SAILING AWAY AT HOME
If 2020 robbed you of that Euro summer sailing trip, make up for lost time by exploring new horizons on a Sanctuary Cove staycay
WHILE we’re all in the same boat when it comes to overseas travel, luxury lovers can go one better in our backyard. Whether you splash out on a Sanctuary Cove staycay or pool your pocket money with some mates, it’s possible to dip a toe in the water of the Gold Coast’s playground for the prosperous.
Turning daydream into reality relies on the right ride.
Amaroo, a 57ft luxury sailing yacht fresh from cruising the Caribbean, is the newest star in the Sanctuary Cove marina, its elegant lines standing out in a sea of superyachts.
Skipper Jamie Cox will whisk the wealthy to the Whitsundays on a whim, but is equally content showing guests around his new home base. Tailored trips for up to 10 start at half-day outings, meandering up the Coomera River where there’s ample opportunity for real estate window shopping.
Sweep past Clive Palmers’ pile on the Sovereign Islands, put in the shade by one of the Gold Coast’s most notorious mega-mansions, a trophy home sprawling over five blocks that recently hit the market for an eye-watering $45 million.
Sail snapping smartly up with the Seaway in sight, guests can learn the ropes on the fly or enjoy a local brew (Ink Gin or a Balter) and cheese plate while the crew do their thing. The real treat is heading home when inky waters mirror the sunset as the Amaroo steals into twilight anchor.
Make a night of it just metres away at the Inter-Continental Sanctuary Cove Resort, which has a range of rooms and suites surrounding its stately Queenslander.
Within buggy roll of championship golf courses and a country club, it’s the room key that unlocks a life of leisure.
While a staycay is surprisingly affordable, keep an eye out for enticing locals-only offers and you could be sipping coconut cocktails around the one-acre lagoon beach pool in no time.
With stain-glass and soaring ceilings, The Fireplace Restaurant and Cove Cafe are among the resort’s most beautiful spaces – worth a meal for the manor-born vibes alone.
There are four new restaurants opening at Sanctuary Cove in the coming months too, but if your fancy is fine dining, it’s hard to go past Jonez on Food in the Marine Village.
Intricate pictures on the plate are only matched by the waterfront view beyond the white tablecloths. Indulging in French fancies and sweet nothings entertained by a passing parade of luxury vehicles and golf carts bearing coiffured canines is priceless.