In a move that would have old salts grinning from ear to ear, British-born yacht charter brokerage HELM has just hoisted anchor and moored itself firmly in the heart of Sydney, Australia. The luxury charter specialist, renowned for its bespoke yachting experiences spanning the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and exotic South Pacific waters, is now charting new waters with the launch of its very first Australian office.
It’s more than just a geographical pivot—it’s a statement. One that says, quite boldly, “G’day, we’re here for the long haul.”
From the Thames to the Tasman
At the helm—pun fully intended—of this antipodean adventure is none other than Fleur Hunt, a seasoned broker who’s swapped the drizzly greys of London for Sydney’s salty blue skyline. After two years at HELM’s London HQ, Hunt now sets course to lead the brand’s Pacific expansion.
“I’m really excited to take this next step and help evolve the HELM brand,” Hunt said, positively beaming. “It means we can offer a more personal service to our clients across Australia, New Zealand, and the wider Pacific region.”
And personal service, it seems, is what HELM does best. Unlike traditional charter operators, HELM prides itself on impartial advice, global fleet access, and a tailor-made approach to holidaymaking that would make even Poseidon blush.
HELM broker Fleur Hunt
A Homecoming of Sorts
For HELM co-founder Simon Morgan, the move is something of a homecoming. “I’m a proud Australian expat,” he said. “So I’m delighted we can now look after my fellow Aussies even better than before—without the agony of timezone gymnastics!”
And he’s not just waxing lyrical. The numbers speak for themselves. Australia and New Zealand now represent a significant chunk of HELM’s business—some 15% last year alone. With the Pacific market swelling in significance, Morgan’s decision to invest locally isn’t just sentimental—it’s strategic.
“Fleur is the perfect person to tackle the challenge of growing HELM down under,” Morgan added. “She brings an infectious friendly energy and drive that we know our clients love.”
One suspects she also brings a healthy resistance to jet lag, having crossed half the globe to launch the office.
Yacht Dreams Without the Jet Lag
But it’s not just about having boots on Bondi Beach. The Sydney opening represents the next leap in HELM’s global expansion strategy. With offices now covering the USA’s East Coast and Europe, the company can proudly claim 24/7 broker availability across all time zones.
“Whether you’re planning a week in the Whitsundays or dreaming of a superyacht in Santorini,” Morgan said, “there’s always someone ready to answer your questions and help you squeeze every last drop of joy from your charter holiday.”
That 24/7, world-spanning availability is no gimmick—it’s become a cornerstone of HELM’s brand identity, which combines global expertise with the friendly, nimble service of a boutique operator.
Setting Sail for the Next Decade
It’s no coincidence this latest milestone coincides with the company’s 10th birthday. What began as a niche charter advisor in the UK has matured into a global operation without losing the personal touch that sets it apart.
As yacht lovers increasingly seek tailor-made, skippered, crewed, and bareboat escapes, HELM is more than ready to deliver, with a Pacific twist. And Australians, long fond of luxury escapes and saltwater adventures, are set to benefit directly from a dedicated local base.
No more waiting until midnight for a response. No more emails into the void. Just expert advice, honest recommendations, and friendly chats from someone who knows the ropes—and now, knows the region too.
By Yves Thomas
