Australia Brief

Australia Luxury Yacht Charter & Superyacht News

DYT´s Super Servant 4 in Brisbane to unload $35 million worth of yachts

January 18, 2012

The city of Brisbane, capital of Queensland and Australia’s third most populous city, will host Dockwise Yacht Transport’s (DYT) 556´ ship Super Servant 4 with open arms this month when this 169.49m electric orange semi-submersible vessel berths at Fisherman’s Island Terminal to unload a cargo of yachts totaling approximately US $35 million.

Dockwise Yacht Transport’s (DYT) bright orange semi-submersible ship, Super Servant 4, picks up yachts in Golfito, Costa Rica before heading to Brisbane, Australia. (Photo credit Onne van der Wal)

DYT´s bright orange semi-submersible ship, Super Servant 4, picks up yachts in Golfito, Costa Rica before heading to Brisbane, Australia. Photo credit: Onne van der Wal

It has been more than a year since the ship’s last trip here was diverted to Sydney due to extreme flooding that devastated Brisbane and many other Queensland locations. Jason Roberts, President of Aurora Global Logistics and DYT’s exclusive commercial agent for Australia, sees the ship’s return as proof positive of the rebounding yacht manufacturing and boat transport industries as well as the cruising market that Brisbane so well serves in the South Pacific.

Brisbane is in the process of rebuilding,” said Roberts, explaining that when the Brisbane River’s riverbanks broke last January, an overflow level of 4.45 meters (14.6 feet) was reached, and approximately 20,000 houses were flooded.

“At the same time, the Australian economy has survived the global downturn to be quite strong, and this DYT voyage adds momentum to both of those things. We are excited for this voyage as well as many more to come in the future.”

Super Servant 4 coasts through the Panama Canal after a stopover in Golfito, Costa Rica before beginning its voyage to Brisbane, Australia. (Photo credit: Onne van der Wal)

Super Servant 4 coasts through the Panama Canal after a stopover in Golfito, Costa Rica before beginning its voyage to Brisbane, Australia. Photo credit: Onne van der Wal

Roberts added that Brisbane’s location halfway between Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef make it a perfect drop point for DYT, which operates on a regular schedule to deliver private yachts and charter boats to prime cruising destinations around the world.

Looking something like a giant moving marina when it comes to town, the Super Servant 4, once docked will submerge itself by pumping nine million gallons of water into its ballast tanks. After scuba divers remove sea-fasteners from each yacht, captains, owners and/or crews will be free to disembark under their own power and be off to new adventures.

Super Servant 4 departed Palma de Mallorca (Spain) in December 2011 and will have made stops in Martinique (France), Port Everglades (Ft. Lauderdale, Florida), and Golfito (Costa Rica) before arriving in Brisbane. From Brisbane, it will head to Auckland (New Zealand) and return to Port Everglades before heading to Toulon (France) in early April.

DYT’s second “float-on/float-off” voyage to the South Pacific this year will begin in Palma de Mallorca in November, with stops in Martinique, Port Everglades, Golfito, Brisbane, and Auckland, and return to Port Everglades and the Mediterranean in spring 2013.

47m motor yacht and 8m superyacht tender by C.Way and Imaginocean Yacht Design

January 16, 2012

Australian C.Way Pty Ltd, based in Sydney has presented their two latest projects: an 8m superyacht tender and a 47m C.Way motor yacht. C.Way was established to create luxurious custom and semi-custom yachts in a streamlined and rational way, so that costs can be contained without compromising on quality.

47m motor yacht and 8m superyacht tender by C.Way Pty

47m motor yacht and 8m superyacht tender by C.Way Pty

C.Way’s first major project, the 37m super yacht Tango, was partially built at Oceanfast-Austal, before being fitted out by C.Way. Proof that it is possible to build a vessel of the highest quality, without the excesses that are commonplace in the sector.

The decision to custom build a yacht tender was born out of the need for an attractive, functional day boat that offers protection from the weather, whilst still permitting the enjoyment of water sports.

