12 | WATERLINE December 2025 FEATURE SUPERYACHTS With international superyacht visitation increasing steadily across Australia, the challenge for marinas shift to encouraging them to stay longer. Extended stays deliver outsized economic benefits through refit work, provisioning and local spending. But the secret to retention isn’t just about berthing space, it’s about comfort, convenience, and crew wellbeing. ESSENTIAL CRITERIA • Reliable, High-Capacity Shore Power Nothing matters more to a chief engineer than the ability to shut down generators. Strong shore power reduces maintenance hours, saves fuel, cuts noise and supports sustainability goals. The Southport Yacht Club’s 600-amp shore-power supply sets a national benchmark, allowing vessels to operate silently and efficiently. • Floating Berths for Ease and Safety Floating pontoons relieve crew from constantly adjusting lines and fenders as tides shift, lowering stress and reducing risk of damage. A stable berth translates directly into a better onboard experience and longer layovers. • Proximity to International Airports Easy crew rotation and training travel are essential. Marinas close to major international airports with strong air links enable seamless logistics for both crew and guests, which heavily influence itinerary planning. • Sports and Recreation Access Life onboard can be confined and demanding. Crew value places that promote a healthy lifestyle, access to gyms, beaches and recreational activities can make the difference between a short stopover and an extended stay. • Onsite Refit and Local Services The availability of skilled trades, marine engineers and provisioning keeps yachts operational. Convenient vehicle access and parking alongside the vessel enhance comfort for both crew and contractors. THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF LONGER STAYS When a superyacht lingers in port, the benefits extend far beyond marina fees. Local economies gain through refit and maintenance contracts, hospitality and tourism spending and supply-chain activity, from florists and fuel providers to caterers, transport, and luxury retailers. Crew often become repeat local consumers, injecting steady off-season revenue into coastal towns. A single extended superyacht visit can equate to hundreds of thousands of dollars in regional economic contribution, supporting jobs and small businesses across multiple sectors. By focusing on operational capability and crew wellbeing, Australia’s marinas can transform fleeting visits into long-term relationships, turning every extended stay into a win for both the marina and the wider community. ENCOURAGING SUPERYACHTS TO STAY LONGER: WHAT KEEPS THEM HAPPY By David Good, CEO Superyacht Australia Cairns Marlin Marina Southport Yacht Club GET RECOGNIZED AS CAPTAIN’S RECOMMENDED MARINA The Captain’s Inside Guide The Superyacht Services Guide (SSG) is a long-established, trusted digital platform featuring 12,000+ Captain’s Recommended Services. Used daily by superyacht captains, crew, owners and managers, SSG fast-tracks them to the very best services, marinas and destinations around the globe. MIA Member Benefits • Promote your marina on the Superyacht Services Guide digital platform • Reach a global superyacht audience actively planning their routes and stopovers • Exclusive MIA & SSG Partnership Rates BENEFIT FROM YOUR EXCLUSIVE OFFER TODAY AND CONTACT Caroline Blatter caroline@superyachtpublications.com www.superyachtservicesguide.com
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