the leader in electrified propulsion.
The Avator 7.5e outboard will be introduced into Australia & New Zealand towards the middle of 2023. Mercury also plans to display concepts for its Avator 20e and 35e outboards, which will be in market later in 2023.
“As the innovation leader in the marine industry, both in internal combustion products and now electric propulsion, we have the resources and knowledge to make boating more accessible to more people, while building on our commitment to sustainability. The Avator program is helping us do this in new and exciting ways,” said Chris Drees, Mercury Marine president.
The Avator 7.5e outboard generates 750W of power at the prop shaft and produces similar speed and acceleration as a Mercury 3.5hp four-stroke outboard. Offered with tiller or remote steering, it’s ideal for powering many small boats, including tenders, inflatables and kayaks.
The Avator 7.5e is an entire propulsion system, fully integrated from the advanced controls, props and digital gauges to an all-new mobile app. Mercury are confident the Avator 7.5e outboard will deliver a superior boating experience for boaters interested in powering small vessels with electric propulsion.
To learn more about Avator and Mercury’s vision for electrification visit www.amcboats.com.au
right to take a new period at the end-of-lease, at a price to be determined by the club. The second term might not include a third option as the club may, at that time, no longer require capital. Instead, the club may prefer to take the berths back into a rental pool to provide a steady source of income by leasing them on 1- to 3-year terms.
What makes this model particularly appealing to a club is that it always knows the government is going to grant them a new head lease at the expiration of the old lease.
The decision whether to buy a berth for your boat is dependent on several factors like marina location, supply and demand, and the type of ownership being considered: leasehold or freehold.
Freehold is not permitted on Crown land, which includes most river, creek, and lake beds, estuaries, and seabed waters, like bays. So, berths at marinas in these locations cannot be owned, only leased. Leases vary in length, usually to a maximum of 20 years, but occasionally 99year leaseholds are taken.
At the end of a lease, the berth has no value. So, what’s the point? Well, by taking a leasehold, the boat owner is effectively paying rent in advance for a pre-determined time and gaining a longterm secure home for their vessel. Owners may prefer this option over renting annually from a marina or yacht club.
Many man-made lakes and canals are not considered to be Crown land and, as such, marinas built on private land may offer freehold title for berths. These berths can appreciate and become an asset.
The various business models that support the ongoing viability of marinas are many and can range from a yacht club providing a facility for its members, to major investors building a commercial venture (maybe as part of a residential development), with a desire to hold a long-term investment with a good return and prospect of capital growth.
With a yacht club model, the club would take a 50-year head leasehold over the seabed from the government and then design and build the marina. This would be funded by the sale of the berths on, say, 20-year leaseholds that include the first
Also, it is generally compulsory for berth owners to be members of the yacht club, which underpins the membership numbers that, in turn, support the dining and bar, slipping and repair facilities.
Owners of valuable and good quality boats often buy berths which provides them with easy access, car parking, security, amenities, and protection from the weather.
Buying a long-term leasehold berth is a lifestyle decision which does mean making a substantial initial investment. But by doing so, it offers a significant cost advantage over annual rental, and this is a driving factor for many owners if they can make that capital outlay.
The value of a marina berth varies according to many factors, which boat owners should consider, like marina location; services offered, such as 24/7 security, onsite harbour manager, etc; quality of administration; access to a clubhouse; slipping; fuel availability; WI-FI quality; supply and demand - typically marinas have 80% occupancy, while some more popular locations boast 100% occupancy and long waiting lists.
The cost to buy a leasehold will increase with the size of the berth and length of the lease. A typical 10m berth could cost around $10,000 to $15,000 per annum for the length of the remaining lease.
Additionally, there are annual outgoings which usually cover such essentials as power, water, security, insurance, marina maintenance, and administration services. Annual outgoings will vary from one marina to another but expect to pay $4,000 p.a. or more.
Berths in marinas are usually all safe and well protected, so the exact location of a berth inside a marina is not normally a consideration for buyers/ renters. Overall, marinas are well run, and problems are minimal, including those that allow liveaboards which are more common in Queensland.
Given fewer than 5% of onwater boats in Australia are kept in marinas, you may think that more would be built. While there are several major developments happening in Queensland, the lack of marinas is due to the high cost of building, affordability for boat owners, and the often long and costly process involved in acquiring all the necessary approvals from various authorities.
For more information regarding the sale or purchase of berths and swing moorings, contact the specialist broker Bruce Bell at Marina Berth Sales Pty Ltd. Ph: 0418 313 304 bruce@marinaberthsales.com.au www.marinaberthsales.com.au
Io f you’re ready to experience a more sophisticated example of dayboat luxury, size, comfort and, especially, performance, take a look at our all new R33 runabout.
With its impressive 33’ 4” LOA and 10’ 6” beam, the R33 Sterndrive excels in every aspect, with its sleek lines, agile handling and numerous amenities. Ideally suited for boating with family and friends – many friends, if you’d like – the yacht-certified R33 is spacious, of course, but was also designed to thrill and awe.
The Cobalt R33 performs as beautifully as it looks – and provides a truly exhilarating experience. It’s outfitted with twin 430 big-block engines offering a maximum, combined 860 horsepower – effortlessly producing top speeds in the mid-50s. This is nothing short of remarkable, given that you and your passengers can be cosseted with such luxury appointments as a hydraulically actuated swim platform, a one-touch, all-electric planar folding tower and sunshade, and the industry’s first Harman Kardon marine audio system, as well as advanced handling tools like a multiscreen Garmin glass cockpit, an intuitive joystick docking controller and a customized Seakeeper gyroscopic stabilization system.
Conveniences range from a cabin that accommodates sleeping as well as seating, to a side-entry door, a built-in smart TV and a wealth of ultra-fast USB-C charging stations and cupholders. Fully capable of fulfilling the wishes of the world’s most famous movie spy, the new R33 was instead inspired by someone even more important: You.
Incorporating a wealth of innovative technology to enhance the day boating experience, the new R33 Sterndrive features advancements in design, luxury, convenience and overall performance. We’re looking forward to sharing this exciting boating lifestyle.
To find out more contact Cobalt www.cobaltaustralia.com.au Jared Lee Ph: 0406 332 830 jared@cobaltqld.com.au
HES Winches Australia is a South East Queensland-based business and was created exclusively to provide quality winches and superior service to their customers. The highly experienced team work closely with you to find the right winching solution, supplying quality leading brand winches and their commitment to excellence and service is second to none.
Formed in 2012 and a division of HES Group (Est 1982) the company manufactures and distributes hydraulic winches, electric winches, pneumatic winches and hand winches for all types of industries and applications across the Asia-Pacific region. HES Winches Australia are the Australian distributor for several iconic global brands including Pullmaster, DP Winch, Tulsa Winch and Lantec from the TWG group in USA and Canada plus Dinamic Oil from Italy and Gebuwin from the Netherlands.
For waterfront property owners across Australia and New Zealand, HES Winches have fast become a familiar and trusted brand, also supplying the well-known OzWinch range of 240V AC electric planetary winches. “With almost 20 different OzWinch models available and also custom options to suit special requirements, we cover all domestic and commercial marine hauling applications from Pontoons and Dry Docks to Slipways and Boat Ramps”, says Corrie Johnson, who is the National Sales Director of HES Winches. “Uniquely, all OzWinch models have the option of being configured with a handheld pendant control as standard or a wireless remote-control system for
For larger vessels, the OzWinch range also includes the recently updated Signature Series II slipway winch models which have been designed and manufactured locally using quality stainless steel components for superior longevity in the marine environment. Designed in Queensland for Australian conditions, the Signature Series II range is proudly an Australianmade product.
In recent times, HES Winches have also launched an exclusive range of OzWinch 316 Stainless Steel boat trailer winches with a choice of three capacity sizes for savvy boatowners who require nothing less than the most reliable and long-lasting winch option for their boat or jetski trailer.
Maintaining your winch - If you already own a winch that is used in a marine environment your winch should be inspected regularly to ensure safe and trouble-free operation. In particular, ropes should also be inspected for wear and must be replaced if there are signs of damage or corrosion.
To assist you with maintaining your winch, HES Winches Australia also offer an extensive end to end winch service program including sales and installation of new winches, periodical winch inspection servicing, mechanical and electrical repairs, breakdown services, replacement parts and rope replacement.
As we enjoy the cooler months of the year before the lead up to peak boating season, now is a great time to call HES Winches to discuss your winch requirements if you need to
Australia’s Legendary
Fibreglass Trailer Boats, now proudly stocked by
'’There’s no debating the blue water credentials of the 6.0 Offshore’’
'’The 565, the ultimate boat for the fisho that does a bit of everything’’
How do you like your oysters? Au naturel with a dash of lemon or yuzu sauce? Or do you prefer them cooked – grilled or battered – with mornay or kilpatrick topping? However you like to eat them, oysters are definitely a culinary gift from the ocean. But their true gift is in providing essential ecosystem services in our bays and coastal waters.
While shellfish, such as oysters and mussels, are popular seafood delicacies all over the world, they are also known to form shellfish reefs. These reefs are complex living structures that provide ecosystem services, such as food provision, habitat for fish and invertebrates, water filtration, fish production and shoreline protection. With their function, shellfish reefs are “the kidneys” of healthy estuaries.
According to Steyn (2021), shellfish can be found worldwide, but certain types of shellfish tend to aggregate in large groups, forming shellfish reefs. These structures are formed by millions of oysters or mussels clustering together in bays, estuaries and nearshore waters. They are like coral reefs, as they provide shelter and food for many other species.
