Cairns celebrates boom time

by Jeni Bone on 18 Jun 2008 Cairns Marlin Marina is now enjoying the onset of winter. And with temperatures hovering around 25-30 ºC, who wouldn’t be!

Not only are hundreds of boaties from southern climes seeking sun and solace in the tranquil waters of balmy Cairns, it is currently hosting several visiting superyachts and enjoying a steady flow of international visitors checking in, requiring maintenance and exploring the local region.

In addition to ‘Seafaris’ and ‘Antipodean’, the port has welcomed Laurel, Helios, Fantasticaa, Dharma, Destination Fox H’bour Skylge, Ultimate Lady, Atlantic Princess, Ophelia, Huntress, Sinbad, Twizzle, Whalesong, Apoise, Lionwind and Bullish.

According to Cairns Ports General Manager, Seaport, Chris Boland, Cairns is experiencing a burst of popularity, thanks to consistent promotion, positive word of mouth and the recent visa changes.

'It’s fantastic!' Chris said. 'At the moment we have only two slips free out of 10 for vessels greater than 25m. Cairns Marlin Marina is well booked right through to November. With the recent announcement of the visa changes for international crew members, we are expecting a lot more international vessels will visit us and stay for longer.

'As well as sight-seeing and taking a few weeks to savour the attractions of Tropical North Queensland, the owners are taking advantage of the marine services available in the area and doing a lot of minor work right through to major refits,' says Chris.

Feedback from passengers and crew is that Cairns a marvelously situated marine hub, boasting proximity to a sophisticated city, the Great Barrier Reef and islands, plus it offers internationally competitive rates.

'We are often told that Cairns is the perfect stopover, not only for Superyachts but also for smaller cruising yachts.

The 214 berth marina caters for a wide range of vessel sizes,' Chris says. 'People come here and enjoy the marina facilities and also spend time taking in the Hinterland, indigenous culture and wildlife – it’s the authentic Australian experience.'

Right now, Cairns is proving an ideal stopover for participants in the Darwin to Kupang Rally.

As Chris explains: 'The rally is not a race. It is a group of vessels who travel together as a cruising community and the number of international visitors involved has skyrocketed. We are pleased to welcome them here. There is also an influx of French boats, mostly coming in from New Caledonia.'

Marlin season is coming up too, between July and November and despite concerns about the cost of fuel, plenty of parties are already booked, intent on fishing this legendary sport fish.

'They mostly come up from the Gold Coast and southern states to take a break from the hustle and bustle. Around that time the Marina has a wait-list so booking well in advance is recommended,' says Chris

Cairns Marlin Marina has also received enquiries from the Whitsunday maxi-yacht fraternity about Cairns hosting a series of demonstrations, corporate days and match races.

'We’d be thrilled to see them in Cairns. Their vast mast and sail area and deep keel means only certain marinas are suitable for them but Cairns Marlin Marina can accommodate their requirements.'

Cairns Marlin Marina is a modern, secure marina designed to cater for the most advanced superyachts.

It features floating docks and main wharf berthing, alongside vehicle parking, and ADSL and broadband wireless internet.

With the 5-star Shangri-la Hotel adjacent, the marina is surrounded by the city’s waterfront dining district, parkland and the vibrant esplanade with its swimming lagoon. The facility is also just a short stroll away from the best in Cairns’ nightlife with a range of bars, clubs and a world-class casino.

It has a heli-pad on its doorstep and is just 10 minutes drive from Cairns Airport.

More at www.cairnsport.com.au/marina