Rivergate Marina & Shipyard sponsored the 2025 Captains’ and VIP Lunch, held as part of the program at this year’s Australia Tahiti Rendezvous, 26 & 27 June.

The venue was the sublimely located Yellowfin Restaurant at Marina Taina, with a mouthwatering menu and equally delectable views over azure waters and a dazzling diversity of yachts from all corners of the world.

35 guests attended, comprising Captains and managers of 11 yachts, and industry representatives from Tahitian agents, Seal Superyacht Agents, Tahiti Ocean, Superyacht Services Tahiti, and Tahiti Crew.

The event provided a relaxed setting for Captains to connect with participating members over lunch to discuss Australia and the Pacific’s superyacht capabilities and cruising grounds.

“It’s a wonderful, laidback way to present Australia as a compelling cruising destination, with worldclass refit and service facilities,” explained Alex Binks, marketing manager at Rivergate, a veteran of four Australian Tahiti Rendezvous.

“More importantly, it’s vital for getting to know key industry proponents from Indonesia, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and the Solomon Islands. This year was exceptional! We were able to learn about the highlights and the depth of offering from the whole region.”

The 2025 edition proved extremely valuable for insights and tangible business leads.

“The level of interest was very high quality,” Alex reported.

“A lot of yachts are interested in coming to Australia. At the Rendezvous this year there were many more cruising yachts, and several large expedition vessels. There seem to be more intending to visit Australia and New Zealand either by the end of this year or next year, and the Captains had a good knowledge of the region.

“The Captains’ Lunch was a great opportunity for them to share their knowledge and for us to update them on the happenings down under.”

Another highlight was the after-party on board Australian-owned, 48-metre Big Sky.

“The Big Sky crew did a great job serving the Captains, who commented that it was a nice change to be guests and relax and enjoy the 5-star hospitality,” said Alex.

The Captains’ Lunch was held on the first day of the two-day event. In warm conditions, with the ideal tropical backdrop to discuss cruising the South Pacific, AIMEX-Superyacht Australia members met with Captains, Managers, agents and industry representatives gathered at Marina Taina, Punaauia.

The event kicked off with a Morning Tea Expo, followed by the Captain’s and VIP Lunch on Thursday 26 June, and activities were rounded off with the much-anticipated and highly competitive Aussie Barbecue Cooking Competition and Networking Party on Friday 27 June, sponsored by Pacific Provisions and won by 47-metre Royal Huisman sailing superyacht, Nilaya.

The infamous Dock Party wrapped up what was a successful few days, with an impressive line-up of 12 yachts lit up for the festivities and entertainment provided by a talented Tahitian dance troupe.

Next on the agenda for the team from Rivergate is the 2025 Australia Fiji Rendezvous, 14 to 16 August at Port Denarau Marina, followed by the Monaco Yacht Show 2025, 24 to 27 September at Port Hercule.