Silver Sun Sailing stands as Lake Macquarie’s premier yacht charter enterprise, setting new standards with its on-board accommodations and short-stay expeditions. Established in late 2023, the venture was sparked by Scott Ferguson and Kim Sweetnam’s enduring passion for over-water retreats, fuelled by their extensive sailing backgrounds and a shared vision for delivering unparalleled experiences on the serene waters of Lake Macquarie and beyond.
Scott’s sailing journey traces back to his teenage years, where he honed his skills through twilight yacht racing. Over time, he delved into various sailing disciplines, including sailboards, dinghies, and multi-hulls, achieving recognition at state and national levels. Similarly, Kim’s sailing adventures commenced during her teenage years aboard The Young Endeavour, navigating through a tumultuous cyclone that ignited her love for tranquil sailing conditions.
Their personal experiences hosting family and friends aboard their own yacht revealed a growing demand for immersive nature escapes coupled with attentive hospitality. Recognising the untapped potential of Lake Macquarie’s scenic wonders, they transformed their passion into a thriving business offering bespoke luxury retreats.
Silver Sun Sailing distinguishes itself through tailored experiences aboard the Spellcaster III, a 40-foot French Beneteau yacht. Guests can luxuriate in on-board accommodations nestled within the Lake Macquarie Yacht Club marina or opt for enchanting overnight journeys to picturesque destinations, accompanied by Scott and Kim’s seasoned guidance.
The venture’s repertoire extends to blue water skippered expeditions, venturing into open waters towards captivating locales like Port Stephens, Broughton Island, Pittwater, and the Hawkesbury River regions. Additionally, the business caters to dynamic sailing charters, corporate crew challenges, and facilitates memorable wedding experiences in collaboration with the Lake Macquarie Yacht Club.
Silver Sun Sailing caters to a diverse clientele ranging from local enthusiasts to interstate travellers aged 25-60, all seeking exclusive luxury escapades and a respite from daily routines. Customer interactions emphasise personalisation, allowing guests to co-create their dream experiences. The clientele’s adventurous spirit fuels their enthusiasm, driving them to embrace every aspect of Silver Sun Sailing’s offerings, even amidst less-than-ideal weather conditions.
The journey from conceptualisation to market realisation showcased the venture’s agility and relevance within New South Wales tourism landscape. Positive feedback and five-star reviews underscore the exceptional service and memorable experiences provided. However, challenges persist, particularly concerning weather-related impacts and economic constraints affecting disposable income for tourism activities.
Over the next 12 months, Silver Sun Sailing aims to solidify its brand presence, refine service offerings to align with customer expectations, and forge strategic partnerships with local, regional, and international entities. By fostering continuous innovation and collaborative ventures, the enterprise seeks to elevate the luxury yacht charter experience while navigating through evolving market dynamics.
For more information, please visit Silver Sun Sailing Newcastle & Lake Macquarie