BOAT GOLD COAST MAGAZINE APRIL - JULY 2026

DIVE INTO MORE ADVENTURES. ADVENTURES.

Engineered for those who know the difference, with efficiency and true offshore capability at its heart, Axopar turns rough water into pure enjoyment.

The twin-step hull keeps the ride fast, smooth and efficient, while smart layouts let you fish, dive, tow the toys, or cruise with friends.

For those who want one boat that can do it all, this is the benchmark.

Go further, explore more, and make every day on the water count.

BROKERAGE

CATANA 50

Highly upgraded and meticulously maintained, this Catana 50 is ready to set sail immediately. Combining ocean-going performance with luxury and comfort, she’s perfect for adventurous cruising without compromise.

MCCONAGHY MC82P

A striking world-class multihull, blending luxury, long-range capability, and cutting-edge composite engineering. Designed for open-ocean cruising, she offers performance, comfort, and effortless style for unforgettable adventures.

CHINCOGAN 52

One of the finest Chincogan 52s afloat, Kotanui is a highly upgraded three-cabin owner’s version combining bluewater pedigree with refined Australian craftsmanship. Impressive performance, capable, and beautifully maintained, she delivers serious passagemaking ability with the comfort and space for extended cruising.

FOUNTAINE PAJOT BELIZE 43

A spacious, modern catamaran perfect for Brisbane charters. Efficient, comfortable, and turnkey, she’s a proven, profitable platform for a successful charter business with happy clients and repeat bookings.

BRADY 52 PATHFINDER

Developed with influence from an experienced cruising couple who have owned many boats. Enlarged hull beam and increased carrying capacity deliver confident offshore capability. Enclosed flybridge, luxury finishes. A one owner vessel built to exceptional standard for serious cruising.

SCHIONNING WATERLINE

This Schionning Waterline Custom delivers high-performance offshore sailing with exceptional build quality. Fine-entry hulls, wide beam, and a generous sail plan provide speed, stability, and responsiveness, creating a durable, exhilarating platform for sailors seeking ultimate performance and comfort.

Editor's Note: BOAT SHOW PARTICIPATION

Are boat shows still relevant? The straight answer is yes. Boat shows play a crucial role in Australia's vibrant marine industry, offering unique platforms for manufacturers, dealers, and enthusiasts to showcase and discover innovations in boating. One prominent event is the upcoming Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS), renowned for attracting maritime businesses and boating aficionados alike. It serves not only as a marketplace but also as a forum for fostering connections within the industry.

So why should we participate in a boat show? Participating in a boat show offers numerous benefits for regular boaters, enhancing our experience and knowledge within the marine community. We have the chance to connect with fellow boaters, industry experts, and manufacturers. We can explore new models, learn about cutting-edge features, and discover products that can enhance our boating experience. This firsthand exposure to the latest offerings helps you and me make informed purchasing decisions.

Many boat shows also offer workshops and seminars led by knowledgeable experts. These sessions cover a range of topics, such as maintenance techniques, safety practices, and navigation tips. We can all benefit from this education, acquiring new skills and insights that can enhance our boating safety and enjoyment.

Personally, I would like to see a stronger emphasis on inclusion and sustainability, addressing both economic and ecological aspects. Ensuring that diverse voices are represented—whether they are newcomers to boating, indigenous communities, women, children, elderly, or other underrepresented groups—can enrich the dialogue surrounding the marine industry.

As active participants in waterways and boating, we play a crucial role in bolstering the marine industry’s economic sustainability, influencing key sectors such as tourism and commerce. Our boating activities generate significant economic benefits, supporting local businesses and communities.

Additionally, promoting ecological sustainability is essential. By fostering practices that protect marine environments, we can ensure that our waterways remain vibrant and healthy for future generations. A focus on inclusion of diverse voices, alongside economic vitality and ecological stewardship, will create a thriving marine community that values different perspectives, enhances innovation, and fosters an environment where everyone can contribute to the industry’s future success.

Boat shows have a unique opportunity to promote both inclusive practices and sustainability within the marine industry. Implementing specific strategies can create an environment that welcomes diverse participants while encouraging responsible practices. For instance, featuring speakers, panel discussions, and workshops led by individuals from varied backgrounds can enrich the conversations around boating and sustainability. These diverse perspectives can introduce innovative ideas and solutions, fostering a more inclusive dialogue. Additionally, offering workshops that educate attendees about ecological practices, such as sustainable boating techniques or local wildlife conservation, can promote awareness and engagement. These sessions can also highlight the economic benefits of adopting sustainable practices.

This is my personal vision of how boat shows can remain relevant in the decades to come. These lifestyle events aim to promote not only the marine industry, but also to provide a platform for us to engage in meaningful discussions on matters that affect our communities.

How do you envision what boat shows in the future look like?

Our Crew

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, Paul Burt, Andrew Bedggood, Nic Welch, Karla Herbert-Evans, Rod & Renee Twitchin, Liesl Tziolis, Jack Leivenzon, Megan Francis, Evan Johnston, Jeff Christensen, Jeff Leigh-Smith

COVER PHOTO The Riviera 5600 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition sets a new benchmark for a luxury motor yacht under 60 feet. Offering new levels of spaciousness, engineering excellence and blue-water capability. There are multiple entertaining, relaxing and dining areas, three superb staterooms, a full-beam master suite, two bathrooms, a laundry and large tender garage.

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.

Find our magazine back issues online at boatgoldcoast.com.au/latest-issues

Buy an annual delivery subscription at www.isubscribe.com.au/boatGC

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Warning: Fire Onboard Boat Show Update

Publisher's Interview

Smart Boat Buyer

Confident Boating

Walk A Boat Show

Paul Burt Insight

Superyacht Regulations

FEATURED MAGAZINE OUTLETS

vailable at waterfront and boating businesses throughout the Gold Coast, from Tweed Heads to Scarborough. Grab your next copy of Gold Coast Magazine at one of our featured participating locations:

SOUTHPORT

Southport Yacht Club, 1 MacArthur Parade, Main Beach

Marina Mirage Office, 49/74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Whitworths Marine, Unit 12, Warehouse Rd, Southport

RUNAWAY BAY

Klein’s Coffee Bar & Grill, 247 Bayview Street

Runaway Bay Marina Fuel Pump, 247 Bayview Street

HOPE ISLAND

Hope Harbour Marina, 1 John Lund Dr, Hope Island

Phillis Real Estate Suite 2/11 Grice Avenue Paradise Point

SANCTUARY COVE

Leigh-Smith Yachts, 42 D&E Quay Street

The Harbour Master’s Jetty Office

COOMERA MARINE PRECINCT

Gold Coast City Marina Office, 76-84 Waterway Drive

The Galley Café, The Boat Works, 200 Beattie Road

JACOBS WELL

Horizon Shores Marina, Cabbage Tree Point Rd, Woongoolba Hooked Online, 1161 Pimpama Jacobs Well Rd, Jacobs Well

BRISBANE

Northside Marine, 2294 Sandgate Rd, Boondall Muir Marine, 453 Esplanade, Manly

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, Manly Newport Marina, 158 Griffith Rd, Scarborough Leigh-Smith History

Protect your investment and your weekends - with cleaner performance, lower costs, and an eco-friendly alternative to antifoul.

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AWARDS & RECOGNITION

DOCKPRO & SeaPen have won multiple Gold Coast Business Awards over the past two decades.

SeaPen is the first and only dry-docking solution to receive the boating industry’s highest accoladethe Miami Innovation Award

DockPro was honoured to win the Sustainability in the Boating Industry Award at the 2025 Sydney Boat Show.

Proud finalist of the 2023 Innovanautica Awards - one of Europe’s most respected recognitions in marine innovation.

dockpro.com.au sales@dockpro.com.au

TFIRE ABOARD

Understanding the Risks and How to Protect Your Boat

here’s something uniquely terrifying about the thought of a fire aboard a boat.

Whether you’re docked in a marina or anchored off a quiet beach, a fire on board is one of the most frightening scenarios a boat owner can face. Fires spread quickly, escape options are limited, and containment is difficult at best. For liveaboard cruisers, the risk is even greater. The boat isn’t just a vessel, it’s home, often far from immediate emergency assistance.

Despite our best intentions, fires aboard occur more often than many realise, and not always because someone made a mistake. In some cases, all it takes is being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

WHY FIRES HAPPEN ON BOATS

Modern boats rely heavily on electrical systems. Lithium batteries power tools, tenders and devices, while galleys, heaters and engine rooms introduce fuel, heat and flammable liquids into confined spaces. These systems make life afloat possible, but they also create multiple potential ignition points.

Electrical faults remain one of the most common causes of onboard fires, often due to ageing wiring, overloaded circuits or poorly executed installations. Battery failures, corroded terminals and short circuits are also frequent contributors. Galley fires caused by unattended cooking or gas leaks are another risk, as are engine room fires stemming from fuel leaks or overheating machinery. In marinas, fires can also originate externally, spreading from a neighbouring vessel before anyone has time to react.

Once a fire starts, smoke and heat can overwhelm a cabin within minutes. Even surrounded by water, fighting a fire aboard is incredibly challenging, and emergency services may not arrive in time to prevent catastrophic loss.

FIRE PREVENTION TIPS FOR CRUISERS

The most effective way to manage fire risk is prevention. Regular inspection of electrical systems is essential, particularly looking for corrosion, heat damage or undersized wiring. Battery banks should be well secured,

clean and charged in line with manufacturer guidelines. Gas systems require routine inspection, with hoses and regulators replaced as recommended and alarms installed where appropriate.

Cooking should never be left unattended, and flammable materials kept well clear of heat sources. When it comes to lithium-powered devices, quality matters. Cheap batteries and damaged units pose a far higher risk and should be avoided or disposed of immediately.

Fire detection and suppression equipment should be installed in key areas of the boat and checked regularly. This includes fire alarms, extinguishers, fire blankets and, where possible, automatic engine room suppression systems. Just as important is having an emergency plan. Escape routes, safety equipment and communication methods should be familiar to everyone on board, particularly when children are involved.

IF A FIRE STARTS

If a fire does break out, options may be limited, especially if it isn’t detected early. The priority must always be the safety of the crew. Boats can be replaced, people cannot.

REAL-WORLD EXAMPLES: WHEN IT’S NOT YOUR FAULT

One of the harsh realities of fires on the water is that sometimes diligence simply isn’t enough. In tightly packed marinas or boatyards, a fire on a neighbouring vessel can result in total loss through no fault of your own.

Working at Pantaenius Australia has provided insight into how frequently these incidents occur and how complex liability can be. In one recent Sydney case, a brand new Integrity Sedan Cruiser was destroyed alongside two other boats in a marina fire. Investigators could not determine the cause or establish negligence. Each owner was left responsible for their own losses. The Integrity was proven not to be the source of the fire, and because it was fully insured with Pantaenius, the owner was paid out swiftly and in full.

A similar incident occurred in Grenada when an Outremer performance catamaran was destroyed on the hardstand after a nearby vessel caught fire. Three boats were lost and no fault could be assigned. Once again, the insured owner

was able to recover financially, while others were left facing devastating losses.

WHY INSURANCE MATTERS

Prevention is critical, but it has limits. Fires can spread in seconds, and if the cause originates outside your hull, even the most careful owner may be powerless to stop it.

Insurance is more than a line item; it’s a financial safety net. Comprehensive coverage can be the difference between moving forward and being unable to recover. With the rising cost of boats and repairs, very few owners can absorb a total loss out of pocket. Beyond the payout, the real value lies in fast response, clear communication and certainty when the unexpected occurs.

MANAGING RISK AND PREPARING FOR THE WORST

A fire aboard is every cruiser’s nightmare, but the risk is real. By maintaining your vessel, staying alert and ensuring the right insurance is in place, you reduce exposure and give yourself the best chance of recovery if the worst does happen.

For advice on insurance visit www.pantaenius.com.au

EXPERIENCE CAN BE TRUSTED

Riviera 5600 Sport Yacht world premiere and exceptional showcase at Sanctuary Cove Boat Show

Australia’s luxury motor yacht builder, Riviera, will proudly host world premiere celebrations and their exclusive owners Festival of Boating event as part of a grand showcase at Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show from May 21.

Riviera Australia owner Rodney Longhurst said: “Our motor yachts are sought after around the world for their blue-water heritage, supreme luxury and built-tolast quality.

“This showcase will provide the opportunity for visitors to fully appreciate the exceptional quality of our range; the finest yachts we have built and all in one convenient location, our only boat show display in Australia in 2026.

“Sanctuary Cove gives our team the opportunity to demonstrate the amazing ease of boating that we have created, which is now being enjoyed by more than 6,300 Riviera owners around the world.”

Selected models from the Riviera fleet from 39 to 78 feet will be on show, flanked by two world premiere motor yachts, including the superb 5600 Sport Yacht.

Riviera 5600 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition –World Premiere

“Our 5600 Sport Yacht sets a new benchmark for a luxury motor yacht under 60 foot. New levels of space, comfort, liveability and luxury appointments. New levels of engineering excellence, blue-water capability and fuel-efficient performance,” said Rodney Longhurst.

“Drawing on our leading-edge boat building skills and the knowledge gained over 46 years, the brief to our design team was to create the best mid 50-foot Sports Yacht. The result is spectacular!”

The design philosophy of Riviera’s Sport Yacht Collection embodies four essentials: timeless styling, luxurious single-level living, effortless blue-water performance and ease of operation.

Exclusive Riviera owners ‘Festival of Boating’ to be held at the Riviera showcase at Sanctuary Cove Boat Show

As part of their Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show display, Riviera owners will be exclusively invited to the Riviera Festival of Boating.

The three-day festival program includes inspiring boating education and training workshops and seminars, all created to encourage Riviera owners and their families to realise their ultimate boating experience with Riviera. A series of exclusive social events also form part of the festival program.

owners can consult their Riviera dealership representative for full program details.

The 5600 Sport Yacht excels in all of these criteria. There is just so much for family and friends to enjoy with all-season alfresco entertaining on the large aft deck, relaxing on the lounge and sunbeds of the forward deck, a spacious saloon with two lounge areas and an accommodation deck with three superb staterooms including a full-beam master suite and a dedicated laundry. This expansive luxury motor yacht makes everyday boating easier through the convenience and style of a tender garage with storage for water sports equipment and toys, as well as the practicality of a full-height engine room with excellent access and serviceability.

Being a Platinum Edition means the 5600 offers superior appointments and amenity; greater refinement and luxury, with gleaming colour palettes and aesthetics.

Discover more at RivieraAustralia.com

WORLD PREMIERE RIVIERA CELEBRATIONS

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show 2026

This year’s magnificent fleet will flank two outstanding world premiere yachts at Rivieras only showcase in Australia for 2026. This is your invitation to experience an exceptional display of Australia’s finest luxury motor yachts from 39 to 78 feet. Riviera owners will enjoy exclusive access to an inspiring boating education program and fabulous social events calendar at the Festival of Boating, held within the grand Riviera showcase at Sanctuary Cove from May 21 to 24.

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST MARINE & LIFESTYLE SHOWCASE

returns to the Gold Coast for its 37th year

The Gold Coast is set to transform into a marine and lifestyle mecca for four days when the Southern Hemisphere’s largest marine event, Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS), makes its stellar return in 2026.

From 21–24 May 2026, the legacy event will celebrate its 37th year with a pinnacle showcase of boating and marine innovation, boasting brandnew hospitality and entertainment experiences, and welcoming over 45,000 marine and lifestyle enthusiasts to the Gold Coast. The world-class event will welcome more than 300 exhibitors from Australia and across the globe, showcasing 800+ vessels and 2500+ marine products and accessories on and off water, alongside a reimagined Lagoon Beach Club experience, marking it as one of the largest showcases in the event’s history.

Located in the idyllic Sanctuary Cove precinct, the waterfront landmark will unveil dedicated zones across the Marina, the Marina Village, the Pavilion, the Leisure, Fishing and Sports Precinct, and the Lagoon Beach Club. Mulpha Events Head of Events, Corey Rattray-Wood is delighted by the overwhelming interest in th e 37th edition of the event. “We are proud to continue delivering the iconic Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show,

which has become a leading global attraction for the marine and lifestyle sectors,” Mr Rattray-Wood said. “For nearly four decades, the event has positioned the Gold Coast as a world-class destination for marine innovation, luxury lifestyle experiences, and premium tourism.

“This year, we’ll welcome some of the most influential names in global boating, alongside an expanded program of new hospitality and entertainment experiences, as we prepare to host more than 45,000 visitors.” The newly expanded 346-berth Marina precinct will bring together leading international brands in boating, including Beneteau, Princess Yachts, and De Antonio with visitors able to explore luxury yachts, powerboats, sailing vessels and trailer boats.

The culinary and entertainment offerings are set to impress at Sanctuary Cove, featuring over 14 restaurants and cafes, live entertainment daily, boutique shopping experiences, and interactive marine displays, making it the place to sip, savour, discover, and play on the Gold Coast.

For families looking for a relaxing day out, a dedicated interactive and educational Kids Zone will entertain all ages with marine wildlife experiences, arts and crafts stat ions, and boating inspired activities across the four days. The Sports, Leisure and Fishing precinct will take adventure

seekers, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to new heights, discovering the latest in water sports equipment, accessories and apparel, with live demonstrations and product launches daily, as well as the annual fishing competition, the Live Bream Shoot Out.

The Lagoon Beach Club, one of the Gold Coast’s most luxurious beach bars, featuring the Veuve Clicquot Sun Club, will transport guests to a Mediterranean-inspired paradise as the event’s VIP hotspot, inviting revellers to experience a celebration of local produce, award-winning beverages, and live entertainment.

Lagoon Beach Club will debut a new series of premium experiences from Thursday to Saturday, including Bottomless Brunch between 9:30am – 12:00pm where visitors can ease into the day with curated food and beverage offerings, live entertainment, and beauty stations, whilst overlooking the water. From 12:30pm, the energy lifts with Beats and Bites featuring live DJ sets, casual eats, and flowing drinks until dusk.

The 37th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show will open 9:00am–5:00pm daily, with tickets officially on sale today from $31.50* per adult and children under 16 free. For all ticket and event details, visit: sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

PRE-APPROVE FINANCE

With 30 years of combined experience in marine, automotive, and finance industries, South East Finance stands ready to swiftly approve your boat finance. Their team, comprised of enthusiasts deeply passionate about boats and cars, offers not only financial expertise but also practical insights into the on-water realities of boat ownership.

Distinguished by a customer-focused approach, South East Finance aims to deliver exceptional service and rapid approvals, ensuring a tailormade finance package for your needs. The team's firsthand knowledge enables them to guide you through the pros and cons of different boat models, assisting in informed decision-making.

A key differentiator is their extensive network of lenders, including major banks, finance companies, credit unions, and non-conforming lenders. Whether you seek a low-interest rate or face credit challenges, South East Finance is committed to securing the right loan for you, without judgment or discrimination based on income or credit history.

Beyond financing, the team offers additional services such as liaising with sellers, negotiating with boat brokers for favourable deals, and recommending trusted suppliers. The application process is straightforward, requiring minimal income and documentation. Upon submission, the team promptly engages in detailed discussions about your loan requirements.

HASSLE FREE BOAT LOANS

MERRY FISHER 1095 SERIE2

A NEWGENERATIONTOREIMAGINETHEWEEKEND

Designed with comfort, functionality, and family cruising in mind, the all-new Merry Fisher 1095 Series 2 – available in both Flybridge and Coupe versions – redefines the life on the water. INSPIRED BY HERITAGE, BUILT FOR TODAY Building on the success of the Merry Fisher 1095, this new generation integrates the advances of the flagship, the Merry Fisher 1295. She features a bold new incisive hull, for optimal stability and performance, a spacious a t terrace and a layout that promotes easy movement throughout the boat.

GREATER FUNCTIONALITY ON BOARD The new Merry Fisher 1095 Series2 is designed to meet the expectations of those seeking comfort and practicality on extended weekend getaways. Increased freshwater storage capacity and optional second refrigerator open the door to longer adventures on the water.

At anchor, a wide 1.75-metre a t terrace can be deployed, creating a spacious swim plat orm— perfect for swimming or lounging with family or friends. A convenient portside boarding door offers easy dockside access.

FIRST-CLASS PROTECTION FOR FIRST-CLASS VESSELS

INTRODUCING THE BOATSMART HQ DIGITAL SHIP’S LOG — YOUR VESSEL’S ULTIMATE MAINTENANCE ALLY.

With our regular, professional reporting, potential issues are identified early, helping you minimise costly downtime and avoid unexpected repairs. Keep your vessel in top condition with ease and confidence.

Trust our team of experienced First Mates— renowned specialists in luxury vessel care. Known for exceptional service, discretion, and meticulous attention to detail, we ensure your vessel receives the highest level of care, all while respecting your privacy.

Protect your investment smarter and save more with our bundled approach. Combining premium insurance with proactive maintenance, we help you minimise risks, reduce unnecessary expenses, and keep your vessel sailing smoothly.

Boat Gold Coast Magazine marked its 10-year anniversary. We spoke with founder and magazine director ANDY KANCACHIAN about why the magazine began, why it’s still growing, and what makes the Gold Coast one of Australia’s great boating cities.

WHY DID YOU START A BOATING MAGAZINE?

We live a waterfront lifestyle, and once we had a young son, boating quickly became one of our top priorities. We already had experience in magazine, catalogue and newspaper publishing, so creating a boating and waterways lifestyle magazine felt like a natural fit.

From a business perspective, we noticed something interesting. Anecdotally, only around four per cent of pontoons we observed actually had boats berthed. That suggested huge potential for boat ownership — but also raised questions about why people weren’t getting on the water. The most common reasons we heard were cost and lack of knowledge. Providing clear, accessible information became key.

WHY DOES THE GOLD COAST DESERVE ITS OWN BOATING MAGAZINE?

The Gold Coast is truly a waterways city, even though it’s often marketed mainly for theme parks and beaches. We have over 270 kilometres of navigable canals, all accessible by boat — more than Venice, one of the world’s most famous canal cities.

There are more than 90 marinas on the Gold Coast, with another 100 across the broader region. The Gold Coast City Council is also the only local government in Australia with a dedicated business development department focused on marina expansion and marine exports.

It’s often claimed that around 80 per cent of boats manufactured in Australia come from the Gold Coast, and we’re home to the Coomera Marine Precinct, one of the world’s most advanced marine industry hubs, capable of servicing everything from small runabouts

BOAT OWNERSHIP IN QU EENSLAND IS SIGNIFICANT

• Around one million Queenslanders hold a recreational marine driver’s licence — roughly one in five residents

• 64 per cent of licence holders are in Brisbane and South-East Queensland

• 15.6 per cent of Queenslanders live in a household with a boat

Celebrating 10 Years on the Water BOAT GOLD COAST MAGAZINE

to superyachts. On top of that, we have our own international boat show — one of the best boating lifestyle events in the southern hemisphere.

SUSTAINABILITY SEEMS IMPORTANT TO YOU. WHY?

I’m married to a human rights and environmental lawyer, so advocacy is very much part of our life. We strongly believe in sustainable development, protecting our waterways, and promoting safe boating through better education. These are values we want to pass on to our child and to future generations.

THE MAGAZINE HAS BEEN RUNNING FOR 10 YEARS WHILE MANY OTHERS HAVE CLOSED. HOW ARE YOU STILL GROWING?

We print 18,000 copies per issue, which is nearly ten tonnes of paper, and hand-deliver them to more than 500 participating businesses in S.E Queensland and beyond — marinas, chandlers, boat brokers, service outlets, and waterfront destinations. The magazines are free to readers, which makes a big difference.

Our digital edition performs strongly as well. Each online flipbook attracts around 10,000 views per issue, and every article and boat review is also published individually on our website. That gives strong organic search visibility for anyone researching boats or marine services. The alternative for readers is often a $20 magazine, and many people simply aren’t interested in paying that anymore.

WHO READS BOAT GOLD COAST MAGAZINE?

Anyone with an interest in boating or the waterfront lifestyle. We cover waterfront homes, new boat models, service providers, and practical information for existing boat owners. Print also has a strong pass-along effect. Someone might pick up a copy at a marina or shopping centre, pass it to a friend or family member, and it keeps circulating. A single copy is likely to be read by many people.

WHAT’S THE HARDEST PART OF RUNNING A MAGAZINE?

Without a doubt, getting content submitted and approved on time. Queenslanders are wonderful people, but sometimes a little too relaxed about deadlines. Managing late submissions while still delivering a polished magazine on schedule is the biggest challenge we face. And deciding which content

• With SEQ’s population of around 3.8 million, that’s roughly 590,000 people with family access to a boat

to publish is another challenge. We’re spoilt for choice with onwater tests, event coverage, interview candidates, and material from manufacturers and dealers.

WHY IS THE GOLD COAST A UNIQUE DESTINATION?

South Stradbroke, North Stradbroke and Moreton Island create a natural barrier from the open ocean. This forms a vast, protected inland waterway with mostly sandy bottoms and fewer rocks and reefs, making it one of the safest boating areas in Australia.

If you stay within the well-marked channels, you could visit a different anchorage every week for a year without ever going out to sea — and never get bored.

WHAT’S MISSING FROM OUR WATERWAYS?

New waterfront developments should include free public berthing so people can arrive by boat. There’s a strong economic incentive for local businesses to offer these facilities.

I’m also surprised we still don’t have a bareboat charter fleet here for licensed visitors, similar to what exists in the Whitsundays.

HOW DO YOU USE YOUR OWN BOAT?

Many of our trips involve delivering magazines to destinations like Tipplers on South Stradbroke, across Moreton Bay, or along the Coomera River, as well as heading out to photograph boats for reviews. Outside of work, we spend plenty of time towing wakeboards and tubes, swimming, and snorkelling — with Wavebreak Island on an incoming tide a firm favourite. We’ll often pull up at a pub, pizza shop, or fish-and-chip shop to grab takeaway and eat onboard. Living off the Nerang River, we even do some of our grocery shopping by boat.

WHAT BOAT DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR MOST PEOPLE?

If you’re not buying for a specific activity like wakeboarding, fishing or sailing, I recommend looking for:

• A wrap-around windscreen

• Zip-out clears around the cockpit

• A full-length bimini for sun, wind and rain protection

• Ideally, a small cabin for bad weather or the occasional nap But honestly, anything that floats is a joy. Work within your budget — and just get out on the water.

Available at waterfront and boating locations throughout the region, or read the online edition at: www.boatgoldcoast.com.au/latest-issues

Explore more options of our three luxury 90+ft voyage vessles travelling between Sydney, Gold Coast and Whitsundays with skipper and hotess so you get to sit back and relax while you explore different locations!

Equal sharing of weekends and public holiday, done by personalised nomination process. Location Swap - easily swap days with other owners in the same boat between our locations to get the ultimate boating experience

The most customisable adventure boat ever built All-New AXOPAR 38

Eyachts, the exclusive Australian and New Zealand dealer for Axopar Boats, is proud to unveil the Axopar 38, the most ambitious model in the brand’s history.

Building on the legacy of the iconic Axopar 37, which has sold more than 3,000 hulls worldwide, the 38 introduces unprecedented modularity, enhanced comfort, and worldclass drivability. The model will make its world premiere at BOOT Düsseldorf in January 2026, with Australian deliveries to follow.

BOW – CONFIGURATIONS FOR EVERY LIFESTYLE

- At the foredeck, the Axopar 38 introduces a new level of versatility. The standard layout includes a forward-facing sofa, but owners can upgrade to a full U-shaped lounge with hidden lockers, add a table with multiple height settings, or convert the area into a full sunbed.

CABINS – BIGGER, BRIGHTER, MORE LIVEABLE

- Inside, the 38 places new emphasis on liveability. The Cross Cabins wheelhouse has been enlarged, providing greater light and space for socialising, while the forward cabin now offers full standing headroom.

Owners can select from multiple options, including an enclosed toilet, a full shower, or a kitchenette, transforming the boat from a capable day cruiser into a vessel suitable

for extended adventures. The result is a cabin that feels open and practical without losing the sleek, athletic DNA that defines Axopar.

AFT – SMARTER DECK DESIGN - The aft area is where the 38 makes some of its most significant leaps forward. Owners can choose between a forward-facing sofa, a wet bar, a leaning post, or a full aft cabin topped with a sunbed, with more options to be revealed.

A standout feature is the new aft-opening windscreen. By opening fully to the rear deck, it allows for natural ventilation and stronger connection between interior and exterior spaces, a design particularly well-suited to warmer climates.

ACTIVITY PLATFORMS – SAFE AND PRACTICAL INNOVATION - While many manufacturers have introduced fold-out balconies, Axopar has taken a safer and more practical approach with its raised activity platforms.

So many brands designing balconies too low to the waterline, which makes them unusable or even unsafe in real conditions. Axopar has lifted their activity platforms higher above the water, keeping them reliable, safe, and functional in all environments.

These platforms extend deck space for swimming, diving, and watersports, while retaining the core strength and integrity of the hull.

PERFORMANCE – TRUE TO THE AXOPAR DNA - As with every model in the range, drivability remains central to the 38’s design. With a newly optimised hull, twin 300 or 350 hp outboards, and expected top speeds of over 45 knots, the 38 combines exhilarating performance with confidence-inspiring handling.

The number one function of a boat that it drives and behaves well. Whatever Axopar does in the future they will never compromise drivability. They focus on innovation, not gimmicks.

A BOAT FOR EVERY ADVENTURE - Launching first as the Cross Cabin, the 38 range will expand through 2026–2027 to include the Sun Top, Cross Top, and CCX. Each variation is designed to suit different lifestyles: from year-round, all-weather boating, to open-air entertaining, to fishing and active leisure.

Visit www.eyachts.com.au or contact boats@eyachts.com.au (02) 9979 2443

THE NEW ESSENTIAL WHY EVERY CRUISER NOW INSTALLS A WATER MAKER

Fresh water is one of the heaviest and bulkiest consumables on board. Between showers, dishes, and drinking water, even the largest water tanks will eventually run dry.

For cruisers who dream of remote anchorages, long passages and extended trips, the old way of cruising just doesn’t fit anymore. Owning a reverse osmosis water maker changes the game—turning seawater into safe, pure water whenever you need.

