Sanctuary raises bar
Marina’s upgrade a cut above
THE first stage of a major overhaul of Sanctuary Cove’s marina – including the first dedicated superyacht pier at the elite enclave – is nearing completion.
The $8 million program, unveiled last September, involves Australia’s first covered berths and an increase in the marina’s capacity from 237 to 303 vessels, including an expansion to attract the superyacht market.
So far G and H piers have opened for private berthing and are almost at capacity with I and J piers to follow next month.
The J pier, the last to be completed, will be able to accommodate superyachts longer than 164ft.
Marine heavyweights Princess Yachts and Horizon Motor Yachts have also opened their own dedicated berths with six and three yachts already docked.
Marina general manager Steve Sammes said the expansion project was driven by industry demand for quality facilities and berthing services for vessels 60ft and over.
He said further stages would be demand led.
“We’ve already seen strong interest from interstate vessel owners across Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra particularly due to the high quality of our service offering,” he said.
Horizon Motor Yachts director Mark Western said the marina redevelopment positioned Sanctuary Cove at the forefront of the industry.
“It means that we can present our vessels in a showroom-style, under lighting and the protection of the marina, these added elements really make Sanctuary Cove Marina a mecca for vessel sales in Australia,” he said.
Princess Yachts dealer principal Greg Haines said the new facilities were a game changer.
“This redevelopment puts the Sanctuary Cove Marina in the same realm as a prestige car dealership in terms of service and facilities,” he said.
“A key part of our decision to call Sanctuary Cove home was the marina upgrade. It’s a great position for our brand and means that we can showcase new and brokerage boats all in one location, with up to 10 boats at a time.”
Private berth holder Drew Sellick said the revitalised marina would ensure longstanding private berth holders received a more expansive service offering, enhancing the boating experience.
“I’ve been privately berthing my vessels at Sanctuary Cove Marina since 2008, and the marina expansion has only cemented that my fourth boat would also call Sanctuary Cove home,” he said.