MARINA GUIDE - Quay Questions

Australians are blessed with some of the best boating in the world — an all-year-round mild climate, generally tranquil seas, and endless coasts to explore. Marina operators understand this equation very well and are keen to engage us, as can be seen from this scan of new or expanding marina facilities around Australia. 

These range from state-of-the-art marina complexes run by major corporations to independent family-operated enterprises. The choices for parking your beloved boat have never been better and, for those wanting to dip their toes into the boating lifestyle, there are more and more residential berthing-and-apartment developments.

“There’s a growing demand for dry storage and we’re now doing it with larger vessels ranging in size from 25- to 40-foot,” says Adrian Cormick, operations manager at d’Albora Marinas. Balanced against the inconvenience of not being able to jump right into your boat are many advantages: foremost cost, then savings in wear and tear, better security and no osmosis or even antifouling.

Our boats are one of our life’s major investments so having a quality berth is always worthwhile. Good indicators are accreditation by the Gold Anchor Scheme run by the Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIAA). Apart from this quality accreditation, the MIAA run training courses for dock masters and other staff. This way you can make a career of being a marina rat.

In respect of the best marinas, location is always key. It affects your access to open waters and surrounding waterways, as well as safety. Swell surges play havoc with toerails, topsides and chaffing of warps. And to avoid sleepless nights in your cabin during a blow, a sheltered berth is important.

Depth or draught is another factor, not only in respect of water movements but also access. Naturually, the best locations for aspiring yacht racers are berths at the yacht club. Leaning on the bar and analysing your results while overlooking your yacht is always a nice way to end race day.

For cruising types, the ideal location might be in a remote spot with fly-in access — an acquaintance of mine keeps his boat in Greece, on the hardstand, and near an airport. He flies in for three months a year cruising and spends the rest of the year working in Sydney to pay for the next trip.

Closer to home, the holiday berth option is good for many parts of the Queensland coast and marina expansion is making berthing more competitive.

Services are playing a big part in what’s now commonly termed “marina villages”, so apart from the no-brainers such as Wi-Fi, individual metering and other pontoon side facilities, surrounding infrastructure might include business lounges and shopping.

This nicely segues into the lifestyle aspect of marinas with plenty of new dockside apartments, semi-commercial dwellings and even other recreational facilities. Investment opportunities exists increasingly with dockside holiday homes and other developments offering free-hold berths with residential living.

Finally, the financials. The choice between buying or renting/leasing a berth —
as well as ongoing service costs — need to be considered. Fees for internet usage, slipway access, sullage and various ancillary items should be checked out well in advance. Apart from ad hoc renting, berths can be leased long-term. Get your accountant to do the figures and possible tax offsets if considering sub-letting.

But whether its for lifestyle or investment, marina berths pay handsome dividends. Here’s some of the movers and shakers on the local marina circuit.

MARINAS QLD

Cairns Marlin Marina
“An iconic FNQ marina just a stroll to town. As such, it’s a perfect base for your Great Barrier Reef cruise, whether reprovisioning, effecting repairs or docking during an interim business trip back home.” TAB crew

Cairns Marlin Marina is improving services and expanding berthing as part of a $2 million revamp. Operator Ports North will include pump-out facilities, a new floating pontoon finger for added berths and additional superyacht berths.

The marina was rebuilt after a cyclone in 2003 and the new wave barrier and floating pontoons survived Cyclone Yasi. All vessels had followed the Cyclone Contingency Plans and evacuated to the mangrove creeks and once the cyclone passed, the marina was ready and open for business as usual.

The 217-berth Cairns Marlin Marina, which has recently been accredited with Clean Marinas Level 3, is situated right in the heart of the CBD, close to hotels, restaurants and bars and only 8km from Cairns International Airport. It caters for a diverse range of customers from the largest tourist-reef fleet in Australasia, game-fishing boats, recreational vessels and superyachts up to 100m.

