The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is undoubtedly the jewel in the crown of the boating industry in Australia and the Asia Pacific region, bringing together both local and international patronage. It showcases the latest and greatest world-class marine equipment, services and accessories including luxury yachts, high-performance powerboats, elegant sailboats, and cutting-edge fishing boats in an attractive and accommodating waterfront environment that’s full of attractions, excitement and charm.
The promoters say, “The 2025 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is not just about boats; it’s about the lifestyle and community that comes with it.”
The recent 36th 2025 SCIBS finally returned to the buzz, excitement and glamour of the pre-COVID era, and then added plenty more. This year over 45,000 visitors, 300+ exhibitors, 800+ boats and 2,500+ marine products celebrated all things aquatic from the smallest tender and paddleboat to massive recreational ocean-going cruisers and everything that makes them tick. From luxury lifestyle to the simplest marine accessory, the 2025 SCIBS celebrated them all in the most inviting and accommodating waterway in the country.
This year’s SCIBS presented a record-breaking 824 boats on display—422 on the water and 402 on land—and the crowds responded in kind, with serious buyers to boot. Standout displays included Horizon Yachts, which presented over $100 million of luxury cruisers, while local manufacturers Riviera displayed a $50 million showcase, including the global release of two brand new models: the 4300 Sports Express and the 72 Sports Motor Yacht Series II. Meanwhile, Maritimo registered over 1,000 keen guests at their impressive display and reported “strong leads and on-site sales.”
Innovation Takes Centre Stage
This year’s SCIBS was quite an eye-opener for innovation in all sectors, including the new Candela C-8, a 100% electric carbon hydrofoiling vessel, a plethora of new marine propulsion options, and a world full of technology exemplified by Navico leading with their all-new Recon electric trolling motors, the Simrad NSS 4 multi-function display, and Zeus SR by B&G with their new tag, “Elevate Your Instincts!”
Diverse Maritime Showcase: From Local Innovators to Global Leaders
Tried and true brands such as Palm Beach and Grand Banks expressed great success, while the world was on display with terrific presentations from the likes of Jeanneau, Beneteau, Princess and many other firsts from the world’s finest marine manufacturers.
We saw plenty of products from our ANZAC allies, especially in the trailer boat realm with Surtees, White Pointer, Extreme and Stabicraft amongst the front runners, as well as the wonderful range of Veitch and Edencraft boats, who are continually setting new standards in offshore weaponry. There were trailer boats aplenty in all manner of materials and applications, and it was terrific to see a large range of PWCs and RIBs, including the return of the highly successful Brig brand by Sirocco Marine. No matter your preferred style of boating, you were very well catered for at the 2025 SCIBS.
While many have questioned current market trends, it is quite clear from the results at SCIBS that our Australian boating market, while in a pressurised time of change and uncertainty, has taken the bull by the horns and invested heavily in new products and production. It really is a most exciting boating market in 2025.
There were many exhibitor events, both educating on product advancements and technology as well as pure celebrations, including marine insurance giant Club Marine toasting their 40th year of service to the industry.
The eye-openers just kept coming from the smallest new gadget, clothing, accessory and power equipment and engine manufacturers, right through to top-end vehicle suppliers such as Bentley, Maserati and Lotus marketing to premium purchasers.
There were a couple of notable absentees who have chosen to direct their promotional budgets elsewhere, but in my mind it was to everybody’s loss. SCIBS is undoubtedly the premier event for the Australian boating industry, and a world-class event for our region.
Overall, we have to commend the entire SCIBS management and production team, including Mulpha Events. This wonderful show is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism & Events Queensland, and Experience Gold Coast.
Other Boating Events
While SCIBS may be the crown jewel, the Australian boating calendar is packed with fantastic events across the nation, each offering their own unique flavour and regional focus. From Sydney’s revamped format to Perth’s western charm, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get up close with the latest marine offerings throughout 2025. Here’s what’s still to come this year.
Sydney International Boat Show
2025 sees the introduction of a new format for the Sydney International Boat Show. While traditionally held at and adjoining Darling Harbour, this year’s event has been divided into two sectors, with the first being an off-water event to be held at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park in Homebush on August 14-17.
The event will mainly showcase trailer boats, as well as all marine equipment and accessories including fishing gear and associated lifestyle products. There will be entertainment and education as well as demonstrations and refreshments.
The second leg of the Sydney Event will be held in spring, November 13-16, for a “revitalised” on-water event at its traditional home of Darling Harbour. The event will feature the best in state-of-the-art cruisers, fishers and luxury watercraft as well as live entertainment and interactive exhibits encased by the cosmopolitan exuberance and facilities lining the inner-city shoreline.
Melbourne Boat Show
Don’t forget to save a spot on your calendars for the Melbourne Boat Show to be held in Melbourne’s inner sanctum of the Docklands precinct on October 16-19.
Perth Boat Show 2025
Not to be left behind, our friends in the west stage the Perth Boat Show from September 19-21, at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre. They boast, “for a weekend that’s ‘shore’ to excite every boating enthusiast.”
SA Boat & Fishing Show: Adelaide
The 2025 Adelaide 4WD and Adventure Show, which includes the SA Boat & Fishing Show, is set for October 24-26, 2025, being run at the Adelaide Showground. This diverse show features many recreational products including boating, fishing, 4WDing, caravanning, and camping, plus a large range of other attractions.
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The 2025 SCIBS really showcased an Australian boating market that’s taken the bull by the horns. With record-breaking attendance, serious buyer interest, and everything from $100 million luxury displays to cutting-edge electric vessels, it’s quite clear this industry is in an exciting phase despite broader uncertainties.
The innovation on display—from hydrofoiling technology to new propulsion systems—combined with strong performances from both established brands and emerging players, signals that 2025 is shaping up to be a most exciting year for Australian boating.
We will continue to update you on the state of Australia’s boating industry throughout the year. In the meantime, check out our other market reports for comprehensive insights into Australia’s recreational vehicle landscape.
Retain Media provides this data “as is” for informational purposes only and accepts no liability for decisions made based on this reporting. Users are encouraged to use this data as one of multiple data points in their market analysis.
