The 2018 Australian Superyacht Rendezvous drew to a close last weekend (April 20-21) after showcasing more than $200 million worth of superyachts to an audience of around 200 owners, industry representatives, captains and crewmembers.
Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard once again provided the scenic backdrop for this glamorous event, which culminated in a spectacular fireworks display.
This year’s fleet was comprised of 19 superyachts — 11 for charter and eight for sale — including the recently delivered Gulf Craft Majesty 100 yacht Oneworld.
Trent Gay, CEO of Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard, told Boat International: “In relative terms, superyacht charter is a very young industry here in Australia, and events such as the Australian Superyacht Rendezvous will see it mature and blossom as more high net worth individuals are educated on the charms of superyacht ownership and charter.”
The opening night saw a frank and lively industry round table discussion on the hottest issues that the superyacht industry is facing and how to make sure Australia becomes the next superyacht hotspot, with invaluable insight from the likes of Peter Mahony, general manager of Benetti Asia, and Jonathan Beckett (pictured above), CEO of international brokerage house Burgess.
“Everyone who is anyone attended the Australian Superyacht Rendezvous,” said Beckett. “It was a gathering of the great and good of the superyacht industry, with a good number of owners in attendance too. The stern-to line-up of superyachts gave the event a very St Tropez feel. I will be coming again next year.”
Of course, a superyacht rendezvous wouldn’t be complete without a vibrant social programme, and this was no exception, with live music, world food, and rum, gin and vodka tasting. Visitors also had the opportunity to view a selection of Ulysse Nardin watches and exquisite pieces from Hardy Brothers Jewellers.
“From our point of view the event was a resounding success,” Gay added. “With equal parts B2B and B2C I think we managed to provide an incredible forum for networking amongst captains, owners and industry, whilst also highlighting the relevance of superyachts to a well-qualified group of current and potential owners and charterers.”