International superyachts flock south for the summer
After a busy pre-season of maintenance and refits on champion racing yachts – among them Comanche, Wild Oats XI, Dorade, the champion V70, Black Jack and the Reichel/Pugh 100 Black Jack (formerly Alfa Romeo II), and the impressive 33-metre sailing superyacht Cygnus Montanus, Rivergate Marina & Shipyard has welcomed some high-profile international superyachts.
MY Aurora, MY Whistler, MY Sahana, MY Pursuit, MY Big Fish, MY Aquamarina, MY Mohasewei, SY Cannonball and SY Southern Cloud are the current line-up of superyachts berthed at Rivergate and carrying out repairs and refit work before setting off to cruise the South Pacific, or return to charter.
Mohasewei is a 35m Italian-built Cantieri di Pisa motor yacht, undergoing works to attain Australian survey, aiming to become a new addition to the Sydney charter market.
The Danish-built, 40m, triple-masted schooner SY Southern Cloud is Australia’s largest charter yacht and boasts masts 35m in height. This type of vessel requires expert maintenance and repairs.
MY Big Fish needs no introduction. As one of the world’s most sophisticated explorer superyachts, the 45m McMullen & Wing-built luxury expedition motor yacht boasts ground-breaking high-tech materials, technology and amenities onboard, making her the “go anywhere, do anything” vessel.
Andrew Cannon, Rivergate General Manager said September to December is a peak period for Rivergate, as the international cruising yachts escape the northern hemisphere winter and head to the Asia Pacific for the season.
“Rivergate’s reputation with Captains globally means when they are in our region, this is their choice when it comes to repairs, maintenance and refit work. Brisbane offers a great climate all year round, we’re cost effective and easy access to pristine cruising grounds.”
Andrew said they have noticed the number of new international boats coming through is gradually rising, and a presence at events such as international boat shows would have long-term gains. But to boost superyacht visitation, the current charter regulations must change to give foreign-flagged superyachts the option to charter and make the effort of coming downunder more attractive.
Brisbane is well positioned to accommodate rising demand. “Brisbane is very well-resourced for superyachts,” states Andrew, adding that there are 20 workshops at Rivergate with about 140 marine professionals onsite in addition to local contractors.
“Rivergate delivers exceptional service to budget and deadline – and that’s our point of difference. We aim to provide the service and skills superyachts can’t get anywhere else in the world.”
Big Fish and Aquamarina were repeat customers of RMS, praising the team and trades onsite for their professionalism and 5-star service.
“Through word of mouth, networking and events like the Monaco Yacht Show and Singapore Yacht Show, Rivergate is very well known. That’s great testament to the breadth and depth of skills of our tenants.”
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.