Today’s systems are efficient, compact and cost effective. Water Makers Australia builds each system tough for Australian conditions, backed with a 3-year warranty and local 7-day support. Whether powered by your inverter or generator our desalination systems empower you to be selfsufficient and free.

That’s why more owners consider a water maker essential. From catamarans crossing to Fiji to weekenders in the Whitsundays, the benefits are universal: longer stays, fewer marina runs, long fresh showers, and happier crews. Once you have unlimited water, you’ll wonder how you ever cruised without it.

IT’S FREEDOM. Freedom from scarcity, rationing, refilling, and running out. If you’re refitting or planning your next adventure, make freshwater part of your plan.

HOW DOES A MARINE WATER MAKER WORK?

Water makers work using a process called reverse osmosis (RO) - sea water is pumped through a semipermeable RO membrane and under high pressure fresh pure water is separated from impurities like salt, minerals and chemicals.

HOW WILL I KNOW THAT THE WATER PRODUCED IS GOOD TO USE?

To ease your mind, every system is supplied with an electronic TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) Meter. This meter gives an instant reading of the water quality measured in parts per million. Anything under 500 Parts Per Millions is fresh, pure water.

HOW MUCH SPACE DO I NEED?

Our water makers are modular in design; this means you can make use of whatever bit of room you have available.

For expert advice, visit watermarkers.com.au Water The One Thing You’ll Never Run Out Of.

We have seen some very creative installations that make the most out of even the smallest of spaces. We look forward to seeing what you come up with on your boat.

WHAT IS THE BEST WATER MAKER FOR ME?

Every situation is unique, your average water use, installation space and available power will determine what will suit you best. Our expert team at Water Makers Australia can advise on the best system for you.

FLY TO SANCTUARY COVE BOAT SHOW

DIRECT FROM MAIN BEACH HELIPORT

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 Marina 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 TSA-compliant 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!

21ST–24th May 2026 BOAT SHOW TRANSFERS AVAILABLE FROM MARINA MIRAGE HELIPORT

21ST–24th May 2026 MARINA MIRAGE HELIPORT

A t r u e c r o s s o v e r b u i lt t o d o i t a l l

WHITE POINTER 825

Penthouse with Offshore DNA

handling at speed. It’s a boat that feels planted and composed, even when conditions turn challenging.

Constructed from heavy-duty 8mm marine-grade alloy in the hull, the 825 is built for punishment. This is a plate boat engineered for genuine offshore work — coastal bar crossings, long runs to the shelf, and exposed headlands are all well within its remit. Wide chines and intelligent weight distribution provide impressive stability at rest, a key feature for bottom fishing or drifting reefs, without compromising the hull’s ability to perform when pushed.

BWhite Pointer 825 Pent house represents a rare balance in the alloy boat world — uncompromising offshore capability paired with genuine, high-end comfort. It’s a vessel designed for those who demand performance first, but refuse to sacrifice refinement.

At 8.25 metres overall with a commanding 2.5-metre beam, the 825 platform has already earned a reputation among serious offshore anglers. At the heart of its performance is White Pointer’s distinctive compound curved hull — a design that avoids the harsh slap often associated with plate boats. Instead, it slices cleanly through short, steep chop and settles confidently into larger ocean swell. The hull’s geometry delivers a soft, controlled ride while maintaining grip in turns and predictable

THE PENTHOUSE EDITION TAKES THIS PROVEN OFFSHORE WEAPON AND ELEVATES IT TO ANOTHER LEVEL.

Step inside and the transformation is immediate. Premium marine upholstery, refined stitching, integrated lighting and thoughtful detailing create a space that feels more launch than aluminium hardtop. The cabin is well-appointed for overnight stays, with generous berth space and clever storage solutions that make extended coastal adventures not only possible, but comfortable. It’s equally suited to a serious fishing expedition or a relaxed family weekender.

At the helm, the layout is clean, modern and highly functional. Full electro nics integration allows for largeformat displays, radar, sonar and navigation systems,

all positio ned for clear sightlines and ergonomic control. The driving position is commanding and protected, ideal for long passages in mixed weather.

A large cockpit remains at the core of the design. White Pointer has not lost sight of fishability. There’s ample deck space for multiple anglers, practical walk-through transom access, and the durability expected of a boat designed to be worked hard. Offshore fuel capacity supports extended range, making distant grounds and remote destinations comfortably achievable.

What sets the 825 Penthouse apart is its refusal to compromise. It does not dilute its offshore DNA in pursuit of comfort — it enhances it. This is not a massproduced aluminium hull. Each vessel is hand-built, custom-finished and performance-driven, reflecting the brand’s New Zealand heritage and focus on serious boating.

Whether running wide offshore, exploring remote coastline, or cruising Queensland waterways with family aboard, the White Pointer 825 Penthouse handles Australian conditions with authority and style.

The 825 Penthouse doesn’t just arrive — it makes a statement. Contact Sales: +64 6 868 6519 | tony@ whitepointerboats.co.nz | rex@whitepointerboats.co.nz BUILT FOR THOSE WHO GO FURTHER

Rex Briant - Owner/Director

Whether

LNAVIGATE to GCCM

50-MIN COOMERA RIVER ROUTE

ocated on Queensland's stunning Gold Coast, reaching Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard is far more accessible and enjoyable than many boat owners realise.

HOW FAR IS GOLD COAST CITY MARINA FROM THE SEAWAY?

One of the most persistent misconceptions about GCCM is that it's located too far from the ocean or requires an excessively long journey. In reality, the marina sits in an ideal position that offers both convenience and the protection that boat owners seek.

The journey from the ocean to our marina & shipyard takes approximately 50 minutes via the Coomera River – a scenic waterway that transforms what some perceive as a lengthy trip into an enjoyable cruise through some of Queensland's most prestigious waterfront real estate.

Key accessibility highlights: • Direct river access from the Broadwater • Sheltered waterway suitable for all vessel types • Well-marked navigation channels • Stunning residential properties lining the route.

WHAT MAKES THE JOURNEY TO GCCM SPECIAL?

Rather than viewing the river approach as a deterrent, many vessel owners discover that the journey to Gold Coast City Marina becomes one of the highlights of their boating experience. The Coomera River offers a protected waterway lined with magnificent homes, mangroves, and

many wild life encouters, creating a leisurely cruise that serves as the perfect transition from busy coastal waters to our comprehensive marine facility.

The river route provides natural protection from ocean swells and weather conditions, making it accessible even when coastal waters might be challenging. This sheltered approach is particularly valuable for larger vessels seeking superyacht services, as it eliminates the stress often associated with approaching exposed marina facilities.

IS GCCM WORTH THE TRAVEL TIME?

Absolutely. The 50-minute river journey grants access to Australia's most awarded marine facility, housing over 90 specialised marine businesses under one roof. This concentration of expertise means that projects requiring multiple trades can be completed efficiently without the need to transport vessels between different locations.

Our dry boat storage facilities also justify the journey for many trailer boat owners, offering secure storage with 7-day concierge service and unlimited launches and retrievals.

Services accessible at GCCM: • Comprehensive boat lifting and storage solutions • Full refit capabilities including dedicated superyacht sheds • On-site marine specialists • Complete marine directory of services including: antifouling, chandlery, painters, detailers, mechanics, upholsterers, fabrication, hydraulics & engineering, Shipwrights, etc. • Project management option.

HOW DOES LOCATION BENEFIT BOAT OWNERS?

The Coomera River location offers access to the biggest Marine Precinct in the Southern Hemisphere.

Additionally, our position away from the immediate coastal hustle allows for more flexible working arrangements and reduced congestion, meaning projects can often be completed more efficiently than at harbour-front facilities.

IS THE RIVER APPROACH SUITABLE FOR LARGER VESSELS?

Yes, the Coomera River provides well-marked navigation channels for vessels of all sizes, including superyachts – with our dedicated superyacht basin accommodating vessels over 24 metres.

CONTACT OUR TEAM FOR TAILORED INFORMATION

GCCM houses over 90 marine businesses on-site, meaning virtually any marine service can be accessed without relocating your vessel.

This includes everything from routine maintenance to major refits, all within Australia's first 5 Gold Anchor-accredited marina facility.

(07) 5502 5888

ALL INCLUSIVE ANTIFOUL SPECIAL

(T&C’s apply)

Haulout, waterblast, four days hardstand, antifoul paint & application, running gear check, washdown & chamois, return to water and management of all included works. O er available for fiberglass monohulls up to 55 ft.

Call, drop in or check us out online for an obligation free quote for your boat.

2020 SANLORENZO SX76

A MASTERPIECE OF ITALIAN DESIGN AND FUNCTIONAL ELEGANCE

In a world where yacht design continually evolves to balance performance, comfort and lifestyle, the 2020 Sanlorenzo SX76 stands as a benchmark in crossover yachting, flawlessly blending refined Italian aesthetics, intelligent engineering and effortless onboard living. Now offered exclusively through Leigh-Smith Yachts, this SX76 represents an extraordinary opportunity to secure one of the most comprehensively specified examples of this celebrated model, presented in immaculate condition and ready to cruise immediately.

Launched from the esteemed shipyards of Sanlorenzo in Italy, the SX76 occupies a distinguished position in the brand’s innovative SX line - a series conceived to synthesise the classic motor yacht with explorerinspired versatility. As a crossover yacht, the SX76 retains the commanding presence and seaworthiness of a larger vessel while remaining beautifully proportioned for owners seeking both elegant cruising and accessible marina handling.

At 23.75 metres in length overall with a 6.60 metre beam, the SX76 delivers impressive internal volume while maintaining sleek, contemporary lines. Constructed with a GRP hull and composite superstructure incorporating carbon fibre, she has been engineered to maximise efficiency, enhance stability and optimise onboard comfort. The result is a yacht that feels substantial underfoot yet agile underway. Powered by twin Volvo IPS1200 engines producing 900 horsepower each, she offers smooth, responsive performance with joystick manoeuvrability and impressive fuel efficiency. Cruising comfortably

around 16 knots and capable of reaching approximately 22 knots, the SX76 also delivers a range of approximately 615 nautical miles at an economical 11 knots. These figures position her as more than a luxury weekender - she is equally suited to extended coastal cruising and adventurous passages further afield.

One of the defining features of the SX76 is her expansive beach club and aft cockpit configuration. The open stern concept, complete with hydraulic swim platform, creates a seamless connection between yacht and sea. The included Williams 395 Jet Tender is neatly housed aft, ensuring both practicality and clean deck presentation. Stainless steel detailing, integrated shower facilities and underwater lighting elevate the experience, transforming the stern into a true waterside entertaining zone.

Step inside and the SX76 reveals her true personality. Designed under the creative direction of Piero Lissoni, the interior showcases a refined yet contemporary aesthetic. Striped Alpi Xilo white wood joinery, Calacatta marble surfaces and bespoke soft furnishings create an environment that feels both luxurious and understated. Expansive glazing floods the main deck with natural light, reinforcing the seamless transition between interior and exterior living.

Accommodation is thoughtfully arranged for up to eight guests across four ensuite cabins, including a full-beam master suite that delivers space, privacy and sophistication. High-end finishes, custom lighting and carefully integrated technology ensure each cabin offers a serene retreat after a day on the water.

The galley and entertaining spaces have been specified to an exceptional standard. Premium appliances including Miele cooking equipment, SubZero refrigeration and a dedicated wine fridge provide a professional-level culinary platform, while features such as the Teppanyaki grill enhance the yacht’s social appeal. Whether hosting an elegant dinner party or enjoying relaxed alfresco dining, the SX76 is designed to elevate every onboard occasion.

Technology and navigation systems reflect the same commitment to excellence. A comprehensive Raymarine navigation suite ensures confident passagemaking, while upgraded audiovisual systems and Sonos integration provide seamless entertainment throughout the vessel.

The 2020 Sanlorenzo SX76 is more than a yacht - it is a statement of modern luxury and thoughtful design. With her striking profile, exceptional specification and intelligent layout, she delivers a rare combination of performance, comfort and contemporary style.

Exclusively listed with Leigh-Smith Yachts, this SX76 represents a compelling opportunity to secure a standout example of one of Sanlorenzo’s most sought-after models. For the discerning owner seeking versatility, design pedigree and refined cruising capability, she offers an experience that redefines life on the water.

For further information or to arrange your private inspection, contact the team at Leigh-Smith Yachts today on 07 5577 9200 or visit leigh-smith.com

SMART BOAT BUYERS

Whatever the stage of your boat buying experience is at – whether it is just a dream, or an interest, or a clear decision to buy – it is worthwhile and very important to know the basic things about boats. Some boat owners find that their purchase did not match the experience they were expecting from the boat. You can avoid this by doing sufficient research, and understanding some basic concepts on how a boat works, so you can decide if a certain type will suit the activity for which you are primarily using it. Of course, it goes without saying that it is best to consult a boat manufacturer or a professional boat retailer if you are serious about buying, whether you are a first-time boat buyer or a veteran.

BOAT USE

Generally, your primary use of the boat should be the basis for choosing a particular type of boat. There are four aspects of the boat that will determine the type of activity it is best suited for.

1. Hull Design

Hulls are grouped primarily as displacement, planing, and semi-displacement (semi-planing) hulls. Boats with displacement hulls move through the water by pushing the water aside and are designed to cut through the water with very little propulsion. (Examples: large cruisers and most sailboats) Boats with planing hulls can skim along at high speed, riding

almost on top of the water rather than pushing it aside. Flat-bottomed and vee-bottomed hull shapes act as planing hulls. (Examples: most small powerdriven vessels, including personal watercraft, and some small sailboats)

The hull shape of a vessel plays an important role in its stability, softness of ride, cornering ability, and fuel efficiency. A chine in boating refers to a sharp change in angle in the cross section of a hull. A hull without chines has a gradually curving cross section. The term hard chine indicates an angle with little rounding, while a soft chine would be more rounded.

In general, hard chine boats run faster for the same horsepower than round bottomed boats. That is because the chine sheds the water off the hull, allowing for less drag. Flat bottom boats pound hard in rough conditions compared to deep-V boats, but they are more stable at rest and have a smaller draught. Round bottom boats offer the softest ride.

2. Construction

There are four general types of materials used in manufacturing boats: wood, aluminium, fibreglass, and steel.

Wood is the only natural boat building material used today. Wooden boat manufacturers usually use hardwood, such as mahogany, teak and oak. It is a popular material for small boats (up to 6-metre in length, such as dinghies and sailboats).

Aluminium is a very popular material for boat building. It is the lightest material for building large boats (being 15-20% lighter than polyester and 30% lighter than steel).

Fibreglass, or FRP (fibre-reinforced plastic/polymer), is made from polyester resin reinforced with chopped or woven glass fibres. This material is typically used for production boats because of its ability to reuse a female mould as the foundation for the shape of the boat.

Steel is a heat-treated alloy based on iron. The high strength of steel in relation to the plate thickness and the ability to cut and bend it into many different shapes makes it suitable material for building hulls and superstructures. It is strong, but heavy.

3. Stability

Stability is the ability of a boat to return to an upright position after being subjected to external forces. Stability calculations focus on aspects such as centres of gravity, and centres of buoyancy, and on how these interact with each other.

Add-on stability systems are designed to reduce the effects of waves and wind gusts. They do not increase a vessel's stability in calm seas. International standards require that the boat must be stable even without active systems. Active stability systems, such as stabiliser fins and gyroscopic internal stabilisers, require energy to be applied to the system in the form of pumps, hydraulic pistons, or electric actuators. Passive systems include bilge keel, outriggers, and antiroll tanks.

4. Flotation

Buoyancy is the force that causes floating. A boat partly floats and partly sinks according to its own weight and how much weight it carries. A boat will float when its total weight is less than the weight of the water it displaces. The Australian Builders Plate (ABP) requires the buoyancy performance of the boat for vessels less than 6 metres in length to be included. This indicates if the boat has an absolute minimum level of flotation (basic flotation) that will prevent the boat from sinking if swamped, but may capsize if people are on board, or if the boat has flotation that is distributed correctly (level flotation) that will prevent the boat from capsizing when swamped and will allow for people to stay on board.

BOAT SIZE AND ENGINE TYPE

The following is a list of factors that will affect your decision on the right size to suit your purposes:

1. the number of passengers

2. the load capacity of the boat

3. the distance offshore you will be using it (Note that boats built for sheltered waters are usually not suited for offshore boating.)

4. the boating conditions you are expecting when you use your boat.

There are different types of marine engines. Engines can either be powered by diesel, petrol or electricity. You have an option for inboard motor, sterndrive (inboard/

A COMPLETE GUIDE

outboard), outboard motor, paddle wheel, water jet (jetboat, PWC), or fan (hovercraft, airboat). Know that the hull design will determine the type of engine that best suits the boat. It is strongly recommended not to overpower your boat. The extra power that creates extra speed may adversely affect the handling of the boat, compromising safety. The weight of a bigger engine on the back of the boat will also lower the back of the boat and increase the risk of swamping and capsizing.

BOAT OPERATION REQUIREMENTS

Remember that all boats fitted with a motor or auxiliary of 3kw or more (over 4hp) must be registered. To

operate a recreational boat with a motor of more than 4.5kw (6hp), a valid marine licence is required. Boats that are used entirely for private recreation should be registered as recreational boats.

Boats that are used for purposes other than recreation (school, surf lifesaving or community activities) are registered as other or prescribed other Queensland regulated ships, which may be fee exempt. A boat used in connection with any commercial, government or research activity requires certification under the Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law Act 2012 (the national law) to operate in Queensland.

FTOW WITH CONFIDENCE THE NEW KGM MUSSO

or boating enthusiasts, towing capability isn’t just a feature—it’s a necessity. The new MY26 KGM Musso delivers exactly that, combining rugged strength with refined comfort to make every trip to the water effortless. With a braked towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes, the Musso is engineered to handle large boats and caravans with ease, giving owners the confidence to explore further.

Powered by a 2.2L turbo-diesel engine paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission, the Musso offers robust torque for heavy loads without compromising on efficiency. Its part-time 4x4 system with auto-locking rear differential ensures stability and traction, whether you’re navigating slippery boat ramps or tackling off-road tracks to reach secluded waterways.

Inside, the Musso doesn’t skimp on comfort. Premium features like dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced infotainment make long hauls enjoyable. The Ultimate grade even adds a powered sunroof and 360° camera for superior convenience.

For those who demand versatility—towing boats on weekends and caravans for extended adventures—the Musso stands out as a practical, stylish, and capable choice.

The KGM Musso is backed by a 7-Year Unlimited Km Warranty, including commercial use — a unique offering in this category. It’s also supported by a 5-Year Roadside Assistance Program.

ABOUT KGM

Korea’s oldest automotive manufacturer, KGM (formerly SsangYong), has been respected for its rugged build quality, reliability, and outstanding performance since its foundation in 1954 — made possible by the company’s commitment to quality engineering.

KGM has focused on four-wheel drives from the outset, producing specialised vehicles for customers ranging from the US Army to emergency services. That expertise now underpins a range of award-winning 4x4 vehicles, including the Musso and Rexton.

Since 2000, KGM has established itself as Korea’s SUV leader, building a full line-up comprising Rexton, Actyon, Torres, Korando, and Musso. The manufacturer has also led the advancement of eco-friendly diesel technology through its world-class common rail engine.

KGM is expanding its presence globally, exporting SUVs through over 1,000 sales outlets in more than 160 countries — including 70 dealers across Australia.

To find out more about the KGM Musso in Australia, visit www.KGM.com.au

TPURSUIT OS 325

his is a landmark arrival for Australian boaters. The all-new Pursuit OS 325 Offshore makes its debut as the first of its kind in the country, delivering exceptional value, world-class design, and a feature set perfectly suited to the Australian boating lifestyle.

Renowned as one of the most popular outboardpowered cabin boat sizes globally, the OS 325 strikes the ideal balance between offshore capability, luxury comfort, and family-friendly versatility. Whether your passion is serious offshore sport fishing or relaxed days on the water with family and friends, this vessel does it all, effortlessly. Measuring an impressive 34’6” LOA and powered by twin Yamaha 300 or 350HP outboards, the OS 325 has been completely redesigned from the hull up. The result is confident, agile performance paired with true yacht-calibre refinement. A helm deck lounge with starboard steering, forward-facing bridge seating, and a centreline walkthrough creates a natural flow throughout the boat, allowing guests to move seamlessly from bow to stern.

Every detail has been thoughtfully engineered. Highlights include a single-piece optically clear windshield, increased rod storage, a dive door, wide transom walkthrough, and intelligent space utilisation throughout. Entertaining is effortless, with meal preparation available both in the cockpit entertainment centre—complete with grill and sink—or in the beautifully finished cabin galley. Dual refrigerators ensure cold storage is always within reach.

Below deck, the OS 325 truly sets itself apart. A light-filled, open cabin features class-leading space, abundant storage, a generous berth, and large hull-side window, perfect for overnighting in absolute comfort.

Offshore-ready. Family-friendly. Unmistakably Pursuit.

Base boat package available from just $1,100,000.00 for a limited time.

www.lifetimeboats.com.au

"This

Vision Yachts is a specialist boat builder based in Knysna, South Africa, dedicated to crafting performance cruising catamarans built by sailors, for sailors. Every Vision catamaran is designed with real-world experience in mind, with a clear focus on building practical, oceanready catamarans (e.g. all foam bulkheads and foam furniture are structurally glassed to the hulls for maximum strength) that prioritise effortless performance, comfort, reliability and enduring quality. Over 40 Vision 444’s have been delivered to very happy owners in the U.S. The VY444, VY444ES (extended scoop) are the perfect choice for cruising Australia and Pacific Islands as is the new model VY 484 being launched in 2026. Visit us at catamarancompany.com.au for full details on these stunning Catamarans.

Schionning 66 e Carbon hybrid, built by premier composite boat builder, Noosa Marine, weighing just 9.5 tons, sails faster than windspeed and is fully equipped for off shore cruising, Kato was highly spec’d for her experienced owner to single hand sail the Australian east coast and Pacific Islands in the fast lane. Maintained to exacting standards, Kato is offered at 40% off replacement cost.

$2.8 mil AUD.

LUCA COLLECTION BY BROWN JORDAN — Sculptural curves and considered contours balance industrial design with refined artistry for enduring performance in luxury outdoor seating.

OUTDOOR FURNISHINGS & ACCESSORIES

Finest Designs - Expert Advice - Local Delivery

GOLD COAST: 70 Bundall Rd, Bundall Ph:(07) 5531 0032

BRISBANE : 2/3 Montpelier Rd, Fortitude Valley Ph:(07) 3257 3707

RB-MARINE COVERS

New Creative Workshop at Gold Coast City Marina

One of the Gold Coast’s longest-established marine service businesses, RB-Marine Covers, has expanded its operations with the opening of a new creative workshop and full-service facility at Gold Coast City Marina (GCCM). The expansion strengthens the company’s presence across the northern Gold Coast and reflects growing demand for high-quality, tailored marine solutions.

Well known for their thoughtful design approach and meticulous workmanship, the RB-Marine Covers team has built a loyal following among local boat owners. Their services span custom boat covers, clears, upholstery, antifouling and detailing, delivered with a strong emphasis on durability, fit and finish. The new GCCM location features a purpose-built workshop alongside an impressive showroom, showcasing a wide range of cover samples and an extensive selection of marine upholstery fabrics, colours and textiles.

With operations now based at both Coomera Marina Precinct and Runaway Bay Marina, RB-Marine Covers offers a convenient, one-stop marine service solution. Ideally positioned on the Coomera River and the Broadwater, the facilities cater to boat owners looking to rejuvenate, protect or upgrade their vessels, whether for everyday use or longterm storage.

MARINE COVERS AND UPHOLSTERY BUILT FOR AUSTRALIAN CONDITIONS

Australia’s marine environment is among the harshest in the world, making quality protection essential for vessels that are berthed, trailered or stored outdoors. As experienced marine trimmers, RB-Marine Covers uses only premium, UV-stable materials including Sunbrella and WeatherMax 80, paired with lifetime PTFE threads such as Profolin, Helios and Tenara.

Every cover is professionally finished with reinforced edges, sealed seams and waterproofing treatments to ensure longevity and performance. The team repairs and replaces biminis, camping covers, clears, zips, midge screens, window shields, hatch covers and full boat covers, as well as complete interior and exterior upholstery and bedding throughout the vessel.

PROTECTIVE BOAT COVERS BY FUNCTION

Choosing the right boat cover makes a significant difference in protecting a vessel, but with so many options available, understanding functionality is key.

Trailering boat covers are designed to reduce wind lift and road debris damage during transport, while mooring boat covers protect against UV exposure, rain and bird droppings while afloat. Outdoor storage covers offer full protection for vessels stored ashore for extended periods.

RB-Marine Covers offers multiple installation options, including tie-down systems, snap-on installations and ratchet strap setups, ensuring a secure fit across a wide range of boat styles.

The team works across numerous vessel types, including flybridge and offshore cruisers, pontoon boats,

centre consoles, bass boats, V-hull boats, ski and wake boats, deck boats, bowriders, jet skis and PWCs, as well as sailboats.

CUSTOM BOAT COVERS: THE ULTIMATE PROTECTION

For owners seeking the best possible fit and performance, custom boat covers remain the gold standard. Made to order and crafted to match each vessel’s exact dimensions and features, custom covers provide superior protection from water ingress, UV damage and debris accumulation.

Constructed from marine-grade materials such as polyester, acrylic and canvas, these covers incorporate waterproof coatings, abrasion resistance, breathability and advanced UV protection. Each fabric is treated specifically for marine conditions, ensuring durability in all weather environments.

SHADE SOLUTIONS AND EXPERT ADVICE

Beyond covers and upholstery, RB-Marine Covers also supplies and installs bimini tops, shade systems and umbrellas, tailored to enhance onboard comfort without compromising aesthetics or functionality.

For a free estimate or consultation, contact Dean Tuesley or Paul Tuesley on 0417 173 257, and discover why RB-Marine Covers continues to set the benchmark for marine protection on the Gold Coast.

CONFIDENCE ON THE WATER

WHY HANDS-ON BOATING TRAINING MATTERS

For many people, stepping into boating can feel overwhelming, whether you’re brand new to life on the water or simply a little out of practice. Rules and regulations change, equipment evolves, and even experienced boaters can find themselves second-guessing procedures they once knew well. That’s why practical, hands-on learning remains so important.

Time spent understanding how the water behaves, learning your vessel inside and out, and using the right equipment in real-world conditions builds skills and confidence that simply can’t be replaced by theory alone.

Owning a boat is also a significant investment, and protecting it properly makes sense. Today, insurance providers increasingly expect boat owners and operators to demonstrate their competence before offering cover. Evidence of sound boat handling and navigation skills helps reassure insurers that vessels are being operated safely, particularly when taken offshore or on longer voyages.

The added bonus is that structured training not only meets insurance requirements, but also gives owners genuine confidence in their ability to manage their vessel responsibly.

This is where Nautical Training and Marine Services comes in. Led by Karla Herbert-Evans, the organisation delivers practical training designed to meet the needs of both boat owners and insurance companies. Each course is carefully structured, and participants receive a Certificate of Completion detailing the skills and activities they have successfully achieved.

Karla provides a broad range of training and services, covering everything from recreational boating licences to professional maritime qualifications. Courses include AMSA and Queensland Boatsafe training, recreational marine driver licensing, personal watercraft training, and the AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal practical course. In addition, yacht and vessel delivery services are available throughout Australia and the Pacific.

One of the most sought-after offerings is the individually tailored Onboard Practicals. These sessions can be conducted on your own vessel or aboard Nautical Training’s commercial vessel, allowing instruction to be directly relevant to the boat you operate.

Training focuses on vessel familiarisation, knots and line handling, navigation within local waterways, close-quarters manoeuvring, and essential skills such as berthing, docking, and anchoring.

Navigation training has also become increasingly popular, particularly for insurance purposes. Courses range from foundational navigation principles through to advanced positioning and night navigation techniques, ensuring boaters can confidently plan passages, interpret charts, manage tides, and navigate safely in reduced visibility or after dark.

For those looking to book a course, obtain a boat or jet ski licence, or complete AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 practical training, Karla can be contacted directly at karla@nauticaltraining.com.au

GOLD COAST OUTBOARDS & INFLATABLE BOATS

Welcome to Gold Coast Outboards, your premier destination for comprehensive marine maintenance. With over 30 years of experience in the marine industry, Gold Coast Outboards is a family-owned business dedicated to providing exceptional service to boat owners on the Gold Coast. Whether it's routine maintenance, major repairs, or custom installations, we have the expertise to handle any job with precision and efficiency, accommodating your specific timeframe.

INFLATABLES

As a Highfield dealer, we offer a one-stop-shop for inflatable boats with trusted boats and custom solutions. Highfield provide quality and reliable products, making them the easiest trailerable boating solution or an ideal replacement for your tender. Highfield boast a great reputation and proven back-up service. Our inflatable boats are compact and sturdy, with stock available for immediate delivery. Stop by our airconditioned showroom and inspect the range of RIBs on display.

Contact Jason Draeger at Gold Coast Outboards and Inflatable Boats to schedule a service or enquire about Highfield and GC Inflatables. (07) 5630 4770 or via email jason@goldcoastoutboards.com.au. Visit our location at RUNAWAY BAY MARINA U5/247 Bayview St, Runaway Bay

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Engineered for performance, the Raptor 660 boasts a 200hp max rating, 135L fuel capacity, and can carry up to 12 people with a max load of 1366kg. Weighing just 750kg, it’s agile, responsive, and ready for anything.

With 6 air chambers for maximum safety, the Raptor 660 is your ultimate adventure companion – whether you're cruising, diving, or patrolling.

Ready for immediate delivery - it’s built to perform in the toughest conditions without compromise.

IWHITTLEY CR 3100 OB THE LARGEST WHITTLEY EVER BUILT - NOW AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE

nnovation has come to life with the new flagship family cruiser, the CR 3100 OB. Operating within the Whittley Marine Group’s manufacturing facility in Melbourne, the Whittley Design Studio and R&D facilities are responsible for all new product development and feature some of the country’s leading boat designers and engineers. The Group’s team works tirelessly to gather local market feedback, designs boats unique to the Australian boating lifestyle, and then puts them into production. The Group prides itself on designing, building and selling Australia’s most popular fibreglass trailer boats and is considered a true industry innovator. That’s why Whittley makes sense for Australian boating families!