Shellfish reefs are complex, three-dimensional living structures, which provide food, shelter and protection for a range of other invertebrate and fish species. These reefs form in bays, estuaries and nearshore coastal waters in both tropical and temperate regions across every state within Australia.
Shellfish ecosystems once occupied large areas of coastal waters in Australia in both temperate and tropical regions, but have been lost or severely diminished by over 85% globally by overfishing, dredging, water pollution and disease. (Department of Environment and Science, Queensland [2022] Shellfish reefs, WetlandInfo website, accessed 24 February 2023)
According to the research of Nature Conservancy Australia, Australia’s southern coastline about 200 years ago was full of oyster reefs and mussel beds stretching from Noosa to Perth — quietly keeping our coastal waters clean and clear, safeguarding coastlines and acting as nursery grounds for fish. However, reefs were decimated by years of commercial harvesting of wild shellfish, water pollution, introduced species and disease. The results of the research showed that fewer than 8% of shellfish reefs remain, contributing to decline in water quality, coastal protection, and loss of fish and other marine life on our coastal waters.
Research scientists at James Cook University have indicated that shellfish reefs are the country’s most threatened ecosystem. They said that much of the destruction occurred during the 1800s and early 1900s due to overfishing, habitat modification, disease outbreaks, invasive species and a decline in water quality. They further stated that the degradation contributed to the release of stored carbon, worsening climate change and increasing coastal risks associated with more frequent and intense storms, sea level rise and ocean acidification. (Phys.org, 2018)
Up until the turn of the last century, Moreton Bay supported magnificent intertidal and subtidal shellfish beds which had always been a valuable food and cultural resource for First Nations people living in the region.
By Roselle TenefranciaThe oyster industry was the foremost industry carried on in the early days of Moreton Bay’s history and local development. But the oysters were used for a variety of purposes. Queensland’s early roads were made of shell from midden heaps, and the live and dead oysters were thrown into the lime burners for cement. It did not take long for overharvesting, disease and water pollution to deplete the shellfish stocks to the point where they are now functionally extinct in Pumicestone Passage. (Healthy Land and Water)
Shellfish reefs are considered ecosystem engineers, building complex habitats, protecting nearshore communities from storms by forming natural breakwaters, and even cleaning up after themselves.
They provide habitat for other species by creating a hard substrate with high surface complexity, acting as attachment sites for sessile organisms and refuges for mobile organisms, supporting high levels of species diversity. They function just like the more colourful coral reefs, providing food and habitat for fish and other marine life. They provide crevices that fish and crabs use to hide from predators. They are also good habitat for smaller forage species.
Besides being food, oysters in particular make waters healthier. They feed by filtering algae from the water, functioning as a natural filter that helps improve water that is overloaded with nutrients. In ideal conditions, it has been found that one oyster can filter up to more than 189 litres of water per day. With cleaner and clearer water, seagrasses are supported, creating a stable habitat for juvenile crabs, scallops and fish.
In some locations, oyster reefs can protect underwater vegetation and waterfront communities from some effects of waves, floods and tides. Well-established grass beds can help stabilise the seabed, providing resilience against wave action. These reefs may also help in reducing wave energy, prevent erosion, and fortify wetlands as a protective barrier.
With fewer than 8% of Australia's shellfish reefs remaining, restoration programs are indeed very important for maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. Many organisations are focusing their attention to the restoration of shellfish reefs around the country.
Nature Conservancy is working towards rebuilding shellfish reefs in 60 locations across Australia. They have demonstrated that shellfish reefs can be restored at scale and benefits returned. The gilding will expand the protection and restoration of a very valuable ecosystem. These restoration programs aim to boost local employment in maritime construction, earthmoving, aquaculture, engineering and natural resource management businesses. It is estimated to create around 850 new jobs in all 60 locations.
Nature Conservancy designs, builds and stocks reefs with shellfish in partnership with a variety of groups, including recreational and commercial fishers, seafood wholesalers and restaurants, maritime construction labourers and engineers, local communities, and traditional owners, among many others. For every hectare of restored reefs, there can be 375 kilos of new fish stocks, including snapper,
flathead and whiting. Each hectare can also remove 225 kilos of nutrient pollution in coastal areas, as well as reduce coastal erosion by acting as natural breakwaters and rebuilding coastlines. (natureaustralia.org.au)
In the Pumicestone region, Restore Pumicestone Passage has been established by local community groups who are committed to halting and reversing the ongoing declines in water quality, biodiversity and ecological function in the Pumicestone Passage arising from rapid development on Bribie Island and in the adjacent catchments. According to the organisation, one way to actively combat the ecological decline is to intervene and conduct restoration activities, such as shellfish reef restoration. With the help of the Moreton Bay Regional Council, local restaurants and OzFish Unlimited volunteers, the organisation began an oyster shell recycling initiative to help generate clean and safe shell substrate for restoring local oyster reefs. They started out with a funding to build an oyster shell impound from the Pumicestone Passage Restocking Association, after which, the Moreton Bay Regional Council donated a water collection structure and granted permissions to construct a shell recycling centre at the Ningi Transfer Station. Other community groups helped out to support the construction, and the group has then
collected oysters from the local community, including local restaurants. (restorepumicestonepassage.org)
An initiative that builds on the work of various groups and individuals in restoring shellfish reefs in the country, Shellfish Reef Restoration Network is a community of practice that brings together organisations and individuals interested in shellfish reef education, conservation, restoration and management. They aim to improve awareness of shellfish reef habitat and educate the broader public on the value of shellfish habitat conservation and restoration. They also promote communication, restoration training, policy and regulation, research and development, and implementation among network members. They work with Nature Conservancy, Healthy Land and Water, and Restore Pumicestone Passage, among many other groups in their network. (shellfishrestoration.org.au) Shellfish reefs may not be aesthetically pleasing compared to their beautiful coral reef counterparts. But these reefs have just as much to offer as coral reefs. So the next time you indulge in your fresh oysters and succulent mussels, have a think about the work they collectively do to keep our oceans healthy and thriving.
The best whale watching experience happens when the whale watches you.
Special management declarations give marine mammals additional protection and provide a flexible and streamlined management tool for responding quickly to situations where marine mammals are under threat.
A permanent declaration has already been put in place for the white whale known as Migaloo and any humpback whales that are greater than 90% white in colour. For these whales, the no approach zone extends to 500 metres and aircraft must stay beyond a distance of 610 metres.
Special management declarations can be made in different situations including when:
• an animal is at risk of stranding
• a calf becomes separated from a mother or group
• a female marine mammal is about to, or has recently, given birth
• dugongs move into an area when their usual seagrass feeding area has been destroyed by a natural disaster.
A number of general rules are also in place to protect marine mammals. Please follow these rules:
• Never restrict the path of a marine mammal or cause it to change direction.
• Never drive a boat into a pod or herd of marine mammals causing it to divide into smaller groups.
• Do not deposit rubbish near a marine mammal.
• Do not make a sudden noise, or attempt to touch or feed a marine mammal.
Report any sick, injured or dead marine mammals or marine turtles by contacting the Department of Environment and Science on 1300 130 372. Additional regulations protecting marine animals may apply in some areas within state and Commonwealth marine parks and other managed areas. Check local information when planning to go boating.
ATTENTION ALL BOATIES - Are you tired of pegs that can’t handle the wind and waves on the water?
Look no further than Kingpin Jumbo Pegs!
Our pegs are not only made with sturdy durable industrial springs, but they have an opening grip of 35mm to fit rails and covers.
The Super Jumbo Pegs will help secure your boat cover, tarp or heavy gear, even in the toughest of conditions.
Your towels and togs are saved from going overboard, your boat covers gripped in place for shelter and protection.
Don’t let weak pegs sink your boating experience.
Upgrade to Kingpin Jumbo Pegs and set sail with confidence.
Learn more: www.kingpinpegs.com.au
RA ND not only creates cutting-edge boats that look stunning and perform exceptionally well, they are also focussed on becoming the world’s most sustainable and environmentally friendly mainstream boat brand. Delivering the ultimate expression of design, function and quality, RAND boats set a new benchmark for sustainable, practical and infinitely stylish power boating.
By combining sleek Scandinavian craftsmanship and design with innovative and sustainable principles, RAND has created a contemporary range of luxury power boats that offer a real and viable alternative to traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vessels with silent and emission free cruising now within reach.
All RAND hulls are constructed with materials developed from recycled plastic bottles and all wooden trim elements are obtained entirely from certified sustainable forests. Even the luxurious ‘leather’ upholstery options are in fact cruelty-free alternatives. When compared to similar mainstream boat production techniques, RAND Boats use only half of the material during manufacture.
Uniquely, every model in the RAND boats portfolio can be configured with 100% Electric Propulsion, but for those particular clients demanding the styling, finish and sophistication of the RAND boats but with a traditional powertrain, every model can also be specified with the latest inboard or outboard ICE (Internal combustion engine) propulsion.
Ideal for both experienced boat owners and those new to the lifestyle but inspired by the RAND philosophy and style, RAND Boats are designed for high usability, with layouts that invite people aboard, are designed for socialisation and ensure easy intuitive handling.
Whether you are looking for a simple, stylish yet practical day cruiser, a handsome and adventurous family weekender or even a stunning cafe-racer style head-turner, be prepared to fall in love with the seriously euro-chic styling and incredible ease of use of these sustainable and sexy power boats.