Tasmania-based Imaginocean Yacht Design (IYD) was commissioned to bring the project to fruition. Designer, Will Allison says, “There’s any number of limousine-style tenders out there: but they are a single use vessel. The objective here was to create a practical boat that would serve as a comfortable tender, but also be suitable for a range of other activities”.

C.Way Pty 47m Super Yacht and 8m Yacht Tender

C.Way Pty 47m Super Yacht and 8m Yacht Tender

The result is an edgy-looking 8m yacht with seating for up to eight guests and crew. IYD employed a combination of aluminum for the hull and structure, with composites for much of the interior, to produce a durable vessel that is also light enough to be lifted onto the aft deck of the mother ship. Hull number one is currently under construction in Hobart and is due to be launched by the middle of 2012.

Early on in the yacht tender’s design process, it became apparent that the two firms shared an enthusiasm and vision that would be ideal for the refinement of the motor yacht concept. Allison says, “Even at the larger end of the spectrum, owners are looking for improved efficiency. So we based the design on a longer, lower platform that still remains under the 500GT limit. The longer waterline length allows for higher displacement speeds, with lower fuel consumption; whilst reducing the height improves stability. The motion is more comfortable, with less reliance on active stabilisation and the yacht is simply more pleasant to be aboard. It’s a win-win-win.”

The result is a dramatic looking luxury yacht where indoor / outdoor living is the driving force behind the design. There are a variety of spaces that open up to give a connection to the sea that is often missing in larger yachts. In the full-beam main saloon, for instance, the little balconies that are becoming increasingly common these days are eschewed in favour of almost full height windows, that slide back to completely open the interior to the outside. An expansive “beach club”, a second open-air saloon on the upper deck and a foredeck spa / lounge, ensure that there will always be a perfect spot for every occasion.

8m yacht tender by C.Way Pty Ltd

8m yacht tender by C.Way Pty Ltd

The Master Suite is located a half deck down from the Main Saloon and enjoys the full width of the vessel, with his and hers bathrooms, separated by an enormous walk-in robe. Aft and down a few more steps are four en-suite guest cabins. All feature large windows and extensive storage, ensuring that guests will enjoy a comfortable stay.

The crew are equally well catered for, with four much larger than usual en-suite cabins and a private lounge and galley facilities. From here there is also access to a cavernous lower deck storage space: evidence that this is a yacht designed by and for experienced owners. Further evidence of this is to be found in the galley, which is located immediately up and forward of the Main Saloon.

This is surely a chef’s dream come true instead of the usual cramped facilities, the galley is not only larger than the norm (with yet another large store room) but features direct access to the decks and all of the entertainment spaces. It even has a view!

With the extensive range of tenders and toys in the water, the upper deck is simply enormous. The aforementioned second saloon opens onto this, and like the main, can be opened up completely on three sides for what must surely be the ultimate place to enjoy an alfresco breakfast. Or, if one prefers the view looking forward, there is an open air bridgedeck that features a second helm.

C.Way and Imaginocean Yacht Design have created a yacht that promises to be quite unlike anything else in this segment of the market. The high Australian dollar has given C.Way the confidence to build the hull in Asia and fit her out in Australia. They intend to market both the luxury yacht Tango and the two new vessels into an international market. This is the time for change in the superyacht industry and the C.Way / Imaginocean team are certainly showing the direction.

Audi Hamilton Island Race Week 2012, August 17-25

January 16, 2012

Sailing superyacht owners are welcome to experience the unique on-water and party pleasures that have propelled Audi Hamilton Island Race Week to a point where it is ranked amongst the world’s best yacht regattas.

One of the popular Australian yacht charter destinations - Hamilton Island

One of the popular Australian yacht charter destinations - Hamilton Island

The Superyacht Division will be a key element in the 2012 series, which will be staged from August 17 to 25 at a venue that is the centrepiece of what is becoming the world’s latest superyacht playground, and Australia’s answer to the Caribbean.

