our story
We sailed into the Gold Coast commercial boating scene back in 2011 and thanks to our loyal guests and amazing crew we are thrilled to have grown to where we are now, offering 3 beautiful sailing catamarans for private charters and cruises departing from Marina Mirage.
With years of commercial boating experience in Sydney and the Gold Coast including skippering charter boats, water taxis, jet boats and commercial jet skis, Sailing in Paradise owner Steve Buckley brought a new style of sailing experience to the Coast.
"I wanted to offer an affordable luxury experience for locals and visitors to get out on the water and experience the Gold Coast’s beautiful waterways and islands. But most of all HAVE FUN doing it! "
Owner - Steve Buckley
Captains
Hi! We are Steve and Jess and we own and run Sailing in Paradise.
We realise that chartering a boat is not something that you do every day. Our aim is to make the entire experience as easy as possible, so that when you finally step aboard you can really just relax and enjoy the charter.
In fact, guest happiness is our highest priority. From your first enquiry, through to our optional catering/beverage packages and finally to our welcoming crew (who we are often told feel like part of the family after just a few short hours) we aim to exceed your expectations. We encourage you to check out our social channels and Guest Reviews to really get a vibe for what we are about.
Steve Buckley - Owner / Operator
Head Skipper Steve
Sailing in Paradise was the brainchild of Steve. Any of you who have sailed with Steve will probably recall his laid-back, likeable nature. Taking a hands-on and active involvement in the business, if you are a regular at the Marina you will often find him working hard during the week to ensure the boats are in tip-top condition for our next charter guests. He also skippers the boats regularly so rest assured you will be well looked after with Steve as part of your crew.
Jessica Buckley - Owner / operator
Guest Relations
Originally from Leicester, England, Jess is now proud to be an Aussie and feels very lucky to be living in this beautiful part of the world. Jess joined the business full-time in 2017 bringing her background in Marketing and Event Management and with it an injection of fresh ideas and concepts, plus an unparalleled level of customer engagement. These days Jess works more behind the scenes to ensure that the business runs seamlessly, but rest assured that 'guest happiness' is still her top priority.
Our Crew
The crew onboard your vessel are such an important aspect of chartering a boat. Our aim is that you step aboard and feel instantly at ease so we have carefully selected our crew not only for their skill but also their amazing hospitality and fun personalities.
You don't want a grumpy skipper or sleazy deck crew making you feel uneasy on your special day and rest assured that won’t happen on a charter with us.
Georgia
Cruise Hostess
Georgia brings a true passion for the ocean to every charter, with a deep love for scuba diving and life on and in the water. Warm, organised, and attentive, she ensures your event runs seamlessly from start to finish. With a natural eye for capturing special moments, Georgia will beautifully document your day so you can treasure the memories for years to come.
Mat
Skipper
Mat is an ocean lover to his core. When he’s not onboard our boats, you’ll find him working in marine conservation. Laid-back, friendly, and full of fascinating stories from his adventures, Mat will make your time on the water truly unforgettable.
Megan
Marketing and Reservations Coordinator
Meg began her journey with us as a Cruise Hostess and now works behind the scenes as part of our social media and bookings team. You’ll still spot her out on the water from time to time (she can’t resist!), capturing beautiful moments and jumping at any opportunity to create a TikTok. Warm, friendly, and always ready to help, Meg is passionate about bringing every guest’s event to life.
Michelle
Cruise Hostess
Michelle is our South American ray of sunshine, bringing her vibrant and fun-loving energy to every charter. With a strong background in hospitality and customer service, she ensures every guest feels welcomed and well looked after from the moment they step onboard. Passionate about travel, the ocean, and capturing special moments, Michelle loves helping create memories you’ll cherish long after your day on the water.
Ken
Skipper
Originally from the US, Ken brings years of experience in the marine industry and a natural confidence on the water. You won’t have to ask him twice to jump in for a boogie - Ken brings great energy to every charter. Fun, friendly, and always up for an adventure, Ken loves travel, surfing, and helping guests create unforgettable memories.
Jess
Cruise Hostess
Originally from the US and currently studying Marketing, Jess brings a fun, bubbly energy to every charter and is always up for a chat. With a natural talent behind the camera, she’ll make sure your event is beautifully captured so you can relive the memories long after your time on the water.
Mady
Bookings Manager
An approachable country girl with a well travelled background and years of experience in the international travel industry. Mady will likely be the person who helps book and organise your charter and you are in great hands! As a keen boatie herself, Mady brings a wealth of knowledge and along with her amazing organisational and communication skills will ensure you have a seamless booking and charter experience. Feel free to reach out to Mady if you have any questions about booking a charter with Sailing in Paradise!