RAND AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
Eyachts , the importer of RAND boats, has always been at the forefront of the marine industry when
it comes to selecting sustainable and innovative brands to represent. Extensive research, real-world experience and global industry knowledge form the foundation of our decisions when it comes to introducing new designs. The company was one of the first to import electric boats into Australia, and now they are introducing a boat brand that is doing so much more than any other in the market. As the renowned specialists of European dayboats, Eyachts is now the largest importer of this segment in Australia, and the next-generation range of RAND electric powerboats is set to fit perfectly into the Eyachts portfolio.
Peter Hrones, Eyachts Managing Director stated, “RAND Boats are the perfect match for the Eyachts portfolio. RAND fits perfectly between
our Axopar, the original adventure boats, Pardo Yachts, our Italian entertainment dayboats and Greenline our electric cruisers.”
When form follows function, and all matters unnecessary to the core purpose are stripped, the most accessible, life-improving products are given life. This is what modern Scandinavian design is all about, and the idea that governs the RAND Boats design philosophy.
The RAND 25 27 28 models will be on display at Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, defining what the enhanced boating lifestyle is all about..
Discover the range at www.eyachts.com.au/portfolio/rand-boats
Anchor Right and Bar Crusher Boats have enjoyed a mutually beneficial business relationship for over 20 years. Ever since Rex Francis, founder of Anchor Right, and Peter Cleland, co-founder of Bar Crusher Boats, met at a boat show over two decades ago.
Peter was at the show not only to promote his boats but also to find a high quality, strong, highly effective anchor to suit the boats his company was building.
Rex reminisces, “Peter was motivated to check out other anchors at that boat show because he hadn’t found anything satisfactory at that stage to hold for Westernport Bay where they were filming to advertise their boats.” Of course, Rex was at the show to promote his business and he offered Peter a couple of his anchors to try out.
Peter points out that his company did its due diligence, trying a variety of other sizes and types of anchors, before deciding on Anchor Right. He was so impressed with their performance that his company placed an order – and have stuck with Anchor Right ever since. Thus began a business relationship and personal friendship that lasts until this day.
“Every boat that leaves the Bar Crusher factory has a SARCA anchor mounted on its nose,” says Peter.
Peter has actually dived to the seabed to observe closely how the anchors set and has been impressed that they work as intended and advertised.
Apart from the strong build and highly effective operation of Rex’s SARCA anchors, Peter likes the way that the anchors fit snugly to the bowsprit – not flopping around like some anchors on the market – and there was no danger of them coming loose when the boat was being trailered down a highway.
Recently, Rex and Peter met to reminisce about getting their businesses off the ground – or perhaps, more appropriately, on the water - and their common interests of boating and fishing.
As they chatted, the topic of anchoring in Western Port Bay, Victoria, arose. Peter recalls that, in the early days of Bar Crusher Boats, they wanted to take promotional photos in the bay and needed the boats to be securely anchored in a variety of locations. But the anchors being used at the time were not fit for purpose. The seabed in the bay with its areas of reef, gravel or weed meant that, at the time, no single anchor would work under all conditions.
Rex was reminded of when he would take his family fishing at Corner Inlet, north of Wilsons Promontory, which needs three older style anchors for the different conditions – a plough, reef and a sand anchor –depending on where you decide to stop and drop a line.
He also recalls, with some horror, when he was using a wire anchor off Rabbit Island in Bass Strait – he was advised to use a wire anchor because a different type
“might get stuck and you’ll never get it back”. Rex says, “The wind got up and the waves got up, and the anchor failed.” The boat, with family on board, was heading for the rocks and Rex was lucky to pull them out in time.
Afterwards he thought, “What’s more important –retrieving an anchor, or preserving your lives?”
Those types of experiences inspired Rex to design and build a better anchor. He says that, although no product is going to work in all conditions, Anchor Right goes a long way further towards achieving that goal than other anchors on the market.
Rex says that the average boatie is often unaware or unsure of how best to deploy, set, and eventually retrieve their anchors – compounding the problems presented if a lesser quality or improperly engineered product is being used.
In the interests of boating safety, Anchor Right endeavoured to get word out to the boating community on correct anchoring techniques. The Water Police and Coast Guard came on board, adding information on anchor rope ratios and printing educational booklets (from which Anchor Right benefitted indirectly as their products appeared!). So, word spread, boaties became better informed and quality products were used properly.
Peter believes the Bar Crusher name “captures the vibe of hardcore, passionate anglers who want to get out there offshore and have a good go.” And Anchor Right has the products to help keep them safe.
Rex and Peter agree that mutual support of Australian companies for each other helps ensure the survival and success of Australian jobs and businesses – a far better result than importing cheaper, often inferior quality overseas products.
www.anchorright.com.au
SANCTUARY COVE BOAT SHOW 2023
Nautilus Australia is proud to add a new brand and model to their stable of European motor yachts, introducing the truly unique Levanzo 25 from Lilybaeum Yachts, located in Marsala, Italy.
With a profile that will turn heads wherever she goes and performance to match, the sporty Levanzo 25 is a featurefilled day boat bursting with character and craftsmanship. Launched at the NauticSud Show in February 2022, the Levanzo 25 is the product of a design and technical team led by dynamic duo of entrepreneurs, Giorgio Maggio and Vincenzo Pecorella and stands alone for versatility and styling. The distinguishing high-flared bow, hull lines and high sides provide excellent stability and a perfect dry deck in all conditions.The deep-V hull with 22° aft deadrise is the result of collaboration with esteemed engineer Alessandro Chessa from Akes Design Studio, renowned for their naval architecture for custom motor yachts and performance RIBS. At 25-feet (7.9m), beam of 2.54m and draft of just 0.4m, the Levanzo 25 makes use of every centimetre of deck space and is rated for up to 10 guests.
Above the transom mounted outboard engines – up to 400hp, either single or twin – the aft boasts a large sundeck section. The central walkway can take a cushion insert to create a full-beam lounge space.
Adjacent to the outboard engines is a large stowage locker for safety gear, dive equipment and accessories. Located in the centre is an integrated bar which can
include a sink and refrigerator. A T-Top comes standard for sun protection over the central bar and helm, which is forward and comprises push-button panel instrumentation customised to suit the owner. At the bow is another social space, with c-shaped lounge and picnic table.
“We sought to create a luxury day boat that combines the performance and robustness of a traditional fishing boat, with the elegance and comfort of a cruising yacht,” said Pecorella and Maggio.
“Lilybaeum Yachts specialises in tailor-made boats to suit their owners, from the colour of the hull to the choice of on board technology, to personalise their experience from stern to bow.”
The new Levanzo 25 will make her Australian debut at the 2023 Sydney International Boat Show, 3 to 6 August. Dmitriy Dubs, Director at Nautilus Australia chose Lilybaeum for the quality of the build, craftsmanship and luxury design. “This class of luxury day boat cruiser traditionally comes with inboard engines but Lilybaeum
has developed the Levanzo 25, designed with outboard engines, which means easy maintenance, no moving parts in the water when parked, more cost effective service, more room on board, lighter and more efficient power.
“We are excited to present the Levanzo 25 at the 2023 Sydney International Boat Show in August and we’re sure people will be impressed with the design, performance and complete package.”
More information at www.nautilusaustralia.com.au
Positioned as “the next generation recreational fishing boat”, the Parker 700 Pilothouse is designed for days on the water with friends and fishing rods.
At 7.58m LOA and with a beam of 2.55m, the Polishbuilt vessel is rated for up to eight passengers.
Making its Australian debut at the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, 25 to 28 May, the Parker 700 Pilothouse is considered one of the pioneers of the pilothouse design in Europe, capable of getting anglers to their fishing grounds quickly, in comfort and safety.
The V-shaped hull is lightweight at 1,640kg with a low planing threshold. Powered by a maximum 225 hp engine and capable of a top speed of 25 knots, the Parker 700 Pilothouse is stable, dry and easy to manoeuvre.
The pilothouse is asymmetrically positioned to the port side so that guests can safely move from the cockpit and aft deck to the front deck via the wider starboard passageway. High sides, handrails and grab handles add to the safety features.
A hallmark of the Parker range is the inclusion of a second steering position, common in commercial boats in northern Europe. The second control allows piloting from the cockpit, facilitating docking and trolling as well as allowing the skipper to stay in the cockpit with guests.
The pilothouse has been designed to be ergonomically comfortable, well sheltered and affording the skipper optimal vision from the helm thanks to the inverted windscreen. This glass configuration offers many advantages, such as more interior space in the cabin and in the bow, better drainage of water, moisture does not accumulate on the windshield, reduces glare from the sun and reflection on the windshield, plus exceptional all-round visibility.
The large open aft deck is an impressive 4.3-squaremetres with plenty of room for fishing gear and table and seating for enjoying lunch or refreshments at the end of an expedition. There are many options available to suit the owner’s requirements, including bow thruster, net, line and tine tails, among other equipment for longer trips and accommodation if that’s a preference.
More information at:
www.nautilusaustralia.com.au/boat-manufacturers/parker
Garmin International, the world’s largest and most innovative marine electronics manufacturer, recently announced the Signature Series 3i marine speakers from Fusion® Entertainment, a Garmin brand. Delivering new grille color options, seamless plug-and-play installation and added protection against the marine environment – alongside Fusion’s flagship onboard entertainment experience – the Signature Series 3i features new water-resistant connectors that protect against water ingress and simplify the installation process. Complete with speakers, subwoofers and wake tower speakers, the series includes illuminated sport, non-illuminated sport, and classic styles that offer an exceptional level of customization and elegance for any boat.
