Good times and big sales at boat show that stops an industry

ORGANISERS are calling for exhibitors next year at the ‘Melbourne Cup’ of the boating industry – the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

Hair mogul and boating industry figure Stefan Ackerie (pictured above), whose Stefan Boating World has become a high-profile exhibitor in Marine Village in recent years, described the event as the finest mix of business and pleasure.

“Last year I declared SCIBS the best show in Australia and I stand by that,” he said.

“From the unique location and glorious climate to the fact we always get plenty of leads from the event, it’s an easy decision to keep coming back.”

SCIBS general manager Johan Hasser said the event is not unlike the Melbourne Cup in the sense that it stops the marine industry – except the celebration lasts four days.

“If you’ve got an interest in the boating industry, you’ve got an interest in being at Sanctuary Cove during May as it is well known as the boat show where the marine business does business.

“On the back of favourable market conditions that have seen new boat sales rise across all segments, SCIBS 2019 is shaping as an event where exhibitors will be able to sell by day and socialise by night.”

Next year’s exhibition will include everything from super yachts, power boats, catamarans, sailing boats and trawlers to the latest RIBs (rigid inflatable boats), day boats, weekenders and aluminium and fibreglass fishing boats, which will be displayed alongside high-performance sports, ski and tow boats. It will run between May 23 and 26.