Superyacht demand drives The Boat Shed expansion

The specialist refit and refurbishment marina revealed yesterday it has already reached its operational capacity a year after the official opening of the 10-hectare site dedicated to superyachts on the Gold Coast.

With slips and sheds now booked out months ahead – the yard is already hauling out 50 boats a week – the stage 4 development will add another five sheds capable of housing motor yachts up to 45 metres long.

The sheds will create a controlled environment for sandblasting and respraying.

Existing facilities installed as part of a project costing $100 million to date include the superyacht marina built by Superior Jetties, and out-of-water maintenance precincts comprising the hardstand and refit sheds.

“It’s a case of supply and demand,” The Boat Shed general manager Shane Subichin said. 

“All our hardstand area and sheds are occupied. We need more sheds to accommodate the influx,” he said.

“We will commence work on stage four ahead of schedule to be ready for the return of the superyacht fleet and motor yachts heading back south after winter cruising in the Whitsundays.”

Stage three of the project added a $30 million service hub for marine professionals. The Boat Works said four new tenants had recently moved into the area, bumping the number of on-site businesses to more than 80.

The new sheds will collect rainwater that will be used on-site for antifouling and other uses, while garden beds lining the site’s boundary will help with water filtration and purification.

More than 50 superyachts stretching more than 24 metres have berthed at The Boat Shed since the site opened to larger vessels in February last year.

One, the 41-metre explorer vessel Batavia, recently underwent a complex refit after arriving midway through last year that included being hauled out of the water using The Boat Works’ 300-tonne lift.

“It’s amazing how busy all the trades are here in the yard,” Batavia captain Mark Clacher said.

“It’s heartening to see the confidence in the industry with so much investment. There’s a lack of berths for vessels over 40 metres, so we’re pleased we can book at The Boat Works on our return trip.”

The Boat Works also works closely with Queensland TAFE to increase its uptake of skilled tradespeople.