The official opening of the first Maritimo Adelaide Dealership in the Marina Adelaide precinct at Largs North was a success with Champagne flowing at the Casino Royale themed night. “We’ve been to a lot of corporate and business events around the world, and we rate Maritimo Adelaide’s launch party among the very best,” says boating enthusiast Grant Forsyth.

Maritimo’s new Adelaide dealership launch

Maritimo’s new Adelaide dealership in Australia was officially opened in early April in the tones and glamour of James Bond’s Casino Royale. More than 200 guests arrived at Marina Adelaide on Saturday evening to be greeted by Moet & Chandon champagne and the sight of a giant Maritimo Aegean boat appearing out of the night, turning and gliding in colourful spotlights.

While many guests arrived by car, 21 boats and their owners came in and moored at the marina. Most stayed overnight.

Maritimo owners Frank and Di Bamford were impressed.

“They made a fabulous splash and it is great to have a strong presence for the Maritimo brand in Adelaide,” said Frank.

Guests were greeted by Maritimo Adelaide Managing Director Andrew Craddock and Dealer Principal Paul Harrop.

After the arrival of a spectacular A60 Aegean flybridge boat, bringing Maritimo CEO Bill Barry-Cotter as well as Zsa Zsa and Eva – two of Kailis Pearls’ most exclusive necklaces valued around $1.8 million – the official opening was completed.

Guests then walked a red carpet to a new location where they were greeted with live music and a swinging casino. The carpet was subtly lit with candles and lined with a range of glamour products, from the new Maritimo 440 Offshore, one of Maritimo’s championship-winning race boats and a range of luxury cars including – inevitably – James Bond’s chosen brand, Aston Martin. There were also examples of Bentley, Audi, Jaguar and Land Rover.

The IPS-powered Maritimo 440 Offshore Convertible Motor Yacht

According to Maritimo Adelaide’s Andrew Craddock, the luxury brands alongside Maritimo are more than props for the event.

“We are working with all these brands to add value to owning a luxury Maritimo,” he said.

Frank and Di Bamford enjoyed the casino.

“We were all given few thousand dollars in Maritimo money to gamble at the casino tables which was a bit of fun,” said Frank.”The winners received a few prizes at the end of the night.”

Steve Marshall enjoyed the chance to meet experienced big boat owners and discuss experiences.

“We sold a ski boat and bought a 50-footer just two years ago,” said Steve. “This was a great opportunity to talk with more experienced boaters and get some tips.

“The Hentley Estate Beauty shiraz was also excellent!”

For Grant and Voula Forsyth, it was almost overwhelming.

“We were pampered,” says Grant. “We were so impressed by the level of detail – all the little things were sorted and worked perfectly.

“We’re already excited about the next Maritimo event in Adelaide. Andrew and Paul have certainly set the bar very high with this one!”

Andrew Craddock and Paul Harrop even managed to host a recovery breakfast on Sunday morning for the guests many who arrived by boat and stayed overnight at the marina.

“The party wound up at about 2am on Sunday,” said Andrew. “My team was up and serving breakfast bright and early. All part of the service!”