Captains convene
The Sydney Superyacht Captains’ Long Lunch caps off 2021.
Photography by Hillary Buckman
25 November 2021
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The end of 2021 and a brighter year ahead were toasted at the annual Sydney Superyacht Captains’ Long Long Lunch at Squire’s Landing, Circular Quay, hosted by Rivergate Marina & Shipyard, Major Yacht Services and Sydney Superyacht Marina.
For the 12th consecutive year, the Sydney Superyacht Captains’ Long Lunch welcomed guests – a record 42 this year – for delectable dining and candid discussion about industry issues.
“Our captains’ events have taken on a life of their own,” stated Rivergate’s Steve Fisher, referring to the Sydney, Gold Coast and Auckland editions.
“Among the superyacht captains, the Sydney Long Lunch is certainly the most sought-after invitation each year.”
And this year’s Long Lunch did not disappoint. With a bird’s eye view of Sydney Harbour, guests enjoyed entrée of shared plates, including Mushroom and Truffle Arancini Balls, Salt and Pepper Calamari and Wood-fired Haloumi, Fennel and Radish Salad, followed by the main feast of T-bone Steak, Fish or Spatchcock.
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Overshadowing the cuisine was the quality company and camaraderie, which always consists of light-hearted banter and more serious analysis of hot topics in the international industry.
One of the conversations centred around the opportunities that will come with the dropping of requirements to apply for an exemption to travel to Australia, starting 1 December. All that will be required from 1 December is a 408 Superyacht Crew Visa.
Clemens Overdijk Marina Manager at Sydney Superyacht Marina said he was thrilled with the turnout and the optimism among captains.
“The strong turnout shows the support within the industry,” he said. “Overall, it was the camaraderie among captains that really shone. They are always lending a hand, sharing information and insight.
“The main topic of conversation from where I was sitting was the high demand for multi-skilled crew, especially trained to the next level such as silver service. There’s a tremendous number of yachts coming into Australia, particularly Sydney Harbour, so the issue of berthing and anchorages came up too.
“The value of events such as the Sydney Superyacht Captains’ Long Lunch is that we can show our appreciation, especially in challenging times, of what we have achieved together.”
After lunch, guests lingered into the evening. Feedback from the event included praise for “one of the most enjoyable events ever”.
“It was great to see everyone having a good time,” said Geoff Majer, Director of Major Yacht Services. “I personally think that yesterday’s event was the best one to date.”
“It’s undoubtedly Sydney’s best Captains’ Lunch, 12 years running,” said one captain. “As well as fantastic food and beverage, there was a real collegiate feeling.”
Captain Michael Gooding was grateful for the opportunity to reunite and engage in person with fellow captains.
“After most international crew have been unable to travel, this was a great event,” he said. “Even though we have all adapted to separation with Zoom, it was welcomed to be able to discuss experiences face to face.”
Infinity Pacific Captain, Sean Prosser was attending his third Sydney Superyacht Captains’ Long Lunch and said he wouldn’t miss it!
“It’s great to catch up with other captains. We’re lined up at Sydney Superyacht Marina next to 15 other superyachts, but we’re so busy in our own worlds, we only say hi and by’. It’s great to have time to unwind and have a deeper discussion about the year.”
Being a charter vessel, Infinity Pacific was impacted by restrictions this year, but Captain Sean reported things are getting back to something close to normal.
“We’re getting a lot of bookings, getting back on track, and it’s looking like a good summer ahead. Everyone was in good form, and Matt Conroy was ‘best on ground’ for this year.”
rivergate.com.au
majoryachtservices.com.au
superyachtmarina.com.au
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