Yacht owners and their guests will experience an exceptional racing agenda, one which will see them engaged in stimulating competition over courses that take in many of the 68 uninhabited Whitsunday Islands that are in close proximity to Hamilton Island.

Back on shore, the party schedule for Audi Hamilton Island Race Week 2012 will set new standards for what is a truly world class yacht regatta. There will be more stunning fashion, delicious food, fine wine, wellbeing and camaraderie throughout the entire week.

Audi Hamilton Island Race Week 2010

Audi Hamilton Island Race Week 2010

Luxury carmaker, Audi, returns as the main partner for Race Week in 2012. The German premium brand will offer a range of high-end events on the island for yacht owners and guests to enjoy.

Such is the status of Audi Hamilton Island Race Week that the America’s Cup made an appearance at the 2011 event, and the man who brought it to the island from San Francisco – America’s Cup legend of 30-years, Tom Ehman – returned home quite amazed by what he had experienced: ‘Audi Hamilton Island Race Week is the best kept secret in the world of yachting. The organisers of any major race week should look at how Hamilton Island makes this more than a sailing event: it’s also a social and cultural happening. Through resources, imagination and hard work it has really come into its own.’

AHRW 2010

AHRW 2010

Bob Oatley, who owns the 30-metre supermaxi racer, Sydney-Hobart race record holder super yacht Wild Oats XI, is the owner of Hamilton Island. Since taking possession in 2003, he and his family have invested an enormous amount to ensure the island stands with the best of the world’s superyacht destinations. For example, the island’s exclusive qualia resort is internationally acclaimed and highly awarded, while the avant-garde design of Hamilton Island Yacht Club is quite breathtaking. As well, there is a championship standard 18-hole golf course which embraces sweeping views of the Whitsunday Islands and mainland. Hamilton Island also has its own commercial jet airport.

The region is safe, uncrowded, easily accessed and offers many fabulous experiences. The Whitsundays comprise a total of 74 islands on Australia’s northeast tropical coast, and Hamilton Island is the largest of the six that are inhabited. Incredibly, every one of the Whitsunday Islands – and the Great Barrier Reef – are within a radius of just 40 nautical miles from Hamilton Island. The coast of the state of Queensland is 20 miles to the west.

Each year around 200 keelboats from across Australia and overseas compete at Audi Hamilton Island Race Week, which was first staged in 1984. The entries range from superyachts and supermaxis through to Grand Prix level racers, cruising yachts, high performance multihulls and sports yachts. It’s a wide spectrum of sailboats and competitors, and organisers make sure that everyone is well catered for.

Registrations for ASMEX 2012 Open

January 13, 2012

The 2012 Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX) has evoked considerable interest and enquiry following the success of the inaugural 2011 Conference.

ASMEX Flyer

ASMEX 2012 registrations are now open. The Australian Marine Export Group and Superyacht Australia are very aware that in the current economic climate a conference such as this is important for everyone.

AIMEX CEO MaryAnne Edwards said, “Whilst it is impossible to predict the future it is imperative for businesses to better understand the current operating environment and where future opportunities and sales may come from.”

To this end the ASMEX organizers are pleased to announce that The Superyacht Report will be presenting the results of their ‘State of the Industry’ paper, giving an overview of the fleet, order book, and market activity, and highlighting the situation and the potential for Australia as a part of this. Marco Struik, Managing Director of Struik & Hamerslag; a significant and well known European Yacht Interior and Refit company has confirmed his attendance at the conference and will speak about the refit and repair industry globally.

Another significant topic of discussion will be the positive progress with policies and regulation surrounding the Superyacht industry in Australia, particularly developments with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and Australian Customs.

An exciting array of international and Australian speakers will feature in the programme which will be out shortly.

The social programme for ASMEX 2012 will be a highlight again with Sevenstar Yacht Transport sponsoring the Welcome Registration by the ‘Poolside’ at the prestigious Hyatt Regency, Sanctuary Cove where guests will enjoy an evening of entertainment, fine food and wine by the candle lit lagoon. ASMEX organizers have also advised that the Conference Dinner will be at one of the Gold Coast’s well known venues and intimating an exciting night has been planned.

