Freedom Boat Club continues to expand in Australia with first Tasmania location
Part of the Brunswick Corporation, Freedom Boat Club has announced plans to open its first Tasmanian location in 2026. The new Freedom Boat Club Tasmania operation will be based near Hobart’s CBD on the River Derwent.
The news follows another recent expansion into Australia, with the Freedom Boat Club Sydney South set to open in July 2026. This, alongside Tasmania, will expand the recognised world’s largest boat club network footprint and marks the next step for the brand’s growth in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.
The new location will provide access to Stormy Bay, Bruny Island, and the surrounding waterways. The club will offer members access to a managed fleet without the costs and responsibilities of boat ownership.
Freedom Boat Club Asia-Pacific general manager David Kurczewki says: “We are excited to bring the Freedom Boat Club adventure to the River Derwent, Bruny Island, and the broader region. Freedom Boat Club Tasmania will give locals and travellers a simple, safe, and easy way to enjoy these waters year-round.”
According to Freedom, more than 67,000 Tasmanians hold boat licenses, highlighting the local demand for flexible boating experiences.
The club plans to launch with a mixed fleet suited to cruising, fishing, and family boating, including Arvor Weekenders, Rayglass Legend 2350 models, and Sea Ray sport boats. Additional vessels will be introduced over time based on member demand.
Independent owners and operators
Freedom Boat Club Tasmania will be independently owned and operated by Hobart-based business partners Kelvin Markham and Mark Bent, both lifelong boaters with backgrounds in tourism, sales, and marine recreation.
“We’ve spent our lives on the waters around Hobart, from New Norfolk to Bruny Island, and we know how special this place is,” says Kelvin Markham, co-owner of Freedom Boat Club Tasmania.
“Freedom Boat Club allows people to enjoy boating without the hassle. Just step aboard, explore, and let our team take care of the rest. We’re thrilled to bring this concept to Tasmania and open the door to more adventures for families, locals, and visitors.”
Members will receive unlimited access to club boats, training from local captains, dockside support, and reciprocal access to Freedom Boat Club’s global network of more than 400 locations.
Expressions of interest for membership opportunities are now available via the Freedom Boat Club Australia website.