“The Signature Series 3i combines the modern style and superior sound boaters want with the added layers of marine protection they need. From center consoles and yachts to wake boats and pontoons, this new range is built for life on the water,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “Whether a factory installation or aftermarket retrofit, the new connector solutions make installation a breeze so our customers can enjoy an unmatched entertainment experience without the hassle.”
Combining both function and style, the series adds a metallic Sports Gray grille option that builds on the sleek aesthetics that are the hallmark of Fusion audio systems. Designed to complement a variety of boat types and preferences, the Sports Gray model also features durable materials that are engineered to endure season after season onboard.
For even greater sound definition and higher power output, the series includes innovative, CURV® cone technology. This woven fiber composite contributes to a lighter and stronger speaker design that helps the Signature Series 3i project high-quality audio over engine noise, even while cutting through the waves. When fully integrated with a Fusion DSP-enabled stereo – like the award-winning Apollo™ MSRA770 – and Fusion’s Apollo Series marine amplifiers, these speakers maximize performance and enhance ease-of-use for Fusion products by delivering optimized sound reproduction to each individual zone. Plus, Apollo Series amplifiers alleviate the hassle of installation and complex audio adjustments by offering in-the-box mounting brackets and an Easy-Tune setup via the FusionLink™ app for compatible smart devices. With a full Fusion audio system on board, boaters can enjoy.
the benefit of both premium onboard entertainment and a seamless, tune-free setup and installation.
The Signature Series 3i combines traditional red, green and blue LEDs with cool white and warm white (CRGBW) for an unprecedented spectrum of color, from soft pastels to vibrant hues. Fusion became the first in the industry to deliver CRGBW LED-illuminated marine speakers and subwoofers, allowing lighting options that can match each unique boat and style preference. For more customization onboard, the intuitive CRGBW wireless remote allows full control over
8.8-inch speakers, 10- and 12-inch subwoofers, 6.5-inch wake tower speakers.
Built to last year after year, the Signature Series 3i is water-rated to IP65 with ISO12216 compliance and engineered to Fusion’s signature True-Marine™ standard for protection against harsh marine elements such as salt fog, water, dust and UV. The full range also includes a 3-year consumer warranty.
Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for anglers, sailors, mariners and boat enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing the most innovative, highest quality, and easiest to use marine electronics the industry has ever known, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday.
Signature Series 3i speakers, subwoofers and wake tower speakers are available for purchase.
To learn more about the full Signature Series 3i range and its seamless integration with Garmin marine electronics, contact Eddy at Marine and RV Electronics 0413 351 772 www.marinervelectronics.com.au
New Signature Series 3i speakers are the best-in-class marine audio range offering easier installation solutions and crystal-clear sound performance with purpose-built design
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The Wooden Boat Festival, a four-day iconic Australian bi-annual event in Hobart, was held in February this year. Sharing Australia’s maritime history with visitors, there was something for everyone including the young children who were entertained with many free activities and events. The event attracts hundreds of the rarest boats in Australia, that sail up the Derwent River to the Port of Hobart.
The heritage area was the ideal backdrop for this picturesque event. Hundreds of years ago, Hobart became a hub for commerce and attracted boats from across the world. The inaugural Australian Wooden Boat Festival was held in November 1994 by boating enthusiasts and friends. Since then, the event has grown bigger and better, and has gained international recognition among the wooden boat enthusiasts from all over the world. It is one of the events that involve the community and allows stories to be told and traditions to be passed on.
Wooden boats from everywhere and of all sizes –from dinghies to tall ships – were on display, and each owner or operator was more than happy to answer any questions. Many boats were open to the public, and allowed visitors to experience what it was like inside these vessels that carried with it the stories of their builders and their histories.
The festival included dozens of marine trade supplies, local food stalls, seafood cooking demonstrations, sailing legends telling their stories, musicians from close by and far away, buskers, art displays, photo displays, nautical book author interactions, and film showings.
The festival attracted an estimated 120,000 happy people. With many of those visitors from interstate, it generated a great economic benefit to Tasmania with many tourists estimated to have spent not only the four days of the festival on the island, but 10 or 11 days in total, spending their money elsewhere in the state.
One of the most spectacular sights of the festival is the Parade of Sail that begins the event, and for a number of hours sees the boats return to docks and be assisted into their berths with the help of volunteers on tenders.
There were around 500 ships on display at the festival with about 400 volunteers who helped in making the event a spectacular experience.
The next Australian Wooden Boat Festival will be held in 2025, a highly recommended boating lifestyle experience.
Cygnet 20 starts from $72,600.00 plus GST
Become a part of our Gaff Association and join in for short, fun races, pretty anchorages, and sharing stories and adventures with other Cygnet 20 owners … why wait? Join our newsletter at www.bluewatercruisingyachts.com
Trailer Sailing or Bluewater Passages? …. that is the question. Bluewater Cruising Yachts situated in Lake Macquarie, NSW can build you a new Cygnet 20, a beautiful trailer sailer that is light to tow, carbon fibre rig, water ballast, easy to sail, and sleeps 4 comfortably. If you like the idea of day sailing and exploring inland rivers and waterways, this little beauty is the yacht for you.…what’s not to love? There are a total of 48 Cygnet 20’s sold with 13 of those into the Gold Goast, Brisbane & Sunshine Coast areas so far, and we want to see those numbers grow.
And for the more adventurous we have the Bluewater 420, a true ocean going yacht with an AVS of 135° This Bluewater yacht is designed to make those ocean sea miles with confidence, safely and comfortably.
Bluewater 420
Raised Saloon Version
Starts from $746,750.00 plus GST
Centre Cockpit Version
Starts from $762,400.00 plus GST
CLEANS -REMOVES STAINS - DEGREASES MAINTENANCE PRODUCTS, TO CLEAN AND PROTECT THE ELEMENTS OF YOUR VESSEL
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MORE DISTRIBUTORS WANTED. To become a distributor in your area contact Chris Zois Ph: 0419 519 161 info@waterzedge.com.au
The 1850 Supercab is a reboot of a classic Stabicraft model, revisited and reinvigorated with a new and modern aesthetic reflective of Stabicraft’s latest design DNA. We have listened to feedback on the previous model and have incorporated some significant changes that greatly improved what was already a sensational boat. It’s longer, wider, drier, carries more fuel and delivers a massive interior volume where even the biggest statures will feel comfortable at the helm.
The "Adventure" package retains the no-frills appeal of the 1850-X1 it replaces, however it has a wider scope for upgrades. EVA foam is now standard fitment on coamings and topside surfaces, as is our new “Blade” seat support system that allows for the accommodation of a 70L split lid cooler bin beneath them. The Adventure 1850 Supercab comes with dual frameless sliding windows port & starboard and a 150L underfloor fuel tank. Options may be chosen from all of the most popular upgrades, including drum winch, wiper, hydraulic steering, elite bolster seating, bait board & transom walkthrough.
The 1850 Supercab “Sportfish” package raises the level of standard fitment by also including a raft of popular options such as Stage-1 paint, elite bolster seats, cabin lining, hydraulic steering, baitboard and even more. EVA foam is standard fitment on coamings and topside surfaces while full EVA flooring remains a selectable option. This package is made up of all the most popular options and caters for the buyer looking for a compact hardtop boat that ticks all the boxes.
The bow configuration has undergone a major upgrade. The bow rail is now bolt-on and it’s supplied with a powder coated finish as standard. The bow coamings have been flared out to eliminate the traditional nose cone and to produce a larger platform on the bow with the fairlead moved subflush where it’s out of the way. A forward anchor bin now accommodates a drum winch on the Sportfish package and the compartment is self-draining through scuppers in the forward coamings, well above the waterline. A hatch is included for light & ventilation in the forward cabin and this provides easy access to the anchor when recovering or deploying the anchor manually.
The upper transom is shared with the 1850 Fisher and includes options for a removable bait board assembly or a fully-equipped Live Bait Tank with a sight glass in the front. Both options are powder coated as standard. The familiar fold-down corner seats also double as a useful step for climbing into or out of the boat and a transom walkthrough gate is optional on the port side. A large So-Pac hatch encloses a large rigging box for battery and rigging accessories.
UPDATED COCKPIT
A new dash design accommodates up to 16" displays and in combination with the full-width upper binnacle provides plenty of space for all the
electronic bells and whistles. Cabin lining is included in the Sportfish package consisting of EVA liners to match the coaming tops. There is accommodation for either flush mount or side-mounted throttles and the EVA padding extends to the footrest and centre threshold.
For more information about the range of Stabicraft at Northside Marine, contact Mark Golden PH: (07) 3265 8028 markg@nsmarine.com.au
Stabicraft are the world’s best designed aluminium chambered boats for business and leisure, bar none. It’s a bold claim, but one you can believe in.
Built to Fish since 1993. Fishermen from all over the world recognise the high quality, stability, safety, and practical features of Surtees Boats.
Jeanneau unveiled the DB/37, the second model in its new line of premium Day Boats, in her world premiere at the Boot Düsseldorf Boat Show in January 2023.
This brand-new 37-foot model is the perfect representation of the DB Yachts line. In addition to a streamlined design, entirely open to the sea, with fine materials and polished finishes, she reveals an unprecedented interior volume for a day boat.
Following the DB/43, the DB/37 is the result of a collaboration between world-renowned naval architects. Boasting excellent handling, her elegant lines were drawn by the Italian designer, Camillo Garroni, and her hull was designed by Michael Peters Yacht Design.