SYBA (Superyacht Australia) joins forces with AIMEX

January 12, 2012

Superyacht Australia, the peak body for the Australian Superyacht sector, has joined forces with the Australian International Marine Export group, the peak body for the marine export sector.  AIMEX will set up a Superyacht division and will appoint a committee of Superyacht industry representatives to drive the issues affecting this sector.

Alistair Murray, AIMEX President

Alistair Murray, AIMEX President

Alistair Murray, President of AIMEX said “This is an important step forward for the marine industry, uniting two very significant industry sectors and it will certainly increase the profile and support available for the Superyacht industry.  AIMEX has been managing Superyacht Australia for 18 months, so it is a logical step now to move to a position of working as one entity.”

The Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) has gone from strength to strength over the past 10 years and is a major player in the Australian and international export market.  Barry Jenkins, the current Chairman of Superyacht Australia stated “The management, marketing and lobbying support AIMEX will bring to Superyacht Australia will ensure the Superyacht industry sector gets the recognition it deserves.  It is important that greater traction and impetus be given to key issues which are seen as barriers to more Superyachts visiting Australian waters.

Superyacht Australia Chairman Barry Jenkins

Superyacht Australia Chairman Barry Jenkins

Barry Jenkins stated “The decision to merge with AIMEX was taken at the recent Annual General Meeting of SYBA (Superyacht Australia) held in late November, with current directors and financial members unanimously agreeing this was the best way forward for the group.  SYBA had been struggling to remain an independent entity and needed to come under the umbrella of a vibrant, proactive industry body. “

Since being managed by AIMEX, Superyacht Australia has enjoyed an excellent profile and promotion internationally, has made some inroads into key lobbying issues and has developed a new website which is now gaining momentum as the portal for the Australian Superyacht sector.

MaryAnne Edwards, AIMEX CEO will continue to manage the Superyacht division, so it is business as usual.  AIMEX has invited a representative from the Superyacht division committee to represent the Superyacht division on the AIMEX board.  Richard Morris, a past director of SYBA and current Superyacht division committee member is to be the appointed representative to the board.

Alistair Murray said “the AIMEX board is excited by this initiative.  Given the current state of the global marine sector it reduces costs to the industry and allows a stronger more united voice to government.”

2012 Melbourne Summer Boat Show

January 12, 2012

The Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV) is getting ready to start the 2012 Australian boat show circuit with the launch of the new look – new name Melbourne Summer Boat Show (MSBS). Formerly known as the Melbourne International Boat & Lifestyle Festival – MSBS will continue to take place at Melbourne’s premier waterside location, Docklands between 3-5 February, 2012.

2012 Melbourne Summer Boat Show

2012 Melbourne Summer Boat Show

The Melbourne Summer Boat Show is Melbourne’s only on-water event featuring a colourful display of yachts, power vessels, trailerable boats, personal water craft (PWC’s) and more.

Also on offer both on and off the water is a myriad of family oriented activities, demonstrations and come and try sessions.

“The Melbourne Summer Boat Show is a great day out for the family, as well as being a wonderful showcase of all Melbourne has to offer in regard to watercraft and watersports,” said BIAV General Manager, Clyde Batty.

New Look, New Name - the Melbourne Summer Boat Show

New Look, New Name - 2012 Melbourne Summer Boat Show

“With the Show celebrating its 16th year of operation, the public can enjoy a wide range of events such as waterskiing & Wake boarding, PWC demonstrations, Dragon Boat races, the Yamaha Supertank Fishing Show and the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard and Westpac helicopter rescue demos.”

Also on display at MSBS is Ralphy V, Tradeaboat’s Mariner Pacer 760 project boat, valued at $70,000 which visitors can go into the draw to win.