The interior of the new model concept, for the first time, will feature a high-quality spring mattress for a permanent front cabin bed, a luxury previously unseen in a trailer boat. Providing unseen levels of luxury and a homey feel when out boating. Accompanying the new bed arrangements are two side windows, which allow extra light into the front cabin and provide visibility to the outside. The toilet and shower area is also larger in size than the previous model, and a larger galley area is provided in the boat’s cooking area.

Angelo Leonardo, QLD Sales Manager, had this to say: “From its lithium battery electrical system, removing the need for generators, to the new model's large rear area due to its outboard-only design, it’s going to be an exciting time as the new model’s details are revealed. These advancements in the boat’s design elevate the consumer’s on-board experience by harnessing cuttingedge technology and design to create an unparalleled boating experience every time you set out on the water, thereby setting a new standard in the industry for design and the way a maxi trailer boat can be enjoyed out on the water.” The new concept removes traditional walk-around side decks from a boat model, resulting in more usable space in the saloon and cockpit. Consumers will be able to access the front deck via the mid-cabin saloon area of the boat, a feature previously seen only on much larger boats. In practice, the new concept seamlessly blends the rear cockpit and saloon areas with the foredeck, enabling the ideals of space to coexist while connecting these two key areas of the boat.

Through

midcockpit area of the new Whittley Boat model is a series of easily accessible steps that enable direct access up and through the opening windscreen. Providing a uniquely designed companionway on the port side of the boat. The new design concept has been developed over two years by the Whittley design studio team, with components being sourced globally and engineering input from around the world. The new design combines the rear cockpit saloon area with free and easy passage to the front bow area; this isn’t seen in a trailer boat anywhere in the world." Mr. Leonardo said.

The new model concept has been designed around either a single or twin Honda Outboard engine configuration, which enables a larger sliding rear mega lounge to maximise usable swim platform space. The rear entertaining area also offers an electric BBQ grill, complementing the standard sliding, lockable rear cabin door, another first for a Whittley boat. The new model has an overall length of 9.1 meters, is under the maximum towing width of 2.5 meters for Australian roads, and can be towed by vehicles with a 4.5-tonne tow capacity rating. The ‘tow anywhere, anytime’ philosophy, to explore Australia’s beautiful waterways with a suitable tow vehicle, remains core to the DNA of the new model’s design brief.

Mr. Leonardo added: “With the introduction of larger towing capacity vehicles, this has enabled the Whittley Design Team to increase the physical size and weight

of its maxi trailer boat model designs. The new model is considerably larger in physical size than the model it replaces, and now means you can have a much larger maxi trailer cruiser from Whittley, for that larger in water feel, with the benefits of trailer boat ownership still." The new model has an overall length of 9.1 meters, is under the maximum towing width of 2.5 meters for Australian roads, and can be towed by vehicles with a 4.5-tonne tow capacity rating. The ‘tow anywhere, anytime’ philosophy, to explore Australia’s beautiful waterways with a suitable tow vehicle, remains core to the DNA of the new model’s design brief.

For more information or to secure your spot, call Angelo Leonardo 0423 522 011.

www.whittley.com.au

ORDER NOW Build slots for 2026

QUINTREX 630 FREESTYLER A TRUE ALL-ROUNDER ON THE WATER

In a market crowded with compromises, the Quintrex 630 Freestyler stands out as a genuine all-rounder—sleek, versatile, and remarkably capable across a wide range of boating lifestyles. Whether you're cruising with family, towing the kids on a tube, or heading offshore for a bit of fishing, this bowrider is purpose-built to rise to the occasion.

At 6.3 metres in length, the 630 Freestyler strikes the perfect balance between spacious comfort and nimble performance. It’s built on Quintrex’s advanced Apex Hull design, which not only delivers a smoother and drier ride but also offers exceptional stability at rest and under way. The distinctive flared bow adds both flare and function—throwing spray wide while providing a surprisingly roomy forward lounge that feels more like a leisure zone than a simple seating area.

Step aboard and it’s clear that every inch has been engineered for maximum utility. The bow seating converts effortlessly from lounging to storage, with well-padded cushions and stainless-steel grab rails offering both comfort and security. In the main cockpit, the layout is wide-open and versatile, with folding rear seats and a full walkthrough windscreen that gives direct access to the bow. Thoughtful touches are everywhere, from integrated storage bins to concealed anchor access, making it equally suited for long cruising days or active watersports sessions.

Quintrex has long been known for its tough construction, and the 630 is no exception. Heavy-duty 5mm bottom sheets and 3mm topsides mean this rig is built to take on chop, swell, and the occasional hard landing with ease. It's a confidence-inspiring platform, whether you're beach-hopping, trolling in the bay, or making a dash to a distant island. The raised sides and high freeboard provide a safe and secure ride, particularly welcome for families with young kids or pets on board.

The Freestyler can be paired with engines up to 200hp outboard, that's when the boat really comes alive. Acceleration is punchy and predictable, ideal for tow sports, while cruising at comfortable mid-range speeds feels effortless. The hull tracks beautifully through turns and handles chop without complaint, offering an impressively smooth ride even when the conditions start to kick up.

Behind the helm, the driver is treated to excellent sightlines, comfortable seating, and an intuitive dash layout that puts everything within easy reach. There's ample room for electronics, smart gauges, and modern controls, without overwhelming the clean, streamlined look of the console.

For anyone seeking a boat that does more than just one thing well, the Quintrex 630 Freestyler is a standout performer. It’s a boat that doesn’t make you choose between fun and function, between luxury and practicality. It’s designed for families, for adventurers, and for those who want to enjoy every kind of day the water has to offer—from glassy morning runs to actionpacked afternoons.

www.surfcoa stmari ne.com.au

Popular with families, anglers and watersports enthusiasts, the Brig Eagle 6.7 is a versatile RIB that offers stability, space and sporty performance, as this recent sea trial proved.

If you’re looking for a boat with an elegant on-water profile that also provides awesome open water performance, then look no further than the Brig Eagle 6.7.

The ideal family boat and the number 1 selling RIB in Australia and worldwide, the 6.7-metre Eagle 6.7 is fast, responsive and fuel efficient due to a slightly higher tube position. It has dozens of features and incredible scope for customisation,

Boat reviewer, Will Lee from Nautical Narratives recently took the Eagle 6.7 for a run and was impressed with its superior quality, features and performance.

The deep-V hull gives you a super soft ride. Add to that Hypalon tubes for awesome stability and capacity for up to 11 people, and you’ve got a boat that is ideal for a social day out with family and friends.

At the rear of the boat, are extended boarding platforms, as well as a ladder with grab handle that makes getting in and out of the water easy. And if you’re into watersports, there’s a rear ski pole including a tow point to attach to. When you’re done having fun in the water, the freshwater shower is convenient for rinsing off.

At the back of the Eagle 6.7, is a beautiful aft lounge, upholstered in a durable fabric called Silvertex, which is manufactured in England and delivers comfortable and low-maintainance seating.

Brig has really put some thought into the layout, providing plenty of under-se

Boat Test: Brig Eagle 6.7

The rear of this eagle 6.7 is all set up to have an on board picnic with a fold-out table behind the helm seat.

Brig has offset the console meaning that you have plenty of room near the port side to access the bow. At the helm is a comfortable split-seat which offers two positions while driving. You can have the bolster up, or if you want to sit down, you simply fold the bolster to take a seat. If your passenger wants to sit down and you want stand up, the split seat means you can.

The Eagle 6.7 comes standard with a seven-inch screen, which gives you all your engine data, sonar, and your chart plotting capabilities. And on the passenger side of the console, we have a handy glove box, perfect for your wallet, keys and phone. Above that, there’s a Fusion Bluetooth sound system, which comes with four upgraded six-and-a-half inch speakers, for all your entertainment needs.

In front of the console is a lounge with plenty of room for two. Underneath the lounge is a storage hatch, which is insulated and can be filled with ice for food and drinks.

At the bow, you’ll find ample room for guests to spread out on removable sun pad cushions. Underneath, there’s additional storage. At the front of the bow is a flat deck plate, making it very easy to step on board or disembark. The T-Top with its European styling and rear extension provides guests with more shade than any other boat in this class.

For flooring, the Brig Eagle 6.7 uses genuine SeaDek nonslip flooring which is not only comfortable underfoot, but also safe and easy to maintain.

The tubes on this Eagle 6.7 are made from Orca Hypalon, which is manufactured in France and is the most UVresistant and durable on the market.

The powerplant on this Eagle 6.7 is a Honda V6 BF225, which provides plenty of horsepower for pushing you along with a boatload of people, cruising comfortably at 25 knots

The fibreglass hull with its deep-V, not only gives you a smooth, dry ride, it also produces the sporty performance and handling that Brig is renowned for.

A Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) is a fantastic family boat, providing superior stability, safety, and performance, making them ideal for fishing, water sports, and family cruising. Their lightweight, durable design with inflatable tubes provides a smooth ride in rough, choppy water, while offering high buoyancy and excellent fuel efficiency with smaller engines.

For fuel efficiency, they’re hard to beat! Their lightweight design requires less power to reach planing speeds, significantly reducing fuel consumption. And for families with kids, they are generally easier to handle, launch, retrieve and steer than heavier, traditional boats.

Brig is the world’s leading manufacturer of RIBs, exclusively available from Sirocco Marine, Australia’s largest rigid inflatable boat (RIB) dealer network, specialising in RIBs for more than 25 years.

See the wide range of RIBs at: Sirocco Marine QLD GCCM Marina Shed61 - 76/84 Waterway Dr, Coomera. Tel: 0490 864 694 siroccomarinequeensland.com.au

In the world of small boats, JOMO Boats has emerged as a leading force, offering an exceptional combination of customisation, durability and versatility. For those who crave adventure on the water—whether fishing, cruising, or simply enjoying time with family and friends—JOMO has designed the ideal solution. This Australian brand focuses on creating boats that cater to a variety of needs and lifestyles, standing out in the competitive small boat market.

TAILORED TO YOUR ADVENTURE - What sets JOMO Boats apart is their dedication to customisation. Unlike many boat manufacturers that offer standard designs with limited options, JOMO believes that each boat should be as unique as its owner. Every customer has the freedom to create a fit out that fits their specific needs, allowing them to select from a wide range of features. Whether it’s custom seating, personalised console layouts, or specialised accessories like electric trolling motor mounts, U-Dek EVA foam flooring and Railblaza attachments, JOMO empowers boaters to craft a vessel perfectly suited to their adventures.

BUILT TO LAST - Durability is a cornerstone of JOMO Boats. Made from rotomoulded polyethylene, JOMO boats are designed to be virtually indestructible. This material is significantly stronger than traditional fibreglass, offering exceptional resilience and longevity. Polyethylene construction ensures that the boats are not only tough but also low maintenance, allowing boaters to focus on enjoying their time on the water instead of worrying about repairs.

TheUltimateBlendofCustomisation, DurabilityandAdventure JOMO B oats

JOMO’s boats are also unsinkable—a feature that offers peace of mind for those venturing into deeper waters or navigating challenging conditions. The deep-V hull design, developed by a naval architect, contributes to the boat's excellent stability and buoyancy, making it easy to handle even in rough water. This design also improves fuel efficiency and provides a smoother ride, so passengers can enjoy a comfortable and stable experience regardless of the weather.

UNMATCHED VERSATILITY - Whether you’re a seasoned angler, a casual boater, or a family looking for weekend fun, the versatility of JOMO boats is one of their standout features. Thanks to the boat’s customisable design, they can be easily adapted for different activities, making them ideal for a wide range of uses.

For the fishing enthusiast, JOMO offers custom mounts for trolling motors and specialised storage options for fishing gear. The boat’s stability and ample deck space make it easy to move around while casting, ensuring that anglers have everything they need for a successful day on the water. Families, on the other hand, will appreciate the boat’s spacious interior and comfortable seating arrangements, making it perfect for picnics, swimming, or simply enjoying a day on the lake.

A FOCUS ON COMFORT - Boating should be an enjoyable experience, and JOMO places great emphasis on comfort. Each boat is designed with ergonomic seating and spacious layouts to ensure that everyone on board has a relaxing time. The deep-V hull not only enhances stability but also contributes to the boat’s smooth ride, reducing vibrations and impact from waves.

JOMO’s seating options include everything from simple bench seats to deluxe swivel chairs with

adjustable features, allowing passengers to remain comfortable during long days on the water. The console design has been streamlined to maximise interior space without clutter, giving boaters plenty of room to move around freely.

JOMO’s commitment to innovation is evident in their attention to performance details. Their boats are designed to provide a smooth, efficient ride that’s ideal for a variety of water activities. Whether you’re speeding through open water, coasting along a river, or navigating tight corners in a marina, JOMO’s performance-focused design ensures a responsive and enjoyable experience. The boats are also compatible with a range of outboard motors, giving boaters the flexibility to choose the right power setup for their specific needs.

SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY - At JOMO, safety is paramount. Their boats are designed to be not only unsinkable but also highly stable, providing confidence for boaters of all experience levels. JOMO boats’ polyethylene construction offers a higher degree of impact resistance than traditional materials, so you can feel secure knowing that your boat can handle the roughest of conditions.

Sustainability is also at the heart of JOMO’s design philosophy. The polyethylene material used in their boats is not only durable but also environmentally friendly. The manufacturing process is efficient, producing minimal waste, and the boats themselves are recyclable. JOMO is dedicated to ensuring that their boats are built to last, reducing the need for replacements and repairs, which in turn minimises environmental impact.

With JOMO, you’re not just buying a boat—you’re investing in a personalised experience that promises years of enjoyment on the water. www.jomo.boats

WALK A BOAT SHOW LIKE A PRO

EXPERT

FROM ROD & RENEE TWITCHIN AT RTMARINE

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is one of the most exciting events on the boating calendar. Whether you’re a first time buyer, a long time owner, or simply someone who loves being around boats, it’s easy to get swept up in the energy of the day. With polished hulls, staged interiors, and every brand presenting their best, the atmosphere is designed to impress.

But behind the excitement, a boat show can also be overwhelming. There’s a lot to take in, and it’s not always easy to know what to look at, or what to look past. After decades of surveying vessels of all sizes, we’ve learned that a few simple habits can help buyers make clearer, more confident decisions when walking the docks.

Here are five practical insights to help you navigate the show like a pro.

START WITH THE STRUCTURE, NOT THE SHINE

Presentation is a big part of any boat show. Fresh upholstery, polished stainless and spotless engine rooms all help a vessel stand out. But these elements don’t tell the whole story.

Take a moment to look at the fundamentals:

● the hull form

● the layout

● the access to systems

● the build quality

● the engineering logic

These are the things you’ll live with long after the shine fades.

Every vessel has a history and understanding that story is more important than any single feature. Ask questions like:

● “What has changed on this vessel in the last 12 months?”

● “How has it been used?”

● “What maintenance is coming due?”

A vessel that has been consistently cared for will show it, not just in presentation, but in the way its systems align with its age and use.

DON’T LET UPGRADES DISTRACT YOU FROM THE FOUNDATIONS

Boat shows are full of vessels with impressive upgrades: new electronics, thrusters, appliances, lighting, entertainment systems. These additions can be fantastic, but only if the underlying systems are capable of supporting them.

We often see vessels where the upgrades are excellent, but the cooling, charging, plumbing or structural supports remain original. At a show, it’s easy to admire the new gear and miss the foundations beneath it.

A good rule of thumb: upgrades should complement the vessel, not compensate for it.

COMPARE LIKE WITH LIKE

It’s natural to jump between different brands, sizes and styles as you walk the show. But meaningful comparisons only happen when you look at vessels designed for similar purposes.

Before you start comparing, ask yourself:

● How will I use the boat?

● Who will be on board?

● Where will I operate it?

● What matters most: comfort, performance, range, simplicity, or ease of maintenance?

Clarity on your needs makes the whole show easier to navigate.

TAKE YOUR TIME — EXCITEMENT ISN’T A DEADLINE

Boat shows create a sense of urgency. Crowds, conversations and limited time offers can make decisions feel rushed. But a vessel is a long term investment, and the best decisions are made with a clear head. If something catches your eye, enjoy the moment, then step back, revisit it later, and consider it with fresh perspective. A second look often reveals things you didn’t notice the first time.

A FINAL THOUGHT - Boat shows are a fantastic place to explore, learn and get inspired. With a little structure and a calm approach, they can also be the perfect environment to make a confident, informed decision about your next vessel.

If you’re considering a purchase during or after the show, independent advice can help you understand the vessel beyond the presentation. Whether you’re buying your first boat or your fifth, Renee and I are here to support you with clear, practical, evidence based assessments — the same approach we bring to every job. Enjoy the show, take your time, and let the right vessel find you. rtmarine.com.au

WHEN SPACE, WATER AND ARCHITECTURE ALIGN

Generous residences from 139sqm to expansive 319sqm penthouses, created for owner-occupiers in a private, gated marina community. Marina berths up to 25m, able to accommodate monohulls and catamarans with bridge-free access to the ocean.

Apartments from 139sqm to expansive 319sqm penthouses. Prices from $1,415,000 to $4,700,000.

DISPLAY UNIT NOW OPEN

72 View Line Terrace, Hope Island Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm 1300 424 127

INTEGRITY 460SX

HANDLING

Dan Jones from Dan’s Boat Life recently took the Integrity 460SX for a comprehensive sea trial, sharing the full on-water experience from start-up and power management to cruising performance and docking.

Describing it as “the perfect couple’s displacement cruiser or liveaboard,” Dan said the Integrity 460SX “stands out for serious, sustainable cruising.”

Based on the popular 440 Sedan, the 460SX was launched in 2020 and offers significantly more volume and improved guest comfort. It underwent a full external and internal redesign in collaboration with designer Misha Merzliakov, along with a more powerful engine and contemporary styling. The result is a 14.06-metre, singleengine motor yacht that impresses with its handling, fuel efficiency and onboard comfort.

With a single-shaft diesel engine, full keel for excellent tracking, and both bow and stern thrusters, the 460SX demonstrates that safe and efficient cruising doesn’t require a complex twin-engine setup. This configuration also makes the vessel easy to manage for cruising couples or even single-handed operation.

From its simple key start, the Integrity 460SX showcases a user-friendly layout and systems. Cruising quietly at 900rpm into the Broadwater, the boat is powered by a 380hp Cummins engine with shaft drive and full keel.

“No autopilot was commissioned on this, so I’m hand steering. It does feel very yacht-like,” Dan observed, noting that at 900rpm “she really does not make any stern wave whatsoever.” At 1200rpm, the GPS showed five knots with fuel consumption of just 3.3 litres per hour. “Engine noise levels are quite low at this speed, so no need to raise my voice,” he said, adding that there was “zero bow rise” and excellent visibility from the helm.

Dan noted the high bow requires consideration when manoeuvring in marinas, but pointed out that the thrusters

and side door layout provide practical solutions for docking with clear sightlines.

Another standout feature is the extensive solar array on the roof, eliminating the need for a generator. “We’ve got an upgraded alternator backing up the solar system, similar to sailing yachts,” Dan explained.

Cruising at 1400rpm and close to six knots, fuel consumption was 4.6 litres per hour. As conditions became windier, Dan compared the 460SX to keel-less motor yachts.

“I’ve driven boats of this style without a keel on windy days, and your workload can be quite high,” he said. “With this boat, I can feel the full keel. Its displacement hull provides excellent form stability, and she just sits rock solid.”

Even with wash from passing motor yachts, the 460SX remained dry and “super comfortable,” with low workload at the helm. At 1600rpm, the boat reached nearly seven knots while consuming around nine litres per hour. “This is sailboat stuff!” Dan exclaimed.

He found 1800rpm to be a natural cruising speed, delivering 7.4 knots at 11.8 litres per hour, with low noise levels and steady tracking. “With the addition of an autopilot, it would be very relaxing, freeing me to do other tasks, like making a coffee or chatting to friends.”

At 2450rpm, the 460SX achieved close to nine knots, consuming 28 litres per hour at 40 percent engine load, with only a slight increase in noise.

Docking once again highlighted the benefits of the keel and thrusters. “You can see the boat tracking in a straight line into the berth – that’s the benefit of a keel,” Dan said.

Summing up, he described the 460SX as “a straightforward vessel to get your head around.” He added that newcomers to boating would find it approachable, while experienced boaters would appreciate its wellthought-out systems and design.

The 460SX features two full-size cabins with walk-around queen beds, including a midships master stateroom, along with two bathrooms with showers. With a range exceeding 800 nautical miles, it is well suited to extended cruising.

On deck, the boat offers a large swim platform with hot and cold shower, a spacious cockpit for entertaining, a foredeck sun lounge, and wide walkaround side decks with doors on both sides. Dan noted that solo operators could enhance visibility with cameras or a yacht controller system.

“If you’re looking for reliability, long-range capability, excellent liveability and reasonable running costs, this is it,” he concluded.

Integrity Motor Yachts are renowned for stability, handling and build quality, and the 460SX is a prime example. Each hull includes vinylester tie layers for osmosis protection, with extensive customisation options, strong warranty coverage and after-sales support —which is why Integrity is Australia’s most popular displacement motor cruiser.

For more information, visit integrityboats.com.au or at spectrumma rine.com.au

Integrity Motor Yachts has earned its reputation as one of the most trusted and best-selling displacement cruiser brands in Australia and New Zealand. Renowned for efficiency, stability, and generous beam, every Integrity is built around the principles of honest design, long-range comfort, and owner confidence. The Integrity SX Range represents a considered evolution of these values. Contemporary exterior lines, refined detailing, and re-imagined accommodation layouts deliver a more modern aesthetic, without compromising the seaworthiness, fuel efficiency, and balance that define an Integrity.

We have a new 340SXis available now for immediate delivery, offering a rare opportunity to step straight into the SX experience.

Looking ahead, the new 470SX PLUS will be unveiled at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, with Integrity’s Plus Planing Hull for higher-speed cruising without compromise.

Designed for owners who value modern styling grounded in experience, the Integrity SX Range delivers performance with purpose, craftsmanship without compromise, and confidence at every mile. Contact us now for more information.

InsideOurBoatShow

Design, Craft and Community Converge

by Paul Burt

Aboat show is not defined by hulls alone. If it were merely a collection of vessels, a stroll through a boatyard would suffice. If the purpose were limited to marine electro nics, one could walk into a specialist retailer and be done within minutes. Chandlers already stock rigging, safety equipment, ropes, anchors, and hardware. Fishing tackle shops overflow with rods, reels, lures, and lines. Food can be found at any café, restaura nt, or even prepared at home. None of these destinations, however, deliver the experience that a true boat show provides. What makes a boat show special is everything that exists between those individual elements, woven together into a single, immersive event.

A boat show is a meeting place. It brings together industries, communities, brands, innovators, families, dreamers, seasoned mariners, and firsttime buyers. It is where aspiration meets practicality, where imagination is given physical form, and where people can see, touch, compare, and question in a way that no catalogue or website can replicate. The atmosphere matters as much as the exhibits themselves. Sound, colour, movement, scent, and human interaction all combine to create something far greater than the sum of its parts.

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show embodies this philosophy. Entering its 37th year, it has matured into one of the most comprehensive marine lifestyle showcases in the Southern Hemisphere. Its scale alone is impressive, yet its success lies in how seamlessly it balances size with engagement. Floating wha rves are transformed into corridors of innovation where motor yachts, game fishing vessels, sailing cra ft, and catamarans sit side by side, each representing a different vision of life on the water. These are not static displays; they are

invitations to step aboard, explore layouts, feel materials, and imagine journeys yet to be taken.

Beyond the marina, the experience expands outward. Trailer boats fill streets and car parks, representing accessibility and practicality for everyday boaters. Locally built craft sit proudly alongside European and United States imports, creating a global conversation about design philosophies, construction methods, performance priorities, and evolving trends. Visitors can compare finishes, hull shapes, propulsion systems, and onboard comforts within a single afternoon, something impossible outside the show environment.

Equally important are the structures that rise temporarily to support the event. Giant tents and marquees house the latest marine technology, electronics, propulsion solutions, safety systems, and accessories. These spaces become hubs of discussion and discovery. Experts explain features, demonstrate capabilities, and answer questions in real time. New products are unveiled, not quietly,

but with intention and excitement. Launches become moments, and those moments contribute to the over all energy of the show.

Activation zones play a crucial role in shaping the experience. Demonstrations allow visitors to see equipment in action rather than relying on sales pitches alone. Cooking displays introduce a lifestyle element, reminding attendees that boating is not only about engines and navigation, but also about enjoyment, hospitality, and shared experiences. The aroma of food drifting through walkways adds warmth and familiarity, grounding the technical aspects of the event in everyday pleasure.

The streets themselves become part of the theatre. Fanfare, movement, and sound create momentum as people flow between zones. Smaller marquees highlight emerging trends, innovative startups, and niche products that might otherwise be overlooked. Personal watercraft add an edge of excitement and appeal to a younger audience, reinforcing the idea that the marine world is diverse and continually evolving.

The annual Bream Shoot Out fishing competition adds that element of enjoyment showing the life anglers love to live weighing in their daily catch in front of the mesmerised crowd on onlookers.

What truly defines a boat show, however, is the vibe. There is a shared sense of enthusiasm that cannot be manufactured. Conversations spark between strangers comparing notes, sharing stories, and offering advice. Families wander together, children climbing aboard boats with wide-eyed curiosity wh ile parents weigh possibilities. Industry professionals reconnect with peers, suppliers, and

clients, strengthening relationships that sustain the sector year-round. The show becomes a living ecosystem, thriving on interaction.

Atmosphere is shaped by timing as well. A boat show feels like an occasion. It is anticipated, planned for, and remembered. Attendees arrive with purpose, whether to purchase, research, network, or simply enjoy the spectacle. That collective intention elevates the environment. Even those who never plan to own a vessel can appreciate the craftsmanship, technology, and lifestyle on display.

Sanctuary Cove’s setting enhances this effect. The waterfront location blurs the line between exhibition and reality. Boats are not imagined in abstract; they sit in water, ready to move. Sunlight reflects off polished surfaces, rigging hums gently, and the marina backdrop reinforces authenticity. This context allows visitors to envision themselves not just buying a product, but stepping into a way of life.

Ultimately, a boat show succeeds when it creates memory. People leave inspired, informed, and energised. They carry conversations forward, revisit ideas, and make decisions long after the gates close. The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show achieves this by understanding that boats are only the starting point. It is the convergence of innovation, entertainment, education, community, and atmosphere that defines the event.

If it were just boats, a yard would be enough. If it were just equipment, a shop would do. A true boat show, however, is a celebration of everything in between. It is an experience, a gathering, and a showcase of possibility. In that sense, Sanctuary Cove does not simply display the marine world; it brings it vividly to life.

Australia’s Most Trusted Dry Docking Solution.

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SWIFTCO ALUMINIUM BOAT TRAILERS - Voted the best aluminium

WHY TRUST A SWIFTCO TRAILER?

T6, 6082 STRUCTURAL ALUMINIUM FRAME UP TO 400MPA TENSILE STRENGTH

Structural aluminium - Swiftco are the only manufacturer using the same grade aluminium used in construction of critical structural beams in buildings, bridges and in heavy agriculture machinery, where strength and energy absorption are critical.

6082 is the stronger choice for marine trailer frames and structural components due to its higher strength and resistance.

Superior strength - 400 MPa is measure of strength before it breaks. Why trust your prized boat to trailers made from weaker aluminium? Our aluminium trailers have higher tensile and yield strength, so trusting your prized boat under tow is easy with Swiftco

Stronger, longer lasting with superior durability

-Engineered with T6 structural aluminium and precision stainless bolted joints, Swiftco trailers are unmatched by other manufacturers with resistance to corrosion, strength, metal fatique and deformation, ensuring your boat is protected for years to come.

Ideal for harsh marine environments - Crafted from corrosion-resistant T6 structural aluminium, Swiftco trailers are purpose-built to withstand saltwater, humidity, and coastal conditions without typical rusting or deteriorating. Perfect for boat owners who demand performance, reliability, and longevity in unforgiving marine settings.

AVIATION-INSPIRED JOINTS

ENGINEERED BY AIRCRAFT EXPERTS

From aerospace to asphalt – Joints designed with precision and precise engineering. Swiftco outperforms inferior rolled or bent aluminium chassis used by competitors.

Exceeding Australian design rules requirements - Swiftco aluminium trailers have been lab-tested to 4000kg+ per joint, that’s 8000 kg per trailer, demonstrating their exceptional strength, safety and reliability under heavy-duty conditions.

Outperforms rolled and bent aluminium - Unlike rolled aluminium used in many trailers, T6 cannot be bent without compromising strength. Trust a Swiftco Trailer, ensuring structural integrity is always maintained. Our structurally engineered joints distribute stress evenly preventing cracks during towing and vibration.

50 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE - ESTABLISHED 1975

A legacy spanning five decades - Swiftco continues to set the standard in trailer manufacturing, specialising in marine vessel trailers. For over half a century, Swiftco has delivered innovation, reliability, and performance

Australian engineered and Australian manufactured on the Gold Coast – Swiftco employs a highly skilled team of local engineers, fabricators, boilermakers, and mechanics.

Manufacturer direct pricing - deal directly with the manufacturer! Get top-tier quality at unbeatable prices with no dealer markups, meaning you save more while getting the best in the industry.

SWIFTCO TRUSTED SPECIALISTS FOR SHARKCATS

POPULAR ALUMINIUM TRAILER PACKAGES

Swiftco 7.20 ALUMINIUM I BEAM

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Swiftco 6.9 ALUMINIUM I BEAM

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USA DEEMAXX Ventilated DEEMAXX Ventilated Brake system Suits boat from 7.60m to 8.20m

SOLUTION TO ALL MARINE VESSEL TOWING

Galvanised Trailers Repairs & Replacements

And its not just trailers we repair- caravans, campervans, tradies trailers, food vans, dog vans, horse floats. If you can tow it, we can service and repair it. V OTED BEST ALUMINIUM TRA ILERS

All boats, Jet Ski, Kayak, IRB, Thundercat, Polycraft, Pontoon, Canoe, Sharkcats, Surfskis, Ramp Dolly

ALUMINIUM TRAILERS

6.3m though to 10m: Australia's leading aluminium boat trailers: Strongest aluminium used by all manufacturers, custom made on the Gold Coast to suit your boat with an industry leading 5 year frame warranty.

