Hotel owner Dr Jerry Schwartz is set to take over Australia’s largest seaplane business, Sydney Seaplanes, in a bid to diversify his company’s hotel and tourism interests.

Schwartz Family Company has acquired a majority share in the business and will gain full ownership by the middle of 2025, on completion of the purchase of shares from former Sydney Seaplane owners Aaron Shaw and Ken Gaunt. Sydney Seaplanes operates scenic charter flights from the harbour front at Rose Bay. “As ever, I have been looking to diversify my hotel and tourism interests. I have bought Sydney Seaplanes, and we are expanding the fleet of planes by adding two planes, with a fifth on the way [expected by year end],” Schwartz told HM in the 2025 Industry Leaders Forum (launching next week). The purchase also includes the Rose Bay headquarters for Sydney Seaplanes and the adjoining Empire Lounge restaurant, bar and function venue, which will relaunch as Sydney Seaplanes Lounge. New Head Chef, Natali Mikailoğlu – formerly of The Boathouse Group, Rockpool, and Merivale – will deliver a menu of fresh, seasonal produce with a particular focus on locally sourced seafood. “It offers incredible views and excellent food at prices considerably more affordable than the much-hyped restaurant next door,” Schwartz told HM. “Having six hotels in Sydney, I believe it is crucial the industry works closely together to make the city a premium tourism destination that utilises the incredible potential of Sydney Harbour. “Building up the Sydney Seaplanes operation will certainly help drive that ambition.” The fleet currently comprises two Amphibious Cessna Caravans – capable of carrying 12 passengers – 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 being fitted with amphibious floats and will join the fleet shortly. Schwartz described the acquisition as “an exciting new chapter in Sydney’s aviation and tourism history.” “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 con continue the seaplane tradition by providing inspirational tours of Sydney Harbour and flights to picturesque locations along the coast,” he said. “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. “Diners can feast on the freshest seafood and enjoy Champagne and cocktails before or after their flight. “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.”