The marina has recently commissioned a recycling facility to cater not only for the commercial fleet operating from the marina but for recreational boat owners. Cardboard, cans, bottles, plastic, waste oil and other fluids, and batteries are now collected and sent to the recycling centre. Remaining rubbish is compacted in the refrigerated compactor and taken away to landfill.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 217
BOAT LENGTHS: Up to 100m
DETAILS: Cairns Marlin Marina, 1 Spence Street, Cairns, Qld 4870
PHONE: (07) 4052 3866
WEBSITE: www.portsnorth.com.au

Meridien Marinas’ Port of Airlie
“An exemplar marina resort teaming designer style with lifestyle amenities and safe berthing at the gateway to the Whitsundays.” – TAB crew

Whitsundays island access has become even easier thanks to the newly expanded Port of Airlie, where Meridien Marinas is completing a 289-berth facility. The initial stage completed earlier this year includes berths ranging in size from 12m to 24m, with the final phase incorporating larger berths up to 50m. Dredging work will ensure that superyachts eventually have access to the marina, with the deep access channel giving a minimum of 3m draught at the lowest astronomical tide. Coinciding with the marina opening is completion of The Boathouse Apartments, including 15 beachfront homes, a mix of 365 designer apartments, a luxury international Outrigger resort, retail dining and fashion precinct and harbourside boardwalk. Also included will be a Fantasea Adventure Cruise for visitors and integrated bus terminal plus a 240m all-tide beach.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 289
BOAT LENGTHS: 12m to 24m; up to 50m (upon completion)
DETAILS: Port of Airlie, Airlie Beach, QLD, 4802
PHONE: (07) 3229 1238


WEB: www.portofairlie.com.au; www.meridienmarinas.com.au

Pacific Harbour Marina at Bribie Island
“Island living with a lifestyle marina and award-winning residential development from which to wet a line, swing an iron, and while-away your golden years” —
TAB crew

Bribie Island’s Pacific Harbour Marina will offer Moreton Bay boaters new leisure activities including golf as part of its $100 million investment. Included will be a Marina Village development located near the entrance to Pumicestone Passage Marine Park and set against the beautiful backdrop of the Glasshouse Mountains.

Pacific Harbour Marina owned and operated privately is one of three in the Star Marinas Group. The other two Star Marinas are at Tin Can Bay and Coffs Harbour.

The Bribie lifestyle and boat experience is greatly enhanced for local residents because of the inclusion of a marina precinct. There is safe access to Moreton Bay and beyond as there are no treacherous bars to navigate.

Michael Bourke, manager of Pacific Harbour marina said: “We have berth owners who leave their boats here and live close by. They do not have the expense of owning a property on the canal but do have another asset and a place to have their boat”.

A big attraction for fishers and boaters is the nearby Tangalooma wrecks and Flinders Reef dive location. Sportsfishers can enjoy the grounds off Cape Moreton and for those seeking quieter waters, there is the Bribie Passage with beautiful campsites, great fishing and crabbing, as well as dolphins and dugong feeding grounds. Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club is part of the development.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 82
BOAT LENGTHS: Up to 18m (mono and multihull)
DETAILS: Pacific Harbour Marina, Marina Boulevard, Bribie Island, QLD, 4507
PHONE: (07) 3408 7827

WEBSITE: http://pacificharbour.starmarinas.com.au

Compass Redcliffe Marina
“A handy bolthole for Brisbane boaters looking to launch into Moreton Bay and cruise the local boating clubs.” – TAB crew

The Brisbane area has received a boost with the first stage of Redcliffe’s Compass Marinas nearing completion. The marina is being developed by Peter Harburg, director of Compass Marinas under the approval of Port of Brisbane and Department of Transport Queensland.

The marina has 74 berths ranging from 10m to 15m constructed by Bellingham Marine. Onshore amenities include an architecturally designed building development comprising a marina administration facility, boat shed, shower and laundry, and a covered community area. The marina also features a large grassed area and landscaping. Pathways have been interwoven into the development to allow pedestrians and cyclists to access the waterfront surrounding the marina.

Environmental features include no treated lumber and vandal-proof water taps, making it a requirement to have a key in order to turn on the water. Less dripping means less water is wasted, as each berth owner is responsible for their own water supply. Other handy services that will be available include a bilge and separate sewer pump-out facility.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 74
BOAT LENGTHS: 10m to 15m
DETAILS: Compass Redcliffe Marinas, Thurecht Parade, Redcliffe, QLD, 4020
PHONE: (07) 3008 4353
EMAIL: info@redcliffemarina.com.au
WEBSITE: www.redcliffemarina.com.au

Horizon Shores
“Bigger is better. Midway between the Gold Coast and Brisbane, this marina Mecca grants safe access to maze of local channels and, thereafter, Moreton Bay. Marina berth sales and investment opportunities near expanding residential areas, too,” TAB crew

Horizon Shores Marina near Jacob’s Well, mid-way between the Gold Coast and Brisbane, is one of the largest facilities in Australia, but there are even expansion plans. Currently there are 550 marina berths ranging in size from 10m to 30m and a drystack with 1000 spaces. Other facilities include refuelling, mechanical support, 70-tonne travel lift, water blasting, undercover rack and trailer storage, 24?hour security, wireless internet and boat valet services including full maintenance, provisioning and brokerage.