GALVANISED TRAILERS

3.6m through to 6.2m: Hot dipped galvanized trailers: Superior engineering, weld quality, galvanising, thickness of steel and with industry-leading 5 year frame warranty.

BOAT FITTING

Come to where all the marinas refer customers for professional boat fitting. Reduce stress at the boat ramp. A correctly fitted boat to trailer results in a pain-free launch and retrieval at the boat ramp while protecting your boat while under tow. Keep your family safe while you are towing your boat- book your boat fit today.

SERVICE AND REPAIR

We service and repair trailers for many businesses around the Gold Coast including Gold Coast City Council, SeaWorld, Qld Water Police, and many local schools, boat yards and engineering companies.

ONLINE TRAILER PARTS STORE AND RETAIL SHOP

We offer a wide range of high-quality trailer parts both online and in our retail store. Whether you need axles, brakes, lights, or accessories, we're here to help with expert advice and fast, reliable service.

ALL KINDS OF TRAILERS

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IN BUSINESS

MAHI BOATS SCHIONNING SOLITAIRE 1520 CUSTOM BUILD

If y ou're visiting SCIBS and you have a dream of being on the water, make your booking now for a private viewing of the latest and best in Australian boat building.

Recently launched, Evening Star is a beautiful example of the quality and superyacht level of finish you can expect from Australian boat builders at the top of their trade. For this build, the owners — a professional couple with teenage children — wanted a vessel that was truly self-sufficient and tailored to their lifestyle. They sought the freedom to create a home on the water that balanced family life, remote work and long-range adventure. Mahi Boats gave them the ability to create a fully custom built vessel, optimising every element of the layout, storage and onboard systems, and delivered a yacht capable of extended off-grid cruising without compromise. Built as a serious bluewater cruiser.

Evening Star is capable of taking her owners around the world in comfort and safety, achieving high daily mileages with minimal motion and outstanding seakeeping. Mahi Boats' internal design capability was able to take the design plans and interpret them with the This has resulted in a boat tailored for both their on water and in-water activities - from sailing to spear fishing to diving to BBQing. They can independently live off grid on their own terms. This Solitaire 1520 features a hybrid power

and energy system for silent running, a carbon-reinforced structure using ATL DuFlex panels, and an interior designed around live-aboard family life. Advanced sound and thermal insulation ensure quiet, efficient passage-making, while the integrated helm and sail-handling systems allow for confident short-handed operation.

From our superyacht facility at Gold Coast City Marina, Mahi Boats combines advanced composite engineering with the artistry of luxury yacht building. Every detail is designed and built under one roof — from precisioninfused carbon structures and CAD-driven design to handcrafted interiors finished to superyacht standards. Precision 3D CAD modelling underpins every Mahi build, ensuring seamless integration from digital design through to physical construction. Working alongside leading marine specialists in Coomera, we integrate world-class systems

AANCHORED RIGHT QUALITY AUSSIE PRODUCTS

nchor 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

Australian SUPERYACHTIndustry

Legislative Changes and Careful Consideration of Regulatory, Compliance and Taxes

By Liesl Tziolis, Legal Consultant

The Australian superyacht industry is a potential economic powerhouse for the Australian economy. The country is blessed with an abundance of incredible coastline, beaches and amazing destinations for boating and yachting as an alternative to competitor destinations such as the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Investment in infrastructure as well as an increase in the number of superyachts in the region prompted the Australian government to introduce legislation in 2019 to encourage growth in the luxury maritime superyacht chartering industry. This legislation was not extended past June 2025 and as a result the current legislative framework is not quite “fit for purpose”. This article addresses the current legislative and tax issues for foreign superyacht owners who are considering a superyacht chartering business in Australia.

SPECIAL RECREATIONAL VESSELS ACT (2019)

In 2019 the Australian government introduced the Special Recreational Vessels Act (2019) (SRV) to facilitate foreign flagged superyachts to conduct chartering activities for up to 12 months in Australian waters to encourage economic opportunities in luxury maritime tourism without triggering import duties under the Customs Act (1901). It allowed the owners of foreign flagged superyachts to “opt” in to the provisions of the Coastal Trading (Revitalising Australian Shipping) Act

2012 (CTA) to obtain temporary licences for “chartering activities” even though s12(f) of the CTA specifically excludes “recreational vessels”. The RVA also disapplied the constitutional limitations in section 4 of the CTA which had the effect of superyachts being considered as “international commercial vessels” rather than “recreational vessels”. As the SRV is no longer in force, the licensing regime has now defaulted back to the CTA and the Customs Act 1901.

CURRENT REGIME FOR COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES

If a superyacht wishes to conduct inter-state commercial activities in Australia, the master, owner, charterer or agent of the vessel or a shipper must obtain a licence under Division 2 of the CTA (Temporary Licences) which facilitates access to ports along the Australian coast allowing the vessels to carry passengers or cargo between interstate ports. The licence is valid for 12 months and is limited to the voyages authorised by the licence. To add further complexity this licence is not required for intrastate voyages. It is recommended that Superyacht owners apply for a section 12 Declaration in order to conduct intrastate voyages, to resolve any ambiguity.

The Act empowers the Minister to impose compliance obligations on the holder of the licence which may result in a commercially unfavourable outcome. Under s61 of the CTA, the licence holder must give notification of the details of any voyage at least 2 business days before “loading date” and under s62 further notification of the details of the voyage within 10 days of completion of that voyage including the name of the vessel used, actual loading and unloading dates, number of passengers and ports visited. In the case of cargo, the licence holder must notify the details of the kinds and volumes of cargo, dates carried and ports where cargo is loaded and unloaded. The licence also specifies Acceptable

Tolerance Limits for passengers and cargo and any breach of these limits by +/20% is deemed a breach of the conditions of the licence.

Any substantial variation to the authorised voyage will be deemed a breach of the licence. CSL Australia Pty Ltd v Minister for Infrastructure and Transport [2014] FCA 1160.

Applications and notifications are made through the Coastal Trading Licensing System portal on the website of the Department of Infrastructure. www. infrastructure.gov.au/

Temporary licensing for superyachts that will carry on commercial activities (such as chartering) shields the parties from import duties and GST liability on the entry of the vessel into Australia but any income the vessel obtains through the chartering activity remains subject to Australian GST. The vessel owner or charterer must register for GST and comply with any other applicable ATO obligations including income tax obligations and employer obligations or appoint a resident agent to do so on their behalf.

The CTA imposes a heavy regulatory and compliance burden on foreign flagged vessels which may explain why very few CTA Temporary Licences have been granted.

ALTERNATIVES TO CTA TEMPORARY LICENSING

Given the regulatory burden imposed by the CTA it may be more commercially sound to consider other options including importing the vessel and paying the import taxes and GST which allow an operator to make more commercial decisions on the use of the vessel without having to notify or seek authorisation from the Minister for variations.

The foreign flagged vessel may be chartered to an Australian company that is registered for GST which imports the vessel and claims the GST back as input tax credits. Alternatively, a registered tax agent may apply to defer the

CURRENT REGIME FOR RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Vessels that engage only in recreational or “pleasure” activities are excluded from the operation of the CTA and fall within the provisions of the Customs Act (1901) overseen by Australian Border Force.

Foreign flagged superyachts that arrive in Australian waters, under their own power (i.e they are not imported on a ship or other vessel) for recreational activities only must obtain a Control Permit issued to the Master of the vessel which is valid for up to 12 months or the length of the Master’s visa, whichever is less. A Control Permit allows the vessel to undertake non commercial activities such as cruising or transiting through Australian

be offered for sale, sold or disposed of in any way while under a Control Permit although a vessel may undergo repairs or refit while in Australia and not incur GST.

The application is made to the Maritime Traveller Processing Committee (MTPC) through the Air and Sea Approvals Portal and must be made no later than 10 days prior to arrival confirming the full itinerary, vessel details and port intentions.

While the vessel is on a Control Permit it remains under customs control and is therefore subject to the Customs Act 1901 and the Customs Regulations 2015. There are ongoing notification obligations to Australian Border Force including pre arrival notifications and arrival at a designated port.

The vessel is shielded from import taxes and duties as long as the vessel leaves Australia within 12 months as per the Control Permit. The Control Permit may be extended upon application provided that the eligibility criteria for the permit are still met which is impliedly dependent on the Master’s visa. If this is not the case or circumstances have changed then it is highly likely that the Control Permit will be revoked and the vessel will be deemed imported, requiring the payment of import duties and taxes.

IMMIGRATION AND BIOSECURITY FOR BOTH CONTROL PERMITS AND CTA LICENCES

All passengers and crew must hold appropriate visas and comply with all Australian biosecurity laws.

To conclude, bringing a foreign flagged superyacht into Australia for either pleasure or commercial activities requires careful consideration of the regulatory, compliance and tax burdens to determine which structure works best in the individual circumstances.

For more information, contact Capt. John Kavanagh Ph: 0481 170 373 Principal Lawyer – Master Mariner john@pacificmaritimelawyers.com.au

PRONTO MARINE SERVICES

KEEPING LOCAL BOATS IN TOP

CONDITION

Boats in South East Queensland work hard. Warm water, strong sun and year-round use mean hulls foul quickly and finishes don’t stay shiny for long. That’s where Pronto Marine Services comes in.

Based at Gold Coast City Marina and d’Albora East Coast Marina, Pronto Marine is a family-run business that focuses on three main jobs: antifouling, Propspeed application and boat detailing. They work on all sizes of boats, from small day boats through to large motor yachts.

Antifouling is one of their core services. Anyone who keeps a boat in the water locally knows how fast algae and barnacles can build up on the hull. Pronto Marine’s team takes the time to inspect, prepare and paint the hull properly. They consider how and where the boat is used before recommending products, so owners get a result that lasts, with better performance and fuel efficiency once the boat goes back in the water.

Propspeed is another important part of what they do. It’s a coating designed for propellers, shafts, trim tabs and other metal parts under the waterline. When these are kept clean, the boat can run smoother and use less fuel. Pronto Marine treats

Propspeed as a careful, step-by-step process rather than a quick add-on, ensuring surfaces are cleaned, prepared and coated correctly.

Sun, salt and regular use can quickly make any boat look tired. Pronto Marine offers exterior cleaning, machine polishing, waxing, stainless and teak care. This helps owners stay on top of maintenance and makes a big difference to the look and feel of the boat, especially before big trips or a sale.

What stands out about Pronto Marine Services is the way they deal with customers. As a family business, they focus on honest advice, clear communication and keeping owners in the loop from lift to launch. They explain options in simple terms and tailor the work to suit each boat and owner. For many local skippers, that combination of solid workmanship and straightforward service is why they return to the same team, season after season.

To find out more at prontomarineservices.com.au

CLASSIC 609 Hard Top Flybridge

Brand New - Available For Immediate Delivery

Classic Motor Yachts is proud to present this brand new Classic 609 available for immediate delivery, Gold Coast, Queensland. Classic Motor Yachts Australia and New Zealand Pty Ltd trading as Classic Motor Yachts are the exclusive distributor for these Fuhua manufactured boats previously sold under the brand name Clipper.

This legendary pilot house design and quality build, ensures long, dependable, safe and economical cruising.

Standard features include covered walk-around main decks, two helm stations, port and starboard pantograph pilot house helm doors, and a spacious undercover cockpit courtesy of a fly bridge deck extending to the transom.

The aft stainless steel framed glass saloon door can only be described as grand and has several opening positions, plus there is a matching ‘hopper’ style window to port, which opens the saloon to the cockpit. The cockpit is complemented by a large 210ltr chest freezer and 85 litre stainless steel bar fridge under the hopper window and an aft 4-seater sofa and table.

A spacious open flybridge hardtop provides excellent cover for the upper helm and entertaining area. The rear Flybridge deck also accommodates a Highfields Classic 380 Rib tender and Steelhead ES1000 Davit.

A large pilot house lower helm opens to the galley and saloon area keeping the Skipper connected during those long voyages. Navigation electronics are by Garmin and include two 16 ″ screens at each helm with GPS, colour

sounder, radar and engine monitoring instruments. Both helm stations' navigation equipment includes Auto Pilot, engine monitoring and an array of instrumentation for stabilisers, generator monitor, anchor windlass, position indicator for trim tabs, bow and stern thruster control, communications, etc.

Main engine power is supplied by twin Volvo 725hp diesels, driving through reliable ZF gearboxes and traditional shaft drives to 4 blade bronze propellers.

AC 240V power is supplied by an Onan 22.5kW generator and a Mastervolt 3500W Inverter.

In addition to the long list of standard features, this beautiful vessel has been optioned with an equally long list of highly desirable equipment. This list includes; Sleipner Vector FinsTM 0.8 m2 Hydraulic Stabilisers (including an at rest power pack): remote docking controller, internal and external stairs to the flybridge, Sleipner 210 kg stern and bow thruster, Lenco electric trim tabs, and an access door between the grand lazarette and generous engine room.

The vessel is complemented by modern appliances including 320L single door and two separate drawer galley fridge freezer, 85-litre cockpit bar fridge, 130-litre flybridge drink fridge, 210-litre cockpit chest freezer, galley ice maker, Miele cooktop and oven. While the lazarette accommodates a washer and dryer. There is a 43" smart TV in the saloon, a 40” smart TV in the master cabin and a fusion sound system throughout the flybridge, saloon, cockpit and pilot house.

A spacious

• Length 60ft 9in (Transom to top of bow)

• LOA 67ft

• Displacement 34.5 tonnes (dry)

• Draft 1.7m

• Fuel Tanks 5,620 litres

• Fresh Water 1,000 litres

• Main Engines 2 x Volvo D11-725

• Onan 22.5 kW generator

• Warranty – 2 years fully comprehensive 5 years on hull

• List Price as appointed $4.1Million

• First come, first served ex-Boat Show Price $3.4 Million

The eloquently furnished full beam master cabin is complemented by a full beam ensuite with an extra-large shower. Other cabins include a forward VIP queen cabin and a 3-bed guest cabin. The interior of the boat and lazarette are fully air-conditioned by a chilled water air conditioning system with individual controllers for 5 zones.

The owner has a choice of water maker, stove top and RIB. Complete with covers, covered-in flybridge and seamed strataglass clears, and available for delivery to a lucky owner now. This hand-crafted luxuriously appointed boat will not last long so please contact us immediately to secure ownership enabling you to explore at your own pace.

www.classicmotoryachts.com.au

INFLATABLE RESCUE BOAT SUPPORT SURF LIFE SAVING ACROSS AUSTRALIA

Ampol’s delivery of new Inflatable Rescue Boat hulls is already making a tangible difference at a local level, with Tallebudgera Surf Life Saving Club among the recipients benefitting from the national initiative. The program, now in its fourth year, has expanded to provide 12 IRB hulls to surf life saving clubs across Australia, ensuring frontline rescue equipment is available where it is needed most.

At Tallebudgera, IRBs are a critical part of everyday beach operations. The patrol area presents unique challenges, including a busy creek mouth, changing surf conditions and high visitor numbers, particularly on weekends and during peak holiday periods. Inflatable Rescue Boats are used frequently for swimmer rescues, rapid response patrols and preventative water safety work, allowing lifesavers to reach people quickly across a wide stretch of water.

Demand for IRB use increases significantly over summer, when beach attendance rises and conditions become more unpredictable. In addition to routine patrols, IRBs are often required for major events such as surf carnivals, where they are deployed to provide dedicated water

safety coverage. Even during these events, clubs must still ma intain IRBs for standard patrol duties, highlighting the ongoing need for multiple, reliable vessels.

The arrival of a new IRB hull strengthens the club’s overall capability, ensuring equipment remains dependable and ready for continuous use.

Modern hulls improve performance and durability, supporting safer and more efficient rescues for both lifesavers and those in need of assistance. Beyond beach rescues, IRBs have also proven invaluable during emergency situations away from the surf zone, including flood response and broader community support operations.

The Ampol IRB Hull Giveaway forms part of a wider commitment to surf life saving, backed by additional fundraising efforts that support advanced training an d rescue preparedness. These initiatives help ensure volunteers are equipped not only with the right vessels, but also with the skills required to respond to a wide range of emergencies.

For clubs such as Tallebudgera, access to modern IRB equipment directly supports their ability to protect the local community and the many visitors who use the beach year-round. As summer approaches, the streng thened fleet plays a vital role in maintaining safety across one of the region’s most active coastal environments.

SIMRAD UNVEILS AUTONOMOUS BOATING TECHNOLOGY

Simrad Marine Electronics has announced the launch of the Simrad® AutoCaptain™ Autonomous Boating System, a revolutionary advancement in marine technology featuring full auto-docking capabilities, including docking, undocking, and short distance maneuvering. Unlike assistance-based systems currently on the market, AutoCaptain delivers true autonomous maneuvering, engineered from the ground up with exclusive Mercury Marine® propulsion integration and a dedicated Simrad® display app experience for a seamless user experience. This innovation marks a significant milestone in Simrad strategy, reinforcing its commitment to shaping the future of recreational boating.

PRECISION DOCKING, EFFORTLESSLY EXECUTED

AutoCaptain goes beyond basic assistance. With real-time 360-degree situational awareness, the system autonomously performs docking and undocking maneuvers, even in tight quarters and challenging situations. Intelligent adjustments counteract wind, current, and nearby obstacles detected by the system, ensuring every movement is smooth and deliberate while under the watchful eye of the captain at the helm. While some systems rely on GPS and require returning to a previously mapped

location, AutoCaptain is designed to work anywhere – not just where the boat has been before. When arriving at a new marina or navigating unfamiliar waters, the system dynamically adapts to the environment in real time, giving boaters the freedom and confidence to explore without constraints. The system also features the capability to firmly hold the vessel against the dock, maintaining position while users prepare the lines, fenders, and secure the vessel to dock.

SEAMLESS SYSTEM INTEGRATION

Developed in close collaboration with Mercury Marine®, AutoCaptain exclusively integrates with Mercury’s advanced propulsion system and intuitive joystick controls. Leveraging a network of cameras, cutting-edge propulsion technology, and real-time monitoring via a Simrad® display, AutoCaptain

delivers a truly unified control experience. Unlike aftermarket solu tions, this fully integrated system is built directly into the vessel’s design, preserving its aesthetics while providing unparalleled precision, ease of use, and situational awareness. This purpose-built integration unlocks a control experience that no piecemeal solution can match.

BUILT FOR THE FUTURE

AutoCaptain is designed as a scalable, future-ready platform. With the flexibility to support enhancements over time, the system is built to evolve – delivering smarter, safer, and more intuitive boating experiences as new capabilities become available. Whether navigating a marina or docking the boat, AutoCaptain ensures boaters are always one step ahead.

For Simrad® installs contact ww w.aseamarine.com.au

TPIONEERS IN BOATING

Interview by Andy Kancachian

LEIGH-SMITH FAMILY HISTORY

he coastal suburb of Runaway Bay, on the northern end of Queensland’s Gold Coast, has long been defined by water. Fringed by the Broadwater and threaded with canals, it is home to just under 10,000 residents yet boasts one of the highest numbers of registered boats per capita in the southern hemisphere. For decades, Runaway Bay has been a natural sanctuary for boaties—an environment where maritime culture is not a pastime, but a way of life.

It is also the place where one family helped shape the future of Australian boating infrastructure. The Leigh-Smith family, through vision, innovation and sheer persistence, became instrumental in the development of marina design, marine safety, and boating culture on the Gold Coast and beyond.

FOUNDATIONS OF A WATERWAYS COMMUNITY

The story of Runaway Bay predates its name. In 1939, Robert George Oates, through the Anglers Paradise Development Company, acquired around 350 acres along Biggera Creek and the Broadwater, then a landscape of mangroves and tidal flats. By the mid1950s, town water and around 50 permanent and holiday homes had been established, with the construction of the Biggera Creek bridge in 1960 accelerating growth.

Further expansion followed in 1967 when Lae Enterprises purchased 182 hectares north of Anglers Paradise. Development began in 1972, and the name Runaway Bay—first adopted by the local post office— soon became the official suburb, cementing its identity as a tranquil coastal and waterways community.

A CALL TO PROTECT LIVES AT SEA

While the waterways of the Gold Coast offered opportunity and lifestyle, they also carried risk. By the mid-1960s, recreational boating activity had increased

dramatically, yet organised marine rescue services were limited.

Recognising this growing danger, Reg Leigh-Smith, the family patriarch, identified the urgent need for a dedicated sea rescue organisation on the Gold Coast. In 1965, this vision led to the formation of what was initially known as the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast Air Sea Rescue, later renamed Southport / Tweed Heads.

Discussions were soon held with National Commodore Madden and other national officers of the Australian Coast Guard Auxiliary, with agreement reached for Coast Guard to assume responsibility for the flotilla. On 16 May 1967, QF1 Southport was officially formed— the first Coast Guard flotilla in Queensland. Graham Bond, a local water policeman, became its inaugural Flotilla Commander.

The flotilla received its charter on 2 September 1969, signed by National Commodore L. Swift and Queensland State Commodore Reg Leigh-Smith himself. From these beginnings, the success of Southport Coast Guard inspired a broader vision: a coordinated Coast Guard presence around the entire Australian coastline.

FROM RESCUE TO INFRASTRUCTURE

Reg Leigh-Smith, alongside training leader Bruce Harris, travelled extensively—flying to Cairns and Mossman, and visiting coastal towns down the eastern seaboard. They met with port authorities, harbour masters, marine departments and police, presenting a compelling case for a national volunteer marine rescue network. Their ideas were widely supported.

An approach was even made to have Prince Philip appointed National Honorary Commodore, proposed by Sir Rohan Delacomb in November 1969, reflecting the national significance of the initiative.

The Leigh-Smith family also supplied the first rescue vessel, a Caribbean boat powered by twin 110hp Mercury engines. As Jeff Leigh-Smith later explained, Reg believed it was far easier to teach people not to break the rules than to continually risk volunteers’ lives rescuing those who did.

THE BIRTH OF RUNAWAY BAY MARINA

By the late 1970s, Runaway Bay had become firmly established as a boating suburb—but one critical piece of infrastructure was still missing.

“People thought Runaway Bay was out in the bush,” recalls Jeff Leigh-Smith. “But there were 500 boats housed within five kilometres. The demand was obvious.”

The 23-acre waterfront site that would become Runaway Bay Marina was originally intended for residential development. Jeff, however, saw greater potential. With extensive experience operating marine businesses at Isle of Capri and Southport, and having lived and worked at The Spit—now home to Mariners Cove—he had an intimate understanding of the practical needs of boat owners.

He also studied international trends, particularly the emerging concept of integrated marina facilities. Rather than simply providing a ramp or berths, Jeff

envisioned a complete boating ecosystem that brought together lifting, launching, storage, servicing, fuelling, retail, hospitality and residential elements in a single, cohesive precinct.

He acquired the site and began excavation, selling the fill to a nearby developer who required elevated land for housing construction. What followed was a bold and unconventional plan.

INNOVATION BORN OF INGENUITY

Many of the marina’s features were pioneering for their time. Pontoon manufacturing was undertaken on site. Walkways were constructed over retaining walls. Power, sewerage and water services were installed underground—far from standard practice at the time.

“Innovations come from not having too much money,” Jeff says. “And back then, the Gold Coast was a long way from the major cities. You had to be resourceful— that good old Aussie spirit.”

One of the most groundbreaking concepts was the dry-stack storage facility. Designed with a distinctive V-shaped roof, it created downward wind pressure to

hold boats securely in their racks—an elegant solution that avoided the lift and instability issues common with flat-roof designs.

A COMMUNITY ON THE WATER

Since opening in 1979, Runaway Bay Marina has supported a vibrant community of marine businesses, many of which have remained on site for decades. Today, the marina offers 197 premium wet berths, along with a full complement of trades and service providers renowned for their experience and professionalism.

“It’s not just a marina—it’s a knowledge base,” says Jeff. “When people ask questions, they get real advice from people who live and breathe boating.”

Sheltered from prevailing winds and tidal challenges, the marina provides exceptional access by both land and water. Positioned close to the Seaway and key Broadwater destinations, it remains one of the most user-friendly facilities on the coast.

FUEL WITH A SMILE

One of the marina’s most enduring traditions is its attended fuel service—a rarity in modern boating. Staff assist with berthing, hoses and nozzles, making refuelling safe, efficient and welcoming.

Jeff’s sister-in-law, Mary Leigh-Smith, began working at the fuel facility at just 17 years of age. Decades later, she is still there, greeting customers and leading a team that turns what can be a daunting experience into a smooth and friendly interaction.

LOOKING FORWARD

Now more than 40 years old, the Runaway Bay Marina site is earmarked for a major redevelopment incorporating upgraded marine infrastructure alongside retail and residential components.

Jeff Leigh-Smith, however, has never stood still. In 1988, he sold his interest in the marina and became a

sought-after consultant, advising on marina design and development across Australia. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Coomera Marina precinct, partnering with Pat Gay of Gold Coast City Marina and inviting Bill Barry-Cotter to establish Riviera’s manufacturing base.

Jeff and his family later settled at Sanctuary Cove, where they successfully operate the Leigh-Smith Yachts dealership and brokerage.

THE FUTURE OF GOLD COAST BOATING

As recreational boating continues to grow, Jeff remains a strong advocate for government leadership in identifying and developing new marine infrastructure. Without parallel investment, he warns, risks increase— vessels forced to anchor in exposed conditions and safety compromised.

Recent developments at The Spit highlight a shift towards accommodating large superyachts, creating a lucrative refit and repair industry in South-East Queensland. While this sector brings economic benefit, Jeff believes balance is essential.

“Boating has always been about access, safety and community,” he says. “That shouldn’t be lost.”

A LASTING LEGACY

Jeff Leigh-Smith’s legacy is not defined by a single marina or project, but by a philosophy: that boating infrastructure should serve people, protect lives, and evolve with the community it supports. From marine rescue to marina innovation, his family's influence is woven into the fabric of the Gold Coast’s waterways.

In every boat purchase, every berth, every rescue vessel, and every boatie who fuels up with confidence and a smile, the Leigh-Smith legacy continues—quietly shaping the future of Australian boating, just as it has for generations.

www.leigh-smith.com

LIVING THE BOATING LIFESTYLE FROM YOUR FRONT DOOR AT MARINA POINT APARTMENTS

Marina Point was always designed as more than a residential address. From the very beginning, it was intended to be a pla ce where life on the water feels natural, effortless and deeply connected to home. Today, that vision is no longer conceptual. It is complete, occupied and alive.

Building One has now reached full completion, with residents fully moved in and enjoying daily life exactly as it was designed to be lived. The building stands as a clear expression of confidence and delivery, marking the transition from planning to reality. Boats depart the marina in the morning. Neighbours connect along the waterfront. The gentle rhythm of the canal sets the pace for everyday living. This is not a promise of what is to come. It is what is happening now.

The completion of Building One represents an important milestone for Marina Point and for the wider Hope Island precinct. It provides tangible proof of quality, scale and intent. Visitors can see and experience the finished environment as it functions day to day, from the residences themselves to the marina and surrounding waterfront setting. A genuine community has formed, offering calm, privacy and a sense of permanence that is increasingly rare in new waterfront developments.

With residents settled into Building One, attention has naturally shifted to the next chapter. Building Two is now under construction , with works progressing on schedule and in line with

the planned timeline. This stage builds upon the success of the first, maintaining the same commitment to design integrity and construction quality, while offering a more refined and limited collection of residences.

Building Two is defined by its exclusivity and generous scale. Apartment layouts have been carefully considered to reflect how people truly live, particularly those drawn to a boating lifestyle. Sizes range from 139sqm through to expansive residences of 234sqm and 252sqm. These homes offer generous interiors, excellent storage and seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.

The apartments are truly house-sized, set within a resort-style complex where residents can enjoy a secure lock-up and go lifestyle without compromise.

At the top of the building, a limited number of penthouse residences reach up to 319sqm. These homes are defined by space, privacy and uninterrupted outlooks, providing a level of scale that is becoming increasingly rare along the Gold Coast. Floor plans prioritise natural light, cross ventilation and direct engagement with the water, creating interiors that feel open, balanced and enduring rather than driven by trends.

Positioned along the widest man-made canal in the area and extending across the Coomera River, the outlook from Marina Point is both rare and expansive. Water views stretch wide and open, creating a sense of freedom more commonly

DISPLAY UNIT NOW OPEN 72 VIEW LINE TERRACE, HOPE ISLAND OPEN MON. TO SAT. 10AM TO 4PM

associated with life on board a vessel. The canal and river become p art of daily life, changing with the light, the tide and the steady movement of boats throughout the day.

For boating enthusiasts, Marina Point offers a lifestyle that few de velopments can genuinely deliver. The on-site marina includes secure berths capable of accommodating vessels up to 25m in length, suitable for large motor yachts and catamarans. Owners can move seamlessly between residence and vessel, transforming how time on the water is experienced. Early morning departures, relaxed afternoon cruises and extended journeys all begin directly from home, supported by bridge-free access to open waters.

Marina Point stands as a clear example of a waterfront community that has been thoughtfully delivered and carefully curated. With one building complete and fully occupied, and the next progressing with confidence, it offers both certainty and opportunity. It is a place shaped by the water, defined by scale and created for those who see boating not as an occasional pursuit, but as a way of life.

RIGID INFLATABLE BOATS, DESIGNED DIFFERENTLY

Find your next adventure and discover Grand Boats and Tenders. Designed and built in Ukraine for 25 years, our rigid inflatable boats are built for those in search of elevated comfort, thoughtful design and superior performance

Discover the difference.

