Pantaenius provides global support

Pantaenius Australia’s Jamie MacPhail and Michaela Claes shared their insight into insurance, the wide scope of Pantaenius’ expertise and trends in long-range cruising.

Long-time supporters of events on the local calendar – from grassroots sailing regattas to superyacht conferences and showcases – the Pantaenius Australia team is committed to adding value to their customers and the local yachting industry. pantaenius.com/au-enVideography by romanliebich.com

New home for Sunseeker

At the 2024 Sydney International Boat Show, Hillary Buckman, Editor in Chief at Ocean Media, interviewed Adam Waters, MD of DCH Marine, representing British-brand Sunseeker Yachts and Finnish brand, Saxdor Yachts.DCH Marine, headquartered in Hong Kong, acquired the exclusive dealership for Sunseeker & Saxdor Yachts in the Asia Pacific Region.In this in-depth interview, Adam shares his background, current role and plans for the brands in Australia, looking ahead to new models and the 2025 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in May. dch-marine.comVideography by romanliebich.com

Omikron emerges

Represented in Australia and New Zealand by McD Yachts, Greek-built brand Omikron Yachts has an impressive pedigree and performance.

With exclusive representation of some of Europe’s most exciting luxury yachts, McD introduced the Omikron OT-60 at the 2024 Sydney International Boat Show. Winner of the 2024 European Powerboat of the Year, Long Range Yacht, Omikron’s OT-60 is a model of design brilliance – a perfect blend of elegance, power and a simpler vision of sustainability.“Omikron Yachts believes that enjoying the beauty of cruising at sea and respecting the environment go hand in hand,” said Paul MacDonald, founder of McD. “The OT-60 is the perfect combination of the quiet, easy-going lifestyle of sailing and the convenience and space of a power yacht, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination with a very low fuel consumption and in total quietness.”The interior and exterior design by Lorenzo Argento slims and streamlines the recovered volumes, with clear-headed styling by Ciarmoli Queda Studio. Large windows encircle the deckhouse, providing a nearly perfect 360-degree view and opening for natural ventilation. The abundance of natural light is such that no reflective surfaces are needed.Not all of the lower deck is actually below deck on the OT–60. Coming down the stairs, guests land in an open-concept, double-deck height annex between the staterooms, which is so spacious as to accommodate a galley and indoor dining arrangement. In addition, there are two lower deck layouts available, with three or four cabins respectively – always providing each cabin with a private bathroom.Compact, quiet, and efficient engines propel the OT60’s Eco-Cruise hull, made to measure by Juan Kouyoumdjian to enhance the yacht’s seakeeping and efficiency. The systems and engineering of the OT–60 benefit from the wide experience of Omikron Technical Office, which spans repair and refits of yachts up to and exceeding 100 meters, as well as custom super sailer builds.A dedicated production line has been built at the yard for the OT–60, which includes the construction of the hull with vacuum infusion and superstructure in carbon fibre, lightening the composite by up to a third in the upper parts of the vessel and enhancing stability. All woodwork and assembly are carried out in-house.McD Yachts was founded by yachting industry expert Paul MacDonald and brings together his 30 years of experience in international yacht racing, building and sales. mcdyachts.comVideography by romanliebich.com

Lisa Blair on Climate Action Now

Lisa Blair, solo sailor, author, BIA Sustainability Ambassador and climate change warrior, has achieved so much in her sailing career aboard 150-metre yacht, Climate Action Now and through her speaking engagements worldwide.

Blair is the driving force behind Climate Action Now, a project that is designed to focus on actions that can be taken towards solutions, rather than the problem itself.At SIBS 2024, Blair spoke with Ocean Media about her objectives in the role of Sustainability Ambassador, her commitment to sustainable practices on board her yacht, and her focus on raising awareness of the impact of microplastic pollution and climate change on our aquatic environment.She also shares with us her plans for sailing solo and circumnavigating the Arctic – something that is only possible because of the melting ice. “Over the last decade of my career, I have noticed the impact climate change has on our environment,” she said.“The storms are more aggressive and less predictable, the absence of wildlife when years earlier those seas were brimming with life and the increased risk of collision with ice as the glaciers keep melting. These are all symptoms of climate change. What we know is that a greater awareness needs to be reached and action needs to be taken.” lisablairsailstheworld.comVideography: romanliebich.com.

