The magnificent Whitsunday islands are known as the cruising capital of Australia, and for good reason. The tropical climate and beautiful blue waters are ideal for year-round boating. For six years, the Alexander Marine rendezvous has brought together a diverse bunch of yachting enthusiasts – many of whom are customers of alexander marine – to share their passion for boating.
Originally initiated by Todd Holzapfel, Director & Dealer Principal of Alexander Marine Australia, as a small get together of a few clients, the annual event has grown in scope and attendance every year. In fact, this year’s rendezvous attracted over 100 guests from all over the country.
In early October this year the anchorage at Cid Harbour was dotted with attendee’s vessels who had anchored ready for the big day. The fleet included a diverse range of power boats including mono-hulls, power catamarans and up to a large 33m superyacht – many of which Alexander Marine have been involved in buying on selling on behalf of our clients over the years.
A postcard-perfect Whitsundays day began with host vessels departing Hamilton Island for Cid Harbour, where upon arrival three larger vessels rafted together in the waters of the famous sheltered anchorage to create the 2022 event platform. Back by popular demand after a covid related hiatus was the “Rock Bottom” band who took advantage of the spacious boat deck up top on the Ocean Alexander 78 ‘LV Three’. Alongside ‘LV Three’ was the expedition charter vessel ‘Segara’ as the centre of the raft up, from which food and beverages flowed until well into the night. The top deck of ‘Segara’ proved to be the ultimate dance floor with an amazing vista as the sun faded into the western horizon. And finally, the spectacular Ocean Alexander 28 Explorer rounded out the raft up and catered for those guests looking for a more sedate place to enjoy the day courtesy of the 28e’s multiple luxurious entertaining zones – inside and outside the vessel – for guests to relax in conversation with new and old friends alike.
Testament to the popularity of this event many of the guests have been attending the annual event since it began in 2016 – many say it’s the best party of the year! Todd Holzapfel commented on the 2022 event “What we love most about our annual Whitsundays Get Together is it appeals to people with a wide variety of interests – whether it be sailing, surfing, diving, fishing or just enjoying the tropical climate and scenery, but the one thing they have in common, is their love for their boats. Add to that we welcome new friends into our circle each and every year which is rewarding for myself and my team”.
The theme of this year’s event was the AMA American Diner. Guests were taken back in time as waiters and waitresses donned traditional red and white pinstriped uniforms. The menu included a delicious traditional diner spread of French Fries, Burger Sliders, Caesar Salad and mini–Hot Dogs, prepared by talented event specialist chefs. Talented bar tenders onboard ‘Segara’ created mouthwatering cocktails with guests contributing their own inspired recipes (which got more elaborate as day turned to night!).
As the cruising capital of Australia, it is not surprising that many of our guests were already in the Whitsunday’s on their own boats enjoying the last of the winter season. After another successful 2022 event we look forward to doing it all over again in 2023!
Those interested in attending the 2023 Whitsundays Get Together, or if you would like to talk to a Yacht Sales Executive about a listing, call 07 5618 0000 or visit www.alexandermarineaust.com.au