The $400 million redevelopment earmarked for the marina will see additional infrastructure and facilities implemented over the next 10 years. The master plan will include a marine precinct of 1400 wet berths, additional shipyard dry boat storage, industrial and commercial space, a waterfront promenade with retail and commercial leasing opportunities. Also included will be restaurants and cafes, a waterfront tavern and yacht club, a marine emporium, a 100?room eco?resort and day spa, and harbourside boardwalk.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 500 (current); 1400 (planned)
BOAT LENGTHS: 10m to 30m
DRYSTACK: 1000 spaces
DETAILS: Cabbage Tree Point Road, Woongoolba, QLD, 4207 PHONE: 1800 462 300
WEBSITE: www.horizonshoresmarina.com.au

Gold Coast City Marina
“The best boat refit, restoration and maintenance centre in Queensland” – TAB crew

It’s hard to believe 15 years have passed since Patrick Gay AM & Jeff Leigh-Smith from the well-known Queensland boating family bought a 14.3 hectare site on the Coomera River. That purchase was in preparation for building Gold Coast City Marina (GCCM), an all-encompassing boating amenity that opened in 2000. Now, more than a decade on, there’s still plenty of good news for visiting and local boaters. While there’s a modern, well-equipped a marina, GCCM is the place to head for a refit, restoration, maintenance and more. There are more than 70 marine businesses, a hardstand area for 100 boats, eight 900m sq superyacht fit-out sheds, a 150t shiplift, and any number of affordable refit bays. Marina berths number 230 for boats from 10-60m, there are special superyacht docks with three-phase power, a fuel berth with multiple high-speed filtered diesel pumps, and a 250-boat undercover dry stack for boats up to 37ft, plus unique moor-and-store berths with sheds. Jessica Watson chose GCCM after her bingle with a tanker for good reason.


FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 289-plus (drystack and hardstand)
BOAT LENGTHS: 12m up to 60m
DETAILS: Gold Coast City Marina, 76-84 Waterway Drive, Coomera, Qld, 4209
PHONE: (07) 5502 5888
WEB:
www.gccm.com.au

MARINAS NSW

Soldiers Point
“Owned by Jeff d’Albora, Soldiers Point is all about you, your enjoyment, the safety of your boat, and having a five-star experienced while going nowhere much at all. A benchmark marina where staff deliver cocktails to your boat at happy hour.” — TAB crew

Soldiers Point Marina in Port Stephens is just a wonderful location, 95nm north of Sydney, far removed from the swell surges at the mouth of the bay. Bellingham Marine’s latest floating concrete walkway/pontoon systems were used to create 100 berths for vessels ranging from 7m to 45m. All berths are serviced with power, filtered water, two telephone lines, network ISP dial-up computer links, free-to-air TV, wireless internet and Foxtel. Other value-adds include complimentary use of the marina vehicle and pushbikes to pick-up supplies.

In recognition of its quality finish and services the facility was awarded a 5 Gold Anchor rating from the Marina Industries Association of Australia in 2010. Marine services at the marina include two slipways of 40- to 80-ton capacity and up to 22ft beam, and shipwright and workshop facilities including diesel and petrol engine repairs. Onshore amenities feature a restaurant and bar as well as laundry and other resources. Recently added services include a business centre, valet, penthouse, and library.

