PERTH, Western Australia -- Oceanfast is pleased to announce the successful launching of Aussie Rules -- the largest private aluminum motor yacht in the world.

Constructed by Australian luxury motor yacht builder Oceanfast, the yacht was launched Oct. 13, 2002, with owners Greg and Laura Norman present to witness the event.

The Normans attended a modest event for the launching with only selected Oceanfast personnel, the 12-person crew, designer Sam Sorgiovanni and inquisitive dolphins in attendance.

Laura Norman officially named the Norman Expedition Yacht Aussie Rules with a magnum of champagne smashed on the bulbous bow before the yacht slid into the Indian Ocean.

Commenting on the event, Oceanfast's General Manager Brad Draper said the launch of Aussie Rules signified a major milestone for Oceanfast.

"Launching Aussie Rules was an emotional and proud day for the owners and our workers. Our recent slip upgrade resulted in a professional and smooth process with the cradle, designed in a wedge shape enabling the yacht to be launched parallel with the waterline."

"Over the next few weeks, we can now concentrate on the finishing touches to the interior and sea trials to ensure the Norman family receives the highest quality product on delivery. We anticipate Aussie Rules will become a benchmark for the worldwide luxury motor yacht market," Draper said.

About Aussie Rules

At 69.5 meters long, Aussie Rules can travel at a comfortable 12.5 knots, across 8,000 nautical miles on 220,000 liters of fuel.

This means she can almost cruise from the South Pole to the North Pole without having to refuel.

The yacht can comfortably accommodate a complement of up to 16 guests in deluxe guest cabins with several opulently appointed dining and lounge saloons.

A traditional theme is carried throughout the interior incorporating finely crafted timber details to carefully selected soft furnishings and accessories to complement this style.

Greg Norman's sporting and yachting experience has greatly influenced the design and concept of this unique motor yacht with entertaining and exploring elements evident in the design and outfit.

Keen water-sport guests will be able to optimize surrounding aquatic playgrounds through the range of tenders carried onboard. These include:

• A 12.8 meter / 42 foot Sportfisherman, launched from the main deck by double slings when the yacht is in port. Perfect for overnight outings, the Sportfisherman includes four berths and a galley to cook up the "catch of the day";
• A 9.2 meter / 30 foot SeaVee for smaller fishing excursions;
• A 7 meter / 22 foot Novurania Equator 800horese power for diving and providing guests with a dry ride ashore;
• Two 5.5 meter / 18 foot Hewes Bonefishers to maneuver over sand flats and estuaries in areas such as Key West, Florida;
• A 4 meter / 13 foot Narwhal Rescue boat;
• Four Yamaha Wave Runners.

The dive equipment onboard Aussie Rules will cater up to 30 people and includes a decompression chamber and two dive compressors.

For the fishing enthusiast there is also 200 fishing rods to ensure the ultimate catch.

The sun deck features a spa/pool able to seat 12 people and boasts more than 100 jet outlets arranged differently for each individual massage position.