Southeast Queensland’s luxury destination, Sanctuary Cove, has become the home of superyachts with the launch of its new $3.5M Pier C development, adding a further 31 berths to the marina and taking the destination’s superyacht berthing capabilities to 39 in total.

The news also comes with the appointment of Australia’s former Below Deck Chief Stewardess, TV Presenter and Yachtie, Francesca Rubi, as official Ambassador of the Sanctuary Cove Marina to spearhead the campaign.

The Pier C development by Mulpha is the next stage in Sanctuary Cove’s 2023 strategy to address the growing demand for permanent and transient superyacht berths in the Sunshine state. It comes after the destination completed its $10M marina expansion in June 2021, which saw the addition of 61 new berths and the first undercover berths in the southern hemisphere.

“We are thrilled to officially unveil Pier C as part of our greater superyacht focused plans to address the growing desire from national and international superyacht captains to berth at Sanctuary Cove,” General Manager of Mulpha Sanctuary Cove Marina, Steve Sammes, said.

“The demand for more large-scale berthing opportunities in the South-East is increasing and there is an invaluable economic opportunity to invest in more super-yacht driven piers on our coastline. Sanctuary Cove is superyacht ready, now.”

Sanctuary Cove Marina was one of seven marinas who received its Superyacht Ready accreditation within days of the Marina Industries Association’s Gold Anchor and Superyacht Ready accreditations in December 2022, successfully meeting the suitability criteria of the marina’s infrastructure to accommodate superyachts, accessibility for superyachts, security measures and service availability.

Delighted to take on the title of Sanctuary Cove Marina Ambassador, Francesca Rubi believes the greater plan to design and drive Sanctuary Cove as a superyacht destination will see a great return on the marina and tourism in Queensland.

“I love this industry and I love Australia, so what a perfect match. I am the first person to talk someone into starting their yachting career. And, having travelled so much, Australia still has the best coastline. I would love for more superyachts to cross to our waters,” Francesca said.

“Offering more opportunities to berth superyachts at Sanctuary Cove will no doubt be a success. Bigger vessels are being built, people are travelling more in the comfort of their own yachts, and Sanctuary Cove has opened the perfect stop for them – Think Palma de Mallorca vibes.

“For guests, captains, and crew, you have all the facilities there. You have the luxe element for guests and the fun and exploration side for the crew. The Country Club is amazing – huge draw card for crew!”

The Pier C arm development comes after a fleet of new restaurants opened their doors at the Sanctuary Cove precinct to match the growing demand of local and international visitors alike, including Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria, Rise Bakery, Destino Wine Bar, and more.

Located in the Gold Coast’s northern region, Sanctuary Cove is home to four man-made harbours with direct access to the Broadwater and Pacific Ocean. The precinct offers a plethora of choice when it comes to dining, shopping, leisure, and boating, all whilst surrounded by the world-class InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Golf and Country Club.