Cruising in Australia in April? If so, you’ll be in good company. According to the industry association Superyacht Australia and its Superyacht Queensland division, several yachts have set sights on Gold Coast in Queensland. It’s due to the Commonwealth Games going on there from April 4 to 15. As a result, the organization has a special superyacht guide to the Commonwealth Games, with facts on customs clearances to VIP events for yacht owners.
The Commonwealth Games occurs every four years and features athletes from dozens of countries. Dating back to 1930, the event is nicknamed the Friendly Games, for its focus on bringing citizens together and supporting their well-being, particularly via sports. This year, more than 6,600 athletes and team officials will represent 70 countries and territories. They’ll participate in 18 sports and seven para-sports over the 11 days, too.
Conveniently, Gold Coast is an official port of entry for the event. Cameron Bray, chair of Superyacht Queensland, says visiting crew and owners are planning trips to related events in Brisbane and Cairns, too, as well as planning cruises farther up the Queensland coast. “This is the biggest tourism event for Queensland this decade,” he declares.
The superyacht guide to the Commonwealth Games therefore provides a host of helpful information. For example, there’s a link to the official Games website. But there are also details on regulations for entering Australia, clearing customs, and securing berths. Several yacht agents are listed, who can assist with visas, provisioning, and more. In addition, if the Great Barrier Reef is of interest, you can learn about specially designated anchoring spots. Suggested cruising itineraries are available overall for Australia, too.
Of course, not everything always goes according to plan when you’re cruising. Should a mechanical issue arise while you’re in Australia, the superyacht guide to the Commonwealth Games has details about refit and repair yards.
To further promote the region to owners and crew, the Gold Coast City Council is planning a marine week, the week of April 8. It wraps up with a VIP event on April 13. Finally, there’s the Australian Superyacht Rendezvous the following week. On April 20 to 21, 20 yachts (to date) will help showcase chartering in the country.
You can download the 2018 Superyacht Queensland Commonwealth Games Fact Sheet directly from us.
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