Yachtfinders Global and Swashbucklers Restaurant & Bar have been part of Auckland’s waterfront story for almost three decades. Two businesses with a shared connection to the sea, a passion for boating and a place in the fabric of Auckland’s maritime community.

Swashbucklers was founded by the legendary Ginger Gibbs, who, as it happens, attended St Paul’s College at the same time I did.

Ginger was one of a kind – a fun, generous, larger-than-life character who could light up a room and a harbour in equal measure. He had a personality that people remembered, and it’s little wonder that Swashbucklers became such an enduring part of Auckland life.

Over the years, it has become much more than a restaurant. The menu has retained much of its original appeal, and long may that continue! Like The White Lady, Swashbucklers is a true Auckland institution – somewhere locals, boaties and visitors can walk in and immediately feel at home.

I was delighted to head down and join in their birthday celebrations. It was particularly special knowing that just a few months earlier, some of Ginger’s old schoolmates had also chosen Swashbucklers as the place to celebrate their own birthdays. Some connections, it seems, never fade.

And then there’s that famous Tasman crossing record, from Sydney Harbour Bridge to Auckland Harbour Bridge. Classic Ginger! It’s the sort of story that becomes part of boating folklore, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s still being talked about around the marinas today.

Looking back, there are some wonderful parallels between Swashbucklers and Yachtfinders Global. Both have grown through changing times, changing markets and generations of customers, while holding on to what matters most – relationships, reputation, character and a genuine love of the waterfront.

At Yachtfinders Global, we’ve been helping people find their place on the water since 1996. Swashbucklers has been welcoming people to its waterfront tables since 1997. Different businesses, but very much part of the same maritime community.

As Auckland’s waterfront continues to evolve, it’s great to see these long-standing institutions still playing their part.

Here’s to the people, the stories, the friendships and the adventures that make Auckland’s boating community what it is.

Here’s to many more years of good times, great memories and adventures on and off the water!