The Gold Coast’s customs clearance port, which is now in operation, has paved the way to drive growth in the superyacht and tourism industries.
The new port, which opened mid last year at Southport, means foreign superyachts and other international vessels are able to sail directly into the Gold Coast Seaway for customs clearance.
Until last year, Superyachts have had to clear customs elsewhere, which has meant the Coast has often missed out on the lucrative superyacht market.
Mark Riddell, Southport Yacht Club Waterfront Manager said, “Southport Yacht Club has had around 35 boats clear into the Gold Coast. The Border Force station at Southport Yacht Club has made a tremendous difference to the Gold Coast”
The decision to include the Southport Yacht Club on the list of approved international arrival points is the result of continuous lobbying by Superyacht Australia, government representatives and marine industry stalwarts.
At this stage, the message that this facility is available is being continuously promoted to the global superyacht fleet to confirm that international vessels are welcomed to the Gold Coast. If the much needed changes to the charter regulations for foreign flagged vessels come into force there will certainly be an increase in the number of superyachts clearing in on the Gold Coast.
Given that foreign flagged vessels make their cruising plans years in advance it will take at least 12-18 months to see the effects of this additional port of entry. Events like the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast, the Australian Superyacht Rendezvous being held in April at the Gold Coast City Marina and Shipyard certainly help put a strong spotlight on the region.
