When the Australian borders were shut in 2020 as a response to a declared health emergency caused by the COVID19 pandemic, tourism ground to a halt. Tourist operators had to deal with the shutdown and the uncertainty. STEVE BUCKLEY of Sailing in Paradise shares how he is adapting in these challenging times, and reminds us of the importance of appreciating what we have on the Gold Coast.
HOW HAS COVID19 AFFECTED YOUR BUSINESS?
It has definitely been a challenging time! Of course when the lockdowns first hit in 2020 we were badly impacted as so many businesses were. With easing restrictions, we noticed that people were keen to get out and enjoy good times with family and friends, and what better way than on a boat? It was so amazing to see many Australians getting out and supporting local businesses! The snap lockdowns and border closures still provide challenges and are definitely limiting things, but we were lucky to have an excellent summer season last year which evens things out. Our catamarans offer lots of space and open areas and we keep our pricing really sharp so our charters are attainable for most. We are happy to be operating in this industry during COVID-19 times, as boating really represents an escape when overseas travel is not possible.
HOW HAS YOUR BUSINESS ADAPTED?
We focused more on the private charter side of our business, which was experiencing higher demand. Prior to COVID-19 times we were also operating ticketed sunset and island cruises. We hope to bring them back in the future.
WHY HAVE YOU ACQUIRED A NEW VESSEL IN 2021?
We have a lot of regular guests that feel like part of the family and we don’t want to let them down if we don’t have availability. Weekends in our summer months are extremely popular (particularly Saturdays) and there just aren’t enough Saturdays in the year! We welcomed a Seawind 1160 deluxe to the fleet in April 2021. She is our largest vessel and offers a little added luxury for groups of up to 30 guests. Having another vessel also allows us to more easily reschedule guests who may have been affected by COVID lockdowns etc.
WHERE DO YOU CONSIDER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL AREAS OF THE BROADWATER?
The Broadwater is definitely a special place for us and we feel so lucky to have it on our doorstep. We frequent the southern end around Wave Break Island, enjoying the crystal clear blue waters and beautiful sandy beaches, with the impressive Surfers Paradise skyline as a backdrop. We especially love heading there in the mornings or on weekdays when it is quieter; one can feel a million miles away, yet only a 30-minute leisurely sail from our marina.
WHY SHOULD WE ENCOURAGE BOATING ON THE GOLD COAST?
I really think we are quite spoiled with the quality of our waterways on the Gold Coast. The Broadwater is a real asset and one we should definitely be encouraging visitors to the region to explore, which will have a great knock-on effect for tourism. It is amazing how often we host interstate travellers who have been to the Gold Coast many times but never really experienced the Broadwater; they are always super impressed and surprised!
HOW CAN CHARTERING A BOAT BE A GOOD WAY TO UNDERSTAND YOUR BOATING NEEDS BEFORE PURCHASING YOUR OWN?
We are often chartered by guests who are looking at purchasing a sailing cat and would like to try it out for a few hours. It gives them a chance to explore the vessel, have a go at hoisting the sails and manning the helm (always under the watchful eye of our skipper), as well as experiencing how the vessel feels under sail, and decide if they can picture themselves owning one. A charter is also a great opportunity to pick your skipper’s brain. Chances are, the skipper has operated many different types of boats over many years and will usually be more than happy to offer you their pearls of wisdom. A word of warning though: you don’t always believe everything you hear…ha ha!
Sailing In Paradise offer fully crewed, private charters for birthdays, hen’s parties, corporate events and romantic packages. Island day cruises and sunset sailing options are available. The vessels have excellent sound systems and a range of on-board activities. They offer complimentary eskies, ice and BBQ use to those guests who wish to BYO or a fully catered service with a variety of options from grazing platters to private chefs and everything in between.
Published in print October-December 2021
