Jerry Schwartz takes control of Sydney Seaplanes and adds new aircraft

Hotel and hospitality entrepreneur Dr Jerry Schwartz has acquired a majority ownership in Rose Bay-based Sydney Seaplanes and will purchase the remaining shares from former owners Aaron Shaw and Ken Gaunt by the middle of the year.

The Sydney Seaplanes fleet of three aircraft – which operates scenic charter flights from its Rose Bay harbour front base – is set to grow to four, with Dr Schwartz adding a fifth seaplane by the end of the year in a major expansion of the operation.

Dr Schwartz said seaplanes represented a rich and unique aspect of Sydney’s heritage, and with his portfolio of hotel and hospitality operations, he believed there was an enormous opportunity to grow the business.

“My purchase of Sydney Seaplanes represents an exciting new chapter in Sydney’s aviation and tourism history,” Dr Schwartz said.

“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 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.

“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.”

Under the agreement, the Schwartz Family Company (SFC) will also purchase the Rose Bay headquarters for Sydney Seaplanes and the adjoining Empire Lounge restaurant, bar and function venue, which is being rebranded as Sydney Seaplanes Lounge.

The fleet currently comprises two Amphibious Cessna Caravans and a de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, both considered amongst the safest and most reliable aircraft ever built. An additional DHC-2 Beaver, owned by Dr Schwartz, is having amphibious floats fitted to the aircraft and will join the fleet shortly.

The Cessna Caravans provide the backbone of the fleet and are capable of carrying 12 passengers in air-conditioned comfort with turboprop engines making them the quietest aircraft available for commercial seaplane services.

The de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver is one of the most famous seaplanes in the world. Designed originally to withstand the rugged conditions of northern Canada, the planes were quickly identified as being ideal for water-based operations.

With the launch of the venue as Sydney Seaplanes Lounge comes a distinguished new head chef, Natali Mikailoğlu, who’s résumé includes The Boathouse Group, Rockpool, and Merivale,

“Diners can feast on the freshest seafood and enjoy Champagne and cocktails before or after their flight,” Dr Schwartz said. “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.”

Under Mikailoğlu’s modern Australian cuisine approach Sydney Seaplanes Lounge will focus on fresh, seasonal produce with a focus on locally sourced seafood.

Judy McMahon, who started neighbouring Catalina restaurant – named after the original aircraft which once landed in Rose Bay – with her late husband Michael 30 years ago, welcomed fresh, full ownership of the historic seaplane base.

“It will hopefully bring more people to Rose Bay and to Catalina,” she told Travel Weekly, adding a combined scenic seaplane flight and lunch by the harbour would make for the ultimate Sydney sightseeing combination.

“The planes are noisy when the engines start up, but the activity and the noise adds to Catalina’s attraction as far as I’m concerned. People love seeing them land and take off.”

Schwartz Family Company (SFC) is one of Australia’s largest privately owned hotel and hospitality companies, owning 15 hotels, with 4300 rooms, operated under brands including Sofitel, MGallery, Novotel, Mercure, Ibis, Rydges, Hilton, Paradise Resort Gold Coast and Leura Gardens Resort.

The company also owns Sydney Brewery and partners with GABS to stage major events such as the Canberra Craft Beer & Cider Festival and Hunter Valley Wine Festival.