Rivergate expertise, service & location appeal to Aquamarina
The shimmering pearlescent blue-hulled, 47-metre MY Aquamarina made a jaw-dropping entrance as it cruised via the Gold Coast Seaway up the Brisbane River to Rivergate Marina & Shipyard for scheduled maintenance.
The ISA-built luxury superyacht was constructed in Italy in 2006 in steel and aluminium to Lloyds International Class Rules and is MCA and RINA compliant.
Speaking about his choice of Rivergate for repair, refit and maintenance, Captain Alistair Purves said “We have been bringing MY Aquamarina to Rivergate Marina & Shipyard Brisbane for annual maintenance for over five years, primarily because all our maintenance needs are expertly handled at Rivergate”.
“Additionally, the climate, hospitality and professionalism available in South East Queensland mean we can achieve high productivity and quality at a cost-effective price.
“It also helps that the Crew get a chance to unwind in Brisbane and at the fantastic surfing beaches that are just North and South of Rivergate. Not only is the yacht ready for the next charter, but the crew are refreshed and focused; which is a great advantage as we transition into hosting our guests on-board in Asia and the South Pacific.”
A regular visitor to Rivergate in 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2016, the Italian-built Aquamarina undertook an extensive, 6-month refit at Rivergate in 2012. This included a complete exterior refinish, carried out by Rivergate’s specialist contractor, Superyacht Solutions. The refinish incorporated unique colours, pearlescent effect and specialised equipment and lays claim to being the largest white boat special effect refinish completed in Australasia.
All the specialised coating materials used on the project were formulated in Europe by DuPont and air freighted to Australia specifically for the Aquamarina project.
The hull is finished in sparkling Glacier Blue metallic and the superstructure in a stunning ‘flip tone’ pearlescent, using a multi-layered system, technologies used by prestige European automotive brands in their vehicle coatings.
Rivergate were awarded the project on the basis of their proven track record in the successful management of complex refit projects. Their specialist contractor also has a longstanding global reputation for large scale applications of ‘special effect’ coatings such as metallics and pearls.
The Rivergate collaboration won the job against serious competition from some quality European contenders. The technically demanding project was completed a week ahead of schedule. The client, the YPI Group, was effusive in their praise, not only of the results, but also the professionalism with which the entire project was managed.
Rivergate’s Project Management included refinishing, engineering, shipwright services, upholstery and electronics over the 24-week project.
MY Aquamarina set sail this week from Rivergate after her latest round of maintenance. She is heading east to once again spoil her guests in the South Pacific.
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.