Grand Boats Queensland 16 Demand Avenue, Arundel 0481 167 828 | info@grandboats.com.au | www.grandboats.com.au

2026 MODEL ON DISPLAY

610Monaco

EXPERIENCE LUXURY WITH A FULL-WIDTH SEMI-OPEN CABIN CRUISER BOAT

The newly revamped design Stejcraft 610 Monaco is o ne of the best-looking sixmetre 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 hightech 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 Fishe rman 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.

HIGH-END INTERIOR FINISH

Step on board the Monaco 610 Fisherman to get the WOW effect! Every interior component is designed and built without 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.

FULLY FLAT FLOOR TO ELIMINATE TRIPPING HAZARDS

The Monaco boat range features, a fully flat floor that helps to eliminate tripping hazards that might cause accidents to passengers. Undoubtedly, a floor that enables smoother movement around the boat will make your boating experien ce better on a day-to-day basis.

CUSTOMISE THE LOOK OF YOUR STEJCRAFT

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.

MOST TECHNICALLY ADVANCED FIBREGLASS BOATS IN AUSTRALIA

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.

5-YEAR STEJCRAFT WARRANTY

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. www.stejcraftboats.com.au

You

IX-LINE PRESTIGE X70 YOUR OWN PRIVATE ISLAND

nspired by t he spirit of a superyacht, the PRESTIGE X70 redefines the architecture of the luxury family cruiser, offering unmatched space and infinite possibilities for life on the sea.

Eliminating the traditional midship side decks, the X70 reclaims 90% of the beam, allowing the saloon to span the yacht’s full width and creating an XXL cockpit three times larger than that of a typical flybridge. This unique layout significantly enhances onboard circulation and connectivity, setting a new standard in design.

The PRESTIGE X70 features a custom hard top with a power moonroof, a stabilisation system for added comfort at sea, and high-end interior finishes throughout. A fully hydraulic swim platform completes the package, allowing for easy access to the water and seamless tender operations. Every element has been designed with space, light and luxury in mind.

As you move through the interior, the level of refinement becomes immediately apparent. Exceptional materials such as hand-selected cashmere, leather and wood create a warm, tactile environment with flawless fit and finish. Natural light pours into the saloon through oversized windows that extend the full beam of the yacht. Electric windows and blinds offer easy adjustment at the touch of a button.

The aft end of the saloon opens completely, merging seamlessly with the cockpit to form a vast, unified indoor/outdoor living area. Positioned forward, the galley acts as a central hub and is equipped with premium Miele appliances including a four-burner induction cooktop, convection oven, coffee maker and a residential-size fridge/freezer. Its amidships location ensures convenient service to both interior and exterior dining spaces.

Below deck, a private entrance leads to the full-beam master suite, which features a queen-size bed, elegant bureau, expansive walk-in wardrobe with safe, and a generous ensuite complete with separate rain head shower. Guest cabins are accessed via a separate staircase to ensure privacy. The VIP suite also offers a queen bed, ample storage, and a well-appointed ensuite. Owners can select either a three-cabin layout featuring a second VIP suite or a four-cabin plan that adds two smaller twin-bed suites.

From the beach club to the flybridge, the PRESTIGE X70 delivers an experience that combines the indulgence of a luxury villa with the freedom of the open sea —an architectural revolution unlike anything else in its class.

For more information visit www.tmgyac hts.com

DITEC WINDOW KIT

HES WINCHES

LEADING RANGE OF SLIPWAY AND PONTOON WINCHES

HES Winches Australia is a South East Queensland-based business created exclusively to provide quality winches and superior service to its customers. The highly experienced team works closely with clients to find the right winching solution, supplying leading brand winches with a commitment to excellence and service that is second to none.

Formed in 2012 and operating as a division of HES Group (established in 1982), the company manufactures and distributes hydraulic, electric, pneumatic and hand winches for a wide range of industries and applications across the Asia-Pacific region. HES Winches Australia is the Australian distributor for several iconic global brands including Pullmaster, DP Winch, Tulsa Winch and Lantec from the TWG Group in the USA and Canada, along with Dinamic Oil from Italy and Gebuwin from the Netherlands.

For waterfront property owners across Australia and New Zealand, HES Winches has become a familiar and trusted name, also supplying the well-known OzWinch range of 240V AC electric planetary winches. With almost 20 different OzWinch models available, along with custom options to suit specific requirements, the range covers all domestic and commercial marine hauling applications from pontoons and dry docks to slipways and boat ramps. All OzWinch models can be configured with a handheld pendant control as standard or upgraded to a wireless remote-control system for added

For larger vessels, the OzWinch range includes the recently updated Signature Series II slipway winch models. These units are designed and manufactured locally using high-quality stainless steel components for enhanced longevity in harsh marine environments. Designed in Queensland for Australian conditions, the Signature Series II range is proudly Australian made.

More recently, HES Winches has introduced an exclusive range of OzWinch 316 stainless steel boat trailer winches, available in three capacity sizes. This range is designed for boat owners seeking a reliable, long-lasting winch solution for boat and jetski trailers. Maintaining a winch used in a marine environment is essential to ensure safe and trouble-free operation. Regular inspections are recommended, with particular attention given to ropes, which should be checked for wear and replaced if any signs of damage or corrosion are detected.

To support customers, HES Winches Australia offers a comprehensive end-to-end winch service program. This includes the supply and installation of new winches, scheduled inspection servicing, mechanical and electrical repairs, breakdown support, replacement parts and rope replacement. As the cooler months lead into peak boating season, now is an ideal time to review your winch requirements. Whether replacing an existing unit or arranging a service, planning ahead ensures your equipment is ready

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.”

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.

More information at www.nautilusaustralia.com.au

Niknot Glass

Individually designed and hand crafted glass platter or framed glass work with the name of your boat or company in maritime flags. Proudly made in Sunshine Coast, Australia.

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 R

We carry four complete units that include 425H Sullair machines, 400 Air Preps, and Blastone Schmidt 6.5 cuft Blast units. Our

Marine Trimming & Upholstery Specialists

Gold Coast Canvas bring you the very best in eyecatching 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.

From superyacht interior fitouts, marine trimming, including leather lounges, bimini tops, boat canopies and awnings, interior/exterior carpets, and camper, storm and cockpit covers. We pride ourselves on the finish of our flybridge clear enclosures. Whether you choose Strataglass or polycarbonate clears, our clears stand out from the others. Match or complement your existing structure with customised colours in all materials for interior and exterior upholstery refits.

Born and bred on the the Gold Coast, the trade qualified trimmers at Gold Coast Canvas are dedicated to bring the best marine cover products to the Gold Coast and surrounds. www.goldcoastcanvas.com.au

START your journey at The Boat Works with some of the country’s most respected marine sales specialists

SThe Boat Works BUYING OR SELLING BIG OR SMALL WE HAVE IT ALL

tep aboard, explore and experience one of Australia’s most complete boating destinations. Visitors to the 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show are invited to make The Boat Works their next stop. Located just a 20-minute drive, or a 10-minute boat ride from the Boat Show within the Coomera Marine Precinct, The Boat Works is Australia’s largest and most comprehensive marine hub, delivering a world-class boating experience like no other.

Set across 55 acres of prime waterfront, The Boat Works is home to more than 100 specialist marine businesses and over 1,000 highly skilled professionals. The precinct seamlessly combines a world-class marina with a fully equipped Boatyard and Superyacht Yard, offering expansive controlled working environments, wide open hardstands, and more than 100 purpose-built sheds with air drafts of up to 20 metres. A powerful fleet of six haulout machines, capable of lifting vessels up to 300 tonnes, further cements its reputation as Australia’s premier marine service and sales destination.

The Boat Works also showcases an impressive lineup of premium and luxury boat brands for sale, displayed throughout the precinct in modern showrooms, along the docks, and within an exclusive out-ofwater sales area. This unique layout allows visitors the opportunity to inspect vessels in every condition

and configuration, while engaging directly with experienced marine professionals who understand every aspect of ownership. From first-time buyers to seasoned yacht owners, the ability to see, touch and compare boats in one location is unmatched.

Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, The Boat Works offers ample parking and a welcoming, relaxed environment that encourages visitors to explore at their own pace. Open daily, it’s a place where you can enjoy a coffee while strolling the docks, inspect a hull up close, or settle in for a meal at one of three nautical-themed cafés and licensed restaurants overlooking the marina and yacht sales displays. It’s boating, lifestyle and leisure seamlessly combined.

While The Boat Works is widely recognised as the ultimate one-stop shop for refit, maintenance and yacht sales, its true strength lies in the extraordinary depth of marine expertise available onsite. Every make and model of boat is supported here, along with every onboard service imaginable, from A to Z. International and Australian boat brands are permanently on display, giving visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore vessels across all categories, from tenders and runabouts through to sailing yachts, power and sailing catamarans, monohulls, motor yachts and superyachts.

Australia’s leading boat dealers and brokers have established their headquarters at The Boat Works, making it the central hub for yacht sales expertise. Visitors can meet with some of the country’s most respected marine sales specialists, including Alexander Marine, The Yacht Sales Co, Yachtsmen International, The Catamaran Company | Ian McKenzie International Brokerage, Palm Beach Motor Yachts and Grand Banks Yachts, Whittley Queensland Boats, R Marine Jones, Horizon Motor Yachts, Multihull Central, GLI – Geoff Lovett International, Eyachts, TMG Yachts and Yoti. This concentration of expertise allows buyers and sellers to engage directly with decision-makers in a professional yet relaxed setting.

More than just a boatyard, The Boat Works delivers a luxury boat resort experience. Visitors are encouraged to take their time inspecting yachts in the marina, boarding vessels for sale, or viewing boats within the dedicated out-of-water display precinct. Between appointments, guests can enjoy casual dining, a coffee beneath tropical palms, or a special meal at one of the onsite restaurants. With ongoing expansions planned, including additional marine showrooms, office spaces and crew accommodation, The Boat Works continues to raise the bar for marine services, refit and yacht sales.

General Manager Shane Subichin notes that confidence is returning to the market, encouraging buyers and sellers alike to engage in person. “Come onsite to inspect a wide range of new and brokerage yachts and talk with our marine experts,” he says. “From refit and maintenance through to yacht sales, everything you need is right here at The Boat Works.”

From small tenders to luxury superyachts, The Boat Works o ffers everything in one location: premium brands, expert advic e, comprehensive after-sales service and an outstanding waterfront environment in which to explore your next yacht. Open seven days a week, The Boat Works invites all visitors attending the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show to step aboard, explore and discover Australia’s finest boating destination.

Looking ahead in 2026, The Boat Works will unveil its next major stage of development with the introduction of Pier 25. This architect-designed, multi-storey building will be positioned at the entry to the precinct and will feature premium marine showrooms and multi-level marine office spaces, creating even more opportunities for marine professionals to establish themselves within one of the Southern Hemisphere’s busiest and most dynamic marine hubs.

Already home to more than 100 individual marine businesses, many of which operate their national headquarters from the site, The Boat Works has evolved into a thriving marine ecosystem and a magnet for captains, crew and boat owners. Owner Tony Longhurst explains that reinvestment has always been about strengthening the industry. “Pier 25 represents our commitment to growth and innovation,” he says. “It creates premium spaces for marine businesses to thrive while enhancing the experience for boat ow ners and visitors alike.

This is the next step in continuing to position The Boat Works as Australia’s, if not the Southern Hemisphere’s, ultimate marine destination.”

Construction of Pier 25 is scheduled to commence mid-2026, with completion anticipated by year’s end. As The Boat Works continues to grow and evolve, it remains a benchmark of excellence in the Australian yachting industry, bringing together the world’s leading marine businesses and brands in one accessible, vibrant and truly exceptional destination. For more information, visit: theboatworks.com.au

Gold Coast’s best themed Cafés, Bars and Restaurants along with car & bike Museum

Ideally positioned on the Coomera River with 24/7 deepwater access in protected waters

VVision Yachts invites you to experience sailing that’s stronger, smarter, and beautifully crafted for the modern cruising lifestyle

CRAFTED FOR CRUISING COUPLES

Designed with couples in mind, Vision catamarans offer an effortless blend of performance, comfort, and style. Built by passionate sailors who understand the demands of long-term cruising, each Vision reflects a commitment to quality, innovation, and enduring value.

SMARTER

OWNERSHIP WITH VISION APP

NEW TO AUSTRALIAN CATAMARAN SAILING

ision Yachts–Australia is proud to introduce a revolutionary brand of sailing catamarans to the Australian market. Built in Knysna, South Africa— by sailors for sailors—Vision Catamarans combine advanced composite engineering, superior strength, and reduced weight for outstanding performance under sail.

STRENGTH, DESIGN, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP

Each Vision catamaran is a masterpiece of structural integrity. Bulkheads are fibreglass over foam, glassed in place as a full ring frame, while interior furniture is also fibreglass over foam and bonded to the hulls. This construction ensures maximum rigidity and minimal flex, exactly what serious ocean-going sailors demand. The result is a yacht that is exceptionally strong yet light, offering stability, comfort, and speed in equal measure.

PREMIUM SYSTEMS AND REFINED DETAILING

Vision Yachts integrates only premium components throughout—such as Victron control systems— to ensure reliability, efficiency, and aesthetic refinement. Every design choice serves a purpose, delivering functionality and elegance that elevate the sailing experience.

TESTED AND PROVEN PERFORMANCE

Before handover, every Vision catamaran is thoroughly tested under sail in the demanding waters off Knysna. These rigorous trials guarantee performance, safety, and peace of mind for owners embarking on offshore passages or coastal adventures.

The exclusive Vision App enhances the ownership experience, offering maintenance scheduling, instant access to manuals, onboard inventory management, automated service history, trip tracking, and expense reporting—all in one intuitive platform.

AWARD-WINNING MODELS

Vision’s growing lineup includes:

VISION 444 – Cruising World’s 2024 Boat of the Year VISION 444 ES (Extended Scoop) – Best Cruising Catamaran Under 50ft

VISION 484 – Launching in 2026

COMING SOON TO AUSTRALIA

While there are currently no Vision catamarans based in Australia, one of the forty U.S.-based Vision Cats is sailing from Panama and will arrive in 2026—heralding the brand’s official Australian debut.

To register your interest or learn more, contact Catamaran Company at 07 55 023 124 or email sales@catamarancompany.com.au

A LIFE ON THE WATER

Aquila Owner Profile: Jack Leivenzon

YOUR FULL NAME, OCCUPATION

Jack Leivenzon, self-employed with a background in the security industry.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN BOATING?

50 years, starting with race boats, sailing and power, and moving up to day boats, cruising motor yachts and now, two Aquila power cats.

HOW DID YOU COME TO BE BOATING ON THE WATERS OF BRISBANE, MORETON BAY AND GOLD COAST?

I moved from Melbourne to the Gold Coast chasing the sunshine and lifestyle.

WHAT BRAND, MODEL, SIZE OF BOAT DO YOU OWN?

Aquila 44 power cat and an Aquila 32 Sport Catamaran – the ideal day boat. Both are nameless, because I prefer them that way! I’m superstitious about naming my boats.

WHY DID YOU PURCHASE THESE PARTICULAR BOATS?

When a pre-owned Aquila 44 came on the market, I was intrigued. I liked the huge amount of space on board, the flybridge with upper helm and entertaining area, the quality of build and performance.

Then, when I went to sell my boat, we found a buyer, but he was looking to trade in his boat – an Aquila 32 Sport Power Cat. I took one look at it and decided I had to have it!

It’s the ideal arrangement: the 32 is a compact and easy to use day boat for a bit of fun, and it’s great people mover, getting guests from shore to the A44.

And the A44 is so spacious and fantastic for longer stays. There’s a reason they’re popular in the charter market –because of all the space and features on board, smooth ride and economical performance.

WHAT ARE THE BEST FEATURES OF YOUR BOAT, AND WHY?

The Aquila 44 has a massive amount of space on board. There’s so much room from the aft deck through the saloon and down into the twin hulls where there is great accommodation: a master cabin with ensuite and two separate cabins, each with ensuite. It has all the room of a 65-foot monohull, plus the stability and handling that multihulls are renowned for. The flybridge is semi-enclosed so you get great views and protection, and you can use it all year round.

The team at Spectrum Marine and Aquila have been fantastic. They’re boaties themselves and really look after customers beyond the purchase. They offer incredible support and they’ve become good friends. We go out on the Broadwater together as one big extended family. My boats are berthed at Runaway Bay, right in front of Spectrum Marine, so they can show people interested in the brand.

WHICH TYPE OF ACTIVITIES DO YOU USE YOUR BOAT?

Cruising, seeing the sights, rafting up with other boats and enjoying good food and drink while watching the world go by. I like to swim and relax, enjoy the company of friends and my two sons, who are 13 and 14. Lots of our friends bring standup paddle boards and kayaks.

We usually pick up some chooks and salad from Billy’s at Paradise Point and eat, drink and make merry! On Australia Day this year, we cranked up the barbecue on board for the first time, which was fun. Lamb, sausages and lots of salads. Perfect!

WHERE IS YOUR HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BOATING LOCATION, AND WHY?

Airlie beach, where I have spent a lot of time exploring the Whitsunday Islands. There’s so much to see and do, and it’s always changing. Airlie has great night life and a fantastic waterfront. There’s a real buzz!

This year, we plan to head up north in August for Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island Race Weeks. It’s always exciting. There are magic anchorages at Hayman, and all the facilities on Hamo, as well as uninhabited islands for bush walking, fishing, snorkelling or just taking a dip and enjoying the beach.

WHERE ARE THE LOCATIONS YOU REGULARLY TAKE YOUR BOAT, AND WHY?

Locally, Wavebreak Island and Tipplers are handy. On Australia Day, we left Runaway Bay at 6 in the morning and got the last anchorage at Wavebreak. It was so crowded, but fantastic to see everybody out on the water enjoying themselves. It was a wonderful atmosphere, and great weather. The water was crystal clear and as smooth as glass.

WHO DO YOU TAKE WITH YOU WHEN ON YOUR BOAT, AND WHAT IS THEIR REACTION TO YOUR BOATING LIFESTYLE?

Family, my two sons, and lots of friends. They all love it. It was a surprise for my sons, and when they got on board, they immediately fought over the cabins, as one of the portside guest cabins is slightly bigger than the other. They have a lot of commitments with school and cricket, but we’re aiming to get out more often and take some of their friends this year.

IF YOU CAN GIVE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE TO SOMEONE ABOUT BUYING THE RIGHT BOAT, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Don’t go undersized. Always go bigger if you can afford it, so you’re not craving space. I’m a true example of not making up my mind and regretting buying something too small. They say ‘a poor man pays twice’, and you really need to trust the experts. Find a reputable dealer and tap into their knowledge for everything – where to go, safety, tips on maintenance and running, service and support.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING ON THE LOCAL WATERWAYS?

Sharing great days with mates. Boating forces you to relax. You can’t do jobs around the house, mow the lawns, stress about work – all the stuff that chews up your spare time. A day on the water is never wasted.

Waterfront

WAVE ARMOR

JET SKI & BOAT DOCKING

Wa ve Armor from the USA are the leaders in small dry docking systems. From the beginning, the Wave Armor goal was to fully utilise decades of experience to develop a range of products that are not only innovative, durable, and functional, but also showcase a superior design element which sets a new standard in the floating dock industry.

While most floating dock systems on the market today are functional, at best, Wave Armor floating docks set the pace. Being equipped with a fully adjustable soft roller system, they make docking and launching simple. Every member of the family can easily drive on/roll off without damaging the hull of your jet ski or boat. 100% manufactured in the USA, Wave Armor stand behind their docks with a 10-year warranty (conditions apply).

Best Docks stock the SLX series for jet skis and tenders/ tinnies. These Wave Armor products are 100% rotomoulded and foam filled. They are made tough for extreme performance and durability. The SLX series will take all 2 and 3 seater jet skis and are the best drive on/roll off docks on the market. All Wave Armor systems include features that exceed industry standards, are maintenance-free, and have full UV protection.

The SLX series features the SLX5 which is 1.5m (5 feet) wide and 3.8m long, with a floatation weight capacity of

nearly 700kg. Always in stock is the larger SLX6 which is easily their best-selling dock. At 1.8m (6 feet) wide and 3.8 m long, the SLX6 has a floatation of 907kg. The extra width is designed to allow a safer and more stable environment for fueling and maintenance. Both docks are modular and can be linked together to provide a home for all your water toys. If you have a larger jet ski our Pro range of docks will accommodate you.

If you have something larger again please take a look at our Extreme X24 boat dock, which can accomodate boats up to 32FT/9.7m, with a huge 3.6 tonnes floatation. We also have the Pro170/220/8 boat docks. We can accomodate single hull boats, as well as pontoon and tri-toon boats.

THE BEST SKI DOCKS

The SLX Series ports are the original easy drive on/roll off port that changed industry standards by switching to an independent wheel system rather than stiff roller system, so no winch is required. The SLX6 PWC port is designed to integrate with our Wave Armor floating dock system and can also be installed as a stand-alone system or connect together with other floating dock brands and structures.

There is a range of accessories including the Power Launch, which launches your boat at the touch of a button.

For more information on these, or any other system, please call Paul on 0419 201 223

*In Australian Waters

Effortless Docking: With an enhanced entrance design featuring a wider entrance body, you’ll find it easier than ever to align your boat and glide onto the port smoothly. SeaDoo Switch® Compatibility: The adjustable bow stop with a cleat allows you to fine-tune your boat’s position on the port, ensuring a secure fit every time. Plus, the adjustable wheels make it a breeze to accommodate various boat sizes.

YACHTPILOT

REAL-TIME

MONITORING SYSTEM

Know the moment something goes wrong – not 15 minutes later.

It’s 2am. The wind picks up, your anchor drags, or a bilge pump starts running nonstop.

Do you want to find out in the morning – or right now?

That moment is why YachtPilot exists.

Developed in Australia for real-world boating, YachtPilot is a real-time remote boat monitoring and vessel tracking system built around one critical advantage: true real-time alerts. While many systems delay notifications by 5–15 minutes, YachtPilot alerts instantly when something changes – weather, the boat moves, battery levels drop, bilge pumps activate and much more.

When seconds matter, delays aren’t acceptable.

Whether your vessel is in a marina, on a mooring, or offshore, YachtPilot keeps you connected to what matters most: power, position, movement, and onboard systems – so you can act before a small issue becomes a major one.

At the heart of YachtPilot are three purpose-built marine monitoring sensors designed to give you peace of mind whether you’re onboard or thousands of miles away.

Sensor Pro connects to your existing boat electronics to monitor engines, batteries, tanks, GPS, bilge pumps, and more. You see live data in the YachtPilot app and receive instant alerts the moment anything moves outside normal limits.

Connect+ adds off-boat connectivity. Using cellular networks, it sends real-time data and alerts to your phone even when shore power is off and no one is onboard – giving you live boat tracking, battery monitoring, and instant alerts wherever you are.

For rougher conditions or smaller boats in choppy seas, Connect+ Extreme adds a rugged, waterresistant design with enhanced GPS and motion tracking, ensuring reliable monitoring under demanding conditions.

Together, these sensors form a complete remote boat monitoring system – from weekend runabouts to longrange cruisers and commercial vessels. YachtPilot isn’t just about data. It’s about knowing the moment

something goes wrong – and having the chance to do something about it.

To learn how real-time boat monitoring can protect your boat, visit www.yachtpilot.co and explore the system that keeps boat owners one step ahead. Because peace of mind isn’t delayed. It’s instant. Stay tuned for exciting updates!

MB SPORTS WAKE- SURF BOATS for Australian Waters

Wake Surf Boats was founded with one clear goal — to connect the Australian boating community with an exceptional boat-building family from California. The story began when founder Shane exper ienced the incredible surf wake and rapid-fill ballast system of MB Sports. The system, capable of filling and emptying in just 30–60 seconds, delivered such a powerful and consistent wave that he knew this was something special. So impressed, he flew to the United States to personally meet Dustin Brendel and the talented MB Sports team, forging what would become a strong partnership between the two companies.

From that first phone call to his visit to MB’s California headquarters, Shane was met with an unmatched level of support. MB Sports’ dedication to craftsmanship and innovation made it clear that these boats deserved an Australian audience. Now, more than a year later, Wake Surf Boats Pty Ltd proudly offers Australians the opportunity to order their own MB boat and experience the performance and distinct personality that have made the brand a global standout.

Every MB boat is hand-built in the USA with meticulous care. Interiors are crafted in-house, ensuring every detail — from upholstery to

controls — meets the brand’s high standards. Customers can choose from an impressive range of design options and finishes, allowing for a truly personalised experience on the water. With MB Sports, buyers aren’t just purchasing a wake boat; they’re investing in a tailored, superior lifestyle built around performance and precision.

The design itself is unmistakably MB — bold, wave-inspired lines that blend form and function. These boats don’t just turn heads at the marina; they set benchmarks on the water. Known for producing one of the cleanest and most consistent surf waves in the world, MB Sports has redefined wake surfing with a ride that’s effortless, predictable, and endlessly fun.

In every sense, MB Sports boats are crafted to stand out — from their Californian soul to their Australian spirit.

To discuss your build, visit wa kesurfboats.com.au

MOVING BOATS THE RIGHT WAY

INSIDE THE COMPLEX WORLD OF PROFESSIONAL BOAT TRANSPORT

Boat transport is one of those services most owners hope they’ll never need—until they do. And when that moment comes, the difference between a smooth delivery and a logistical nightmare often comes down to experience, preparation, and trust.

For Evan Johnston, boat transport is more than a job—it’s in his blood. A member of a multi-generational trucking family, Evan has been immersed in the transport industry his entire life. After completing a diesel mechanic apprenticeship in the early 2000s, he moved into driving and went on to own his own car transport company within a national network. Since 2019, he’s worked alongside Peter at Victorian Boat Haulage, eventually acquiring the business and expanding its specialised marine transport capability.

Today, the operation runs a diverse fleet tailored to different transport needs, including a dedicated boat truck with a specialised low-set trailer designed to cradle keels safely, a seven-car open car carrier, open vehicle carriers, and tilt trays. This variety allows the team to transport everything from small runabouts to oversized, high-value vessels with precision.

Choosing the right boat transport company, Evan says, starts with instinct. “Trust your gut,” he advises. “If something doesn’t feel right and they can’t reassure you, it’s worth looking elsewhere.” Beyond that, owners should ask the right questions: what equipment is being used, how the boat will be transported, whether the company carries appropriate insurance, and how scheduling is managed. A professional operator will also ask detailed questions about the boat itself—length, beam, height,

weight, year of manufacture, and current and destination locations—often requesting photos before quoting.

Preparation is critical. Before transport, owners are required to secure loose items and remove or firmly fasten arches, canopies, and sometimes windscreens. Drivers conduct final checks once the vessel is loaded, and routes are carefully planned in advance, factoring in access issues such as low power lines, narrow streets, trees, and tight turns. When necessary, alternative routes are mapped to avoid hazards.

Every boat is treated as a unique move. Adjustable supports, removable trailer components, and a wide range of straps, chains, timber, boards, and protective materials allow loads to be customised on the spot. “Just because we moved a Riviera 38 last week doesn’t mean today’s Riviera 38 will be the same,” Evan explains.

Oversize transport adds another layer of complexity. Widths beyond 2.5 metres trigger signage requirements, curfews, and pilot escorts, while vessels over 4.5 metres wide may require multiple certified escorts, police involvement, permits, route surveys, and even temporary road closures. Heights over five metres often involve approvals from multiple electricity and telecommunications providers. These requirements add time, cost, and planning—but they’re essential for safety and compliance.

One of the most challenging moves Evan recalls was transporting a large catamaran—over five metres high and wide—from Melbourne to the Gold Coast. The job involved navigating Melbourne tunnels, securing approvals across multiple jurisdictions, arranging police

escorts, and racing against the Christmas oversize shutdown period. A last-minute police availability issue nearly derailed the move, saved only by an officer willing to travel from the Sunshine Coast. The catamaran arrived safely—but not without meticulous coordination.

Evan is quick to dispel the myth that towing a boat yourself is always cheaper. Fuel, vehicle wear, accommodation, lost work time, insurance exposure, and the risk of damage can quickly outweigh professional transport costs. Secondhand boats, in particular, often hide trailer or structural issues that only experienced operators know to look for.

Vic Boat Haulage operates Australia-wide, including Tasmania, and recommends contacting a transport provider as early as possible—ideally several weeks or even months ahead for oversized moves. Permit approvals alone can take six weeks or more. Weather and marina restrictions can also affect loading and unloading schedules, sometimes requiring last-minute delays.

Fully insured with marine transit cover through NTI and $20 million in public liability insurance, the team prioritises compliance, safety, and communication. For Evan Francis, the reward is simple: no two days are the same, and the job offers a front-row seat to Australia’s roads, coastlines, and boating culture.

And his final advice for first-timers considering DIY towing? “If you’re not completely confident—don’t do it.”

To discuss your transport needs contact www.vicboathaulage.com/

PARKER SORRENTO 100

Consummate Entertainer for Families & Friends

The Sorrento 100 offers precision and power on the water. Designed specifically for twin outboards (up to 350hp), this new Parker model guarantees optimised performance, providing effortless handling. The ergonomic console comprises the latest navigation gear.

But what really sets the Sorrento 100 apart is its impressive manoeuvrability. It can be equipped with bow thruster, stern thruster and outboard joystick, ensuring precision in every movement and total control.

Dmitriy Dubs, director at Nautilus Australia, said the new Sorrento 100 will appeal to Aussie boaties looking for “the best of all worlds, in one package”.

The Sorrento 100 is the latest proficient all-rounder from Polish builder, Parker, now available ‘down under’ through Nautilus Australia.

A spacious, sporty 10.5-metre cruiser with outboard engines that reflects Parker’s tradition and heritage, the Sorrento 100 is packed with innovations.

Designed with superb flow from transom to bow, the Sorrento 100 is the consummate entertainer and a fantastic motor yacht for families and friends for overnight and longer stays on board.

Bringing the outside in, large windows and panoramic sun roof flood the space with natural light, offering uninterrupted views of passing seascapes.

The perfect spot for sun lovers and for socialising while underway or at anchor with large sunpad seating for three guests, the foredeck is easily accessed through a passageway on the port side with secure railings on

both sides. This incredible open bow is complemented by additional seating in the cockpit.

