Exploring the Monaco of the South Pacific

Ahead of the upcoming Australia InDepth documentary, Coral Sea Marina CEO, Kate Purdie, spoke to Superyachts.com about what makes the Whitsundays such a special destination for on-water escapes.

Based in Airlie Beach, Coral Sea Marina is the gateway for superyachts to explore the swirling white sands, lush hinterland and vibrant colour reefs in the surrounding Whitsunday Islands. In Australia’s favourite playground, superyachts revel in the opportunities for isolated island escapes, while taking comfort in knowing that they have a base which meets all of their needs and requirements.

“The Whitsundays is a special region for Super yacht cruising because of the incredibly stunning natural beauty that surrounds us,” says Kate Purdie, CEO of Coral Sea Marina Resort. “Our 74 Islands are safe, they're secluded, and they're easily accessible, which makes this the perfect destination for cruising.

“Coral Sea Marina acts as the gateway for superyachts to cruise the Whitsundays because we’re based in the vibrant resort town of Airlie Beach here on the mainland. We have superyacht berthing for vessels up to 80 metres in length and we offer a range of concierge services to ensure that every day is like no other.

“Here in the Whitsundays, there are a multitude of activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy. Out on the water, we have outstanding access to the world famous Great Barrier Reef - beautiful diving and snorkelling, incredible humpback migration that happens every winter, turtles of every variety and the most incredible time to be had for all.”

Airlie Beach is also a favourite for Captains and crew, who have access to a town with high quality provisions but also plenty of entertainment, nightlife, and activities for longer-term stays.

Formerly Abell Point Marina, the marina merged with Coral Sea Resort in 2019 to deliver an all-encompassing luxury experience on the doorstep of the Whitsundays. Superyachts have benefitted in particular from the development of both the resort and the Platinum Gold Anchor marina.

“Paul Darrouzet purchased Coral Sea Marina back in 2013,” explains Kate Purdie, “and over the course of the past eight years a multi-million-dollar refurbishment has realised his vision of creating the Monaco of the South Pacific and an outstanding destination for superyachts.

“We won Australian Marina of the Year for the past four consecutive years and last year we were also awarded with the Superyacht Service Provider of the Year award as well.”

Every upgrade and improvement made to the superyacht facilities at Coral Sea Marina has been designed with the vision of creating a world-class superyacht destination within touching distance of some of the world’s most desirable cruising grounds. For Captains and Owners, Whitsundays present a truly unique experience for adventure and luxury with a superyacht-centric service. With greater emphasis placed on private escapes and exploring something new, this area of the world offers it in abundance.