Asia- Pacific in Rivergate's sights
The 2017 Singapore Yacht Show and Asia Pacific Yachting Conference drew international proponents eager to learn more about opportunities and attractions – the ideal venue for Australian businesses to position themselves as experts in this burgeoning region.
Rivergate Marina and Shipyard attended both the APYC and the SYS, represented by Steve Fisher, Rivergate’s Director of International Business and Tom Hill, Associate Director Rivergate.
Both agreed that the 7th edition of this rapidly-evolving event was of value for meeting ultra-high-nett-worth individuals who attended and for the quality of the B2B visitors from Asia, Europe and the US.
“From our perspective, we had the opportunity to meet with senior industry leaders from some of the world’s best-known superyacht companies, such as Feadship, Damen, Amels, Gulf Craft and many more,” said Tom Hill.
“There is definitely a long-term outlook from the big European players that the Singapore Yacht Show is a place to network and do business.”
From delegate and visitor feedback, it was clear Australian expertise is world-renowned, and Rivergate is top of mind for refits, maintenance and boat building, with a reputation for competitive quotes, quality work and timely delivery.
“It’s a source of pride that the strength of the Rivergate brand and reputation have reached far afield through our attendance at events such as SYS and Monaco Yacht Show, as well as through referrals from Captains and owners.”
Mr Hill was struck with the genuine potential of the Asian market, reinforced by the investment from brands such as Azimut Benetti, Ferretti and brokerage businesses like Northrop & Johnson and YachtZoo.
“If the superyacht industry can follow the lead of the aviation and prestige automotive industries in wooing this elusive market, there are huge gains to be made,” he said referring to figures from the APYC which stated that in 2016, the number of millionaires in Asia increased 9.4 percent to 5.1 million, outstripping North America.
Seasoned superyacht industry expert, Steve Fisher was liberal in his praise for the Singapore events, describing it as “vital for gaining insight into the trends and opportunities in the region”.
“The conference attracted excellent speakers and delegates. At the SYS, from the people we met at our stand, from all over the world, it’s clear that Rivergate and Auckland are seen as the two main centres in our region.
“There are diverse opportunities for Asian-Australian partnerships and we look forward to leveraging the contacts we made at SYS,” he said.
Rivergate Marina & Shipyard is looking forward to waving the Australian flag at upcoming events, including the America’s Cup Superyacht Regatta, the Tahiti Rendezvous in June, followed by the Monaco Yacht Show in September.
By Rivergate Marina & Shipyard
About Rivergate Marina and Shipyard – Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Rivergate Marina & Shipyard is located on the Brisbane River Adjacent to the Gateway Arterial Bridges. The facility is close to the centre of Brisbane, the mouth of the Brisbane River and domestic and international airports. With 105 deep water access marina berths, Rivergate can accommodate vessels up to 80+ metres. All berths have fresh water and shore power (up to 200amp), with access to wi-fi and onsite amenities, including laundry facilities and a cafe. The site has 24 hour security, CCTV and night patrols. The shipyard is comprised of a hardstand and enclosed sheds serviced by 300 and 75 tonne travelifts. Rivergate provides comprehensive project management services, with all major trades onsite. Rivergate is a certified Clean Marina and Customs and Quarantine Port.