Oversized Azure II yacht ‘finally’ leaves small Mid West town after weeks at Department of Transport jetty

The stalemate surrounding the multimillion-dollar superyacht in Dongara has finally broken, with the vessel leaving the marina at the weekend. The 80-tonne Azure II yacht, built in 2003, had been moored in Port Denison boat harbour since January, after it became grounded on shallow reef following its arrival in the small Mid West town from overseas. The yacht is believed to be worth $2 million. Concerns had been raised by residents regarding potential damage to nearby vessels if it were to drift, which led to fishermen cutting the chain to one of the anchors. It had been moored at the Department of Transport service jetty while owner John Grove organised repairs. The owner’s decision to relocate the yacht from the commercial jetty comes after the vessel grabbed the attention of locals and marine authorities. One resident said it was pleasing to see the yacht had “finally” left Dongara on Sunday after many broken promises. “It is a mistake to say the boat is leaving this afternoon when you know it will still be there tomorrow, much better to say it is engine problems or something,” he said. Department of Transport confirmed on Monday morning the vessel had departed the marina and was headed for Geraldton. Mr Grove was contacted for comment.