Long Term Connections At 2025 Australia Fiji Rendezvous

The fourth annual Australia Fiji Rendezvous, held from 22 to 24 August 2024 at Port Denarau Marina, brought together 18 Australian marine industry representatives for a vibrant exchange of expertise and networking. This year’s event continued its mission of strengthening ties across the Pacific’s superyacht community, fostering mutually beneficial relationships among international industry players.

Australia’s representation was robust, including Rivergate Marina & Shipyard, Superyacht Group Great Barrier Reef, Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard, Southport Yacht Club, Quality Marine Clothing, Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay, Pantaenius Yacht Insurance, Jones Bay Superyacht Marina, Coral Sea Marina, City of Gold Coast, GC Marine, and The International SeaKeepers Society.

The Rendezvous featured a series of engaging activities. Thursday began with a Morning Tea Expo and a VIP Captain’s Lunch hosted by Rivergate Marina and Shipyard at Sails Denarau. On Friday, attendees enjoyed a Crew Cocktail Making Lesson and a Crew Networking Party, where Fijian Coconut Vodka was highlighted. The evening included a traditional Fijian dance by VOU Dance Fiji and local band entertainment, all set against the scenic backdrop of the superyacht marina at Sails at Denarau.

Mark Riddell from Southport Yacht Club praised the event despite a lighter turnout of captains and crew compared to previous years. He noted successful outcomes, including two immediate bookings for Southport Yacht Club and emphasized the ongoing interest generated for Australian destinations. He also expressed gratitude for the City of Gold Coast’s support in hosting the trade mission to Fiji.

Attendees participated in a special cultural tour of the Bula Coffee Site, gaining insights into its production and impact on local communities. This visit was particularly meaningful following a presentation by Luke Fryett, Bula Coffee Founder, at the ASMEX 2024 Conference, which had deeply resonated with many delegates.

David Good, CEO of Superyacht Australia, highlighted the event’s success in deepening Australian industry leaders’ understanding of Fiji’s superyacht offerings and fostering advocacy for including Fiji in South Pacific itineraries. Feedback emphasized the value of strengthening Australian-Fijian industry connections.

Captain Will, who visited the region with a large vessel, expressed appreciation for the well-organized events and noted that Australia’s diverse offerings were brought to light, highlighting more than just its well-known features.

The Rendezvous was made possible through the efforts of Superyacht Australia, Port Denarau Marina, and on-the-ground agents Yacht Help, Yacht Partners Fiji, and SEAL Superyachts. Superyacht Australia extends gratitude to Rivergate Marina & Shipyard, all participating members, and the superyacht captains and crews who contributed to the success of the networking events.