From day boat, to party boat, to cruiser, the DB/37 offers great versatility and a unique design, promising exceptional experiences on the water.
"We are happy to add a second opus to the DB Yachts line, just a few months after the successful launch of the DB/43. With DB Yachts, we imagine the future of yachting, while drawing on Jeanneau’s heritage," says Paul Blanc, Jeanneau Executive Director.
The spring of 2022 saw the launch of the new DB Yachts line by Jeanneau, with the presentation of the DB/43, a brilliant entry into the world of premium Day Boats with superior functionality, remarkable finish, and an exclusive style.
These qualities have already been recognized by several key players in the international press, earning three nominations, to date, for the DB/43:
● European Powerboat of the Year Award 2023in the category of “Up to 14 Metres”
● Best of Boats Award 2022 - in the category of “Best for Family.”
● Motor Boat Awards 2023 - in the category of "Sportscruisers up to 45ft"
With the DB/37, Jeanneau continues to expand this new line of premium Day Boats, fully realising the promise of DB Yachts. Available at Northside Marine.
Contact David on (07) 3265 8046 or email your enquiry to davidc@nsmarine.com.au
ON-WATER MARINE FUEL LOCATIONS, GOLD COAST TO MORETON BAY.
Open seven days a week, these locations also offer a boating lifestyle metres from your vessel. Enjoy waterside cafes, bait and tackle, nearby shopping, chandlery for all your onboard equipment, while accessing a complete range of maintenance services. Petrol, Diesel, Pump-Out Service.
A family-owned business operating on the Gold Coast for over 30 years. Open 7 days. 8:00am till 5:00pm, PULP, ULP, Diesel and Oils. Snacks, Ice, Bait and Tackle.
PH: 5577 2966
marinafuels.business.site
27°53.936'S 153°24.190'E
· 24/7 Premium (PULP) & Diesel fuels for tinnies to superyachts
· 24/7 Bait & free day-visitor berths
· Dock shop open 9am–4pm daily
· Marine Village with restaurants, cafes, retail and services
· Full marina amenities & security
PH: 5577 6069 sanctuarycove.com/marina
27°51.071'S 153°21.795'E
OPEN 24 HOURS
Diesel, Premium and Unleaded fuel is available
7 days a week. Ropes and fendering fitted to the wharf. Boats up to superyachts.
PH: 5591 3500
southportyachtclub.com.au
27°58.431'S 153°25.554'E
Suzuki Marine is now open for business 24 hours a day, following the launch of an all-new virtual showroom on its website which includes a ground-breaking ‘pricing widget’.
The widget, or pricing calculator, is the first for an outboard distributor in Australia. It not only adds a layer of transparency with Suzuki Marine pricing but also provides the basis for a seamless transaction to purchase a new Suzuki Outboard Motor (OBM) on www. suzukimarine.com.au – as well as offering a new ‘Sail Away’ price on the 2.5 to 30hp tiller-handle OBMs.
The widget is activated after customers select the ‘Pricing & Options’ tab under any OBM listed on the Suzuki website. At that juncture, the manufacturer’s suggested retail price is clearly displayed, which begins a simple step-by-step process for customers to select the spec level of their OBM, which will include choices in the Suzuki control kit and gauges range.
When the configuration process is complete, a summary page will clearly outline an instant quote for the new Suzuki OBM. Customers can then request a callback from their nearest dealer if, for example, they may require additional information about finance, insurance and/or trade-in options. No transaction has yet taken place.
Moreover, customers looking to purchase an OBM from the 2.5 to 30hp family will also be able to pay a $1000 holding deposit to reserve their outboard, available for a ‘Sail Away’ price which also includes all pre-delivery charges. Their nominated dealer will then be in touch to complete the required paperwork before the new motor is collected in-store.
Of course, 2.5-30hp customers can also take the ‘callback’ route if they are still undecided or require additional information. Suzuki’s virtual showroom makes OBM shopping easy! Visit www.suzukimarine.com.au to configure your next Suzuki OBM or to locate your nearest dealer.
The ultimate tender set-up demands the Ultimate Outboard Motor.
Suzuki portables are favoured for their outstanding performance, lightweight design, unparalleled reliability, and ease of maintenance. Available from 2.5hp to 30hp with the choice between Pearl Nebular Black and Super Cool White colour schemes in DF6A, 9.9B, 15A, 20A, 25A and 30A variants. Crafted to perfectly complement any bespoke yacht.
With complete complian ce with product safety and quality certifications, Amptech Lithium’s premium design is perfect for marine applications. All batteries are 100% cycle tested before packing, so you can be assured of the high quality of any Amptech Lithium battery in the market.
S upercharge Batteries knows the importance of reliable power on the sea. Amptech Lithium Deep Cycle Batteries give the highest energy density and electrode potential difference offering the most extraordinary kilowatt-hour capacity per unit weight. Our technology is proven to provide superior performance compared to lead-acid battery technology.
The internal structure of Amptech Lithium has a refined cell holder design. It ensures optimum cell spacing to avoid any short-circuit risk caused by vibration or impact and to improve heat dissipation. The IP65-rated container prevents the ingress of particles or liquid into the battery for increased protection.
Amptech Lithium has a built-in high-quality BMS with a dedicated active cell balancing feature. Enhanced circuit board protection prevents the battery from overcharging, over-discharging, short circuits, and cell imbalance. You can opt-in for a model with Bluetooth 5.1 technology allowing instant access to the battery status (state of charge-SOC, voltage, cycles, temperature, and complete log of battery activities). The real-time information the wireless BMS provides allows you to maximise the use and care of your Amptech Lithium battery.
An Amptech Lithium Deep Cycle Battery is a perfect companion to your trusted Sea Master Marine Starting Battery and other deep cycle applications. www.supercharge.com.au/find-a-dealer
Boat owners looking for a one-stop destination for all their maintenance and refit requirements head to Rivergate Marina & Shipyard for world-class facilities and customer service.
Conveniently located on the Brisbane River, just 15 minutes from the CBD and Brisbane International Airport, Rivergate Marina & Shipyard is a purpose-built, family owned and run one-stopshop for all kinds of vessels, from jet-skis to superyachts.
With deepwater access, 105 berths and impressive hardstand, Rivergate is recognised as Australia’s leading refit destination and one of the top three international superyacht shipyards. The team at Rivergate provides exceptional customer service, offering 7 day a week concierge support, 24/7 on-water fuel wharf, and is an official Customs Clearance port.
Rivergate’s culture is based around a can do attitude for all of our customers. Coupled with world leading environmental programs, it is truly the perfect place for all your berthing and maintenance needs.
Rivergate Marina and Shipyard is an accredited International Clean Marina, marking the business's ongoing commitment to environmentally sustainable practices. Rivergate Dockmaster Sarah Toxward has recently completed a Certificate IV in Environmental Management and Sustainability and says she is proud to share her knowledge and provide input into Rivergate’s environmental and sustainability strategies.
The shipyard team provide exceptional customer service, with access to hundreds of marine contractors and over 20 trades on site; including shipwrights, upholstery, fabrication, electrical, painters, naval architects and propulsion specialists.
According to Andrew Cannon, General Manager at Rivergate “Rivergate is perfectly positioned on the Brisbane River which allows unrivalled access to Moreton Bay and is the perfect layover for any vessel travelling the east coast from the beautiful Great Barrier Reef in the winter or south to Sydney and Melbourne during the summer.
Rivergate’s exceptional Marina and Shipyard team is supported by all the professional trades needed for vessel maintenance, making it the perfect location for all you boating needs.”
Testimonials from visiting customers are invariably positive, praising the Rivergate team for their warm welcome and proactive response to every request.
One recent customer of a 17-meter multihull said; “The Oregon Native has sailed over half-way around the world and berthed in many marinas, none with more helpful Host/Dockmasters than Rivergate. To be a great marina you need good facilities and great people; Rivergate has both!”
The owner of Pacific Star, a 12-metre sailing catamaran, described Rivergate customer service and hospitality as “the best ever”.
“Everyone was so helpful, full of heaps of local knowledge and the facilities were great! The bathrooms were immaculate with nice hot showers.”
Owners of 11-metre yacht, Buenasea spent six months at Rivergate and said “I am happy to recommend the marina, and particularly the staff, for the professionalism, support and friendship I was shown during my time here.
“The marina location was ideal for me as it was close to the city and central to Brisbane Airport and other places I needed to access. The amenities were great, and close by, while the marina precinct has a shipyard and range of services available.”
Get in touch with the friendly Rivergate team and discuss your berthing, maintenance or refit projects with the experts.
Rivergate Marina & Shipyard
7 Rivergate Place, Murarrie.
Tel: (07) 3907 1600 info@rivergate.com.au
www.rivergate.com.au
F or local boat manufacturer Scimitar, 2023 is proving to be another busy year for the team, following the relaunch of the all Australian-made power catamaran at Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show last year.
With 3 new vessels completed in 2022, production is well underway on the latest model to be launched at SCIBS 2023, alongside the first of the production model Minitar catamaran tender.