The interiors too are comfortable and contemporary. Two spacious cabins can accommodate up to four adults. Convertible seating area in saloon transforms the sofa and table into an additional double bed, taking the number to six for overnight stays.

To extend the boating season and ensure protection even in inclement conditions, there’s an ingenious aft canopy using innovative Side Pillar Canopy storage. Seamlessly integrated into the side pod of the hardtop, it neatly stores the canvas for a hassle-free experience.

For fuel economy and performance, the Sorrento 100’s twin step hull design is optimised for outboard power, and the boat cuts through the waves with astonishing precision and smoothness.

The Parker Sorrento 100 makes full use of the 3.2-metre beam, maximising the on deck and interior space. The electric sunroof converts the lounge and saloon into a fantastic open sports motor yacht, giving guests great views and a real connection with the water and sky for a perfect day out!

For information Tel: 0414 252 254 More at www.nautilusaustralia.com.au

DIY BOATING BLISS

FAMILY-FRIENDLY STOPS FROM THE BROADWATER TO MORETON BAY

By Andy Kancachian

There’s something timeless about throwing the lines off and setting course with your family aboard. For many DIY boaties, the Gold Coast Broadwater and its connection to the sheltered waterways of Moreton Bay offer the perfect playground—sunshine, safe anchorages, and a buffet of family-friendly destinations where adventure comes free (or close to it). Whether you’re on a trusty trailer-sailer, a modest runabout, or a family cruiser, this stretch of southeast Queensland is a dream run.

Here’s your guide to some of the best stops— complete with free berthing, safe anchorage, top spots for a family fish, and even a pub meal or two—without needing a marina membership.

TIPPLERS AND SOUTH STRADBROKE ISLAND: THE CLASSIC START

Just a short hop from the Gold Coast’s boat ramps (like the excellent Broadwater Parklands or Paradise Point ramps), South Stradbroke Island’s Tipplers is a family classic. There’s free mooring available (get in early on weekends), calm anchorage, and a laid-back atmosphere that keeps generations coming back.

The Tipplers café offers meals and drinks for parents, while kids run wild on the beach or spot wallabies in the nearby bushland. There's even a designated swimming area. And for those packing crab pots or flicking soft plastics, the nearby mangrove channels are teeming with bream, whiting, and the occasional flathead.

JUMPINPIN AND BEDROOMS: A PEACEFUL POCKET

For the DIY family looking to overnight it, “The Bedrooms” on South Straddie’s western shore is a hidden gem. It’s a favourite for kayakers, swimmers, and families seeking peaceful anchorage. Shallow, sandy bottoms make for safe swimming and stress-free anchoring.

Not far from here, Jumpinpin Bar (approach with caution!) offers spectacular sandbanks and fishing spots. Kids can hunt for soldier crabs or dig for pipis while parents cast a line into gutters known for tailor and dart.

JACOBS WELL AND CABBAGE TREE POINT: LOCAL VIBES & LAUNCH PADS

If you're starting further north, Jacobs Well and Cabbage Tree Point are excellent launch points with great facilities and nearby local shops. The calm, winding channels offer endless family exploring opportunities, and you're just a couple

of hours from southern Moreton Bay. You’ll find floating pontoons here for quick stops, and some quiet nearby spots to anchor overnight. Bring the crab pots—this area is a local secret for big muddies after rain.

PEEL ISLAND: HISTORY, HORSESHOE BAY AND SNORKELLING FUN

A little further north in Moreton Bay lies Peel Island—a paradise for families. Horseshoe Bay is a well-known anchorage with sandy shores, clear water, and room for dozens of boats. It’s great for snorkelling, beachcombing, and paddleboarding.

There’s no berthing or facilities, but anchorage is free and well-protected in prevailing easterlies. The island has a rich history (once a leper colony) and curious kids will love exploring the ruins on foot at low tide. Fishing off the boat here brings in grassy sweetlip and snapper. And if you’re lucky, you might be joined by dolphins or turtles.

DUNWICH AND THE LITTLE SHIP CLUB: A FAMILY PUB WITH A VIEW

Craving a cold drink and a hot meal? Head to the Little Ship Club at Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island. It’s one of the few spots in southeast Queensland where you can enjoy free public mooring right out front of a welcoming waterfront pub. Families can tuck into fish and chips on the lawn while watching the sunset over the bay. There's live music on weekends, and the club welcomes visiting boaties with open arms.

Nearby, you’ll find Flind ers Beach and Myora Springs—more anchorage options for families wanting to explore, swim, and spot wildlife.

RABY BAY & CLEVELAND: URBAN PERKS, COASTAL CHARM

For those wanting a mix of nature and urban comforts, Raby Bay offers visitor berths (check availability) and access to Cleveland’s charming cafes, weekend markets, and train line back to

Brisbane if needed. Cleveland Point is another great day stop—there’s a historic lighthouse, grassy parklands, and the Courthouse Restaurant or Grand View Hotel for lunch with a view.

ONE WATERWAY, ENDLESS MEMORIES

From sandy island stopovers to hidden mangrove creeks and waterfront pubs, the journey from the Gold Coast Broadwater to Moreton Bay is a smorgasbord of DIY b oating fun. With a bit of

TIPS FOR DIY FAMILY BOATERS

• Download Navionics or Beacon to Beacon for real-time navigation.

• Carry your tide charts—shoals shift, especially around Jumpinpint

• Weekdays and early mornings are best for snagging best anchorage.

• Always keep life jackets on the kids and make sure you’re weather-ready.

• Be aware of Go Slow Areas in Moreton Bay Marine Park areas — speed limits apply.

• Weather conditions in Moreton Bay can deteriorate rapidly.

planning and a sense of adventure, your family can enjoy days—or weeks—of unforgettable, low-cost cruising in one of Australia’s most scenic marine playgrounds.

So pack the rods, prep the esky, and chart your course. There’s a world waiting just beyond Sovereign Island, Paradise Point.

Fancy yourself a writer or outstanding photographer — or were you simply in the right (or wrong) place at the right time? Boat Gold Coast’s editorial team would be delighted to consider your story submission. If selected, we’ll work with you to produce and publish a compelling magazine feature to share with the wider boating community. Make contact at editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au

Discover the Southern Moreton Bay Islands — A Boater’s Paradise

Set your course for the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, where pristine waterways, protected anchorages, and a relaxed island lifestyle come together in one extraordinary destination. Whether you’re searching for vacant land to design the perfect coastal retreat or an established island home ready to enjoy, the SMBI offer unbeatable value and unrivalled proximity to the Gold and Sunshine Coasts along the beautiful Redlands Coast

Cruise through the Canaipa Passage, the deep-water channel flowing between North Stradbroke and Russell Islands. From your private jetty or mooring, access the open ocean with ease sail south toward the Gold Coast Seaway or venture into Moreton Bay’s expansive marine playground. Join the recently refurbished Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron and immerse yourself in a community that understands the thrill of life on the water.

Across the Bay, Macleay, Karragarra, and Lamb Islands provide calm, sheltered moorings ideal for long weekends afloat, quiet overnight stays, or simply soaking in the serenity of the islands’ gentle tides.

Whether you're seeking a permanent sea change, a weekend escape, or a secure investment in one of Southeast Queensland’s fastest-growing maritime communities, our experienced team is here to help. We’ll care for and manage your property while you explore new horizons , ensuring peace of mind while you’re out sailing the world.

Each year, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show sets the benchmark for what’s next in Australian boating and this year, JSW Powersports is raising the bar with its most impressive Sanctuary Cove showcase to date.

Located in its familiar and highly anticipated position at the show, JSW Powersports will exhibit a mix of industry leading brands across marine and powersports sectors, inviting visitors to experience its world class range in one destination. From luxury bowriders and offshore fishing boats to personal watercraft and electric water toys, the display has been designed to inspire boaties at every stage of their journey.

Leading the charge are Cobalt Boats luxury bowriders, where refined design, intelligent layouts and meticulous

long days on the water and effortless entertaining. These models highlight the balance between comfort, performance and timeless styling that continues to define the premium end of the market. This is your chance to discover why Cobalt Boats are the world’s #1 bowrider. For those drawn offshore, fishing focused vessels from Sea Fox Boats will be on display, purpose built for open water adventures. With their high bows, Carolina flare, sweeping deckline and thoughtful fishing layouts, these boats are engineered for anglers who demand capability, stability and quality without sacrificing versatility for family use closer to shore.

Performance and innovation take centre stage with Malibu and Axis Boats as leaders in high performance tow boating. Designed from the hull up for wakeboarding and wakesurfing, these boats feature advanced wave shaping technology and intuitive control systems, appealing to both first-time riders and seasoned enthusiasts chasing the perfect wake.

As the world’s largest Sea-Doo dealer for 14 consecutive years, JSW Powersports will present a standout Sea-Doo display at Sanctuary Cove, showcasing the full model range. Additionally, Can-Am On-Road and Off-Road vehicles will also feature, offering a natural extension of the adventure beyond the shoreline.

Rounding out the line-up, SEABOB brings a refined sense of excitement, offering a unique way to experience the water both above and below the surface. These high performance electric underwater scooters allow riders to experience the water faster, longer and deeper than ever before.

More than a product display, the JSW Powersports stand is a complete experience. With an expert team on hand, it offers a genuine opportunity to discover what’s possible on the water this season and beyond, making it a must visit destination at Sanctuary Cove.

Find them at stands MH1, MH2 and PW27 at the heart of the show.

www.jswpowersports.com.au

GRAND BOATS S-LINE RANGE

The S-Line range has been a core part of Grand Boats’ tender offering throughout the brand’s 25-year heritage. Built around a lightweight hull and a space-orientated internal layout, these fibreglass console tenders are designed to be easy to handle, versatile in their use and cost-effective.

From fishing and water sports to teaching kids the fundamentals of boating, cruising local waterways or travelling ship to shore, S-Line tenders are used as much for everyday boating as they are in support of larger vessels.

A deliberately open-plan layout underpins the range, allowing for clear deck space and unobstructed movement onboard. The configuration adapts easily to different activities on the water, rather than being defined by fixed structures. Seating is kept simple and practical, arranged to maximise usable storage while maintaining passenger comfort, whether heading out with children or spending time onboard with friends and family.

Ranging from 3 metres to 4.7 metres, lightweight construction sits at the centre of the S-Line philosophy. By keeping overall weight down,

these tenders are easier and more enjoyable to handle, efficient and economical to run, and straightforward to store, whether on deck, on a trailer or in a garage. This balance of weight and strength reflects the Ukrainian brand’s longstanding manufacturing experience, refined over decades.

Within the line-up, the S330 and S420 models have emerged as consistent favourites, offering a well-judged balance of internal space and performance that suits a wide variety of owners and applications.

Offered as complete turnkey packages starting from $19,000, the S-Line range provides a clear and accessible entry point without compromising build quality or practicality. These are tenders designed to integrate naturally into life on the water, serving their purpose reliably and consistently, day after day.

MARINE LOGISTICS

Early Years, Island Gypsy Yachts traces its heritage back more than 130 years to 1887, when Halvorsen Boats was founded in Norway by master boatbuilder Halvor Andersen. His son Lars later joined the family business and, after enduring difficult economic times, relocated to South Africa in 1922 where he established a boat repair and building operation. A few years later, the family moved again, this time to Australia, settling in Sydney. There, the Halvorsen name became synonymous with quality craftsmanship, innovation and timeless style in the Australian boatbuilding industry.

During the Second World War, Halvorsen Boats played a vital role in the Allied war effort. The company built numerous vessels, including Air-Sea Rescue craft used to defend Sydney Harbour, along with eleven 110-foot Fairmile B motor launches. These vessels saw active service in northern Australia and throughout the New Guinea region. Following Lars’ passing in 1936, leadership transferred to his eldest son Harold, who became Managing Director of the newly formed Lars Halvorsen Sons Pty Ltd. Under his direction, the company continued designing pleasure craft, commercial vessels and military boats. In recognition of his contribution to the war effort, Harold was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2000.

After the war, the business relocated to Bobbin Head in Sydney, where the family built a fleet of more than 200 hire boats. This operation became the world’s largest privately owned hire boat fleet at the time. In 2000, ninety classic Halvorsen boats gathered on the Hawkesbury River to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the family’s arrival in Australia and Harold Halvorsen’s 90th birthday.

The company’s racing pedigree is equally impressive. In 1962, Lars Halvorsen Sons built Gretel, Australia’s first challenger for the America’s Cup. Soon after, Trygve and Magnus Halvorsen won three consecutive Sydney to Hobart Yacht Races aboard Freya, a record that still stands today.

In 1970, Harold’s son Harvey became chief designer, and in 1975 he formed a partnership with global marine heavyweight Joseph Kong. Together they launched a new range of pleasure boats aimed at an international market. Harvey coined the name Island Gypsy, inspired by a cruising lifestyle and, unknowingly at the time, reviving a name the family had previously used in 1948.

Over the next two decades, Island Gypsy yachts were built at a purpose-built facility in China, ranging from 9.1 metres to over 40 metres. Following the factory’s closure in the early 2000s, Harvey and his son Mark continued the legacy through approved boatyards.

Relaunched in 2019, Island Gypsy today represents a refined range of semi-custom motor yachts. Blending classic down-east styling with modern engineering and near-silent Python Drive technology, Island Gypsy yachts deliver effortless cruising, efficiency and enduring seafaring spirit for owners who value the journey as much as the destination.

The 320 Sedan Cruiser is a limited-edition release celebrating the enduring legacy of the Island Gypsy brand. This exclusive debut in the iconic 10-metre class embraces a timeless design philosophy, offering owners an effortless escape defined by simplicity, comfort and classic proportions. Three cabin configurations are available, allowing the layout to be tailored to your needs.

Crafted with a hand-laid fibreglass hull and a full-length keel, the 320 Sedan Cruiser delivers reassuring stability and predictable handling in a wide range of conditions. Its confident displacement form encourages relaxed cruising, making it equally suited to coastal passages, quiet anchorages or leisurely weekends on the water. Power is delivered smoothly and efficiently through a traditional shaft drive, reinforcing the yacht’s dependable and uncomplicated character.

Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, highlighted by solid oak joinery and carefully considered finishes that reflect traditional craftsmanship. Three interior configurations allow owners to tailor the layout to suit couples or families, with thoughtful inclusions such as a separate shower and head, practical galley facilities and ample refrigeration supporting extended stays aboard. A well-equipped navigation package, generator and bow thruster further enhance ease of operation, whether cruising short-handed or hosting guests.

Designed to be both functional and refined, the 320 Sedan Cruiser balances heritage styling with modern convenience. As a limited-edition model, it represents a rare opportunity to own a compact Island Gypsy that honours the brand’s seafaring roots while delivering the comfort and confidence expected of a contemporary cruiser.

Beautifully designed Island Gypsy 40 Wide Body delivers extra space, smooth performance and the easy comfort of a home on the water. Building on the success of the original 40, this latest Wide Body version introduces a broader beam that transforms the onboard experience, creating a more open, relaxed environment ideal for entertaining or extended cruising.

At 40 feet in length, the yacht offers generous room for a variety of onwater lifestyles. The expansive galley is designed with practicality in mind, providing ample storage and workspace for those who enjoy cooking aboard, while comfortable seating areas encourage socialising and downtime. Wide, secure walkways around the exterior allow for safe and effortless movement, and a conveniently positioned door near the helm enhances access when docking or moving forward. Inside, the open-plan layout feels welcoming and spacious, with a light-filled atmosphere that resembles a stylish living area rather than a traditional motor yacht.

On the water, the Island Gypsy 40 Wide Body is composed and reassuring. Its well-balanced hull is designed to glide smoothly through varying conditions, delivering stability and comfort whether cruising coastal waters or spending time at anchor. Efficient performance and low maintenance requirements make ownership both practical and enjoyable, while a choice of engine options allows owners to tailor the boat to their preferred cruising style.

Combining thoughtful design, increased space and refined cruising manners, the Island Gypsy 40 Wide Body is a versatile and inviting cruiser, perfectly suited to couples or families seeking relaxed, confident boating without compromise.

A modern classic that fuses timeless down-east charm with whisper-quiet cruising and exceptional stability on the water, the Island Gypsy 480 has quickly earned a reputation as a refined and capable coastal cruiser. Celebrated for its confident presence and elegant proportions, the 480 blends sharp modern lines with the enduring character that defines the Island Gypsy lineage.

Designed with both form and function in mind, the yacht features a seaworthy semi-displacement hull that delivers a smooth, composed ride across a wide range of conditions. Generous deck spaces and a thoughtfully arranged layout create an inviting platform for entertaining, relaxing or extended time aboard with family and friends. Full walk-around decks provide safe and easy movement forward, while open-plan living areas encourage a natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.

At the heart of the Island Gypsy 480 is a commitment to effortless cruising. Advanced engineering and the brand’s signature Python Drive technology combine to deliver near-silent operation, reduced vibration and impressive efficiency. The result is a calm, unhurried experience underway, allowing owners to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

True to the Island Gypsy philosophy, the 480 offers flexibility for owners who value individuality, with opportunities to tailor finishes and layouts to suit personal preferences. Low maintenance requirements and practical design choices further enhance its appeal as a genuine long-term ownership proposition.

Whether cruising quiet coastal waters or hosting guests at anchor, the Island Gypsy 480 strikes a rare balance between classic style and modern comfort, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a timeless motor yacht design.

2026 NEW RELEASE

ISLAND 50 "PRESTIGE" FULL OPTIONED

TRANSFORMING YOUR BOATING EXPERIENCE

This new release is packed with standard options, far more than you’d expect at this level. The 50 Prestige elevates time on the water with a level of finish usually reserved for much larger yachts, delivering a premium cruising experience supported by an outstanding list of onboard comforts.

From the moment you step aboard, the yacht feels purposefully designed for relaxed living and entertaining. The layout offers expansive social areas, both inside and out, with comfortable seating and an easy flow between spaces that encourages connection with guests and family. Large windows flood the interior with natural light, enhancing the sense of openness while maintaining privacy and protection from the elements when required.

Accommodation is equally impressive, with well-appointed cabins that provide a quiet retreat after a day on the water. Premium materials and soft finishes create a warm, sophisticated atmosphere, while modern onboard systems ensure everyday conveniences are always within reach. Whether hosting friends, enjoying extended coastal cruising or spending weekends at anchor, the 50 XL adapts effortlessly to different boating lifestyles.

On the water, the Island Gypsy 50 Prestige is smooth, stable and reassuring. Responsive handling and thoughtful engineering make close-quarters manoeuvring straightforward, while confident cruising performance allows owners to travel in comfort and control. Practical design choices and lowmaintenance systems further enhance the ownership experience.

Blending timeless Island Gypsy styling with modern luxury and intelligent functionality, the 50 Prestige is a compelling choice for those seeking a capable motor yacht that delivers both presence and pleasure, without compromise.

SANCTUARY COVE

Island Gypsy Boats | Brett Flanagan brett@igboats.com.au | 0414 997 654

Island Gypsy Boats | Grant Flanagan grant@igboats.com.au | 0402 811 175

HOPE ISLAND

Boats International | Dan Linderman dan@boatsinternational.com.au | 0438 493 550

SYDNEY

Island Boat Trading Co. | Graham graham@igboats.com.au | 0418 112 888

AVAILABLE VESSELS

Looking to buy or sell? Contact Boats International today!

$949,000

2025 ISLAND GYPSY - COASTAL EXPLORER

The Island Gypsy 42 Coastal Explorer combines timeless craftsmanship with a complete 2024 refit and modern upgrades. Launched on the Gold Coast in 2025 with all-new engines, electrics, plumbing, and furnishings, this immaculate cruiser is turnkey and ready to go.

A bright saloon flows to a spacious cockpit with bar, fridge, and ice maker, complemented by walnut finishes, air conditioning, and a master stateroom for two to four guests. The oversized swim platform and modern navigation suite enhance comfort and usability.

Powered by twin 440 HP Yanmar diesels with shaft drive, SidePower bow thruster, generator, and Victron inverter, it delivers smooth, efficient performance and off grid reliability.

The Island Gypsy Newport 400 delivers big boat presence, timeless style, and serious liveability. Renowned for its solid build and clever design, this proven offshore cruiser offers the perfect balance of comfort, capability, and ease of handling.

Its beamy, stable platform, wide side decks, and practical cockpit make it ideal for cruising, entertaining, or relaxing at anchor. Inside, the layout maximises space where it matters in the saloon, galley, and living zones offering thoughtful flow between helm, lounge, and cockpit for effortless onboard living.

Perfectly sized for couples or families, the Newport 400 feels substantial yet remains manageable for extended adventures. A genuine cruiser with character, it’s built for real use from quiet weekends away to longer coastal escapes.

$688,000

2023 ISLAND GYPSY - 650

$1,999,000

The 2023 Island Gypsy 650 is a 65-foot showcase of craftsmanship and modern luxury a yacht that blends elegance, performance, and versatility. Powered by twin Cummins 715 HP diesels with bow and stern thrusters, dual gyroscopic stabilisers, and dual gensets, it offers effortless handling and long-range cruising with a 3,700 L fuel capacity.

A hydraulic swim platform and spacious cockpit open to bright, refined interiors with wraparound windows, a full-beam master suite, VIP cabin, twin bunk cabin, and two bathrooms. The gourmet galley features premium appliances, and advanced systems include a Garmin navigation suite, Starlink readiness, Victron inverter, and Fusion stereo.

Whether exploring the Whitsundays or entertaining in Sydney Harbour, the Island Gypsy 650 delivers luxury without compromise.

The 2023 Island Gypsy Newport 500 combines classic design with modern engineering for true offshore performance and luxurious liveaboard comfort. Purpose-built for long-range cruising, it offers the ideal mix of style, stability, and practicality.

The light-filled saloon features wraparound windows, warm joinery, and an open-plan galley with premium appliances and ample storage, creating a social, elegant space. Below, two cabins sleep up to seven guests, including a queen master with ensuite and a versatile guest cabin with separate head.

Powered by a Cummins 660 HP diesel with bow and stern thrusters, HydroTab tabs, and full Raymarine navigation, it delivers efficient, confident handling. An Onan 11 kW genset, air conditioning, tender with 30 hp Honda, and Fusion entertainment system complete this capable, well-equipped cruiser.

$1,210,000

2023 ISLAND GYPSY - NEWPORT 500

Boats International Vessel Share Program

The Smart Way to Own Your Boating Lifestyle

The concept is simple you purchase an ownership share in a premium vessel managed exclusively by Boats International. Each owner has guaranteed access throughout the year via our easy to use online booking system. We manage everything else, including servicing, cleaning, berthing, insurance, and maintenance, so you can spend more time enjoying your boat and less time worrying about upkeep.

Every vessel in the share fleet is part of our Premium Care Program, meaning it's kept to the highest standard inside and out. From engine servicing to interior detailing, your boat is always ready to go when you are fuelled, cleaned, and in perfect order. You simply arrive, step aboard, and cruise away.

Whether you’re planning weekend escapes, extended coastal trips, or entertaining family and friends, the Vessel Share Program offers flexibility and real ownership value. You gain the benefits of a luxury boating experience with a much smaller financial outlay, lower ongoing costs, and the peace of mind that comes from professional management by one of Australia’s most trusted marine teams.

With a range of vessels and share options available across Queensland, the Boats International Vessel Share Program makes it easier than ever to enjoy the boating lifestyle you’ve always wanted smarter, simpler, and more accessible. Own the experience. Share the cost. Enjoy the lifestyle.

To learn more, contact the Boats International team today and discover how easy it is to become a share owner in one of our premium vessels.

Many of the Gold Coast’s iconic waterways are now more than 40 years old. As these canal systems and shoreline structures continue to age, deterioration of revetment walls is emerging as a growing concern for waterfront property owners.

With close to 9,000 properties lining the region’s waterways, the scale of the issue is significant.

In many cases, the early signs of soil movement or subsidence go unnoticed until visible cracking, settlement, or wall displacement appears. However, a less obvious early warning sign is the presence of clean sand accumulating beneath wall joints—often occurring well before any stress-related fractures are visible. Almost universally, property owners are left uncertain about the most appropriate and cost-effective preventative action or response.

The reality is that much of this deterioration can be effectively managed long before structural failure occurs. Early intervention and controlled maintenance are often the difference between relatively minor remediation and extensive, costly reconstruction.

A primary contributor to revetment wall failure is soil washout beneath and behind the wall structure. Over time, tidal movement, vessel wash and fluctuating water levels can progressively remove supporting material, compromising the wall’s stability.

Traditional surface repair methods—such as cementitious patching, slurry injections or chemical grouting—may address visible defects, but they often fail to resolve the underlying ground instability caused by soil loss. If this instability remains untreated, hydraulic

load-bearing pressure can build up behind an ageing wall, eventually causing it to lean, deform or fail entirely. Modern marine remediation techniques focus on stabilising the supporting ground below the toe of the wall while relieving pressure from behind. This can be achieved by injecting a single-component, marine-safe engineered resin into the surrounding soils. The resin fills washout voids, halts ongoing soil loss and enhances load-bearing capacity by permeating and strengthening the existing ground—without the need for disruptive traditional reconstruction methods.

Systematic, boat-accessed inspections play a critical role in identifying early-stage deterioration before serious structural compromise occurs. In some cases, intervention may be as simple as maintaining existing weepholes and implementing ongoing monitoring.

Clear photographic inspection reports, combined with practical in-house engineering guidance, provide property owners with the confidence to make informed decisions—free from unnecessary urgency or uncertainty.

Life on the water is defined by outlook, access and longterm value. Revetment walls and seawalls quietly protect waterfront homes from tidal movement, vessel wash, erosion and the effects of time. When deterioration begins, it can impact not only structural integrity, but also the safety of people using the waterway. Property asset values may also be significantly affected if revetment walls are not properly maintained.

Enviromarine delivers discreet, professional inspection and remediation services throug hout South East Queensland, assisting waterfront property

owners in protecting their shoreline investments. By combining marine construction specialists with in-house civil engineering expertise, the team understands the unique stresses imposed on coastal structures by tides, currents and boating activity. This integrated approach ensures quality control, efficiency and practical outcomes.

As the Gold Coast’s waterways continue to age, proactive shoreline maintenance is becoming increasingly important. Addressing revetment wall deterioration early safeguards not only the structure itself, but also the lifestyle and long-term value that waterfront living represents.

For further information, contact 0412 145 600 or mail@emarinecivil.com.au

EFFORTLESS JOY OF PLANING FOR EVERYONE!

The new BENETEAU First 30 is a celebration of performance, comfort, and innovation—a perfect fit for the next generation of sailors. She delivers the sensation of planing, easy handling, safety and cruising comfort – a unique combination of qualities befitting the modern successor to the legendary 1977 First 30.

THE PEARL OF GRAN TOURING

The new BENETEAU Gran Turismo 35 is your gateway to new adventures on the water, with a zero-compromise approach to performance, comfort, and style. Offering the latest and greatest of naval architecture and ergonomics, this beautiful cruiser also benefits from the brand’s 140-year history, delivering an ownership experience that is simply second to none.

The BENETEAU Grand Trawler 63 is not just an evolution—it’s the new vision in long-distance comfort cruising. Built with the expertise of 140 years on the water, engineered using modern yet reliable technology and systems, and designed with purposeful elegance and quiet luxury, the new Grand Trawler will unlock the adventures and destinations you’ve been dreaming about for so long.

700 PILOTHOUSE

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.

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 V-shaped hull is lightweight at 1,640kg with a low planing threshold.

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

OOcean Degree Yacht Services

boatbuilding industry adopts Esthec NAUTICAL Decking

cean Degree Yacht Services has built a strong reputation for delivering a wide variety of yacht solutions, catering to vessels of all sizes. Their experienced team has earned recognition as a top-tier provider within the industry.

A major focus of Ocean Degree’s work is shipwrighting. Backed by a skilled team of craftsmen, they expertly manage everything from small repairs to extensive refits. Their attention to detail ensures every yacht receives the care needed to meet each owner's expectations.

Managing Director Levi Duncan shares, “This year marks a decade of working with Esthec Decking. We’ve been continually improving our capabilities and recently expanded our workshop to keep up with increasing demand. The results speak for themselves—interest in Esthec has soared.”

INNOVATIVE AND ECO-FRIENDLY DECKING WITH A 60-YEAR TRACK RECORD

Esthec Nautical Decking is a sustainable solution for marine decking. What sets it apart is its unique patented thermoset bio-based composition with 85% natural ingredients—unlike traditional decking made from thermoplastics like PVC or natural wood. While wood is undeniably beautiful, it was never designed to endure the demands of decking use.

To combat deforestation caused by human activity, Esthec developed a marine decking solution that aligns with the highest standards of the yachting sector, all while reducing environmental harm. Esthec and parent company Bolidt have put decades of R&D into the performance of this material; and have stood the test of time as a preferred supplier to the super yacht industry world wide.

Esthec ensures quality and longevity by conducting a rigorous development process before production. Only the finest materials are chosen, followed by thorough testing to guarantee durability and resilience.

Key performance benefits of Esthec: low surface temperature, extremely durable, stain resistant & UV stable, solid and strong with a very long service life, exceptional slip rating for safety onboard, and no maintenance other than cleaning.

TRUSTED BY LEADING BOAT BUILDERS

“We’ve just wrapped up work on a 121-foot yacht at Rivergate Marina and are finalising a 78-foot Princess Yacht at our headquarters at The Boat Works,” shares the team.

“Once we saw which major players in the boatbuilding industry were adopting Esthec Decking—like Fedship and other top-tier brands—we knew it was set to lead the market in Australia.”

“This isn’t another plastic deck; it has always represented a real step forward in deck technology. For example, Riviera chose Esthec as standard flooring for their new model showcased at the Sanctuary Boat Show.”

PRACTICAL, COMFORTABLE AND DURABLE

Esthec Decking is a high-performance product with a thickness of 6 mm and a weight of 7.8 kg per square metre. Thanks to its viscous-elastic qualities, it offers excellent wear resistance and provides a splinter-free surface that’s comfortable underfoot. It resists common oils and greases, is simple to maintain, and does not absorb water—helping to preserve the integrity of yachts, tenders, and sloops.

You dream it. We do it.

