Record crowds attended the 36th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) alongside a record number of boats on display.
Visitor numbers were almost 10% up on 2024 with the show featuring everything from next-gen marine technology to ultra-luxury yachts.
“We’ve had an incredible 824 boats in total – 422 on water and 402 on land, an unrivalled display for our tens of thousands of visitors and the biggest number ever for the show,” said Corey Rattray-Wood, head of events at Mulpha Events.
Stand-out yachts included the Candela C-8 electric, carbon hydrofoiling vessel from Carbon Yachts, the debut of Pazienza, the multi-million-dollar Italian-built marvel from Cantiere delle Marche (CDM); a $100 million in marine innovation from Horizon Yachts Australia; and a $50 million showcase from Riviera, which featured two global premieres.
Strong sales
Exhibitor reports are said to have confirmed strong sales and enthusiastic crowds over the four days of the Show.
“Our exhibitors continue to invest in SCIBS as the number one show on the marine lifestyle calendar and the result is not only a win for them but for all of those who enjoy a truly elevated show experience across all segments,” said Corey.
Maritimo celebrated the global launch of its reimagined M50 Flybridge Motor Yacht and the S50 Sedan Motor Yacht.
“We’ve had lots of engagement from new and existing customers with nearly 1,000 guests visiting our stand, and great leads and sales being processed,” said Phil Candler, operations manager at Maritimo.
Maritimo’s experience was echoed by many other exhibitors.
Premier models
Mark Richards, founder and CEO of Palm Beach Motor Yachts and CEO of Grand Banks, added: “The sun brought out an impressive number of people and the marina has been busy each day.
“It’s been fantastic! The numbers are the best we’ve seen for many, many years, bringing strong enquiry and leads.”
Riviera had its largest display at SCIBS with 12 yachts on display from 43 to 78ft.
“We had over 2,000 Riviera owners in the first three days who had travelled from around Australia and overseas to inspect our premiere models and to take part in our exclusive Festival of Boating programme,” said Stephen Milne, Riviera brand and communications director.
The 37th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show will take place from May 21-24 2026.
The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is owned and presented by Mulpha Events and supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism & Events Queensland and Experience Gold Coast.
