Whitsunday Escape has been operating for 30 years with a vision to maintain its position as the premier bareboat company in the Whitsundays and Australia. Boats are privately owned, with investors placing their boats with Whitsunday Escape to obtain a return on their investment. Whitsunday Escape derives its income from the bookings it makes on those boats.

Whitsunday Escape is a multi-award-winning bareboat company specialising in unique ‘skipper yourself’ boating holidays. The modern fleet of 40 boats consists of both sail and power boats.

All boats are fully equipped with all the modern conveniences necessary to provide a self-contained holiday afloat. Equipment includes cooking facilities, refrigeration, air conditioning in port, bathroom facilities, linen, snorkelling gear and an inflatable dinghy with an outboard. All vessels need to comply with Australian Maritime Safety Authority standards in relation to construction, stability, and safety equipment.

THE PRODUCT & DESTINATION

Hiring a ‘bareboat’ offers guests an extraordinary way to explore the 74 idyllic islands. This unique accommodation located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park combines adventure tourism with world-class nature.

Benefits to the Holidaymaker:

• The freedom to explore the anchorages and islands of your choice at your own pace.
• 74 islands, numerous anchorages and waters protected by the Great Barrier Reef.
• A year-round tropical climate with the associated air and water temperatures.
• One of the best diving and snorkelling destinations in the world.
• One of the few, or only worldwide bareboat destinations where the marine and coastal environment is protected.

The Advantages to the Investor:

• Significant savings in operating costs when compared with private ownership.
• The opportunity to use your boat for up to 4 weeks a year. (Additional time may be available on a standby basis).
• A boat that is professionally maintained taking the hassle out of maintaining a complex modern boat.
• A return on investment of between 5% and 10% is a reasonable expectation.

OUR MARKET

• Family Adventurers: Multigenerational and traditional nuclear families with a spirit of adventure. Seeking freedom and independence and value spending quality time together.
• Friend Groups: Travelling together seeking a rejuvenating adventure experience, value bonding and connection.
• Adventurous Couples: Often without (or grown) children celebrating milestones or anniversaries. Seeking a holiday of a lifetime, offering a challenge and a deeper connection with nature and each other.

LIKELY INVESTORS

• Someone with a passion for boating.
• Someone who wants to own a boat in the future and is looking for a way to afford it.
• Someone who has the opportunity to use their investment.
• Someone who may have considered a private boat until the reality of high holding costs and the likely low personal usage were factored in.
• An Australian taxpayer who may want to diversify their investments.

SUITABLE BOATS

• The intention is for Whitsunday Escape is to maintain a fresh fleet of between 35 and 40 boats.
• Due the retirement of older boats we have opening for about 5 boats a year.
• Boats we would consider are power and sailing catamarans 38 to 50 ft.
• Popular brands that may be suitable are Leopard, Lagoon, Aquila, Fountaine Pajot and Seawind.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Take the opportunity to “try before you buy” by chartering one of the boats in the style or size that may suit you. We encourage you to enjoy the chartering experience and get a feel for how we look after our boats and value our customers.

If you would like further information, contact the managing director, Trevor Rees by email at trevor@whitsundayescape.com.