Resort proprietor Dr Jerry Schwartz is about to take over Australia’s largest seaplane enterprise, Sydney Seaplanes, in a bid to diversify his firm’s resort and tourism pursuits.
Schwartz Household Firm has acquired a majority share within the enterprise and can achieve full possession by the center of 2025, on completion of the acquisition of shares from former Sydney Seaplane homeowners Aaron Shaw and Ken Gaunt.
Sydney Seaplanes operates scenic constitution flights from the harbour entrance at Rose Bay.
“As ever, I’ve been trying to diversify my resort and tourism pursuits. I’ve purchased Sydney Seaplanes, and we’re increasing the fleet of planes by including two planes, with a fifth on the best way [expected by year end],” Schwartz instructed HM within the 2025 Trade Leaders Discussion board (launching subsequent week).
The acquisition additionally contains the Rose Bay headquarters for Sydney Seaplanes and the adjoining Empire Lounge restaurant, bar and performance venue, which is able to relaunch as Sydney Seaplanes Lounge.
New Head Chef, Natali Mikailoğlu – previously of The Boathouse Group, Rockpool, and Merivale – will ship a menu of recent, seasonal produce with a specific give attention to regionally sourced seafood.
“It presents unimaginable views and wonderful meals at costs significantly extra inexpensive than the much-hyped restaurant subsequent door,” Schwartz instructed HM.
“Having six accommodations in Sydney, I imagine it’s essential the business works intently collectively to make the town a premium tourism vacation spot that utilises the unimaginable potential of Sydney Harbour.
“Build up the Sydney Seaplanes operation will definitely assist drive that ambition.”
The fleet at the moment contains two Amphibious Cessna Caravans – able to carrying 12 passengers – and a de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, each thought of amongst the most secure and most dependable plane ever constructed.
A further DHC-2 Beaver, owned by Dr Schwartz, is being fitted with amphibious floats and can be part of the fleet shortly.
Schwartz described the acquisition as “an thrilling new chapter in Sydney’s aviation and tourism historical past.”
“Rose Bay was the arrival level for the well-known Qantas flying boats that opened up the ‘Kangaroo Route’ again in 1938, and I’m proud that we are able to con proceed the seaplane custom by offering inspirational excursions of Sydney Harbour and flights to picturesque places alongside the coast,” he stated.
“Simply as anybody arriving on the huge seaplanes a long time in the past by no means might overlook their arrival into Sydney, we wish to make sure that each passenger has an unforgettable flight expertise with us.
“Again within the Nineteen Thirties, arriving by seaplane in Sydney was the final word in luxe journey. We’re reliving that by providing indulgent packages together with the Sydney Seaplanes Lounge, which has one of the vital enviable waterfront places in Sydney.
“Diners can feast on the freshest seafood and luxuriate in Champagne and cocktails earlier than or after their flight.
“Marriage ceremony {couples} can actually fly off into the sundown after a marriage reception on the venue. Apart from being an excellent location for eating and drinks, we will likely be making it a premium venue for prestigious occasions and capabilities.”