80 FEET OF LUXURY THEN 42KM OF HELL

The words “marathon” and “luxury” don’t normally belong together but Palazzo Versace is changing that. The hotel has an 80-foot yacht for runners like Tina Carroll who want to make a grand entrance to the Gold Coast Marathon on Sunday. There will be champagne for those who can hold it down.

THIS could be the most lavish solution for Gold Coast Marathon athletes who like a touch of luxury and can’t be bothered searching for a parking space before the race.

For the first time Palazzo Versace is opening its private marina to all runners and supplying an 80-foot luxury yacht from Crystal Blue Charters to ferry people to the race start at Broadwater Parklands.

Hotel marketing manager Jasmine Webb said previously the service had only been available to guests.

“It leaves from our private marina, is really easy access over to the competition area, there’s no traffic,” she said.

For guests who can stomach a beer or champagne after running 42.2km or 21.1km, Ms Webb said alcoholic beverages were an option on the return cruise.

“The hotel’s seafood buffet will also be available after the race.”

Main Beach resident Tina Carrell, 45, said the being ferried across the Broadwater was an ideal way to prepare for her first half marathon on Sunday.

“It’s one way to arrive, that’s for sure.”

Ms Webb said there were spaces left on the boat and bookings could be made with Palazzo Versace’s concierge.