Port Douglas’ Quicksilver Group announced yesterday it will spend over $1 million refurbishing two vessels, describing the work as an investment in the future of tourism and the region.

The 39-metre long Quicksilver V will be high and dry at the Cairns Slipways for eight weeks undergoing annual mechanical service and a major internal refit. Among the changes: a new servery and bar area, internal stairway, new seat coverings, and an overall update of furnishings and colours.

Ocean Spirit, Quicksilver’s 32-metre sailing catamaran, will also be on the slips for three weeks, with a planned new servery and bar area to enhance the main cabin. It’s the second facelift for the vessel, with the tour operator spending almost $200,000 so far since the purchase six months ago. Ocean Spirit already boasts a top deck replacement, new sails, and a new state of the art external finish.

“While all our vessels are refitted each year with ongoing maintenance, this year we will see major work carried out on our vessel fleet and platforms,” said Tony Baker, Quicksilver Group Managing Director.  

“The 2014 year will start with two of our vessels at the shipyards for an extended period while we make sure our investment in our fleet highlights our commitment to the tourism industry.  A little later in the year we will also be looking to bring two of our Outer Reef activity platforms from Moore Reef and Agincourt Reef back to Cairns for major refurbishment works.

“Although the past few years have been tough, we recognise the need to reinvest and keep our products to the standard of a five star reef operator.”

Group Engineering Manager Peter Price described the next few weeks as “massive for the Company.”

“We are very lucky to have a fantastic team of tradespeople on staff and a terrific group of contractors who work very closely with us to ensure the maintenance and presentation of our fleet is at the highest standard,” Mr Price said.  

“For the interior design concepts, we worked closely with a local Company, Limecut Design, who specialise in marine interior design.  It is important that we use local companies where possible, who understand our environment and can work alongside our engineering, workshop crew and staff implementing these changes.

“With the refurbishment and new equipment it will ensure our passengers have the newest and best facilities available to enjoy their time at the reef.”