Service is a highlight, including papers deliver to your boat, hot towels and even cocktails at happy hour. You’ll never want to leave! And you can watch your boat over the log-in cameras from your workaday desk. A benchmark marina.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 100
BOAT LENGTHS: 7m to 45m
DETAILS: Soldiers Pt. Marina, Sunset Boulevarde, Soldiers Point, Port Stephens, NSW, 2317
PHONE: (02) 49 827 445
WEBSITE: www.soldiersptmarina.com.au

Empire Marinas Bobbin Head
“A real sanctuary in otherwise bustling Sydney and among the very best marinas servicing the terrific Hawkesbury cruising grounds. When the café opens on hot summer nights, dining here is something special.” TAB crew

Hidden deep in the backwaters of Cowan Creek, a tributary to the Hawkesbury River, and surrounded by Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Empire Marinas Bobbin Head enjoys a unique setting. Yet despite its apparent remoteness, you are just 24km north of Sydney CBD as the seagull flies.

After a large redevelopment of the historic former Halverson boatshed, Empire Marinas has established 199 deepwater berths, 10 moorings and 1600m² hardstand area. Service facilities include a modern 50-tonne travel lift, three-tonne crane and four-tonne forklift for the removal and installation of masts, engines and other heavy components. There is also on-site engineering, water, gas, fuel and provisions.

The winners of the Marina of the Year 2009/10 and rated with 5 Gold Anchors by the MIAA, the Empire Marina at Bobbin Head aims to give boaters a quality experience, while also balancing the environmental challenges of its unique location. Onshore there is a top café open at nights in summer. On the news front, the company is planning some new berthing options with 10-year licenses being released.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 199 (deep water)
MOORINGS: 10
DETAILS: Empire Marinas Bobbin Head, Bobbin Head Road, Bobbin Head, North Turramurra, NSW, 2074
PHONE: (02) 9457 9011
EMAIL: stephen@empiremarinas.com.au
WEBSITE: www.empiremarinas.com.au

Sirsi Marina Newport
“With a penchant for classic boats, the Hannan family has transformed this ageing marina into a smart new amenity. But all the great shipwrights remain and Sirsi is very much coveted by local timber-boat buffs.” – TAB crew

Boaters keen on the tranquil waters of Pittwater and Broken Bay north of Sydney are enjoying upgraded facilities at Sirsi Marina, Newport, thanks to a new Bellingham marina with 35 pens and 10 moorings.

Proprietor Lee Bradstreet describes it is a friendly, sheltered marina with ample parking, and conveniently just around the corner from the Newport Arms Hotel. “We offer a full service centre with shipwrights, painters, mechanics, marine electricians and an onsite rigger,” he said. Access includes a launching ramp for trailerboats. It has the latest back-to-base security systems with 24/7 video surveillance and security gates on each arm. There is also a boatcharter company based there.

Another major investment is the new Sublift 25-ton heavy-boat mover, which is the only one in Australia at the moment, says Bradstreet. This state-of-the-art machine allows boats to be safely placed very close together. The Sublift drives into the water, picks up the boat and can manoeuvre in tight spaces. It can be adjusted in width from 3m to 5.1m and handle boats up to 2.9m deep. It can also lift boats onto trucks for transport. Sirsa also has a large cradle capable of handling 56-ton boats up to 70 feet long. Bradstreet says the large cradle is ideal for timber boats that can be damaged by lifting with slings. The yard also has an undercover workshop that can handle boats up to 50 feet long.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 35
MOORINGS: 10
BOAT LENGTHS: n/a
DETAILS: Sirsi Marina, 122 Crescent Road, Newport, NSW, 2106
PHONE: Lee Bradstreet on 0414 555 544
WEBSITES: www.sirsimarina.com.au; www.horseshoecove.com.au

White Bay 6
“We hope White Bay 6 becomes the best-placed and best-priced ‘marina’ in Sydney for refuelling. Planned maintenance sheds and short-term berthing will allow skippers to co-ordinate maintenance of their own craft as well. After which, the Fish Markets are minutes away. Shell out without shelling out.” TAB crew

Sydney Harbour boaters have more fuelling options thanks to the newly opened White Bay 6 near Balmain. The refuelling and maintenance facility, located right beside the city’s CBD, is the first of its kind in Sydney to offer an integrated marine supply and service for both commercial and recreational vessels from 8m to 70m, with draughts up to 14m. Berthing for short-stay visitors will be available, as will a ramp, slipway, work sheds and dry storage, as well as wireless internet.