“The response from the market and the industry has been very encouraging for the relaunch of the brand, with clients showing strong interest in the locally manufactured vessels, built with purpose for Australian conditions. With the launch of our flagship flybridge model in December last year (which has already had over 1000 nautical miles pass under her keel), we have been working on the next flybridge model which will be aligned to those customers seeking a super-efficient, easy to use, Australianmade vessel at a competitive price point. We will have both vessels on display at the 2023 Sanctuary Cove Boat Show, so customers will have the opportunity to compare both levels of specifications first hand,” comments Scimitar Boats Director Tommy Ericson Scimitar are also working on 2 larger models aimed at those looking to venture further afield, increase their range or to accommodate their growing families. The 1770 (representing the length of 17.70
metres) measures just shy of 60ft and proves to be a real game changer in the power catamaran space with expansive accommodation, amenity and serious long range ocean going capability.
To complement the 1010 and the 1770 models, a mid-sized model is also well advanced in its development with a number of existing Scimitar owners showing considerable interest in a larger version of their beloved 1010.
Further detail of both of these models will be released on Scimitar's website www.scimitarboats. com.au and at SCIBS 2023.
Although by no means the largest of vessels featured in this publication, the Scimitar 3.75m (12ft) catamaran tender affectionately known as the “Minitar” is creating its own following amongst boaters looking for the ultimate tender. Developed as a result of a lack of options on the market, the Scimitar design team (a subsidiary of the Aus Ships Group) applied their expertise and years of experience to come up with a tender that ticks a lot of boxes; lightweight (less than 100kg); stable (thanks to the catamaran hull form); shallow draft; good internal volume; efficiently powered.
The pre-production model was on display at SCIBS in 2022, and has now progressed to full production. Following the same engineered composite construction as the 1010’s, the Minitars are infused closed cell foam cored with a gelcoat external finish.
The Minitar is already in demand with more than 5 on order from Moreton Bay boaters, who have spied the pre-production model on the water and enquired directly.
Models will be on display at the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show so be sure to stop by at the Scimitar display to take a look.
EFFORTLESS PERFORMANCE, SAFETY & EFFICIENCY
AUSTRALIAN MADE CATAMARANS, FOR YOUR AUSTRALIAN MADE LIFESTYLE
The Axopar 25 is the ideal dayboat with overnight capability. This lightweight, trailerable adventure boat is perfect for holidaying, either locally in Sydney or beyond. The cuddy cabin features a spacious berth and bathroom, and the outside cockpit can be easily enclosed.
What can you do onboard? Wakeboarding, donuting, kneeboarding, fishing or cruising. With great offshore handling and high speeds over 40 knots. When you’re onboard an Axopar the world is your oyster.
boats@eyachts.com.au
The Sunseeker 76 Yacht is a stunning example of luxury, comfort, and performance combined into one vessel. This yacht is perfect for those who want to experience the freedom of the open water while enjoying all the amenities of a luxurious home. From the sleek exterior design to the spacious and stylish interior, the 76 Yacht is a masterpiece of modern yacht design.
One of the standout features of the interior is the master suite, which is located in the centre of the yacht and features large windows that offer stunning views of the ocean. The suite is designed to be a luxurious retreat, with a spacious en-suite bathroom, a king-size bed and ample storage space. The use of natural materials such as leather and wood creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for relaxing and unwinding.
In addition to the master suite, the Sunseeker 76 Yacht features three additional guest cabins that are equally as luxurious and well appointed. Each cabin features its own en-suite bathroom and plenty of storage space, ensuring that guests can enjoy their stay in comfort and style.
However, one of the most impressive features of the Sunseeker 76 Yacht is its spacious and welldesigned saloon and galley, offering two different layout options to suit the needs and preferences of different owners. Choose from an aft galley or amidships galley, both designs give you a modern open galley layout blending seamlessly into the saloon, allowing you to socialize with guests while preparing meals. The galley is fully equipped with high-end appliances, including refrigerator, freezer, oven, dishwasher and ample counter space and storage.
A large u-shaped lounge is surrounded by panoramic windows that provide plenty of natural light and a breathtaking view of the surrounding sea. The coffee table in the centre of the seating area is perfect for drinks and snacks, and it also serves as a convenient place to put down a book or magazine. A formal dining arrangement with a large table and seating for up to eight guests complements the luxurious open plan living on the main deck.
The yacht’s entertainment systems are also top of the line, with high quality AV systems throughout, including large screen TV’s, WIFI and more The yacht also features satellite TV, allowing guests to access their favourite shows and movies while at sea. The outdoor living spaces are equally impressive with a spacious flybridge, sunbathing areas, and a large cockpit.
The main helm console is on the main deck forward of the saloon and has a portside observation group seating area. Standard features on the helm include autopilot, electronic speed and depth sounder, touch screen monitoring panel, hydraulic power steering and trim tab controls to name a few. The helm is finished in high end material and has a side opening door to side deck for convenience. The outdoor living spaces are equally impressive with a spacious flybridge, sunbathing areas, and a large cockpit.
Flowing out from the open plan living areas into the expansive cockpit, you’ll find plenty of room for entertaining and socialising. The cockpit features a large table and seating area, making it the perfect place for alfresco dining and evening drinks. The cockpit can also be adapted to include additional lounge seating or a cocktail bar. At the stern enjoy the addition of a mini beach club, complete with a barbeque grill, fold out seating and a rain shower, perfect for entertaining.
Spacious side decks lead to the large sunbathing areas at both the bow and stern, allowing guests to relax and soak up the sun in comfort and style. The spacious sunbathing areas are equipped with comfortable cushions and provide stunning views of the surrounding seascape.
The outdoor living spaces are equally impressive with a spacious flybridge, sunbathing areas, and a large cockpit.
Store all the water sport toys in your toy garage, located right by the hydraulic swim platform, allowing easy access from storage to water. Access the water easily with the touch of a button, your hydraulic swim platform will lower and raise to your desired level, making it easy for you to enjoy all your favourite water sport activities or a relaxing swim.
The Sunseeker 76 Yacht has a large and spacious flybridge, which provides plenty of space for relaxing and socialising. The flybridge features a large seating area, a sun pad and wet bar, as well as a range of other amenities that make it the perfect place to enjoy the sun and the sea. You can also choose to add a spa tub, jet-ski with crane or additional sunbeds to maximise this space.
All in all, the exterior features of the sunseeker 76 yacht are a testament to the yacht's
exceptional design and engineering. The spacious sunbathing areas, expansive cockpit, hydraulic swim platform, flybridge, sporty lines, powerful engines and high quality materials combine to create a luxury yacht that is both stylish and functional.
With a sleek and modern design the exterior features a distinctive profile with curved lines and sporty silhouette that sets it apart from other yachts. Powered by twin MAN V12 engines, the Sunseeker 76 Yacht offers high performance with excellent manoeuvrability and speed, providing a top speed of 32 knots and cruising speed of 23 knots. The yacht's engines deliver exceptional performance and ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, allowing owners to explore a range of destinations with ease.
Overall the Sunseeker 76 Yacht is a luxury vessel that offers a range of notable features combining, style, luxurious comfort, impressive performance and flexible layout options. Whether you’re cruising the local waterways or exploring the Australian Coastline, the Sunseeker 76 Yacht is sure to exceed your expectations and provide an unforgettable cruising experience.
To find out more about the Sunseeker 76ft yacht contact: info@sunseeker.com.au
PRINCIPAL CHARACTERISTICS
Length overall – 23.60 m / 77'5"
Beam – 5.95 m / 19'6"
Draft – 1.70 m / 5'7"
Displacement – 53,700 kg
Fuel capacity – 6,000 litres
Fresh water capacity – 1,400 litres
Accommodation – 4 cabins, 4 ensuites/ day head
Engine options – Twin MAN V12 (1400 or 1500 Shaft
Performance – Up to 32 knots
Range @ 10 knots – Up to 500 nautical miles
SUNSEEKER EAST COAST
SUITE AB4 GOLD COAST CITY MARINA 76-84 WATERWAY DRIVE, COOMERA PHONE (07) 5665 8254
At Eyachts, their firm focus on sustainability has led them to become the biggest distributor of electric and hybrid boats in Australia. Cheaper to operate, kinder to the environment, quieter and smoother thanks to advances in technology, electric and hybrid boats are now becoming a viable and preferable alternative to traditional fuel powered vessels.
Let’s take a closer look at how their exclusive range of innovative and leading edge European powerboats and sailing yachts delivers cost savings and sustainability, all without sacrificing style or speed.
RAND’s commitment to becoming the world’s most sustainable and environmentally friendly mainstream boat brand has seen them set new benchmarks for sustainable, practical and infinitely stylish power boating. It starts during design and construction, where RAND Boats use only half of the material compared to similar mainstream boat production techniques. RAND hulls use recycled plastic bottles as the foam core, wooden trim elements are obtained from certified sustainable forests and the luxurious ‘leather’ upholstery options are cruelty-free. Every RAND model can be configured with either 100% Electric Propulsion or the latest inboard or outboard ICE (internal combustion engine) propulsion.
And as the first manufacturer to offer electric boats with a sterndrive, RAND Boats have the same sporty handling as a petrol boat, but with even better acceleration due to the instant thrust.
The superior design and engineering of Greenline Yachts deliver eco-friendly boating without any compromise on comfort or luxury. Greenline launched the world’s first affordable diesel electric hybrid boat in 2008 and it has been refining and improving this formula ever since, launching its fifth-generation hybrid range in 2020. Greenline is the most popular brand of hybrid boats in the world, producing an extensive range of industry-leading live-aboard cruisers ranging in size from 10 metres to 21 metres in length. Greenline hybrid boats actually use four times less fossil fuel than a planing powerboat in similar conditions, simultaneously improving the user experience while they lessen the impact on the environment.
