Cairns, a superyacht magnet

Superyacht Group - Great Barrier Reef (SYGGBR) said a recent visit to the annual Monaco Yacht Show has confirmed Cairns, in Far North Queensland, is developing a reputation throughout the world as a superyacht destination with a world-class marina and a comprehensive range of refit and repair facilities and services.

SYGGB manager, Narelle Phipps said: “The region was well represented at Monaco and meetings with captains, crew and owners highlighted that Cairns remains a popular destination for superyacht cruising. 

“The excellent marina facilities, the reputation for quality refit workmanship coupled with the attraction of the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage Rainforest is very appealing. We have a lot to be proud of,” she said.

According to SYGGB, a concierge service for superyachts, these vessels are now a key market for Cairns and currently inject more than $30 million into the local economy annually and continue to grow.

Far North Queensland Ports Corporation (FNQPC) acting CEO, Chris Boland said: “FNQPC is a major supporter of the industry in Cairns and will continue to work closely with SYGGBR to effectively market Cairns Marlin Marina and the Cairns destination to the world superyacht market.”

Phipps said that since the anti-cyclone breakwall was completed in Trinity Inlet in 2001 and the extra berthing that came with it, superyacht visits to Cairns have grown from six in that year to 60 annually.

“Cairns has an international airport and that appeals to superyacht owners. Their crews can have their yacht here for them when they fly in,” she said.