Bigger, better show floated
THE Gold Coast’s upcoming luxury boat show is sold out, boasts 700 more on-site car parks and will feature more than $200 million worth of vessels and gadgets.
Organisers of the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS), launched yesterday, are touting the four-day expo later this month as one of the biggest in its 31-year history, with major boat builder Riviera back as an exhibitor.
SCIBS general manager Johan Hasser said space was full, with 320 exhibitors on board with 200 boats in the water, a further 400 in the marina village, and thousands of products and toys, including the latest jet skis.
Not only had SCIBS added more exhibitor space for the May 23-26 event but it had invested in parking area expansion, he said.
“We have 700 more car park spaces because we have done some development around Sanctuary Cove to make that possible.”
Mr Hasser said they would also have the largest range of trailer boats in the show’s history on display, with locally manufactured Quintrex models anchoring the section.
“This is going to be one of the biggest boat shows we have had at Sanctuary Cove,” he said of the event, which typically attracts 45,000 through the gates and pumps $150 million into the Gold Coast economy.
Maritimo will be debuting new models at its SCIBS base, which includes a replica galley for functions.
Fellow Gold Coast boatbuilding giant Riviera will be back on board with its Riviera Festival of Boating.
Along with the luxury models will be a 20,000sq m precinct for sports, leisure and fishing boats, plus a luxury car display by Bentley.
SCIBS is renowned for having a lively social program, with live music, onsite restaurants and on-water functions.
“The beauty of SCIBS is it doesn’t matter what floats your boat, you’re certain to find something that will bring a smile to your face,” Mr Hasser said.
“Whether you’re looking to buy a luxury yacht, visit the pavilions, wine and dine with friends or have a ton of fun with your children, the range of options are endless.
“We are proud to be the boat show where the marine industry does business but we take just as much pride in hosting thousands who simply want to explore and enjoy all that makes SCIBS one of the highlights of the Queensland events calendar.”