Shark-themed holiday accommodation with a cool vibe

Shark cage diving is one of the most popular activities among holidaygoers in Port Lincoln.

Not surprisingly, when long-time local Robert Forster bought this property on 26 London Street, what is now the award-winning Port Lincoln YHA, he chose an aquatic theme for the interiors, keeping the sharks in the spotlight.

Spread over 2,273sqm, Port Lincoln YHA, currently on sale, offers affordable accommodation and can sleep 71 people across a range of private rooms and dormitories.

YHA, Port Lincoln. Pic: Take 2 Photography.

The property is dotted with ‘jaw-dropping’ design features that will have you wanting to take photos of every wall.

Among them is an indoor replica of a shark and cage that has been an instant hit with those who have stayed at the property.

The replica shark and cage offer the prefect photo-op. Pic: Take 2 Photography.

“This building was once a sporting complex with squash courts. It was then converted into a shopping space offering bargain buys before we bought it nine years ago,” Mr Forster said.

“We wanted a beachy theme for the refurbished building but at the same time wanted to highlight shark cage diving that Port Lincoln is popular for,” he said.

A large common room follows through with the aquatic theme and has its own ‘Scubar’.

There’s also a spacious timber-decked communal area and upper level movie room.

Immerse yourself in the ‘Scubar’. Pic: Take 2 Photography.

The marine theme is hard to miss. Pic: Take 2 Photography.

Apart from multiple private and shared bathroom/shower facilities, there’s a commercial grade communal kitchen fitted with gas stoves/ovens, fridges and more.

“Over the years, we have hosted everyone from families to backpackers to people on business trips. I am now keen to retire,” Mr Forster said.

“This property has immense earning potential and new owners can choose to run it as it is or convert it into a motel if they so wish.”

The common room opens on to an outdoor deck area. Pic: Take 2 Photography.

There are multiple rooms to choose from. Pic: Take 2 Photography.

The location – it’s a five-minute walk to the town’s buzzing centre as well as the Port Lincoln Railway Museum – is a plus point as well.

The property has been brought to the market by Harris Real Estate’s Karen Lombe and Rachel Hawkins.

“It’s a fantastic short-term holiday accommodation under the YHA banner and has been very well maintained by the current owner,” Ms Hawkins said.