Epochal Hotels has acquired Australia’s Port of Airlie, Cruise Whitsundays Terminal and Marina for $20.75 million.
The Port of Airlie incorporates a 1,400sqm terminal building on a 1,893sqm freehold site, approximately 310 lineal metres of pontoon infrastructure, and an 8,119sqm seabed lease marina.
The terminal is leased to Cruise Whitsundays, part of Journey Beyond Group, until 2035 with a further ten-year option.
The acquisition is Epochal Hotels’ third investment in the Whitsundays, following its Hook Island acquisition in 2022 and the Colonial Palms Motel.
Long-term logistics and connectivity
The move is designed to strengthen Epochal’s vision for sustainable, high-quality tourism across the Whitsundays, enhanced by construction on Hook Island’s eco-lodge set to begin in May and an opening scheduled for 2027.
“Port of Airlie plays a critical role in the Whitsundays’ transport and tourism network,” said Glenn Piper, Epochal Hotels CEO.
“This acquisition secures long-term logistics and connectivity for the region, while providing a platform to enhance infrastructure and passenger facilities over time.”
Cruise Whitsundays provides transport services and experiences across the islands and Great Barrier Reef.
Sustainable infrastructure
The company connects visitors to Hamilton Island, Daydream Island, and soon Hook Island, while offering reef excursions to the Reefworld pontoon and overnight experiences.
Piper continued: “Cruise Whitsundays are experienced operators with a strong track record in the region and their long-term lease was an important consideration in our decision.
“Our focus is on responsible ownership and investing in sustainable infrastructure, supporting regional tourism growth and ensuring the terminal continues to serve visitors, operators and the local community.
“As the primary gateway to the islands and the Great Barrier Reef, it’s important that the arrival experience reflects the quality of the destination itself.”