TAILOR-MADE DESIGNS

Esthec’s "Made to Fit" service offers pre-fabricated decks based on your custom drawings, using DWG or 2D AutoCAD files. Clients can select from a wide range of 12 standard colours, along with seam colour options, to suit their individual preferences. Ocean Degree’s design team has the expertise to turn client visions into premium results.

COMPREHENSIVE BOAT SERVICES

Beyond decking, Ocean Degree also offers top-quality acrylic solid surface upgrades for yacht interiors, including galleys and bathrooms. They work exclusively with premium brands like Corian, Staron, and Meganite, offering numerous colours and styles. Solid surface materials are prized for their durability, hygienic properties, and seamless aesthetic. Their adaptability allows for sleek curves and expansive surfaces, ideal for countertops, feature walls, and more.

With modern facilities, a skilled team, and a commitment to open client communication, Ocean Degree Yacht Services continues to set the standard in yacht maintenance, refitting, and custom enhancements.

www.oceandegree.com.au

YOUR BEST MEMORIES START HERE

SEA STORM BUILT FOR FUN, FAMILY & FOREVER

Durable enough for kids, famili es, fishos, and commercial operators, the new Sea Storm range brings a refreshing blend of safety, style, and innovation to Australian waters. Designed in collaboration with the world-renowned Mannerfelt Design Team, these rotomoulded High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) boats are the product of years of research, development, and a deep passion for the sea.

Founded by Len and Aljona Ystmark, Sea Storm is backed by serious pedigree. The couple has already built over 50,000 rotomoulded Sea Bird Kayaks since 2006, distributing through 80 dealers worldwide. Now, with Sea Storm Boats reaching 38 countries, their latest venture is making big waves — quite literally.

Each boat is rotomoulded in one solid piece from ICORENE 1339, a market-leading HDPE developed in partnership with INEOS British chemists. The result? A virtually unsinkable hull that remains stable even when filled with water. Families can relax knowing their Sea Storm won’t sink, crack, or corrode.

The Scandinavian-inspired design from Mannerfelt ensures every model looks as good as it performs. Smooth, modern lines con ceal a thick dual-skin

construction that ab sorbs noise and softens the ride, even in choppy conditions. With their light, flexible, and fuel-efficient hulls, these boats are easy to launch, tow, and store — perfect for weekend explorers and coastal anglers alike.

Maintenance is practically non-existent. Forget polishing, repainting, or buffing. Just rinse and go. The HDPE construction shrugs off impacts that would dent aluminium or chip fibreglass, and with a 20-year warranty, owners can truly “set and forget.”

Sea Storm boats are self-draining, quiet, and environmentally responsible — made from 100% recyclable plastic with a low carbon production footprint. Designed for a lifetime of use, their estimated service life exceeds 50 years, making them as sustainable as they are tough.

With Sea Storm’s innovative and unsinkable design, the only thing you’ll need to worry about is having fun. Built for Australian conditions and backed by Lifestyle Marine, Sea Storm Boats promise a future of worry-free boating for everyone.

Discover more at sea storm.au

Safe. Stable. Unsinkable.

VOLVO PENTA

BRINGS ADVANCED JOYSTICK FEATURES TO WIDER BOATING MARKET

Volvo Penta is expanding its award-winning Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) features with the launch of enhanced joystick technology for V8 single gasoline engines. Now, a broader range of watersports and recreational vessels can offer the seamless simplicity of Joystick Driving, Joystick Docking and Joystick Surfing.

Through the introduction of an upgraded electric steering system for gasoline single-engine installations, Volvo Penta’s advanced joystick options can now enable more precise control — from navigating tight marinas to carving the perfect waves — for even more boaters across a range of on-water activities.

The innovation builds on Volvo Penta’s legacy of joystick technology, which has been central to its helm-to-propeller approach for nearly two decades, with new solutions that increase functionality, comfort and confidence at the helm. Additional options for the gasoline engine range include Joystick Driving, Joystick Docking, and Joystick Surfing, offering full joystick functionality for surfing and docking at low speeds as well as high-speed driving.

“These joystick features were developed in response to strong demand from OEM partners who saw its potential to elevate the experience for a broader base of boaters,” said Jens Bering, head of Marine Product and Solutions Management at Volvo Penta North A merica. “Excitement from the market continues to fuel innovation and solidify Volvo Penta’s leadership in the recreation and watersports boat segments.”

The evolution of easy boating

Volvo P enta aims to deliver a truly intuitive boating experience with its advanced joystick functionality, where it is possible for the operator to never have to engage with the steering wheel or control lever while docking, driving or surfing.

Joystick Driving integrates shift, steering and throttle into one joystick control, allowing operators to maneuver, adjust heading and increase or decrease speed with a single hand simply pushing or pulling the joystick. Joystick Docking offers peace of mind around the dock via low-speed maneuvering with confidence and ease using one joystick control.

“Volvo Penta’s joystick technology is built for modern boaters who value simplicity and comfort on the water,” said Bering. “Whether you're docking in a tight slip, accelerating across open water or setting up for the perfect wave, our joystick features are engineered to provide flexibility and peace of mind at every turn.”

When using the Joystick Surfing function together with the integrated Volvo Penta Watersport Control, operators can simply select a favorite profile on the Glass Cockpit Display while in Surf Mode and press the joystick forward to begin cruising, for smoother, more controlled sessions while towing a surfer at lower speeds. This userfriendly functionality keeps the operator involved in the action and aware of the surfer while making easy course corrections with one hand as the wakesurfer enjoys a perfect wave.

Comfort that lasts the journey

Volvo Penta’s joystick can be conveniently mounted in an ergonomic position that enhances comfort during long days on the water. Smart safety features also help to ensure a smooth journey for boaters.

For added functionality, an Autopilot system can be fully integrated into the EVC system, offering benefits like optimized navigation, precise heading, haptic steering and course control.

The latest EVC evolution marks a major step forward in Volvo Penta’s journey toward ease of use and more user-friendly boating. With Joystick Driving, Joystick Docking and Joystick Surfing for Twin Forward Drive already in the market, this advancement for single gasoline engines reinforces the company’s commitment to making boating more accessible and enjoyable for all.

www.volvopenta.com/en-au

a new generation of excellence

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

AT GOLD COAST SUZUKI MARINE OUTBOARD SERVICE CENTRE

Gold Coast Suzuki Marine are committed to providing unparalleled expertise and genuine Suzuki products for your marine needs.

old Coast Suzuki Marine, located in Coomera, stands as the authorised Suzuki Marine dealer catering to the Gold Coast and Hinterland areas. Specialising in comprehensive Suzuki services, including repowers, repairs, and maintenance, we prioritise the use of top-notch, genuine Suzuki spare parts to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your marine engine.

Our extensive inventory boasts a diverse selection of both new and used outboard motors for sale, covering 2 and 4-stroke varieties. At Gold Coast Suzuki Marine, we take pride in delivering expert service and meticulous care for all makes and models. Recognising the pivotal role of regular maintenance in guaranteeing trouble-free operation, we house factory-trained technicians equipped with the

latest Suzuki Diagnostic System. Whether it's routine maintenance or addressing specific service needs, our team is ready to uphold the highest standards.

Keep it real with Gold Coast Suzuki Marine, and safeguard your boating experience through periodic maintenance and the use of genuine Suzuki parts. Suzuki Genuine Parts are meticulously designed and tested to meet stringent standards for performance, quality, durability, safety, and comfort. Every Suzuki product is crafted with these authentic parts, ensuring a perfect match tailored for each specific model.

Suzuki Genuine Parts are your guarantee for maintaining your Suzuki in top condition. Tested and guaranteed by Suzuki, these parts maximise the potential of your marine

engine, providing the reliability and safety essential for a comfortable boating experience.

Periodic maintenance is highlighted as crucial for preserving your Suzuki's peak condition, emphasising the replacement of consumable parts and timely oil/chemical changes. Suzuki's Periodic Maintenance Schedule, outlined in your owner's manual, guides you through essential tasks such as engine oil and filter changes, gear oil replacement, and spark plug inspections at designated intervals.

Adhering to the maintenance schedule not only ensures safety, reliability, and comfort but also safeguards against major, costly problems. Suzuki recommends the use of genuine parts during maintenance and repairs to guarantee the optimal performance of your outboard motor, ultimately enhancing its resale value.

Regular servicing and inspections before each use play a pivotal role in maintaining your outboard's overall performance and safety. Should any abnormalities arise, don't hesitate to contact us. Additionally, practising proper maintenance, such as washing the exterior body and flushing the cooling water passage with fresh water after each use, ensures long-lasting performance.

Inspecting key components, including the fuel system, fuel filter, engine oil, engine oil filter, gear oil, cooling water, battery, and propeller, is imperative. Following Suzuki's guidelines on fuel quality, replacing filters and adhering to oil change intervals are essential practices to uphold engine life and performance.

For exceptional pricing and service on new Suzuki motors or repowering your existing boat, contact Mark at gcsuzukimarine.com.au or call Ph: (07) 5665 9566

GOLD COAST SUZUKI MARINE

“WE

REPAIR ALL THINGS INFLATABLE!”

TRUSTED FOR OVER 25 YEARS RE-TUBING TUBE REPAIRS DAVITS

B u i l t u s i n g h i g h - d e n s i t y p o l ye t hy l e n e c o n s t r u c t i o n , t h e s e s u p e r ve s s e l s a re l i g h te r t h a n wa te r, h i g h l y i m p a c t- re s i s ta n t , a n d e n g i n e e re d fo r s t re n g t h w i t h o u t u n n e c e s s a r y we i g h t .

WWithout the Premium Price Tag BUILT FOR AUSTRALIAN INSHORE FISHOS

hen the tide turns and baitfish scatter across the shallows, reliability is everything.

In Australia’s unforgiving inshore environments, your vessel is more than transport — it is your advantage. The Gladiator 4.9m Centre Console has been engineered specifically for these conditions, delivering serious performance in shallow, structure-rich waters at an accessible price point.

Constructed from advanced lightweight HDPE using rotational moulding technology, the Gladiator’s one-piece hull eliminates traditional weak points found in fibreglass boats. This seamless build offers exceptional durability when navigating rocky outcrops, oyster-covered snags and tight mangrove creeks where mangrove jack, barra and flathead thrive.

It is purpose-built for anglers who fish hard and expect their boat to do the same. At 4.9 metres, the Gladiator offers a stable, balanced platform with a true 360-degree casting layout. The centre console configuration maximises usable deck space, allowing unrestricted movement when working lures, casting soft plastics or responding to sudden surface activity.

Whether drifting reef edges for snapper, sight-casting on the flats, or probing structure for coral trout, the Gladiator delivers manoeuvrability and control in shallow water — capable of operating in as little as 250mm.

Built-in Level Flotation provides unsinkable confidence, an essential feature when exploring unfamiliar creeks or shallow reef systems. The UV-resistant HDPE hull requires no gelcoat maintenance and is immune to corrosion and osmosis. It shrugs off impacts that would sideline conventional hulls, offering long-term durability under harsh Australian sun and saltwater exposure.

Key specifications include a 65-litre underfloor fuel tank for optimal balance, honeycomb aluminium non-skid flooring with optional EVA coverings, rear transom steps for easy access, and compatibility with modern low-emission four-stroke outboards. The material’s high strength-to-weight ratio supports excellent fuel efficiency while also delivering sound dampening benefits. Impact resistant, corrosion proof and fully recyclable, the Gladiator 4.9m Centre Console represents practical innovation for serious inshore anglers.

It is not simply another fishing boat — it is a purpose-driven platform designed to perform for decades in Australia’s most demanding waters.

For more information visit www.oceanarrowmarine.com.au

Ocean Arrow has always been a true Queensland business, with management who have saltwater in their veins and a lifelong love of the ocean. After decades of hard work and dedication, that passion has steered the company towards designing and delivering a range of boats, including the Gladiator, Harpoon, Orca and OPZ outboard brand—built to provide high-quality vessels that allow everyday Australians to enjoy the sea without blowing the budget.

Based in Loganholme, Ocean Arrow offers a wide range of trusted brands, along with expert maintenance and repair services to keep equipment running at its best. Finance options are also available to help customers get on the water sooner.

Performance and protection are non-negotiable for boat owners. Whether investing in a new boat or preparing for the seasons ahead, keeping underwater assets in optimal condition is essential. Australian boaters navigate some of the most foulingprone waters in the world, where marine growth can quickly impact efficiency and performance, cutting into valuable time on the water.

Since 1999, Propspeed has been the industry standard in biocide-free foul-release protection for running gear and underwater metals. Tried and tested by hundreds of thousands of boaters worldwide, Propspeed consistently delivers the same result: improved boat performance, lower fuel burn and operational costs, sustained vessel value, all while keeping running gear operating and looking its best season after season. The iconic gold coating is the original foul-release system that defined the category and remains the benchmark for Australian boaters.

As vessel design evolves, so do the materials and components below the waterline. Beyond traditional running gear, today’s boats rely on thrusters, stabilising systems, fins, RIB tubes, and outboard units manufactured from a variety of materials - painted aluminium, plastics, composites, carbon fibre, PVC, and Hypalon. Until now, protecting these surfaces has largely been overlooked or left to traditional antifoul coatings containing biocides – highlighting the need for a solution that delivers the same performance standard across underwater components.

NOW IN MARKET:

FOULFREE™ MULTI-SURFACE SYSTEM

Addressing this need directly, Propspeed introduced the Foulfree Multi-Surface System, expanding foulrelease protection to vessels 26ft and above. Now available across Australia, it extends Propspeed’s trusted technology beyond metals, delivering

invisible, non-invasive protection for non-metal underwater components. By forming a smooth, lowfriction surface, it helps prevent marine growth from taking hold, keeping y our boat running clean and sharp every time you leave the dock.

When marine growth builds on underwater components, the impact is immediate, fuel consumption rises, responsiveness dulls, and the effortless feel on the water starts to fade. With Foulfree Multi-Surface protecting these surfaces, underwater components perform as intended. Stabilisation stays smooth, manoeuvring remains confident in tight marinas, acceleration feels responsive, and your boat maintains the edge it was built to deliver.

The Foulfree Multi-Surface System features a straightforward preparation process, a 10-minute overcoat window at 20°C and a full cure in just 12 hours, ensuring your boat returns to the water sooner so you can get back to chasing fish, cruising the coastline, or heading out wide at first light.

With a clear, non-invasive finish, the system protects components without altering the look or lines of your boat. The result is a vessel that feels composed, confident, and ready for open water.

TRUSTED IN AUST RALIAN WATERS

From the refit yards of Coomera and Broadwater to marinas along the coastline, boating runs on trust, in the people who maintain vessels and the partners that consistently deliver. Working alongside applicators, distributors, boat builders, and boatyards across the country, Propspeed continues to support the marine community with foul-release protection trusted to deliver in harsh conditions.

For more than two decades, Propspeed has defined the industry standard for foul-release coatings. Backed by global proven performance, long-standing relationships and partnerships across the marine industry, Propspeed continues to lead the way in performance, protection, and reliability - powering the future of cleaner, more efficient boating.

This year, Propspeed will be exhibiting at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS), Booth PW17, inviting boat owners and marine professionals to explore the full foul-release range and experience firsthand the protection that continues to define the category.

For more details on Propspeed, visit www.propspeed.com

SUZUKI OUTBOARDS

A BROAD AND BALANCED 2026Line-Up

Suzuki Marine leads the way in 2026 with one of the most comprehensive and mature four-stroke outboard ranges in the global marine market. Rather than chasing constant reinvention, Suzuki’s approach continues to focus on refinement, reliability and practical engineering, offering boat owners a wide choice of engines that cover almost every recreational and light commercial boating application.

At the top end of the line-up are Suzuki’s highhorsepower outboards, designed for offshore, blue-water and performance-oriented boating. Engines in the 300–350hp category are aimed at larger centre consoles, offshore fishing boats and multi-engine installations where strong torque, smooth power delivery and long-range efficiency are critical. These flagship models are known for their strong mid-range performance and refined operation, attributes that make them particularly appealing for boats that regularly carry heavy loads or operate over long distances.

Within this premium segment sits Suzuki’s Stealth range, which combines proven mechanical packages with a distinctive matte-black finish. The Stealth models are targeted at owners who want high performance without visual distraction, and they have become increasingly popular with sportfishing enthusiasts and custom boat builders seeking a clean, understated transom appearance. While the styling is bold, the emphasis remains firmly on durability and everyday usability rather than cosmetic novelty.

Moving into the heart of the market, Suzuki’s midrange outboards between 150hp and 200hp remain a cornerstone of the brand’s success. These engines are widely seen on Australian runabouts, offshore fishing boats, pontoons and light commercial vessels. Offering an effective balance

ExperiencePowerLikeNoOther

between power, fuel economy and manageable weight, this segment suits a broad cross-section of boat owners. Suzuki’s lean burn fuel management technology plays a key role here, automatically adjusting fuel delivery to maximise efficiency across a wide range of operating conditions, particularly at cruising speeds.

Below this, Suzuki’s small to mid-horsepower range from around 40hp to 140hp continues to appeal to family boaters and recreational anglers. These engines are commonly fitted to aluminium fishing boats, ski boats and general-purpose craft, where smooth idle, easy starting and predictable handling are valued just as highly as outright power. Simple rigging options and a reputation for low ongoing maintenance make this part of the range especially attractive to owners upgrading from older two-stroke engines.

At the compact end of the spectrum, Suzuki’s portable outboards from 2.5hp through to 30hp complete the 2026 offering. Lightweight and easy to transport, these engines are well suited to tenders, inflatables and small craft, as well as auxiliary applications on larger boats. Despite

their size, they follow the same four-stroke design philosophy as the rest of the range, delivering quiet operation, reduced emissions and dependable performance in everyday use.

Across the entire line-up, Suzuki maintains a strong focus on corrosion protection and long-term durability, an important consideration for boats operating in saltwater environments. The brand’s consistent engineering approach means that owners benefit from a familiar service structure and broad dealer support, regardless of engine size.

For 2026, Suzuki Marine’s outboard range stands as a reminder that steady evolution can be just as valuable as headline-grabbing change. By offering a wide, well-supported line-up that prioritises efficiency, reliability and real-world performance, Suzuki continues to position itself as a dependable choice for boat owners seeking confidence on the water — from small tenders to serious offshore machines.. Find your local dealer at

IPOWERING THE WAVES WHY DEDICATED MARINE BATTERIES MATTER MORE THAN EVER

n the world of marine adventures, whether you're chasing trophy fish offshore or cruising the coastline at sunset, reliability is everything. At the heart of that reliability lies a component often overlooked: the boat's battery system. Specifically, the importance of having dedicated marine starting and deep-cycle batteries cannot be overstated. These aren't just accessories, they're lifelines.

Let's dive into why by considering purpose-built solutions, such as the Supercharge Seamaster Starting Battery. This is a high-performance, maintenance-free starting battery with advanced calcium technology, along with the Amptech DeepCycle Battery, a marine-grade deep cycle battery with flooded lead-acid, absorb glass mat (AGM) or lithium technology options; all with high reserve capacity, which is essential for any serious boater.

STARTING STRONG: THE ROLE OF MARINE STARTING BATTERIES

Marine starting batteries are designed for one primary purpose: to deliver a powerful burst of

energy to crank your engine. Unlike automotive batteries, marine starting batteries, such as the Supercharge Seamaster, are engineered to withstand the harsh, high-moisture environment on the water. They feature:

• Reliable Marine Cold Cranking for reliable engine ignition even in cold weather

• Robust construction to resist vibration and corrosion

• Quick recharge c apability, ensuring you are ready to go again after each start

The Supercharge Seamaster starting battery is a standout. Built with advanced lead-acid calcium technology, it provides superior starting power and extended lifespan. Its maintenance-free design means less time worrying and more time enjoying the open water. Whether you're firing up a highhorsepower outboard or a diesel inboard, the Seamaster delivers consistent and reliable starts.

DEEP RESERVES: WHY DEEP CYCLE BATTERIES ARE ESSENTIAL

Once your engine is running, the deep-cycle battery takes over. It powers your onboard electronics, lights, trolling motors, and other accessories. Unlike starting batteries, deep-cycle batteries are designed to discharge slowly over time and withstand repeated cycles of charging and discharging.

The Amptech Deep-Cy cle Battery is a prime example of what a marine-grade deep-cycle battery should be. It offers:

• Robust plate and construction for an excellent deep discharge capability a nd shock/vibration resistance.

• Spill-proof design with very low self-discharge rate.

These features of our Amptech Deep Cycle batteries makes it perfect for rough waters and long hauls.

WHY YOU SHOULDN'T USE ONE BATTERY FOR BOTH JOBS

It's tempting to cut corners and use a single battery for both starting and deep cycle tasks. However, doing so compromises performance and shortens battery life. Starting batteries aren't built for deep discharge, and deep-cycle batteries cannot deliver the high cranking amps needed to start an engine reliably. This can lead to reduced battery lifespan, increased risk of f ailure, and potentially dangerous situations, especially in critical moments offshore.

Using dedicated batteries ensures:

• Optimal performance for both starting and accessory power

• Longer battery lifespan , saving money in the long run

• Reduced risk of failur e, especially in critical moments offshore

SMART POWER MANAGEMENT FOR MODERN BOATS

Today's boats are more tech-heavy than ever. GPS systems, sonar, ra dios, lighting, and refrigeration all demand reliable power. Pairing a Seamaster starting battery with an Amptech deep-cycle battery creates a robust dual-battery setup that ensures your engine starts when needed and your electronics stay powered throughout the journey.

For even better performance, consider installing a battery isolator or a marine-grade switch. These components allow you to charge both batteries while protecting your starting battery from being drained by onboard accessories, ensuring a reliable power supply for your engine and electronics throughout your journey.

INVEST IN CONFIDENCE

Boating should be about freedom, not frustration. The correct battery setup—anchored by the Supercharge Seamaster and Amptech Deep Cycle—gives you a profound sense of peace, knowing your vessel is powered by components built for the marine environment. So, before your next voyage, ask yourself: Are you trusting your adventure to the right batteries? If not, it's time to upgrade. Because when you're miles from shore, reliability isn't optional—it's everything. And that's where the Supercharge Seamaster and Amptech Deep Cycl e come in.

www.supercharge.com.au/find-a-dealer

EXCESS 13

Claims Historic European Yacht of the Year Title

For the first time in 23 years, a multihull has claimed one of sailing’s most influential awards, ending the longstanding dominance of monohulls.

In a landmark result, the Excess 13 has been named European Yacht of the Year 2026 in the Family Cruiser category. This prestigious victory represents more than just a trophy for Excess Catamarans — it signals a new era in family cruising.

Modern sailors, particularly families, are increasingly seeking yachts that combine modern comforts with safety and performance, and the Excess 13 marks an exciting turning point in that shift.

The Excess 13 has carved a unique space in the industry, proving that multihulls can deliver generous volume and serious sailing performance. Until now, cruising catamarans were defined more by cabin space than sail area. The Excess 13 changes that equation.

Weighing approximately 20 percent less than comparable boats and carrying around 15 percent more upwind sail area, it offers a more responsive, engaging sailing experience while maintaining all the comfort and safety families expect. Twin aft helms provide excellent steering feedback and visibility, and the optional Pulse Line package adds even sharper handling and additional sail power for those craving an exhilarating ride.

The Excess 13’s performance-focused design has earned it widespread international recognition. In addition to the European Yacht of the Year 2026 Family Cruiser title, it was

named Multihull of the Year 2025 by Multicoques Mag at the International Multihull Show, Sailboat of the Year 2025 by Voile Magazine, and included in SAIL Magazine’s Top 10 Best Boats of 2026. These accolades highlight the yacht’s remarkable balance of comfort, performance, and design innovation.

Australian sailors can now experience the Excess 13, which has just arrived exclusively in the country. Queensland Excess importer Rohan Veal of 38 South Yacht Sales said it is set to be a standout feature at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, offering a rare opportunity to see the award-winning catamaran up close.

“We’re incredibly proud to bring this catamaran into Australia at such a pivotal moment for the industry. The Excess 13 challenges traditional ideas of what a family cruising multihull can do. Sanctuary Cove will be the perfect stage to showcase that,” said Veal.

Representing the brand locally is World Wide Boat Brokers (WWBB), the Exclusive Queensland Dealer for Excess Catamaran, who will work alongside Rohan to showcase the yacht.

WWBB CEO Ant Kovacevic said he is thrilled to be at the forefront of introducing this sensational catamaran to Australian sailors.

“Excess is changing the game in the cruising catamaran space and we’re extremely excited to be able to showcase their innovative and award-winning design. Modern buyers are looking for yachts that sail exceptionally well, support family cruising, and deliver genuinely thrilling and memorable experiences on the water. The Excess 13 does all of that and its European Yacht of the Year win confirms it's making waves in the sailing industry,” said Ant.

Prospective owners can choose full ownership or join a 1/10 share syndicate, making it accessible for anyone eager to experience this highly sought-after catamaran.Private viewings are also now available through World Wide Boat Brokers prior to the show, offering an exclusive opportunity to step aboard before the public.

The Excess 13 is set to shake up Australia’s sailing scene, bringing a new level of comfort and helm-side fun to family cruising. With its highly anticipated debut

at Sanctuary Cove in May, Australian sailors have a rare opportunity to experience a catamaran already reshaping expectations globally. Its arrival promises to energise the local multihull market, redefining what modern family cruising can deliver, and the future of family cruising has never looked more exciting.

For enquiries contact Ant from World Wide Boat Brokers on 0423 249 249 or email ant@wwbb.com.au

SWALLOW YACHTS Whisper 300

A

The Swallow Yachts Whisper 300 – a modern classic challenging convention in pursuit of pure elegance, simplicity and sustainability. And just look at that shape…

In a power-cruiser market saturated by heavy plastic hulls and enormous engines with fuel bills to match, the Whisper 300 is, quite literally, a breath of fresh air.

Designed and built in Wales by Swallow Yachts, the Whisper 300 is the brainchild of designer Matt Newland. Interestingly, Newland is first and foremost a sailor, and Swallow Yachts is best known for its sailing yachts. That heritage is evident here. The brief was personal and purposeful: create an attractive, hassle-free family

powerboat that is easy to use, economical to run and kind to the environment.

And so, the 30-foot Whisper 300 powerboat concept was born – a powerboat designed by a yachtie. And it shows.

This is a strikingly elegant design. A fabulous blend of classic styling with modern angles and functionality. A boat that exudes pride in ownership.

Here’s the surprise – she’s built entirely of wood.

But forget traditional planking and seams. Swallow Yachts’ “encapsulated wood” construction uses modern epoxy resins to fully seal every component, resulting in a hull that is strong, lightweight and low maintenance, with durability comparable to fibreglass. Each boat is handcrafted, with no moulds and no mass production - just meticulous attention to detail.

The easily driven hull form enables the modest twin 70hp outboards to push the Whisper 300 along at a respectable 26 knots. She’ll sit comfortably on the plane at a 22-24 knot cruise and consume just 30-35 litres of fuel per hour. That’s economical boating.

And she looks great doing it!

The outboards are neatly concealed in an engine box, reducing engine noise, while still being able to tilt clear of the water, so there’s no fouling of running gear if the boat lives at the marina. Hassle-free boating, remember?

Concealing the outboards within the boat offers other advantages too – like the full wrap-around swim platform, usually only possible on inboard-powered boats. How very Mediterranean.

Below deck, the forward cabin offers a generous V-berth, a beautifully appointed head and a functional dresser with hanging locker. The cockpit is sociable and refined, with seating for eight, a functional galley, and exquisite custom details throughout, such as the coloured feature table, painted in the same colour as your hull – which, incidentally, can be any colour you wish.

The light-weight nature of the Whisper 300 offers one very practical advantage – she’s able to be legally towed on the road in Australia behind a 3.5 tonne towing capacity vehicle (subject to vehicle specification).

The Swallow Yachts Whisper 300 doesn’t just tick the boxes; it redefines them.

Contact Riviera Nautic, your Australian Dealer for the Swallow Yachts Whisper 300. www.rivieranautic.com.au

SUZANN E HEYWOOD’S WAVE WALKER

A Memoir of Breaking Free

An extraordinary story of endurance, intelligence and quiet rebellion. At the age of seven, Suzanne was taken from a conventional life in England and placed aboard a small sailing boat called Wavewalker. Her parents, inspired by a spirit of adventure and a belief in freedom from social conventions, planned a three-year voyage around the world. That plan quickly unravelled into a decade-long odyssey that kept the family at sea for much of Suzanne’s childhood and adolescence.

The memoir follows this drifting life from one ocean to another, from storm-lashed nights to long stretches of isolation in remote harbours. What begins as a grand

family adventure soon reveals itself as something much darker: a story of neglect and misplaced idealism. The adults’ dream of freedom becomes a cage for their children. Suzanne and her younger brother are left without regular schooling, medical care or a stable home, their lives dictated by the moods of their parents and the unpredictable rhythm of the sea.

Despite the dangers and the deprivation, the book is not one-dimensional. Heywood writes with remarkable composure, capturing the haunting beauty of the natural world and the moments of wonder that coexisted with fear. Her recollections of star-filled skies, distant islands and the sound of the waves convey both awe and loneliness. The Wavewalker becomes a symbol of both imprisonment and survival—a small, fragile world that she learns to endure while quietly nurturing her own ambitions.

The turning point of the story comes when Suzanne begins to fight for education and independence. Her determination to study, often in secrecy and against her parents’ wishes, gives the memoir its emotional drive. Eventually, she finds her way back to land and to a future entirely of her own making. The later sections of the book describe her reinvention as a student, professional and parent—proof that escape is possible even after years of confinement.