The supply side of facility will provide a range of services for harbour users, including 24-hour marine refuelling facilities (both diesel and unleaded), bulk indoor and outdoor storage space for marine equipment, a lay-down area for temporary storage of goods, and grey water and sullage pump-out facilities for water transport. Dockside, there will be office leases for commercial marine service businesses, a supply point for commercial vessels to collect pre-ordered provisions, a dedicated space for port security and emergency services, and temporary vessel moorings for short-term berthing during repair or maintenance works.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: TBA (short-term only)
BOAT LENGTHS: 8m to 70m (recreational and commercial)
BOAT DRAFTS: To 14m
DETAILS: White Bay 6, Lot 1 Wharf 6, White Bay Balmain, NSW, 2041
PHONE: Peter Forde on (02) 8090 4311
WEBSITE: www.baileysmarine.com.au

Berrys Bay, Sydney
“One to watch still in the planning-approval stages, but the anticipated $40-million plus marina precinct will be a boon for North Sydney when it’s up and running in the next few years.” TAB crew

Berrys Bay sits among the trees on the northshore of Sydney Harbour not far from the shadow cast by the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Meridien Marinas plans to transform the old marina into a deep-draught harbour and marine precinct. There will be more than 90 wet berths from 12m in length and drystack storage is planned. Other facilities under planning include sewage pump-out and refuelling facilities, berths for visiting and pick?up boats, a covered maintenance facility and maritime workshops. Dockside, a marina village will hold cafes and businesses. Small-boat users, such as kayakers will also have storage and foreshore access as well. Hopefully, with the recent change of local government, the plans for Berrys Bay are realised sooner than would otherwise be possible. Watch this space.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 90
BOAT LENGTHS: From 12m
DRYSTACK: Spaces TBA
DETAILS: Berrys Bay Marina,1 Balls Head Road, Waverton, NSW, 2060
WEBSITE: www.meridienmarinas.com.au

d’Albora Cabarita Point
“A great escape within cooee of Sydney’s CBD” – TAB crew

Located on Cabarita Point, up the mighty Parramatta River, and surrounded by the sprawling namesake parklands, d’Albora Cabarita Point is Sydney Harbour’s most western marina. When the winds blow, winter descends or you’re simply seeking a change of scenery, this sneaky locale comes into its own. The marina has 135 berths up to 45 metres and visitor and casual berthing by arrangement. Best of all, restaurant patrons get free berthing. Sanders Restaurant and Kiosk, and The Thai are well patronised by boaties looking for a fine dining experience away from the hubbub of the main harbour. Although you’re only 15 minutes from the CBD, the marina at the end of the park, sans the usual suburban traffic noise, feels and sounds like it’s much farther away. Do an overnighter and make a meal of it. Having stirred bright and early you can then avail yourself
of the 40km of walking tracks or work off last night’s feast at adjoining Cabarita swimming pool. D’Albora Cabarita Point proves the old adage that a change is as good as a holiday.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 135
BOAT LENGTHS: Up to 45m
DETAILS: d’albora Marinas Cabarita Point, 138 Cabarita Road, Cabarita, NSW, 2137
PHONE: (02) 9743 6277
WEB: www.dalboramarinas.com.au/cabarita-point-sydney

MARINAS VIC

Pier 35, Port Melbourne
"Williamstown, the city, St Kilda, Maribyrnong River perhaps? At Pier 35 you're striking distance from these destinations, let along beyond on Port Phllip Bay," TAB crew

Pier 35 is located at the mouth of Port Phillip Bay just inside the West Gate Bridge, with the Melbourne CBD nearby. The marina is ideally situated to take full advantage of a range of activities from fishing, yachting, waterskiing and general cruising. Pier 35 Marina offers mooring in either a wet berth or dry storage in the rack-and-stack facility. There’s dockmaster assistance seven days a week, dry-boat storage for 288 boats up to 12m, and wet berths up to 36m all with power and water. Also available are hardstand area, marine mechanics, boat sales, 24-hour fuel, free sewage pump-out, toilet and shower facilities, and reciprocal berthing rights to d’Albora’s seven marinas in NSW and Victoria.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 67
BOAT LENGTHS: Up to 36m
DRYSTACK: 288 spaces
DETAILS: Pier 35 Marina, 263-329 Lorimer Street,
Port Melbourne, VIC, 3207
PHONE: (03) 9646 1200
FAX: 03 9646 6957
EMAIL: pier35@dalboramarinas.com.au
WEB: www.dalboramarinas.com.au


RMYS at St Kilda
“This fine establishment, dating back to 1876, has seen fit to install a new, modern marina with all the mod-cons and some surprises like a cool seawater pool. Short and long-term leases available now. Take a tip: get in quick, and don’t forget it’s right
on St Kilda’s doorstep, ” TAB crew.

The Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron (RMYS) is starting work in April on its marina expansion, manager Peter Dawson told Trade-a-Boat. “We’ve just raised the capital and are completing final design stage”, he said. The new floating marina at St Kilda Harbour will have 250 pens in a variety of sizes including 10m, 12m, 15m and 18m. Although very much an active sailing club, some pens have been earmarked for powerboats.

The RMYS in conjunction with Parks Victoria has undertaken wave testing on breakwater options and the new facilities are expected to be completed before the end of 2011. The location at St Kilda, a popular part of Port Phillip Bay, gives sailors’ access to all the amenities of the area, with the historic RMYS club house located on the foreshore at the end of cosmopolitan Fitzroy Street.

With only 128 long-term leases available to members, demand is expected to be strong. Long-term leases are for a 20-year period, and short-term rentals, up to 12 months, will also be available to members. New members interested in joining RMYS and taking a short- or long-term marina pen should contact the club.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 250 (upon completion)
BOAT LENGTHS: 10m to 18m
DETAILS: RMYS, Pier Road, St Kilda, VIC, 3182
PHONE: (03) 9534 0227
EMAIL: manager@rmys.com.au
WEBSITE: www.rmys.com.au

Wyndam Harbour
“A greatly anticipated waterfront living hub planned from the ground up, with designer apartments, shops and restaurants, and storage for more than 1500 boats of all sizes. Site works underway and berths and residents now selling. The Bay comes of age when Wyndam Harbour is realised.” —
TAB crew

Conveniently located between Melbourne and Geelong, the Wyndham Harbour development begins this year and the marina complex is slated for completion in 2013. Describing it as being the only safe boat harbour between Williamstown and Geelong, the developers are offering a 99-year lease on some berths. Berths for sale range from 10m to 30m but visitors berths are also planned, making the new marina a handy spot for catching the Victoria Week passagemaking fleet as it passes. Other marine infrastructure planned includes a four-pump refuelling dock and marina service and maintenance yard. Wyndham Harbour will ultimately have about 1000 wet berths and dry storage for up to 390 boats.

Located 30 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, Wyndham Harbour marina is planned to become a major lifestyle and boating destination on Port Phillip Bay. Planned around The Marina village centre, a mix of cafes, restaurants, shopping, community facilities and services are scheduled. Residential infrastructure will include waterfront house and land options once the surrounding site has been landscaped and prepared. Other options include apartments designed by well-known architects Fender Katsalidis Mirams. Later in 2011, Wyndham Harbour will be releasing Terrace Homes for sale. These are two- and three-level dwellings situated approximately 150m from the Marina.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 1000 (upon completion)
BOAT LENGTHS: 10m to 30m
DRYSTACK: 390 (upon completion)
DETAILS: Wyndham Harbour sales office, Shop 4, Sanctuary Lakes Shopping Centre, 300 Point Cook Road, Point Cook, VIC, 3030
PHONE: (03) 9394 2688
WEBSITE: www.wyndhamharbour.com.au

Victoria Harbour, Melbourne
“Modern-day living teams with walk-on/walk-off marina convenience at the downtown Melbourne docks. Add sportscruiser and entertain any which way.” — TAB crew

Boating lifestyle options are looking good in the heart of Melbourne, with several new shoreside developments from Lend Lease giving boaters the chance to step off the dock at d’Albora’s Victoria Harbour Marina and into a new property.

Lend Lease are currently offering apartments, terraces and penthouses in this popular Melbourne district. Convesso is a residential tower on prime water frontage at Victoria Harbour.
Construction has begun and property settlements are expected by late 2012. The apartments have been designed to maximise views over Victoria Harbour Marina, the bay and the city skyline. Convesso’s proximity to theatres, restaurants, Etihad Stadium, Southern Cross Station and Melbourne’s famous boutique retail shopping, should give boaters plenty to do. Lend Lease’s other development in the area, La Montage, includes terraced homes and penthouses with private rooftop gardens. The penthouses are three-bedroom two-bathroom and include double-car spaces.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 72
BOAT LENGTHS: 10m to 35m
DETAILS: d’Albora Victoria Harbour Marina, 28 Cumberland Street, Victoria Harbour, Docklands, VIC, 3008
PHONE: (03) 9602 4511
WEBSITE: www.dalboramarinas.com.au;
www.lendlease.com.au

Marina YE, Melbourne
“The best of both worlds —
inner-city living and sophisticated boating —
at a most convenient and cool new boating/residential development.” — TAB crew

Melbourne’s Marina YE at Yarra’s Edge in the city is undergoing an extensive property development by Mirvac, with a range of residential options being offered to boaters.