The Alma Doepel, an Australian built and operated three masted topsail schooner with over a 100 year history will also be open to the public at Shed 2, Victoria Harbour – allowing MSBS visitors to come and observe the restoration of this vessel.

In promoting the boating lifestyle as a family friendly activity, a variety of “Come & Try” sessions will be held on the water throughout the weekend. One of the great advantages to this show is that many show activities are free to the public with only a small charge to access the yachts on the marina.

With a variety of yachts, activities, ski & wakeboard displays and accessories, fishing and scuba gear there is something for everyone at the 2012 Melbourne Summer Boat Show.

Preparations for ASMEX 2012 Underway

January 12, 2012

Preparations for the 2012 Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Conference (ASMEX) are well underway following a successful conference in 2011. The Australian International Marine Export Group and Superyacht Australia look forward to advising the industry of key developments and further progressing and promoting the Australian Superyacht and marine export industries.

ASMEX 2011

ASMEX 2011

The Australian Superyacht and Marine Export Industry Conference is a 2 day event (22-23 May 2012) and will bring together key industry stakeholders: boat builders, Captains, owners, service providers and marine industry manufacturers. A key focus of the Superyacht and Marine export  industry is promoting Australia as a key cruising destination, highlighting the excellent refit & repair services plus the wide range of quality Superyacht, commercial and leisure boatingproducts and services available in the Australian market.

The conference will address key issues facing the Australian Superyacht and Export industry and explore current and future opportunities in todays economic environment The conference will provide an overview of key global markets and in particular how we can drive more business for our region.

The ASMEX 2012 programme is being currently being finalised with a significant list of industry heavy weights expected to address the conference.

The Australian Superyacht & Export Conference will cover a range of key topics including:

- Update on the Australian Superyacht and export industry
- Discussions regarding the key issues affecting the Australian Superyacht Industry and how Superyacht Australia is working to improve these i.e. GST, Tax, Customs, qualifications, navigation act, Great Barrier Reef, Global Marketing
- Overview of both Federal and State government policies in relation to the marine sector
- Key issues affecting marine industry exporters and how these need to be addressed: i.e. cost of manufacturing, importance of innovation, management of exchange rates, freight/logistics
- Charter/Brokerage issues
- Managing & Marketing your business in todays global economic climate
- Government support- what is available for the marine sector
The importance of websites and electronic media to promote and profile your business
- Overview of key global markets looking at current market conditions, threats and opportunities

Support for ASMEX 2012 remains strong with the Gold Coast City Council, Business Gold Coast, Department of Innovation, Industry Science and Research (DIISR), Queensland Government, Tourism Australia, Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show and Ocean Media once again involved. Further opportunities are available for businesses looking for a unique and strong brand profile in this market.

ASMEX is also very aware of the current economic climate the industry is operating in and realize that a conference such as this is important for everyone to understand what the opportunities are and how to drive sales in this market. To this end ASMEX have kept the registration fee at a minimum.

Registration fees include the social programme which was a highlight in 2011. In 2012 this includes a ‘Poolside’ Welcome Registration Cocktail Party at the Hyatt, Sanctuary Cove, morning teas, lunches, and of course the Conference Dinner which will be in a new and exciting location.

Registrations are open from the 9th of January.

The Rolex Sydney Hobart handicap victory for Stephen Ainsworth´s 63´ LOKI yacht

January 09, 2012

After fourteen attempts, Stephen Ainsworth is happy to have won the historic Tattersall’s Cup with his McConaghy built Reichel/Pugh 63′ Loki yacht, adding the Rolex-Sydney-Hobart handicap victory to a brimming trophy cabinet.

LOKI yacht - Photo By Rolex Daniel Forster

LOKI yacht - Photo By Rolex Daniel Forster

“We are elated, it is a fantastic feeling, a huge thrill to win this race,” said a jubilant Ainsworth. “I know how hard it is to win this race. I have been trying for a long time!”

