The Sanctuary Cove Boat Show opens today

Sanctuary Cove 21st Boat Show opens today             

The 21st Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show opens today, Friday, May 22 on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

The Show has attracted 406 exhibitors with at least 105 world and Australian marine product releases.

“We are delighted with such strong exhibitor support for the 21st annual show,” said Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show general manager Mark Jensen.

“This is our fourth highest exhibitor tally on record, an astounding feat in the current economic climate. “

The Show opening was rescheduled from Thursday as unexpected strong winds and heavy rains developed on Wednesday, May 20. Wind gusts of up to 117km per hour were recorded on the Gold Coast. A state of emergency was declared in the region on Wednesday evening. Exhibitor move in and the construction of the event was thus delayed.

“We’re confident that the Show will be successful this year with displays valued at millions of dollars,” said Mr Jensen.

“We are working with exhibitors to ensure we can deliver a world-class event. There are three large pavilions including an expanded and enhanced Super Yacht pavilion plus marina displays and hardstand exhibits.”

South Korean Vice-Governor for Political Affairs Gyeongnam Province Sang Kun Ahn officially opens the Show as he leads a delegation of 18 South Koreans. Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show formed a strategic alliance with Yacht and Boat Korea.

They represent just one of a range of groups of international buyers and delegations from countries such as India, Taiwan, China, United Arab Emirates and the Philippines.

The 10am invitation only official opening is staged at Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove and is expected to attract industry and government VIPs, media and dignitaries.

The Show’s global nature is reflected in the wide array of marine products and companies at the event. There are exhibitors from New Zealand, the US, Taiwan and Italy while many Australian companies showcase boats and products from the US, Canada, Europe and Asia.  

To further entice families, the Show has extended the age of free entry to children aged 14 years and under. Daily street entertainment with roving musicians and comedy acts add to the atmosphere.

“Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show offers a world-class backdrop for a marine event. The expansive marina allows buyers to see the boats on the water while the Marine Village restaurants, cafes and elegant shops bring an easy and relaxing atmosphere,” said Mr Jensen.

This year, the Show’s precinct has some operational improvements to enhance visitor enjoyment with a shady food court and enhanced water taxi and ferry arrival area.
Lively daily entertainment includes cooking demonstrations with celebrity chef Bart Beek at the Club Marine stand; Creek to Coast host Scott Hillier, and presenter, Dean Miller will answer boating and fishing questions, swap stories and sign autographs. Sally Jenyns is on site daily for cooking demonstrations and to share her seafood recipes.

There’s also live outside broadcasts by Classic Hits Radio 4KQ and 92.5 Gold FM

Online general admission prices have been kept at 2008 levels at $A22 for adults and $A19 concession. There is free entry for children aged 14 years and under.  A Two Day pass is available for $A40. The online pre-purchased tickets offer a small discount over the event day entry prices at the gate of $A23 adult and $A20 concession. Conditions apply.

There is no on site public parking at the Show. Visitors can choose park ‘n’ ride, water transport by water taxi or ferry, limousine or taxi drop off or helicopter drop off. View:  HYPERLINK “http://www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au” www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

The International Business Lounge is located within the Queensland Government Centre with support by the Queensland Government, Gold Coast City Council, Austrade, AIMEX and Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.