Saving fuel is written into the DNA of Axopar/ BRABUS Marine Boats, both in their aerodynamics and hydrodynamics. All of these design features make for a smoother and more comfortable boating experience that is better for the environment and for your hip pocket too. Axopar Boats have also just released an early-stage prototype of their first 100% electric Axopar boat, combining the ultra-efficient and versatile Axopar 25 with the eco-friendliness of electric outboard propulsion to prove that high speeds and electrification can go hand in hand. The prototype’s new EVOY engine is the world’s first 300hp outboard electrical engine and it features low consumption, impressive torque, and range, making it perfect for boat owners keen to go green and still get every inch of speed out of their boats.
The groundbreaking hull design of Sirena Yachts has created a highly functional elite motor yacht that goes further and faster on less fuel. Sirena Yachts have a carbon hybrid superstructure, making them less top heavy and giving them a lower centre of gravity. Their semi-displacement hull offers efficient performance at a range of speeds, with top speeds of 25-30kts or cruising speeds of 18-20kts. Most of the time, Sirena Yachts operate in displacement mode and this is what makes them very fuel-efficient. Due to their smaller draft – compared to full displacement vessels –Sirena Yachts have less “wetted surface area”, which is why they require less horsepower to propel the hull through the water. Sirena Yachts’ semi-displacement hull can actually achieve about 35% more speed with the same engine load requirement or at the same speed use significantly less fuel and energy!
Whether it’s a choice of hybrid or electric propulsion, the use of recycled materials in the construction of the boat or smart design that reduces fuel consumption and allows the boats to go further and faster using the same amount of fuel, today’s technological advances afford boat designers many ways of being more sustainable.
At Eyachts, their know that sustainability is not only the way of the future for the environment. It is also the preference of their clients for the many other benefits it delivers. With ongoing increases in the price of fuel, they predict this huge growth in the electric boat market will continue long into the future. Get in touch with the team at Eyachts, go to www.eyachts.com.au or boats@eyachts.com.au
Offering first-class marine facilities on Queensland’s Coral Coast, Bundaberg Port Marina is well placed with 200 top quality floating berths able to berth vessels up to 45 metres. Each berth has power, water and Wi-Fi. Convenient 24/7 refuelling, modern amenities, courtesy bus, gift shop, coin-operated laundromat, public phones, LPG refills and ice are some of the facilities and services available to Marina guests. The complex also houses a fully-licensed restaurant, ships' chandlery, takeaway store, marine brokerage, and a booking office for the Lady Musgrave Experience Tours.
Bundaberg Port Marina is an official Port of Entry and receives more vessels into Australia than any other on the east coast. The marina offers an easy deep-water, all-weather entrance day or night and this is one the many factors that has contributed to an increasing influx of vessels each year to the Coral Coast. Our boat yard and ship lift facility has become one of the most recognised ship repair facilities on the east coast. The hardstand
and ship lift are considered first class, with a 75t ship lift enabling us to lift vessels with a maximum 6.6m beam, concrete hardstand area, high-pressure cleaning service, fully-enclosed paint shed and work bays for sandblasting activities. The yard provides quality cradles and stands, professional staff and one of the largest dry storage yards on the east coast. The trade complex is accessible from the working yard and has many associated tradesmen available for on-site repairs. Owners are welcome to complete as little or as much work on their vessels as suits, it is totally up to the individual.
Recreational and commercial operators from all over Australia and the World trust us to store their vessels in our dry storage facility when the time comes to return home. The dry storage area is fully fenced and we can complete all vessel checks whilst you are away from your vessel. As a testimonial for the care taken of your vessel, many of our clients return season after season to leave their vessel in a safe and secure yard.
The Marina Office is open 7 days per week and provides a courtesy bus for transport into Bundaberg City Monday to Friday and to the Shalom Markets every Sunday. Port Marina Gifts is our beautiful gift store, located in the Marina Office. Pop in and check out our lovely range of resort wear, handbags, beach bags, sarongs, Byron Bay Candles and diffusers, nautical and beach giftware, souvenirs, and the world-famous Maui Jim Sunglasses. A number of world-class tourist attractions are located in Bundaberg and these include: Bundaberg Rum Distillery Tours, Mon Repos Turtle Sanctuary Tours, Bert Hinkler Aviation Museum, Botanical Gardens, and Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Factory.
All tours can be easily booked through Bundaberg Port Marina and provide an endless opportunity to enjoy our city and surrounds.
We look forward to meeting you all soon at Bundaberg Port Marina. bundabergportmarina.com.au
● 200 wet berths up to 45 metres
● 100 hardstand/ dry storage sites
● Restaurant & Takeaway Cafe
● Bait, Ice & LPG Refills
● 24hr Refuelling (Diesel Only)
● Premium Unleaded (On request)
● Power and Water
WITH ALL TRADES AVAILABLE ONSITE
● All associated trades available
● Amenities & Laundry
● Australian Port of Entry
● 75 tonne ship lift
● Chandlery on site
● Courtesy Bus
*Conditions Apply
Kaycee boasts volume, style, sophistication, and pedigree. A design brief was implemented for reliable, efficient long range cruising. The demands of a large family or dual owners are exceeded as Kaycee boasts two equally impressive master cabins.
The master cabin on the upper helm deck has its own enclosed aft deck and is air-conditioned. It acts as a luxury private retreat, close to the ship's bridge making it easy to monitor voyage progress in absolute comfort. The full beam master below deck has a walk-in robe and bathroom with a full size bath. This master cabin is what one would expect of a vessel in this category. The VIP guest cabin is located forward and two guest cabins are configured with a queen bed and two singles respectively. The crew are well catered for in very generous accommodations located through the tender garage in the aft of the yacht with two bunks in each cabin.
Kaycee has an elegant interior that was designed around an elevator that covers all three levels. From the full beam Master cabin through the saloon to the top cabin located behind the bridge, the styling is conventional and is the perfect blank canvas for those wanting a more contemporary experience on board. The presentation of the yacht's interior is like new and impeccably maintained by her permanent professional crew.
The off-white superstructure matches the Awlgrip flag blue hull perfectly. This elegant timeless yacht is ready to cruise. Entertaining is a breeze with a large open saloon featuring a functional cocktail bar opening out onto the expansive relaxed enclosed aft deck.
The yacht is purposeful in design with easy access to water activities via a multipurpose hydraulic submersible swim platform and large tender garage that easily turns into a beach club arrangement.
Powered by twin Caterpillar C18 Acert 1050hp diesel engines Kaycee is capable of a top speed of 17 knots, and comfortably cruises at 9 - 10 Knots burning 78 LPH. Kaycee has a significant cruising range diesel capacity of 20,818 Litres and 2,650 litres of fresh water.
If you are in the market for a large volume near new Superyacht with timeless styling and an interior ready for a personal touch to be added then you need to view Kaycee. Located in the yachting hub of Sanctuary Cove on the Stunning Gold Coast in Queensland Australia, please contact the professional sales team at Leigh-Smith Yachts to arrange a viewing.
Recent works 2022: Antifoul and propspeed, props balanced, new clears upper and lower deck, new fixed awning on top deck, new air-conditioning top aft deck, satellite domes painted, engineering servicing completed, new house and start batteries, teak decks sanded and Semco sealed, full exterior cut, polished, and waxed, additional new WiFi and router system 4G and 5G, Starlink RV dish and router installed for long range reception, new shorepower cables, hot water loop throughout vessel for fast supply, all new upgraded Hella LED lighting throughout, and all new upgraded Smart TVs
Leigh Smith Yachts invite you to inspect. Contact Ryan Leigh-Smith 0408 758 886 or Carl Kellett 0408 758 099 to arrange an inspection www.leigh-smith.com
The Southern Great Barrier Reef is located just offshore from Gladstone, but you don’t need to go to the reef to find a tropical paradise! The coastline in and around Gladstone provides plenty of opportunity to explore, with sheltered anchorages providing a perfect setting to relax, try your hand at fishing or to simply soak in the scenery.
Take your time cruising the coast, then refresh at the newly-awarded 5 Gold Anchor Gladstone Marina and make the most of the outstanding marina lounge and the luxury amenities, as well as the courtesy bus.
Pancake Creek is located approximately 60NM north of Bundaberg and approximately 30NM south of Gladstone, with high tides guaranteeing access for most vessels. Pancake Creek is in the lee of Bustard Head and is a truly wonderful anchorage known for its wilderness and natural beauty. There are a number of environmentally friendly moorings available for public use. Take time for a stopover and explore the Bustard Head lighthouse and surrounds. The crabbing up the creek is excellent - a feast of freshly caught mud crabs as you watch the sun go down on your back deck is a fabulous way to finish your day. Or, simply rest and wait for the trade winds to ease when migrating south.
West of Pancake Creek are Rodds Peninsula and Rodds Harbour. There is deep-water access to Rodds Harbour and Seven Mile Creek, and the area offers plenty of sheltered anchorage. Turkey Beach has a boat ramp, pontoon, a tidal swimming enclosure and a general store catering to most needs. The region is renowned for its national parks, dugong sanctuary, and fishing and crabbing. Keep your eye out for dugongs and dolphins when cruising in or throw a line in to catch your dinner.
Only a short cruise from the Gladstone Marina, Gladstone’s harbour and Port Curtis provide numerous anchorages and shelter, where you can anchor for a relaxing lunch. Popular anchorages are off Oaks Beach, South End, Farmers Point and Gatcombe Head. Each spot has advantages in different weather conditions.