Critical to Loki’s victory in the Rolex Sydney-Hobart yacht race was the crew’s ability to push the yacht through the first night’s thirty-knot Southerly front – and then work through the light patches closer to the finish: Ainsworth’s crew taking sixty miles out of the leading Maxis in one morning.

Launched in Sydney in 2008, Loki yacht has been the standout IRC yacht in Australia – in 2010 taking both line honours and IRC Division 1 overall victory in the Audi Sydney Harbour regatta, plus the overall win in the Audi Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race.

Crowned the 2010-2011 Bluewater Pointscore Champion – winning four of the seven-race series and taking line honours and the IRC 0/1 divisional win in this year’s Audi Sydney Offshore Newcastle Yacht Race, in September Loki added the Bird Island Race to its list of successes, breaking the 15 year-old record held by the 80ft super yacht Brindabella.

Congratulations to Loki’s owner and crew on beating an international fleet of eighty seven yachts and winning such a challenging and complex Rolex Sydney-Hobart race. Ainsworth describing the victory as “Pure joy!”

70m Sam Sorgiovanni motor yacht for Azzura Yachts

January 04, 2012

70m motor yacht concept created by a renowned Australian designer Sam Sorgiovanni for the Italian shipyard Azzura Yachts is the ultimate luxury cruiser. This 70m superyacht is uncompromising in her design and eternal in her style.

70m motor yacht concept designed by Sam Sorgiovanni for Azzura Yachts

70m mega yacht concept designed by Sam Sorgiovanni for Azzura Yachts

Representing the pinnacle of custom yachts, the exceptionally wide-beamed steel and aluminium luxury yacht features several impressive entertaining areas, luxurious accommodation for up to 14 guests and a helipad.

With fuel capacity of 220,000 litres and a range of 6,000 nautical miles, this elegantly appointed yacht provides for both leisurely cruises and lengthy expeditions alike. Twin Caterpillar 3512 engines are projected to provide speeds of up to 16 knots. A design masterpiece, this stunning 70m yacht is complemented by the latest and most sophisticated equipment and is MCA approved.

Refitted 151′ Charter Yacht Golden Compass debut at the 2012 Dubai Boat Show

January 02, 2012

The 151´ charter yacht Golden Compass is a stunning vessel built by the Italian shipyard Picchiotti in 1982 and designed by renowned Arthur De Fever.  Refitted in 2009, Golden Compass superyacht has been specifically outfitted to suite guests seeking adventure in exotic charter destinations, including South PacificNew Zealand, Australia,  Southeast AsiaIndonesia as well as other beautiful destinations.

46m luxury charter yacht Golden Compass by Picchiotti

46m luxury charter yacht Golden Compass by Picchiotti

151´ Golden Compass Superyacht by Picchiotti

151´ Golden Compass Superyacht by Picchiotti

The world cruising super yacht Golden Compass’s itinerary includes spring sojourning in Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Bali and New Guinea, and the South Pacific. Her expansive exterior spaces are the ideal environment for the visual appeal of unchartered waters and the extraordinary locales of the emerging Southern Pacific charter region.

On board luxury charter yacht Golden Compass

On board luxury charter yacht Golden Compass

Luxurious exterior on board super yacht Golden Compass

Luxurious exterior on board super yacht Golden Compass

A crew of 10 provides exceptional service for up to 12 guests in six staterooms. Personalized activities and accommodations for the luxury and adventure-minded guest are a top priority aboard 46m luxury yacht Golden Compass.

Golden Compass Superyacht - Main Salon

Golden Compass Superyacht

Picchiotti Super Yacht Golden Compass - Dining Room

Picchiotti Super Yacht Golden Compass - Dining Room

Making her debut at the 2012 Dubai International Boat Show, 20th Anniversary, March 13-17, Golden Compass will be shown for the first time since her major refit. She will also be offered for charter during the show. Contact our friendly team to learn more about the possibility to charter this beautiful Picchiotti yacht.

151´ luxury motor yacht Golden Compass - Master Stateroom

151´ luxury motor yacht Golden Compass