Hunter tourism has a new link on its chain of attractions, after an adventure boat company launched on Friday at Honeysuckle.
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CoastXP, the brainchild of University of Newcastle graduate Dominic May, will run whale-watching and coastal sightseeing trips out of Newcastle as of Saturday.
Mr May, who studied a Bachelor of Business/Innovation and Entrepreneurship at UON, and with the Australian Maritime College in Tasmania, believes the boat tours will engage both local and visitor interest.
Theres definitely room to move here in Newcastle in terms of adding more attractions and experiences to what weve already got, and thats exactly what this is, he said at the Friday launch.
Originally from Coffs Harbour, Mr May, 23, said he had been given crucial advice from tourism officials to make the business a reality.
CoastXP gained funding from the NSW governments Regional Tourism Fund for a floating dry-berth dock.
Ive been so fortunate that theyve been able to support me with that, Mr May said. Its matched funding, dollar-for-dollar, and keeps the boat dry out of the water.
Newcastle Tourism Industry Group director Will Creedon said the venture adds appeal to the city.
Its fantastic to see people from our district, young people, investing in the future of tourism and the city, he said.
For us to mature, we need more activities and attractions, coupled with events.
CoastXPs initial trips will focus on whale watching, but can visit spots along the coast such as Caves Beach and Catherine Hill Bay.
Its low to the water line, so you can get really close to whales and dolphins, Mr May said of the custom-build riged inflatable.
If they [whales or dolphins] come to you, guests and passengers on board are able to have a much more unique and personal experience. Youre able to walk 360 degrees around the vessel.
Two 350 horsepower V8 engines should not be feared, as the boat was built for safety and comfort, Mr May said.
The best thing about this boat is that its fast, but its also super smooth. Youre able to pull up at a slow speed, and youre able to see multiple pods or different destination landmarks all in a single tour.
Tours depart from Harbour Square Boat Dock, near Rydges Hotel, and everyday at 9am and more on weekends.