Sixth edition of the Superyacht Australia Soirée drives charter interest

Superyacht Australia welcomed nearly 300 guests to Sydney's newly upgraded Jones Bay Marina on 8 March 2025 for the sixth edition of the annual Superyacht Australia Soirée. Benetti returned this year as the event's major partner, with BOAT International acting as media partner for a second consecutive year. Jones Bay Superyacht Marina and Pantaenius Australia also returned as sponsors.

Despite weather uncertainties in the event lead-up due to Cyclone Alfred, the day unfolded under clear skies, welcoming guests to experience luxury Australian chartering alongside networking with prospective clients. 

There was a noticeable growth in charter interest, assisted by the Soirée's exclusive "Yacht Hop" experience – whereby guests were invited on board and offered guided tours by captains and crew alongside personal Q&As on chartering in Australian waters. The lineup included motor yachts Lady Pamela, Aurora, Quantum, Lance and Lumir with her chase boat, as well as Sunreef catamaran Feng. 

Also among the exhibiting yachts was a brand-new addition to the Sydney-based charter fleet, the 27.5-metre Horizon motor yacht Orraia, whose very design was inspired by the Australian elements. 

"The Australian charter fleet continues to grow and this event is designed to create further demand for charter, thus growing the industry," shared Superyacht Australia CEO, David Good. "It was fantastic to have Orraia in the event, I remember speaking to the owner at a previous Soirée when they were considering entering the industry. It is gratifying to see how well received their vessel was by all who attended on the day."

Dedicated to showcasing the superyacht industry in Sydney, Australia and the entire South Pacific, the sixth edition of the Soirée returned to Jones Bay Superyacht Marina, set against the iconic backdrop of Sydney Harbour and Barangaroo. Recently upgraded and reconfigured, the marina now offers increased capacity for superyachts in Sydney Harbour. 

"It was a pleasure to once again sponsor the Superyacht Soirée," said Benetti Yachts Area Manager for Australia and New Zealand, Matt Walford. "...over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how Australia’s superyacht industry has evolved, and events like this highlight the significant progress we’ve made in developing world-class services and infrastructure. Our more mature domestic market is now well-equipped to accommodate yachts exceeding 24 metres, offering owners and charter guests an unparalleled experience in one of the world’s most stunning yachting destinations.”

In addition to superyachts, the one-day event is a platform for showcasing Australia and the South Pacific's luxury offerings. The "sophisticated social hub" of the Benetti Lounge offered guests gourmet delicacies, fine wines and award-winning whiskey tastings, while a saxophonist provided entertainment. Meanwhile, guests were treated to a display of a trio of luxury vehicles, courtesy of Showcase Partner, Scuderia Graziani. 

Other exhibitions at the event included nature-inspired artwork as well as fine and bespoke jewellery. Pantaenius Australia hosted key clients at the event (in addition to piccolos of pink bubbles in celebration of International Women’s Day), while Navair Jet Services, Sevenstar Yacht Transport, DYT Yacht Transport and Yachtsmiths also welcomed prospective clients onboard. 

Founded in 2020 by Superyacht Australia and Benetti to celebrate Australia's change in charter legislation, the one-day event is designed to showcase Sydney and the entire South Pacific as an ideal destination for hosting superyachts, while also shining a light on locally based charter vessels. According to the event organisers, the 2025 edition "reaffirmed that the demand for luxury yacht charters in Australia is stronger than ever."