Sanlorenzo Asia expands

Ocean Media stand partners at the 2024 Sydney International Boat Show from 1 to 4 August, Sanlorenzo announced the expansion of their Asia-Pacific presence, appointing Jo Howard as Simpson Marine Australia Country Sales Manager.

“We see immense potential in Australia as the Sanlorenzo Pacific Hub,” said Nick Stratton, Chief Sales Officer of Simpson Marine Group.“Our tailored approach to yacht design and craftsmanship resonates with clients seeking bespoke solutions and yachts with long-range capacity and elevated lifestyle at sea. With our expanded presence and a wide range of yachts through Sanlorenzo (24 to 80+ metres) and sister brand Bluegame (13 to 24 metres), we’re well-positioned to meet their needs.”The Group is planning a major activation with Sanlorenzo and Bluegame yachts later this year, inviting clients to experience the Sanlorenzo difference firsthand at the new Sydney premises at Jones Bay Wharf. simpsonmarine.com asia.sanlorenzoyacht.com

Reducing risk

At this year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, Steve Connolly from Nautical Solutions discussed the launch of “Journey 2 Safety”, a 12-step process tailored to vessels and operations to ensure essential risk management.

Directors, Steve and Peter Townsend are seasoned insurance professionals. Steve has a background in yachting, as a dive instructor, engineer, charter yacht owner and captain, while Peter’s expertise draws on 25 years in the Leisure and Tourism industries.

nauticalsolutions.com.au

Video by Roman Liebich.

CL Yachts Australian vision

At the 2024 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in May, Martin Lo, Director at CL Yachts spoke with Ocean about CLB65 and the brand’s push into Australia.

Aboard the CLB65, which made its debut at SCIBS 2024, Martin Lo, the fourth generation of the family who founded Cheoy Lee Yachts, shared with Ocean the company’s plans for its new brand CL Yachts and its suitability for the Australian boating lifestyle. clyachts.com sydneymarinebrokerage.comVideo by Roman Liebich.

Chapman expansion

At the 2024 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, Ocean spoke with Cooper Chapman, Founder and CEO of the full-service agency Chapman Yachting.

During the wide-ranging conversation, Chapman discusses his group’s multi-faceted expertise in all areas, including refit, maintenance and service, yacht management, charter, crewing and buying/selling vessels.Cooper also revealed the business will soon add a Queensland headquarters to its offering, moving into boutique premises at The Wharf within The Boat Works superyacht facility from 1 June. chapmanyachting.comVideo by Roman Liebich.

The Sapphire Project commitment

The Ocean Media team sat down with committee members from The Sapphire Project to discuss their commitment to ocean conservation.

Ahead of the 2024 edition of the Sapphire Dinner, which will support The Great Barrier Reef Foundation, Lizard Island, One Tree Island Research Stations, Australian Sea Lion Recovery Foundation and Biopixel Foundation’s Project Hammerhead, we review last year’s discussion with the Sapphire Project Committee aboard the luxurious charter yacht Mohasuwei on Sydney Harbour.sapphireproject.com.au Videography by Roman Liebich.

CLB65 evokes the spirit of adventure

Characterised by sleek lines, voluminous interiors and sophisticated design elements, the CLB65 from CL Yachts offers an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort as well as performance.

Currently located in Hong Kong, the CLB65 Hull # 2 has CE Proof Category B certification and is available for immediate delivery.CL Yachts offers owners a limited ten-year warranty on the hull against structural defects and a limited two-year warranty on boat parts and components for all our models.With comprehensive after-sales service, every journey is smooth and hassle-free.Visit clyachts.com to embark on your journey to uncharted luxury.Read more.

OceanTV – Sydney International Boat Show round-up

According to feedback from the 223 exhibitors and organisers, the 54th Sydney International Boat Show (SIBS), held from 3 to 6 August, was a resounding success. Andrew Fielding, President of the BIA, reported that attendance numbers were up on Thursday and Friday, averaging around 6,000 visitors per day, while Saturday’s attendance remained similar to the previous year. Overall, the total attendance reached 46,919, indicating an increase from the previous year.