Property options include river-frontage homes, terraces and home offices. The Riverfront Homes are four-level dwellings with north-facing aspects across the Yarra River and city beyond. These luxury homes are available with four or five bedrooms and have the option of a marina berth near their front doors.

The Terrace Homes span three levels and are designed to suit singles, couples and families alike. The four- or five-bedroom layouts have private courtyards and elevated viewing decks to maximise the city views.
Combining work and lifestyle, the Home Office dwellings have been planned to offer a flexible design. Composed over three levels, with three bedrooms, open-plan living and outdoor decking, these homes allow for options such as a home-based business, retail or expanded living.

These properties have ground-floor exposure to Lorimer Street to maximise business options.

On the water, Marina YE has Four Gold Anchor accreditation awarded from the Marina Industries Association. Investment options include a 20+5-year tenure on marina berths.

Marina facilities include individually metered power and water, onshore lounge facilities and visitor berths. Other useful services include wireless internet and 24x7 security monitoring including CCTV. For liveaboards, sewage pump-out is also available and visitors can stay for up to one year.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 169 (inc. 20 visitor pens)
BOAT LENGTHS: 12m to 23m
DETAILS: Marina YE office, 84a River Esplanade, Docklands, VIC, 3008
PHONE: (03) 9681 8394
EMAIL: marinaye@bigpond.net.au
WEBSITE: www.marinaye.com.au

MARINAS SA

Crown Marina at North Haven
“South Aussie’s stellar cruising and fishing grounds, namely Kangaroo Island, are more accessible than ever thanks to modern marinas like Crown. Big-boat berths and valet services add to the experience. Lease and freehold investment opportunities. King George whiting extra.” — TAB crew

Adelaide’s newest marina at North Haven recently opened for business with the completion of stage one of Crown Marina. This sheltered cove is handily located near the Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia, so gives sailors plenty of options. “The location of this new marina at North Haven, just west of Glenelg, provides a protected mooring for clients on the sometimes wind-driven South Coast,” says marina manager Michael Macolino.

The marina will provide 103 berths with a range of sizes from 12m to 34m. As well as secure car parking for 70 vehicles, CCTV cameras throughout, and pin code access control. Limited berths are available for sale with the company reporting that the entry-level 12m berths selling for $90,000 are all sold. Prices range up to $700,000 for the 34m berths. For visitors, charges are between $95 and $960 per week.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 103
BOAT LENGTHS: 12m to 34m
DETAILS: Crown Marina, North Haven, SA, 5018
PHONE: Michael Macolino on 0421 801 363
WEBSITE: www.crownmarina.com.au

Copper Cove Marina
“Build it and they will come. Copper Cove has 500 housing allotments and 154 marina berths, Live, boat, eat, fish, cruise Spencer Gulf and beyond.” — TAB crew

Boaters seeking the seclusion of SA’s quiet Spencer Gulf now have the recently completed Copper Cove Marina to use. Situated in historic Wallaroo, Copper Cove Marina sits on the northern Yorke Peninsula, about 90 minutes drive from Adelaide. Copper Cover Marina’s 100 berths are likely to increase to 154 as development continues apace. Marina berths are situated in the inner harbour, adjacent to the residential housing, tavern, motel and retail complex. A further 24 larger commercial fishing berths lie within the breakwater. In addition to providing the full-range of marina support services, commercial and recreational boat facilities, the commercial precinct will also provide a range of leisure-based activities.
Copper Cove is a tidal marina (about 0.6m to 1m range) with an entrance depth at low tide of 3.5m, with 3m in the inner harbour and 2.5m in the canals. Surrounding buildings will number 500 housing allotments, 275 of which are waterfront and 178 nearby. When the final stage of construction is completed, Copper Cove Marina resort area will include restaurants and bars and a boat ramp.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 100; 154 (planned)
BOAT LENGTHS: 10m to 17.5m
DETAIL: Copper Cove Marina, Heritage Drive, Wallaroo, SA, 5556
PHONE: (08) 8823 3704
WEBSITE: www.coppercove.com.au

