Sanctuary Cove 2007 breaks records

by Kate Duryea on 16 Apr 2007 The 2007 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show has surpassed the 2006 exhibitor record of 423.

'Currently we have more confirmed exhibitors so visitors can expect an exciting event with at least 20 world launches and more than 40 Australian releases,' said Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show general manager Barry Jenkins.

The upcoming 19th annual Australian show from May 24 to May 27 has also attracted international attention with confirmed delegations from Taiwan and China.

'We understand there are groups coming from Korea and we always have keen interest from New Zealand buyers,' explained Mr Jenkins.

Enhanced on-water display space means visitors can view more than 4km of on-water displays plus a further 16,000sqm of pavilion and open-air exhibits.

Some new confirmed world and Australian launches include:

The Australian debut of the Grand Banks 47 Heritage EU and the Grand Banks 59 Aleutian raised pilothouse;

The world launch by Innovation Power Catamarans of its fully enclosed flybridge Innovation 52. Marketing and sales manager Terry Vine confirmed clients are flying in to attend the Show from the US and New Zealand;

The world release of Schionning Marine’s Alaskan 41 passage maker;

A new Pilot Bay 21 Daysailer debuted by Fipco;

And the Australian release of the Cobalt 222.

'There’s a huge a range of new products including Coursemaster Autopliots’ KVH TracVision® M3 antenna and the latest navigation system for large yachts, the Simrad Glass Bridge GM60,' said Mr Jenkins. Other releases to the Australian market include Bainbridge Technologies’ launch of the CTEK 15 amp battery charger while Blue Wave Australia, the Australian branch of Danish rigging hardware manufacturer Blue Wave Denmark is at the Show.

On Friday morning, members of the public can attend the Smart State Marine Industry Breakfast. Sydney to Hobart yacht race winner Lindsay May is a guest speaker, detailing key elements leading to his 2006 win on Love & War.

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show visitor entry fees remain at 2006 prices with adults $A21, Concession tickets at $A18, Children 5-14 years $A7 and children under 5 years free. Two-, three- and four-day passes are available.

There is no on site public parking however streamlined transport options include park ‘n shuttle, taxi, limousine or helicopter drop off or water taxi transfer. For details view www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

An International Business Lounge will be organised at the Show in a joint arrangement between Austrade, Queensland State Development, AIMEX, Gold Coast City Council and Sanctuary Cove.

Valued sponsors of the 2007 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show include Club Marine, Trader Classifieds, Channel 7, Classic Hits 4KQ, The Gold Coast Bulletin, Queensland Government, Maritime Safety Queensland, 92.5 Gold FM, Gold Coast City Council, Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove and supporter Ford Australia.