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Sydney Seaplanes will expand its fleet and rebrand its lounge following its purchase by hotelier Dr Jerry Schwartz.
The company, which currently operates two amphibious Cessna Caravans and a de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, will add a second Beaver already owned by Schwartz, with a fifth seaplane expected by the end of the year.
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Schwartz has purchased a majority stake in Sydney Seaplanes from former owners Aaron Shaw and Ken Gaunt, which will grow to full ownership by the middle of the year. The entrepreneur is the owner of Schwartz Family Company (SFC), which owns 15 hotels totalling 4,300 rooms.
“My purchase of Sydney Seaplanes represents an exciting new chapter in Sydney’s aviation and tourism history,” said Schwartz.
“Rose Bay was the arrival point for the famous Qantas flying boats that opened up the ‘Kangaroo Route’ back in 1938, and I’m proud that we can con continue the seaplane tradition by providing inspirational tours of Sydney Harbour and flights to picturesque locations along the coast.
“Just as anyone arriving on the massive seaplanes decades ago never could forget their arrival into Sydney, we want to ensure that every passenger has an unforgettable flight experience with us.”
Along with the fleet, the buyout also includes Sydney Seaplanes’ Rose Bay headquarters and the adjoining Empire Lounge.
The site, which includes a restaurant, bar and function venue, will be rebranded as the Sydney Seaplanes Lounge, and will “focus on fresh, seasonal produce with a particular focus on locally sourced seafood” under a new head chef, said Schwartz.
“Back in the 1930s, arriving by seaplane in Sydney was the ultimate in luxe travel. We are reliving that by offering indulgent packages in combination with the Sydney Seaplanes Lounge, which has one of the most enviable waterfront locations in Sydney,” he said.
“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.”
Sydney Aviation Holdings, the owner of Sydney Seaplanes, is also a co-founder of sustainable aircraft firm Dovetail Electric Aviation.
SFC has been contacted for comment.