Wavewalker is as much a psychological journey as a physical one. It exposes the cost of misplaced idealism and the resilience required to reclaim one’s life. Written with clarity and restraint, it is a compelling portrait of courage, endurance and the power of education to offer true freedom. www.suzanneheywood.com

Australia’s largest premium marina network expands to 16 marinas

s & Fe at u re s

• 30 nights reciprocal berthing across the network*

• Prime marina locations across QLD, NSW & VIC

• 24/7 † markdown members fuel pricing

• Dockmaster berth & fuel assistance

• Member & guest services 7 days a week

• d’Albora app delivering a personalised member experience

• Wet berthing, floating air docks, dry stacker, moorings & berthing for vessels up to 50m

• Full-service boatyards across the network

Experience the Lifestyle

Nd’Albora PACIFIC POINT

estled in the heart of Queensland’s pristine waterways, d'Albora Pacific Point Marine Precinct is a destination for boaters looking for marine facilities, exceptional service, and easy access to both Brisbane and the Gold Coast waterways. Whether you’re after a secure berth for your vessel or require professional maintenance and repairs, d'Albora Pacific Point offers everything a boat owner could need, with its comprehensive marina services and full-service boatyard facility and part of the larger d’Albora network.

VERSATILE VESSEL BERTHING OPTIONS: WET BERTHS AND DRY STORAGE

One of the key advantages of d'Albora Pacific Point Marine Precinct is its wide range of vessel berthing opportunities. The marina offers both wet berths and dry storage solutions annually or casually, catering to boats of all sizes and types.

The marina boasts over 500 wet berths, all fully serviced, offering power and water connections to ensure vessels are well-maintained and ready for use at a moment's notice. These wet berths are available for long-term and short-term stays, giving boat owners the flexibility to choose the arrangement that best suits their needs.

For those who need a more space-efficient or costeffective option, d'Albora Pacific Point also provides 334 dry storage racks for smaller boats. This facility ensures your boat is stored securely on land undercover when not in use, keeping it safe from the elements and reducing maintenance costs. The marina’s dry storage area is conveniently located, allowing for easy access and quick launches via the d’Albora App.

NEAR-NEW - 95 HOURS

NEW PREMIUM MARINA BERTH DEVELOPMENT 16 M & 20M B ERTHS AVAILABLE

Further development is currently taking place with the installation of X, Y, Z marina arms, comprising 54 new wet berths, offering 16M and 20M wet berths for mono hulls and wider berths for catamarans. New member bathroom facilities will also be added as part of this marina upgrade.

Contact Member & Guest Services to enquire about these new available berths via 1800 DALBORA (32 52 672) or email enquiry@dalbora.com.au

FULL-SERVICE BOATYARD: EXPERT CARE FOR YOUR VESSEL

d'Albora Pacific Point Marine Precinct is more than just a place to park your boat—it’s also a full-service boatyard facility designed to keep your vessel in pristine condition. The boatyard by d’Albora is equipped with state-ofthe-art equipment and staffed by highly skilled marine technicians who offer a wide range of boat repair and maintenance services.

The marina’s boatyard features a 70-tonne travel lift, capable of lifting vessels for maintenance and repairs, refits and loading them onto the hardstands or covered sheds. From routine annual servicing, hull cleaning, and antifouling, to more complex shipwright, mechanical and electrical work, the boatyard ensures that all vessels are serviced to the highest standards. With extensive experience in both motor and sailboats, the team provides expertise in all areas of boat care.

ONSITE MARINE TENANTS:

EXPERT SERVICES AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

The marina also boasts a variety of marine tenants onsite, offering specialized marine services that complement the boatyard's offerings. These tenants include shipwrights, marine retailers, equipment suppliers, and experienced service providers who can assist with everything from boat sales and accessories to rigging and marine electronics.

Having these tenants on site creates a convenient, onestop-shop for boat owners, ensuring they can access all the resources they need without having to leave the marina. This added convenience is invaluable for those seeking expert advice or services, making Horizon Shores a hub of maritime expertise and support.

24/7 FUEL SERVICES AND WATERFRONT DINING AT ANCHORAGE CAFE

To make boating even more convenient, d'Albora Pacific Point provides 24/7 fuel services, ensuring that you can always top up your vessel’s fuel tank no matter the time of day or night. This level of service is particularly beneficial for those planning extended cruises or needing to refuel after a long day on the water, so please take advantage of our members marked down pricing.

When it’s time to unwind after a day of boating, the Anchorage Café offers a perfect spot to relax. With beautiful views of the marina and the surrounding waterways, the café provides a welcoming environment for boaters and visitors alike. It's an ideal spot whether you’re grabbing a coffee before setting off on your next adventure or enjoying a leisurely meal with friends and family.

dalbora.com.au

1800 DALBORA (32 52 672) enquiry@dalbora.com.au

Conveniently located between the Gold Coast and Brisbane at Pacific Point Marina and Boatyard — your gateway to Moreton Bay and Jumpinpin Bar.

MARINE TEAM – YOUR TRUSTED EXPERTS

Marine Team has been providing professional vessel repair and maintenance services for over 20 years. With a team of highly skilled specialists, the company is committed to delivering top-tier craftsmanship, treating every project with precision and care.

The team offers free valet pick-up and return of vessels, expert advice and sales for bow and stern thrusters, guaranteed antifouls at competitive prices, marine plumbing and toilet system solutions, full joinery for refits and repairs, approved and guaranteed insurance repairs, comprehensive shipwright services, as well as high-quality repairs, detailing, marine painting, and varnishing. Utilising modern techniques and continuously refining its craft, Marine Team takes pride in offering the best vessel repair service on the coast. Located on the Gold Coast, the team welcomes all marine enthusiasts in need of expert servicing. www.marineteamaustralia.com.au Ph 07 5546 1359

MAINSTREAM MARINE - YAMAHA SERVICE

Mainstream Marine has a complete workshop set up with direct access to shipyard facilities, hardstand and wet and dry storage. As an Authorised Yamaha Repower Centre, they can provide assistance with all new Yamaha outboard and generator products including parts and accessories, insurance, finance and servicing along with service and repairs to petrol and diesel inboards, and sterndrives and generators.

Mainstream Marine can arrange vessel haul-outs, hardstand, antifoul, detailing and any trimming, stainless steel or aluminium work you may require for your vessel, making your annual servicing booking hassle free and giving you the peace of mind that your vessel is in good hands. They value customers and provide quality service in a friendly and professional manner. Their trade qualified mechanics have over 30 years of experience in all aspects of marine engine maintenance and repair, and have completed numerous specialist training courses. www.mainstreammarine.com.au Ph 07 5546 2280

Installations of original PE/EVA aftermarket marine flooring product cut to size

Certified Fabricators

MORGAN VINE MARINE FOR MAINTENANCE

Provider of quality shipwright services at the marina, including fibreglassing and vessel repairs, detailing, paint, fibreglass, carbon, custom parts, timber installation, systems installations & project management. Seadek and hard flooring installations. Approved applicators of PPG Protective & Marine Coatings 12-month warranty antifouling. Ph 0432 779 700 morganvinemarine@outlook.com

• Antifouling

• Detailing & Paint touch-ups

• Fibreglass & Carbon repairs

• Custom made fibreglass parts

• Timber installations, varnish & refurbishment

• Systems installations

• Project Management We cater for all things MARINE. Contact Morgan for more information.

REPOWER CENTRE

Troy Dibben’s large tackle stations are thoughtfully engineered to boost deck efficiency and free up valuable space. Handcrafted on the Gold Coast, each station showcases top-tier materials, including UV-stabilised, high-density gelcoat tops that offer lasting durability and effortless maintenance. Designed with both function and style in mind, they come equipped with stainless steel rod and cup holders, a cutting board, dedicated bait storage, and an advanced drainage system. Mounted on universal deck fittings, the sturdy pedestals (sold separately) ensure a secure fit. These tackle stations not only elevate the practicality of any fishing setup but also enhance the vessel’s overall aesthetic and value.

HASSLE FREE BOAT LOANS

YAMAHA

Yamaha’s Helm Master EX is a fully integrated boat control system that brings together digital throttle and shift, electric steering, autopilot and joystick manoeuvring into a single, intuitive platform designed to enhance control, confidence and enjoyment on the water.

It is a natural fit for Yamaha Motor New Zealand’s Senator 770, powered by a Yamaha F350 and equipped with a complete Helm Master EX system. The boat’s layout is the brainchild of Franco, who also uses the vessel as a regular test platform. A passionate and highly skilled angler with decades of experience fishing North Island waters, Franco incorporates Helm Master EX into his everyday boating. Out on the bay, he demonstrated how the system’s features translate into real-world advantages, particularly when fishing in dynamic conditions.

One of the standout tools is Fish Point, part of Yamaha’s SetPoint suite. Fish Point is designed to hold the vessel precisely over a GPS-defined location, using controlled engine thrust rather than an anchor. This allows anglers to stay locked onto bait schools or reef structure without constant helm input, making it especially valuable for

HELM MASTER EX BOATCONTROLSYSTEM

solo fishing or hands-on lure work. The level of precision can be the difference between a fishless drift and a consistent bite, while also providing the confidence to fish productive spots for longer as wind or current conditions change.

Helm Master EX also offers a range of advanced autopilot modes that simplify vessel control and improve accuracy underway. Heading Hold locks the boat to a compass heading, while Course Hold maintains a straight path even when compensating for wind and tide. Track Point allows the skipper to follow a planned route or series of waypoints with ease. Together, these functions enable the boat to stay on track with minimal manual input. Fine course adjustments can be made in five-degree increments using the joystick, allowing precise control without touching the wheel.

Speed Control further reduces workload by maintaining a selected speed or engine RPM, automatically adjusting throttle to suit sea conditions or load. Whether trolling at six knots or cruising at twenty-eight, the system holds speed steady without the need for constant corrections. The result is smoother operation, reduced fatigue and improved fuel efficiency.

Helm Master EX is also designed with flexibility and longevity in mind. The system is fully modular, allowing owners to tailor their setup and expand functionality over time. Boaters can begin with Yamaha’s Digital Electronic Control system and add electric steering, autopilot, joystick control and SetPoint functions as their needs evolve. Compatible with everything from single F150 installations through to quad XTO 450s, the system integrates seamlessly with major marine electronics, including Garmin chartplotters, for a streamlined and intelligent helm experience. With software updates unlocking future capabilities, Helm Master EX represents a future-proof investment for serious boaters seeking precision, reliability and room to grow.

The new Yamaha Wireless Control System includes all Helm Master EX joystick functionality, autopilot control and man overboard functions

PACIFIC POINT MARINA & BOATYARD

NEW COMMERCIAL MARINE PRECINCT

DEVELOPMENT – LEASING OPPORTUNITIES

DAlbora Pacific Point Marina & Boatyard commercial expansion is officially underway, with a brand-new 14,000sqm commercial marine precinct development designed for marine trades, boat builders, boat dealers, chandlery/showroom operators, and associated marine service providers seeking to grow their business in a premium, full-service environment.

Site features include:

● Expanded commercial leasing opportunities

● High customer volume and year-round activity

● A second dry storage facility

● Increased capacity to 880 wet berths and 600 dry storage

● 70t Travelift supporting a full-service boatyard

● 60t Roodberg transport trailer

● Established food & beverage offering onsite

This is a rare opportunity to join one of Queensland’s largest and busiest marina precincts. With competitive leasing rates now available, This is your chance to secure a strong commercial position before construction begins.

Contact d’Albora Commercial Leasing Team via email: propertymanagement@dalbora.com.au or Member & Guest Services Team 7 days a week Ph: 1800 32 52 672 or email: enquiry@dalbora.com.au

* Rendered images are indicative only and provided as a guide. All development is subject to final DA approval.

DUSTLESS BLASTING FOR BOAT HULLS

Strip and clean your next project using an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and fast solution.

ABRASIVE BLASTING - ANTIFOUL & PAINT REMOVAL

Safely remove years of old antifoul without damaging the gelcoat. Our process represents a huge breakthrough in surface preparation. There is no mess for you to clean up. Dust and contaminants are grounded, so no need for expensive containment.

Onsite workshop at Pacific Point Marina - Jacobs Well or we come to you for big jobs

SIENA HELM CHAIR RANGE

ELECTRIC SLIDE & ELECTRIC PEDESTAL

MELFI DESIGNS - For all your Boat Interiors, Exterior & Trimming

Melfi Designs have crafted an exceptional helm chair, blending Australian craftsmanship with Italian design influence. The Siena II Electric is a custom-made chair that combines leather, vinyl, stainless steel, and solid teak to provide both comfort and durability.

The Siena II Electric features a 3/4 back or low back with a removable headrest, and it includes a full electric slide and pedestal for versatile adjustments. The chair's pull-up knee roll allows for standing while steering, and the arms fold up parallel to the back for easy access. The footrest is designed with a solid teak base and surrounded by stainless steel, featuring an electronic adjustment system that allows it to fold into itself and move forward and aft with various positions. The pedestal can rotate 360 degrees, lock into place, and travel 200mm from its lowest point, with a load capacity of 250 kg. The entire structure is made from 316 stainless steel and aluminium, ensuring durability and strength.

The Siena II Electric can be mounted on a cabinet with an electric slide and can be covered in your choice of material, available in a Diamond Bentley finish or twin stitched. It is suitable for installation in both saloon and flybridge areas of your boat.

When choosing a helm chair, it's essential to consider your boat’s primary use—whether you're navigating high seas or cruising canals, and whether your trips are long or short. The size, shape, and structural integrity of the chair play a crucial role in ensuring a comfortable boating experience.

For more information or to discuss your specific needs, contact Michael Melfi directly at 0412 862 447 or visit the website at www.mmelfidesigns.com

Your perfect companion to prime and overcoat spot repairs below the waterline. An easy-to-use single pot tie-coat prior to applying antifoul!

The most advanced water-based, ablative antifoul available!

Aluminium safe! Bright colours, also perfect for small areas such as stern or sail drives.

All-New PARDO 72

The all-new Pardo 43 is a complete rebuild of one of the most successful walkaround yachts ever launched. Since 2017, the Pardo 43 has sold more than 333 hulls worldwide, setting the benchmark for Italian design, performance, and luxury dayboating. The new model takes that legacy and refines it for the future, with a redesigned hull, sleeker profile, smarter technology, and significant improvements across every part of the yacht. This is not a facelift, it is a bold new chapter in Pardo’s story.

REFINED EXTERIOR

The exterior of the new Pardo 43 has been reimagined with both style and pr acticality in mind. The sharper sheerline and sleeker hull give the yacht a more dynamic presence, while the distinctive “swoosh line” integrated into the hull sides serves a dual purpose: it enhances the profile and cleverly deflects engine noise away from the cockpit for quieter, more comfortable cruising.

The cockpit itself has grown in size, creating a more generous social hub. A redesigned dining table can now lower hydraulically, transforming the space into an expansive sunbed that maximises versatility for entertaining or relaxing. The enlarged wetbar has also been reconfigured to offer more counter space, improved storage, and flexible options for refrigeration, induction cooking, or a barbecue, making it even more functional for long days on the water. Above, a 30 percent larger carbon T-Top now provides greater shade and protection, while wider walkaround decks and sturdier handrails enhance safety and freedom of movement.

Forward, the bow features a redesigned sunpad with a forward-facing bench and a concealed anchor system that preserves the yacht’s clean reverse-bow lines. While at the stern, the hydraulic swim platform

lowers into the sea with an integrated ladder, while the enlarged garage provides easy single-level access and a new daily hatch for lines and fenders. Forward, the bow lounge features a new forwardfacing bench paired with a hidden anchor system, maintaining the yacht’s sleek lines while adding comfort and convenience.

ITALIAN-DESIGNED INTERIORS

Below deck, interiors by Nauta Design deliver more light, more comfort, and more flexibility. Enlarged hull windows flood the cabins with natural light, creating a connection to the sea. Two layout options include either a fixed master berth or a convertible dinette, while the second cabin midships provides twin beds that can be enclosed for privacy. Premium fabrics, soft linings, and refined timber finishes elevate the atmosphere, while the enlarged bathroom with separate shower adds practicality for longer stays. Every detail has been carefully considered, making the new Pardo 43 feel like a private retreat.

PERFORMANCE AND INNOVATION

At the helm, the Pardo 43 blends simplicity with innovation. A newly designed dashboard incorporates three Garmin displays, integrating navigation, engine data, and lighting control. Dynamic ambient lighting can be customised throughout the boat, while joystick handling ensures effortless maneuverability. Twin Volvo IPS engines power the yacht to 37 knots, with larger fuel and water tanks for extended cruising. For those seeking even greater performance, the Pardo 43R outboard version can be equipped with triple Mercury V10 or V12 engines, reaching speeds over 50 knots on a dedicated hull design. For further information: boats@eyachts.com.au

FUEL STOPS

GOLD COAST ON-WATER MARINE FUEL LOCATIONS

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, PULP95, Diesel and Oils. Snacks, Ice, Bait and Tackle. PH: 5577 2966 marinafuels.business.site 27°53.936'S 153°24.190'E

PH: 5546 2300 dalbora.com.au 27°45.133'S 153°20.856'E

We’re rebranded, refreshed, and rebuilt - and now we’re ready to welcome you.

Located on the peaceful Eprapah Creek , Redland City Marina offers modern facilities, exper t care, and a friendly, hands- on team. Whether you’re hauling out , storing long-term, or beginning a refit , we’ve got the space, the gear, and the know-how.

At RCM, we know your boat is more than just a vessel - it’s your passion, your escape, and your par tner in adventure. That’s why we aim to provide personalised care and suppor t ever y step of the way.

With secure storage, skilled trades on-site, and a team that genuinely cares, we’re here to make boat ownership simpler, smoother, and more enjoyable.

Call us today on 07 3207 7506 or visit redlandcitymarina.com.au to find out more.

GREENLINE 42 HYBRID YACHTS

ADVANCING THE FUTURE OF ECO-FRIENDLY BOATS

Greenline Yachts has unveiled the all-new Greenline 42, marking a significant step forward in the brand’s ongoing evolution. Long recognised for its leadershi p in hybrid marine technology, Greenline continues to build on that foundation with a model that also introduces a refined design language, advanced engineering and a stronger emphasis on performance, comfort and onboard lifestyle.

Positioned neatly between the established 39 and 40 models and the larger 45, the Greenline 42 fills an important gap in the range. The new model offers greater versatility through multiple cockpit configurations, a lighter and more open interior layout, and an entirely new hull form developed to deliver confident handling and improved efficiency. Its updated styling takes clear inspiration from the flagship Greenline 58, now widely regarded as the benchmark for the brand’s design direction.

The Greenline 42 presents contemporary European styling combined with a seamless indoor–outdoor flow that enhances movement and social connection onboard. The saloon has been reworked with a lighter galley arrangement and sliding side windows, opening the interior to the s urrounding environment and allowing natural light to flood the space. Updated furniture lines and new cabinetry options further increase the level of customisation, giving owners greater control over the look and feel of their yacht.

A key feature of the Greenline 42 is the flexibility it offers in propulsion. Owners can choose between traditional diesel power or the brand’s latestgeneration hybrid system, depending on how they intend to use the boat. This f reedom of choice remains central to the Greenline philosophy, allowing the yacht to suit a wide range of cruising styles and priorities.

Solar power plays an important role in the overall onboard experience, with up to 4.3 kW of solar capacity supplied as standard. This allows continuous 230-volt power availability at anchor, supporting onboard systems quietly and reducing the need for generator use. When equipped with the hybrid system, the yacht is capable of low-speed electric cruising, offering near-silent operation for calm coastal passages or time spent in sensitive marine environments, while diesel power remains available for longer journeys and higher-speed travel.

The deck layout has been carefully considered to maximise relaxation and usability. A spacious bow lounge provides an inviting social area, while the hard top delivers protection from the elements without compromising the yacht’s clean, refined profile. Below deck, the Greenline 42 is available in a two-cabin configuration, with flexible accommodation options including one or two bathrooms and convertible berths to comfortably host additional guests.

In Australia and New Zealand, the Greenline brand continues to gain traction as awareness of sustainable luxury boating grows. The Greenline 42 reflects this shift, combining environmental consideration with contemporary design, practical innovation and genuine cruis ing performance.

As boating lifestyles evolve, the Greenline 42 stands as a clear statement of where modern

Greenline - Designed for life aboard: comfort, space, and self-sufficiency

motor yacht design is heading, balancing efficiency, comfort and responsible enjoyment on the water.

SIRENA SUPERYACHTS

42M flagship on track for 2026 debut

Turkish shipyard Sirena Yachts has released images and an update showing the successful construction progress of its largest model to date: the 42-metre Sirena Superyachts 42M.

Marking a significant milestone in the brand’s continued expansion into the superyacht segment, the 42M flagship is currently in the painting phase, with the hull and superstructure nearing completion. Major systems installation is ongoing, including the installation of its main engines, while interior joinery and outfitting works are also progressing in parallel.

Penned by the Italian duo of Luca Vallebona (exterior and interior layouts) and Hot Lab (interior design) – part of The Viken Group – the Sirena Superyachts 42M’s naval architecture is by the Dutch studio Van Oossanen, which has equipped the vessel with its highly efficient Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF).

TECHNICAL TRIUMPH

A technical marvel in its design, the 42M’s proven hull form ensures exceptional efficiency and comfort at both high and low speeds. The hull’s optimisation enables greater interior volume (at 433 GT, it offers one of the highest internal volumes in the 40-45m range) without increasing drag. The result is an excellent space-tolength ratio. Other innovations found on board the 42M superyacht include its Tier III-compliant propulsion systems, hybrid-ready architecture for reduced emissions and silent operation, advanced vibration and noise

isolation for remarkable onboard comfort, and the use of environmentally responsible materials.

AN ARCHITECTURAL JOURNEY

Described as an ‘architectural journey’ by its creators, the innovative design of the Sirena Superyachts 42M invites those stepping on board to experience the vessel through texture, light and spatial flow, with each transition between areas having its own intentional design rhythm. This encourages slow living and a deep connection to the sea.

Standout features on board the Sirena Superyachts 42M include its generous master cabin complete with private patio, the numerous open entertaining areas, large exterior relaxation zones and the enormous beach club with convenient drop-down bulwarks.

A SEMI-CUSTOM CREATION

The layout of the upcoming Sirena Superyachts 42M builds will be highly customisable to meet the individual preferences of their future owners. For example, the spacious owner’s suite can be positioned on either the main or upper deck, allowing for different configurations — such as a dedicated formal dining area in the saloon or a more relaxed arrangement — as well as the option to create a bow guest area designed for high-end dining or tranquil relaxation.

This hotly anticipated project is progressing on track towards its launch and sea trials in mid-2026.

International Visitors and Southern Boat Owners

Dry Storage For Your Vessel

SECURED TO GROUND

DRY STORAGE AT BUNDABERG PORT MARINA

For those seeking dry storage for their vessel, Bundaberg Port Marina is pleased to offer a secure and convenient solution. All vessels in dry storage are securely fastened to the ground, ensuring stability and safety. For added peace of mind, inspections can be arranged through the hardstand office. When owners return, vessels can be easily moved into the working yard for antifouling or repairs.

International cruisers and southern boat owners increasingly recognise the advantages of leaving their vessels at Bundaberg Port Marina over the summer months. This option provides a safe, secure base, allowing them to return the following season and resume their journey right from the stunning cruising grounds of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. By storing their vessels here, they avoid the risks of dangerous bar crossings and long, uneventful coastal passages further south.

KEYS POINTS:

● Dry Storage area

● Fully fenced

● Under CCTV surveillance

● Complies with insurance companies' requirements

● All vessels are secured in engineered cradles, tied down and pinned to the ground

● Short- and Long-term storage available

● Trusted by international yachties as a safe secure storage option

● Monthly vessel checks can be completed if required

● No matter the storage requirements, leave your vessel with us until your next cruising adventure.

MARINA COMPLEX & GATEWAY TO SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER REEF

Situated at the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, the marina complex offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that many liken to arriving at an oasis. With beautifully landscaped grounds and modern, well-maintained amenities, it’s an inviting destination for visiting cruisers from around the world.

The complex is home to a variety of businesses designed to meet the needs of marina guests. These include a fully stocked chandlery, a takeaway outlet, a restaurant/café, and a gift store. Visitors can also book their Lady Musgrave Experience directly on-site. The business owners within the complex are dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring a comfortable, enjoyable stay for all who pass through the marina.

sailability Gold Coast

Freedom, Wind and Community on the Water

When you hear the word sailability, what image springs to mind? Perhaps sleek yachts, crisp sails and the thrill of open water. But Sailability is something far more profound. It’s a movement built on inclusion, independence and the simple joy of being out on the water—no matter your physical ability.

Sailability Gold Coast is a volunteer run, not for profit organisation with a clear mission: to enhance the lifestyle of people with disabilities by introducing them to the pleasures of on water sporting activities, particularly sailing.

What began in the UK in the early 1980s, thanks to the vision of Ian Harrison MBE, has since grown into a global network. Today, Sailability operates in 23 countries—including the USA, Germany and Hong Kong—with an incredible 178 clubs in the UK alone. Queensland proudly contributes 15 clubs stretching from the far north to the NSW border.

A GOLD COAST OPERATION POWERED BY HEART

The Gold Coast branch operates from the Southport Yacht Club’s Hollywell Sailing Squadron at Marina Crescent, where around 100 dedicated volunteers keep the program afloat.

Visit on any Tuesday morning (weather permitting) and you’ll find 60-70 volunteers preparing boats, assisting clients and welcoming carers. Up to 80 participants take to the water each week, supported by a fleet designed for safety, stability and pure enjoyment.

The backbone of the operation is a set of 12 Hansa 303 double sailing dinghies. With their weighted centreboards and dual seating, they offer exceptional

stability—perfect for clients experiencing sailing for the first time alongside an accredited skipper.

Complementing the dinghies is a trio of keelboats: two 7-metre Salvo yachts, Hope and Spirit, and a 5-metre Savage Dolphin affectionately named Flipper. Each vessel runs with a skipper and two crew, ensuring every participant receives the attention and support they need.

FREEDOM ON THE WATER—LITERALLY

One of the most popular additions to the fleet is Freedom, a purpose built pontoon boat capable of accommodating wheelchairs. Its popularity has been so overwhelming that Sailability Gold Coast is now actively fundraising for a second vessel to meet demand.

Onshore, the facilities are just as thoughtfully designed. Dockside hoists allow easy access to the dinghies and yachts, and all life jackets, slings and seating pods are provided. And of course, no Sailability morning would be complete without the ever reliable BBQ crew serving up a sausage sizzle for clients and volunteers alike.

TRAINING, TEAMWORK AND THE SPIRIT OF GIVING BACK

Thursday mornings are reserved for volunteer training, skill development, boat maintenance and inducting new team members. Experience isn’t a prerequisite— enthusiasm is. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or have never stepped aboard a boat, Sailability will teach you the ropes and welcome you into a community that thrives on teamwork and generosity.

More information, including volunteer opportunities, can be found at www.sailabilitygc.org

A LEGACY BEYOND EXPECTATION

It’s hard to imagine that when Ian Harrison first set

As the world’s leading power catamaran manufacturer, Aquila has fueled countless adventures across the globe. Our catamarans consistently offer more stability, space, quality and performance, and now we’re raising the sails on a new chapter with the all-new Aquila sailing catamaran fleet: the 44 Sail, the 50 Sail, and the flagship 63 Sail. So, where will the wind take you next?

PARADISE AWAITS AT CORAL SEA MARINA

Some places you simply visit. Others stay with you long after you’ve cast off the lines. Welcome to Coral Sea Marina, where the Whitsundays isn’t just a destination—it’s a way of life.

Set against the turquoise waters of Airlie Beach and the iconic Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea Marina invites you to experience boating as it was always meant to be: effortless, enriching and deeply connected. For those who’ve never been here before, consider this your invitation to experience Australia’s premier cruising grounds.

With berthing for vessels from 7 to 80 metres, a 24/7 fuel dock, daily dockhand service, courtesy car fleet, private bathrooms and laundry facilities, Coral Sea Marina blends world-class infrastructure with laid-back tropical ease. Stay for a night, a month or a season—you’ll never run out of ways to relax, explore or connect.

As a 5 Gold Anchor Platinum accredited marina, Coral Sea Marina transforms everyday boating into something extraordinary. Wake aboard your vessel to warm tropical breezes, spend the day exploring turquoise waters and secluded anchorages,

then return to a marina designed for relaxation, connection and comfort.

Relax in the private guest lounge, enjoy a morning work-out at the functional fitness gym, fire up the BBQ on the deck of Ocean Club or unwind at the Coral Sea Resort’s private pool and beach area.

Beyond the marina lies a tropical playground of white-silica beaches, vibrant coral reefs and rugged islands waiting to be explored. Whether it’s your first visit or a return voyage, the Whitsundays always delivers something new.

Before casting off on your journey to the Whitsundays, watch the marina’s Cruising the Whitsundays documentary series—an invaluable source of local insight to help shape your adventure.

Being on the doorstep of these natural wonders, it is not surprising that sustainability is central to the marina’s ethos. Coral Sea Marina is a proud Clean Marina Level III and Fish Friendly Marina, and holds Sustainable Tourism Certification through EcoTourism Australia. Marina guests are encouraged to boat with care in this slice

of paradise by downloading the marina’s Better Boating Guide. This guide offers practical ways to protect the precious reef and island ecosystem and to ‘travel for good’ whilst in the region.

Life at Coral Sea Marina extends beyond the berth. Join fellow guests at the popular Monthly Marina Mingles where Whitsundays hospitality shines at sunset. Explore Coral Sea Academy events or regional festivals. Alternatively, meet with likeminded boaties at the Lookout Lounge or simply enjoy a relaxed meal at one of the marina village’s waterfront cafés and restaurants.

For a touch of luxury, take a scenic flight from the marina’s private helipads, book a private dining experience at the Coral Sea Resort’s waterfront cabanas, or treat yourself to a day at the in-house spa.

From barefoot luxury and world-class facilities to meaningful connections with people and place, Coral Sea Marina offers more than a marina berth, it provides the ultimate boating lifestyle

youtube.com/@CoralSeaMa rinaAirlieBeach coralseaacademy.com/better-boating-guide

Whether you’re enjoying a poolside cocktail, dining at the marina, or setting sail for an island paradise, living the Coral Sea Marina life is pure boating bliss.

Surround yourself with world-class marina facilities, enjoy exceptional guest service, immerse in our vibrant marina village and discover the heart of boating in the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef. Experience the perfect fusion of marina resort indulgence and nautical adventure at Coral Sea Marina Resort. More than a marina - it ’s a lifestyle

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