CYCSA’s Port Vincent Marina
“One of the safest and best-protected marinas in South Aussie, with berths for sale and a club sailing program for yachting buffs.” —
TAB crew

Lying 30nm across the water from Adelaide, The Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia (CYCSA) is strategically located for cruising sailors enjoying the Gulf of St Vincent. The Club reports that its busy Port Vincent Marina is releasing 10m to 20m berths for lease or purchase. Port Vincent has long been a family summer holiday destination for Adelaide residents and is an ideal escape for sailors seeking quiet Gulf coastal scenery. The area is a popular fishing destination and for the family, the white-sand beaches afford relaxation.

The 90-berth marina provides a safe, navigable harbour within easy walking distance to the Port Vincent township. The modern marina facility includes an amenities building, fully equipped laundry, secure berths, picnic and barbecue facilities, with hotel deliveries and pick-up service available.

The CYCSA is a major racing club that competes in the region’s main events including the Adelaide to Port Lincoln Race (which leads in the Lexus Lincoln Week Regatta), Queen of the Gulf Regatta, and several others. Racing Membership Fees are $395 per annum and new members are welcome.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 90
BOAT LENGTHS: 8m to 30m
DETAILS: Port Vincent Marina, 30 Marina Drive, Port Vincent, SA, 5581
PHONE: Rob Marner on 0414 611 110
WEBSITE: http://cycsa.com.au/portvincentmarina.html

MARINAS WA

Ascot Waters Marina, Perth
“Selling the sizzle of Swan River-front living, Ascot Water Marina enjoys a unique and serene setting just a few bends upriver from Perth. Limited property and 8m to 12m pens for sale now,” — TAB crew

Perth’s Ascot Waters Marina invested in new infrastructure in 2010 with the addition of 64 berths and is selling off 8m, 10m and 12m pens. Nestling in a bend on Perth’s Swan River the marina village is near the airport and all the city amenities, making it a handy getaway point for boaters. As part of the recent expansion a pump-out facility is installed on the marina accessible by the public.

Property options at the marina precinct include plots of land at Finn Cove (from $389,000 for 263m²) and commercial-property leases include a cafe. Ascot Waters was developed adjacent to a 25-hectare nature reserve and public access to this unique environment of the Swan River is enhanced with the provision of six short-term visitors’ berths and pedestrian access bridge.

FAST FACTS
BERTHS: 64
BOAT LENGTHS: 8m to 12m
DETAILS: Ascot Waters Marina, Marina Drive, Ascot, WA 6104
PHONE: (08) 9362 5333
WEBSITE: www.ascotwaters.com.au

Broome Boating Facility
“Plans are afoot to provide some much-needed infrastructure that services Broome’s boating community. But it’s looking like a trailerboat facility only, as huge tides limit the scope for a big-boat marina. Tow west instead.”— TAB crew

The Broome Boating Facility project has moved on since its inception last year when the WA Government announced funding in May 2010 to construct a new facility located in West Roebuck Bay. It is understood that surveys have recently been completed on both commercial and recreational boat owners and the findings will pave the way for construction tenders by year’s end.

The proposed marina, as detailed in the Broome Boating Facility Report, shows construction taking place adjacent to the Port of Broome slipway. It is planned to include a multi-lane boat ramp, protective breakwaters, dredged basin and a floating jetty, along with access roads and parking areas. Yacht pens and assorted berths are also envisaged in what can be a challenging boating environment due to big tidal ranges and cyclonic weather patterns.

There are currently some 1600 recreational boats and about 120 commercial boats at Broome. The proposed boating facility will cater for all the trailerable boats, which represents at least 80 per cent of the Broome fleet. These numbers are expected to grow to at least 3000 recreational boats and about 180 commercial boats by 2031.

FAST FACTS
DETAILS: WA Department of Transport, Broome Boating Facility
PHONE: Project Manager on (08) 9216 8883
EMAIL: BroomeBoatingFacility@transport.wa.gov.au
WEBSITE: www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/21620.asp

Photo: d'Albora Cabarita Point is Sydney's most westerly marina.