Ocean Media, with stand sponsors Benetti Yachts, Pantaenius Australia and Burgess, hosted the Ocean Club Lounge, which proved  a highly successful attraction for owners, captains, and VIPs.Chris Santon, Head of Burgess Australia, expressed his satisfaction with this year’s Sydney show, stating it was one of the best he’d experienced. He emphasised the strong partnership with Ocean Media and the solid relationships with fellow sponsors, affirming the value of continuing this collaboration.James MacPhail, Managing Director of Pantaenius Australia, also a Stand Sponsor of the Ocean Club Lounge, praised SIBS 2023 for its organisation and presentation. He highlighted the solid customer interest and engagement they experienced during the show, which proved highly successful for their branding efforts. MacPhail also mentioned they sent 853 tickets to customers, many of whom visited their stand and expressed gratitude. Their strategic positioning within the ICC and the marina within the Ocean Media Lounge further contributed to their positive experience.Andy Young from BSA (Boating Syndication Australia) enthusiastically described SIBS 2023 as the best show in 15 years. He noted people were eager to make purchases, with extra cash and a desire for entertainment and relaxation. Young emphasised that boating was viewed as the best way to embrace the sentiment of living life to the fullest.Richard Morris, Director of Australian Superyachts and distributor for Gulf Craft in Australia and New Zealand, expressed his delight at showcasing the largest vessel at the show, the impressive Bluestone, a Nomad 101. He was proud to demonstrate the strength of the Gulf Craft brand in Australia and received fantastic feedback regarding the quality, size, and value for money of their vessels.Mark Elkington, Director of Yacht Sales Co., which represents various brands including Dufour, Fountaine Pajot, Tesoro, Absolute and Iliad Catamarans, described the show as excellent for all the brands they showcased. He highlighted their approach of providing information and showcasing their boats, which resulted in significant interest, several sales, and multiple sea trial arrangements.With the success of this year’s event, anticipation is already building for the 55th Sydney International Boat Show, scheduled for 1 to 4 August 2024.sydneyboatshow.com.au 
Ocean Club Sponsors
Benetti Yachts Burgess Pantaenius Australia 
Videography
Roman Liebich Photography

Discover what to do at Sanctuary Cove with host Francesca Rubi

As a lifestyle resort on Australia’s Gold Coast, there’s just so much to do at Sanctuary Cove.Let Francesca Rubi take you on a tour of everything there is to offer at this luxury Gold Coast superyacht destination – Sanctuary Cove.From championship golf courses, Country Club and gym facilities to the five-star InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort and lagoon pool plus boutique retail, vibrant bars and restaurants and, of course, the annual Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, Sanctuary Cove is redefining your yachting experience.To learn more visit sanctuarycove.com.

Francesca Rubi hosts a tour of the Horizon FD90

Sanctuary Cove Marina ambassador Francesca Rubi welcomes you to this luxury resort precinct on Australia’s Gold Coast.Taking a tour of the latest Horizon FD90, Francesca shows you the highlights of this magnificent vessel. At the time of filming, the FD90 was moored under Sanctuary Cove Marina’s unique covered berths.Horizon Motor Yachts Australian headquarters are located at Sanctuary Cove Marina.Learn more about Sanctuary Cove Marina by visiting sanctuarycove.com.

Sanctuary Cove Marina on the Gold Coast, the Superyacht Edition

Visit Sanctuary Cove as industry expert and Below Deck alumnus Francesca Rubi takes you on a tour of this luxury lifestyle resort on Queensland’s Gold Coast. This Platinum Gold Anchor Marina is one of Australia’s leading destinations for captains and crew, with nearby refit and maintenance facilities, championship golf courses, bars, restaurants and plenty of R&R activities. Drop anchor at Sanctuary Cove Marina. sanctuarycove.com/marina/superyacht

OceanTV sits down with Chris Blackwell

Chris Blackwell, Sales & Marketing Manager at Echo Yachts in Western Australia, spoke with OceanTV during the Sydney International Boat Show about the brand’s past and present models, including the inimitable White Rabbit, the largest trimaran superyacht in the world, and how boatbuilding in Australia is making a comeback.“More Australians are interested in pursuing their superyacht projects in Australia,” says Blackwell. “We custom design and build superyachts from 30 to 100 metres, and can also maintain and refit superyachts in our full-service shipyard based near Fremantle, just south of Perth.“The options are endless,” he says. “We design very efficient vessels; that’s our focus. We build monohulls, catamarans and trimarans in all different material types – aluminimn, steel, composite – and, depending on what design the owner would like to use, we can create whatever they wish to have.”It’s a trend more Australians are warming to, and it’s not surprising given the ease of proximity to the boatyards, being able to work in the same timezone, our stable economic environment and the level of quality available, not to mention the opportunity to customise vessels that are more efficient than ever – all in a timely way.Made in Australia never looked so good. echomarinegroup.com #echoyachts #australiaboatbuilding