Local Dinghies in Shock as Dolans Bay Marina Expansion Paves Way for Mega Yachts

Sandy Shores | Editor-in-Chief | Sutherland Shire Gazette

23 February 2025

The sleepy waters of Dolans Bay could soon resemble Monaco—if Monaco had a daily debate about boat ramp etiquette and an ongoing war with stand-up paddleboarders.

Plans are underway to expand Dolans Bay Marina from its current 29 berths to 73, meaning locals may need to start practicing their “casual wealth” look before heading out for a Sunday morning coffee.

The proposal, which includes a 137-metre extension, has already triggered intense speculation. Some fear it will bring megayachts and millionaire influencers, while others argue it’s just making more room for “boats that have never actually left the marina.”

“There goes the neighbourhood,” sighed one long-time resident, Prue Shepherd, gazing wistfully at the horizon. “First, it was paddleboarders. Now, it’s this.”

However, not everyone is against it. Some hopeful locals believe the expansion could finally attract a waterfront restaurant where you don’t have to bring your own chair.

“I just want a place to get a beer that’s closer than Cronulla,” said one optimistic boatie. “And maybe a spot to park my tinny where it won’t get side-eyed by a guy with a $3 million Riviera.”

Environmental concerns remain, with early reports suggesting the local fish are yet to be consulted on the matter. Meanwhile, a small number of swing moorings will need to be relocated, though the marina has promised to cover costs - just as soon as they figure out where to put them.

For now, Dolans Bay residents are urged to have their say before February 24 - or, as one local put it, “before we all wake up in the Amalfi Coast, but without the Aperol Spritz.”