AT a time when rising fuel costs are hitting businesses the length and breadth of the country, Cairns's Marlin Marina appears to be weathering the storm and riding into a period of growth.

The 214-berth marina right on the city's doorstep with first-class facilities and services have all been cited as reasons for the popularity of the marina.

In addition, the recent change to visa regulations allowing crews of superyachts to stay in Australia while their vessels are undergoing refits or services is expected to boost the popularity of the marina.

Cairns Ports chief executive Neil Quinn said the performance of the marina was extremely positive and the signs going forward gave great confidence for the future.

Mr Quinn said berths at the marina were well booked through to November while the 10 berths capable of taking vessels more than 25m in length were virtually full.

But it isn't just the super-yachts that are filling up the berths at Marlin Marina.

There are many pleasure craft which are making the stopover and taking in the region's tourist attractions.

Among recent visitors are yachts taking part in the Darwin to Kupang rally.

Mr Quinn said the rally was not a race but a group of yachts sailing together as a cruising community.

With the region's famed marlin season on the doorstep, there have been a high number of bookings from owners keen to try their luck for the legendary sailfish which skirt the waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

"There are good forward bookings for the forthcoming marlin season although it remains to be seen if it will be as busy as previous years given the rising costs of fuel and the high Australian dollar," Mr Quinn said.

There is also a growing chance Cairns may become a destination for maxi-yachts with inquiries about Cairns hosting demonstrations, corporate events and match races between the sail giants.

One of the main impacts of the visa changes is that it will enable superyachts to conduct charter operations in Australia and so stay here longer.

When he announced the changes, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Chris Evans said the special visa class would not only support the growing superyacht industry, but assist tourism in areas such as Queensland's Great Barrier Reef region.

The new multiple-entry visa will allow all crew members to work in Australia for up to 12 months on commercial or private superyachts.

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