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Sydney Seaplanes Takes Off right into a New Period as Dr Jerry Schwartz Secures Majority Possession and Plans Main Growth
Monday, February 3, 2025
Sydney’s iconic seaplane aviation legacy is hovering into a brand new period, with famend lodge and hospitality entrepreneur Dr Jerry Schwartz securing majority possession of Sydney Seaplanes. The corporate, identified for its scenic constitution flights from Rose Bay, is ready for vital enlargement below his management.
By way of this acquisition, the Schwartz Household Firm (SFC) now holds the bulk stake in Sydney Seaplanes, with plans to imagine full possession by mid-year. This transition can be finalized as Dr Schwartz completes the acquisition of shares from earlier house owners Aaron Shaw and Ken Gaunt.
The deal additionally encompasses the Rose Bay headquarters of Sydney Seaplanes and the adjoining Empire Lounge, a well-liked waterfront restaurant, bar, and performance venue. The venue will endure a rebranding to turn into the Sydney Seaplanes Lounge, enhancing its connection to the aviation expertise.
Sydney Seaplanes at present operates a fleet of three plane, quickly increasing to 4, with plans to introduce a fifth by 12 months’s finish. The fleet includes two Amphibious Cessna Caravans and a de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver—each acknowledged for his or her security and reliability. Moreover, Dr Schwartz’s privately owned DHC-2 Beaver is being outfitted with amphibious floats and can quickly be built-in into the fleet.
The Cessna Caravans, forming the spine of operations, can accommodate as much as 12 passengers in air-conditioned consolation, whereas their turboprop engines make them the quietest business seaplanes out there. The legendary de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, initially designed for Canada’s rugged wilderness, has confirmed to be an distinctive plane for water-based aviation.
Commenting on the acquisition, Dr Schwartz highlighted the deep-rooted historical past of seaplane aviation in Sydney, emphasizing its distinctive enchantment. Along with his intensive portfolio in inns and hospitality, he sees huge potential to raise Sydney Seaplanes right into a premier expertise, mixing aviation with world-class tourism choices.
“My purchase of Sydney Seaplanes represents an exciting new chapter in Sydney’s aviation and tourism history,” mentioned Dr Schwartz.
“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 will con proceed the seaplane custom by offering inspirational excursions of Sydney Harbour and flights to picturesque places alongside the coast.
“Simply as anybody arriving on the large seaplanes a long time in the past by no means might neglect their arrival into Sydney, we need to be 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 crucial enviable waterfront places in Sydney.
“Diners can feast on the freshest seafood and enjoy Champagne and cocktails before or after their flight. Wedding couples can literally fly off into the sunset after a wedding reception at the venue. Besides being an outstanding location for dining and drinks, we will be making it a premium venue for prestigious events and functions.”
With the debut of Sydney Seaplanes Lounge comes the arrival of an distinctive new Head Chef, Natali Mikailoğlu, whose vibrant culinary journey mirrors the dynamic spirit of the venue.
Pushed by a deep ardour for meals and journey, Mikailoğlu has explored various gastronomic landscapes, shaping her distinctive strategy to fashionable Australian delicacies. Her spectacular profession contains roles at famend institutions corresponding to The Boathouse Group, Rockpool, and Merivale, the place she refined her abilities and artistic imaginative and prescient.
Below Chef Natali’s management, Sydney Seaplanes Lounge will highlight contemporary, seasonal components, with a powerful emphasis on regionally sourced seafood, delivering an elevated eating expertise.