Curtis Island is a bird-spotter’s heaven with jabirus, herons, brolgas, sea eagles, wood ducks, black swans and the rare yellow chat all inhabiting the island. Stroll around and immerse yourself in its beauty or simply enjoy your very own tropical anchorage from the comfort of your vessel.
Grahams Creek is a large tidal inlet at the beginning of The Narrows, which extends into Curtis Island roughly 5NM eastward towards the coast. It is a good point to wait for tidal passage through The Narrows or seek shelter from any inclement weather. Black Swan Island and Targinie Creek, behind Kangaroo Island, are also excellent options at the Gladstone end of The Narrows. This entire area is known for its impressive fishing and crabbing.
Yellow Patch is a beautiful anchorage on the northeast end of Curtis Island. It is named after the towering yellow sand hill, which creates a dramatic backdrop to the anchorage. The climb up the sand hill provides some exercise and a stunning view over the entrance, and on a clear day, all the way to Great Keppel Island. The entrance is tidal so check your charts and tides, and watch your depth among shifting sandbanks.
As you’re cruising, keep your eye on the tides and consult your charts. Access to most places is possible, however the deeper draft vessels and access to anchorages is dependent on tides.
Contact Gladstone Marina 07 4976 1399 for advice on cruising in the area or to help with planning your passage. The Marina team are all fully qualified local mariners and are passionate about the region. Whether it’s assistance in navigating the Narrows (which links Gladstone Harbour to The Keppels) or planning overnight stays in the Harbour, the Gladstone Marina team is on hand to help.
For a one-stop-shop on Gladstone’s anchorages and off-shore islands visit www.gpcl.com.au/Marina. Refresh. Relax. Explore.
All eyes will be on Multihull Solutions and The Yacht Sales Co as they stage the Asia Pacific premiere of four new power and sail models at the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show from 25-28 May.
The event will be the stage for Multihull Solution’s launch of the highly anticipated Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 sailing catamaran and the MY4.S by Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts. Sister company The Yacht Sales Co will also unveil the walkaround luxury day boat, the Tesoro T-40 Outboard, as well as the Absolute 47 Fly for the first time in the Asia Pacific region.
With strong enquiry for these models already being received by the sales teams, the Gold Coast event is shaping up to be the most successful in the companies’ history.
Multihull Solutions has already sold five Aura 51 models since its 2022 launch in France, with the catamaran holding strong appeal for its expansive living areas, redesigned deck layout, and superior level of comfort. A key feature of this 51-foot cruising catamaran is its complete opening between the saloon and the cockpit, which facilitates uninterrupted communication between the galley and alfresco area.
first stage of the shipyard's Odyssea plan before the development of fuel cells that will allow Fountaine Pajot to install hydrogen-powered motors on all their boats for optimal eco-sustainability.
The Tesoro T-40’s new Cullinan T-Top, with sturdy roof pillars integrated into the bulwarks, makes a single solid piece integrated with the hull creating a large, protected deck space and outstanding stability. An expansive garage space provides an abundance of storage for all types and sizes of water toys. Generous hull windows and cabin skylight deliver beautiful natural light and ventilation, and her interior is the most spacious in her category with two generous cabins.
Also on display at the show with The Yacht Sales Co will be the Absolute Yachts 47 Fly, a luxurious motor yacht distinguished by expansive living areas and powerful technology to deliver optimal safe and comfortable cruising.
Multihull Solutions will also launch the MY4.S by Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts at the show. In its first departure from its traditional flybridge designs, Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts has enjoyed huge success with its new MY4.S sedan model, which is able to enjoy unrestricted cruising through waterways with low bridge clearances otherwise untenable for many flybridge models.
One of the most striking features of the MY4.S is its remarkable living spaces, with its oversized interior shattering preconceptions of a motor yacht this size. As part of its radical redesign from the MY37, the MY4.S boasts a voluminous saloon with an optional electronically operated skylight that offers superb natural light and ventilation. With an interior surface area of 47m2, the yacht has ample space for everyone to relax and move about with comfort and ease.
The Aura 51 is also able to accommodate a large surface area of solar panels without compromising on design. Its large flybridge, with its spacious lounge and sunbathing area, is fitted with solar panels that are totally flush decked and capable of producing 2000 watts of renewable energy. This innovation enables the catamaran to generate five times more solar energy than other yachts equipped with solar panels.
Fountaine Pajot has also launched the ground-breaking Aura 51 Smart Electric in France, which is distinguished by the absence of an internal combustion engine. In its place in the duplicate compartments in the starboard and port hulls are batteries and advanced electronic systems that manage the motor and all the energy flow onboard. This new-generation catamaran is the
The 47 Fly features a generous flybridge with a large sunbed and spacious entertaining area, a well-equipped galley that seamlessly integrates with the cockpit, and pillar-free windows in the saloon that afford offer breathtaking views and an abundance of natural light. The interior of the yacht has been finished to the highest standards with generous headroom throughout, fullboat air conditioning, excellent storage capacity, and designer cabins and ensuites.
Multihull Solutions and The Yacht Sales Co will also have full details of all their world-leading brands at the show, including Fountaine Pajot, Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts, Dufour Yachts, NEEL and LEEN Trimarans, Absolute Yachts, Cora Cat and Tesoro Yachts, as well as details of their quality pre-owned yachts for sale within their Brokerage divisions.
Appointments to inspect any of the yachts on display at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show can be made by contacting Multihull Solutions and The Yacht Sales Co on tollfree 1300 855 338 or (07) 5452 5164, emailing info@multihullsolutions.com.au or visiting the website at www.multihullsolutions.com.au.
Known for its stunning tropical scenery, crystalclear waters, and abundant marine life, the Whitsundays has long been a popular destination for boating enthusiasts nationwide.
Combine its natural beauty with tempting winter temperatures in the mid-twenties and exceptional sailing conditions, it comes as no surprise that every year the Whitsundays welcomes avid boaters from across the country to enjoy its unmatched cruising grounds and experience a true aquatic playground.
Following the continued steady growth of boat ownership in recent years, driven by the increasing interest in the unique boating lifestyle, Coral Sea Marina Resort in the heart of the Whitsundays has been placed firmly on the map as the perfect destination for those looking to traverse the coastline northwards in search of sunnier skies this winter season.
With 520 wet berths, accommodating superyachts up to 80m in length, Coral Sea Marina is an award-winning marina facility, that has been developed with a strong focus on ensuring the very best experience for guests during their stay.
As the region’s only 5 Gold Anchor Platinum accredited marina, located in the tourist mecca of Airlie Beach, Coral Sea Marina is the ultimate base from which to explore the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef.
2023 marks a new decade for Coral Sea Marina Resort and, in the year of its 10-year anniversary under current ownership, the marina is set to come alive this cruising season in celebration of its achievements.
The wide range of facilities on offer have been designed to ensure the very best experience for boaties, whether berthing for the season or simply for a few nights. In addition to a brand new marina gym, other services include a fleet of courtesy cars, free WiFi, a contemporary guest lounge and Ocean Club, a unique on-water guest facility which has private ensuite bathrooms and an expansive sundeck with BBQ facilities and spectacular marina views.
As well as the extensive berthing inclusions, Coral Sea Marina offers two vibrant marina villages with a range of cafes, bars, and restaurants, including the newly opened Berry and Maple Patisserie. Another benefit for marina guests is access to the beach and pool facilities at the newly renovated Coral Sea Resort, just a short stroll along a scenic boardwalk from the marina.
Combining all these elements with its convenient location on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef, it is easy to see why Coral Sea Marina has become the marina destination of choice for those looking to visit the region.
Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing & Business Development at Coral Sea Marina explains “Our team at Coral Sea Marina consistently innovate to find new ways to provide an immersive guest experience. We aim to be much more than just a marina and through our regular Marina Mingles and Coral Sea Academy events we continue to offer ways for guests to engage with each other, the local community, the environment, and the wider world of boating.”
The Coral Sea Academy is an educational initiative providing a calendar of engaging events to
consciously connect people to themes relevant to the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. From free maritime training sessions to inspirational workshops on local environmental initiatives, citizen science projects, community fundraisers and Women in Boating groups, the Coral Sea Academy aims to inspire guests to become part of something bigger during their stay.
If you are visiting the Whitsundays this year, get involved in one of the many Coral Sea Academy events on offer. Visit coralseaacademy.com to find out more.
Still not 100% convinced about charting a course north to the Whitsundays? Read on and you will be!
Spend your days seeking out the clear blue waters of hidden bays, lazing on the white sand of worldfamous Whitehaven Beach, or hiking through lush island rainforests. Experience secluded anchorages, vibrant island resorts, and spectacular snorkeling on the fringing coral reefs. Once berthed safely back at Coral Sea Marina, the adventure doesn’t stop, with the coastal township of Airlie Beach on your doorstep and the quintessential Queensland hinterland waiting to be explored.
Whether you visit for a week, a month, or the entire winter, experience the adventure, the beauty, and the Whitsundays way of life and immerse yourself in the very best of the state’s great outdoors.
Visit the Coral Sea Marina team this year at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show to discover more about what awaits you in the Whitsundays.
Experience a boating paradise, which is beautiful one day and remarkable the next. Chart a course for the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef and make Coral Sea Marina your home port whilst exploring the region’s natural wonders.
Dock in Queensland’s first 5 Gold Anchor Platinum marina, enjoy world-class facilities and unrivalled guest service, immerse in our vibrant waterfront village, escape to the islands and discover a marina like no other.
TO VIEW OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM TODAY
