The industry remains robust despite inflation - MarineBusinessWorld Oceania newsletter
by Peter Rendle 2 Mar 2023 15:00 PST
SLX54 © Maxwell Marine
Despite the inflation stats globally continuing to head north, sections of the industry are maintaining a high presence.
Maxwell Marine, the anchoring solutions specialist, has demonstrated a robust global growth strategy with the recent appointment of three new accredited service dealers. The new Authorized Service Dealers, named as the French company Macor Ship Repair and Maintenance, and the Croatia-based Adria Docks and Magsistem, were selected as strategic partners as the company looks to strengthen and expand its service network.
They can offer even greater service across more of Europe and the Mediterranean, which are popular charter and cruising destinations for larger yachts and superyachts, a key market for Maxwell products.
And looking north, Maritimo forges ahead with its strategic push into Asia by appointing The Yacht Sales Co as their exclusive dealer for South East Asia. They will be the exclusive dealer for Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand and Hong Kong. This is the next major move as part of the long-range motor yacht builder's expansion plans for South East Asia.
"We have selected The Yacht Sales Co because they are well established in the key boating centres throughout South East Asia. They have developed a wide-reaching sales and service network," said Derrick Nowak, Maritimo's Business Development Manager - Global.
"With multiple locations across South East Asia, and specifically in the boating hubs of Sentosa, Singapore and the island of Phuket, they are best positioned to support clients anywhere in the region to the degree they expect and deserve, and to the level that is Maritimo," said Nowak.
Boat Show news continues. Exhibitor applications for the Sydney International Boat Show (3-6 August 2023) are rolling in fast. As well as commitment from long-standing exhibitors, we're pleased to see applications from new exhibitors wishing to participate. If you haven't submitted your application, we encourage you to apply now to avoid disappointment, as applications are prioritised in order of date received.
Not sure how much space you'll need? Don't worry. After you submit your application, the Exhibition Team will be in contact to discuss your display area and they will work with you to map this out.
A useful initiative taken by the Marina Industry Association is designed for members to access products easily. In support of its core marina and boatyard members, the MIA has launched its latest industry initiative, the Marina Supplier Directory. The online searchable guide enables marina operators to search by supplier name, business category and product lines.
It will make it easier for marina managers to locate a broad range of products, suppliers and service providers, ensuring the industry has the widest choice of products and services available at the click of a mouse.
Another useful initiative has been introduced in Queensland. In the lead up to Clean Up Australia weekend (4-5 March 2023) The Boat Works is getting behind an initiative by Sweep Marine Services, keen to inform boaties and marinas that dumping raw sewage into our waterways is just not on! Director, Con Beldie and his team at Sweep Marine Services have been operating on Gold Coast waterways for a decade, with a fleet of custom-built barges and trucks servicing privately owned and commercial vessels and waterfront residences.
As Con explains, "One of the biggest issues we've seen amongst private and commercial operators is the lack of education and information regarding the access to pump out facilities, both fixed and mobile. The 'Pump it Don't Dump it' approach is embraced by industry bodies and marinas; however the lack of implementation is where it falls short. Our initiative of placing a QR Code on the pedestals of each dock of all participating marinas - so boat owners have direct access to all pump out services - aims to close that gap."
The Boat Works are onboard with the QR Code initiative rolling out the campaign throughout their 115 in-water service berths at the Boatyard and Superyacht basin.
From Europe, a new X-Yacht announced. The Xc 47 marks the beginning of a completely new generation of XCruising. The concept is built on years of experience and a desire to accommodate the growing number of sailors looking for a true bluewater cruiser. The cockpit layout has been designed to give the helmsman the capability of handling all lines from the helm.
The hull lines have maintained the deep V-shaped bow sections, generous rocker, and higher stern overhang from previous Xc models, providing the well-known comfortable seagoing characteristics.
And in the electronics field, Raymarine's innovative range of marine electronics has been selected for the highly anticipated new Leopard 40 Powercat. Several products, including the award-winning Axiom chartplotter series, were featured when the boat was unveiled for its world debut at the Miami International Boat Show. Extensive electronic navigation systems are included on all Leopard yachts, with specifications differing between privately owned boats and those destined for charter.
The charter option includes three powerful Axiom 12 chartplotters - two on the large flybridge and one at the interior helm station. The owner's version is upgraded with two larger Axiom XL 16 displays on the flybridge.
Finally, eight bells Syd Fischer. Yachting legend Syd Fischer passed away on Thursday evening (23 February 2023); he was 95. Born 4 March 1927, Fischer stood head and shoulders above the rest. His work life revolved around the building industry, property development and the marine industry, including Sydney City Marine, these days managed by grandson Brenton Fischer. He was hands-on in every aspect of his businesses and in sport.
"Tough as nails," was how business and sailing associates described Fischer; "Tough, but fair", Fischer would respond. The 'Fischer school of hard knocks' was another expression he enjoyed hearing. This comes from his life lessons - 'get a good deal' was among them.
A polarising figure, you could not help but respect and admire him. I was standing next to Syd in the CYCA bar one year and I said, "Syd, you and I have something in common." He looked me up and down in total disbelief! "We both have three daughters," I quickly retorted. "We are both very lucky men," he replied, with a wry grin.
RIP Mr Fischer.
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Stay safe,
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@marinebusinessworld.com