Sanctury Cove Boat Show hits the heights in exhibitors and visitors

by Kate Duryea on 23 May 2009 The previous few days' record rainfall and threat of more storms did not deter the crowds, with the 21st Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show kicking off with 406 exhibitors and the second highest Friday visitor count in two decades.

The Friday visitor tally was 13,041 the second highest on record after 2007.

There are 224 boats on water – a full boat count will be available today for hardstand and pavilion areas.

Of the 406 exhibitors, there were 107 on water, a further 186 in pavilions and 113 with hardstand displays through the waterfront Marine Village. On-water displays stretch 2.838km if placed stem to stern.

South Korean Vice-Governor for Political Affairs Gyeongnam Province Sang Kun Ahn officially opened the Show, leading a delegation of 18 South Koreans.

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

There are more than 190 registered media, covering the event from around the world.

Exhibitors were pleased with the day’s performance.

Riviera’s Director Brand and Communications Stephen Milne said yesterday was a very strong day for the company.

'We sold four boats including two 5800 Sport Yachts launched worldwide at the Show and two other boats. The sale was valued at more than $A5 million,' he said.

SmartKat’s Anil Patel said there seemed to be a lot of genuine interest including interest in distributing the company’s products. SmartKat sells inflatable hulled catamarans imported from Austria. This is the third year exhibiting at Sanctuary Cove.

Today, activities at the Show include outside broadcasts by Classic Hits Radio 4KQ and 92.5 Gold FM.

The Creek to Coast stand is open daily between 11am and 2pm. Host Scott Hillier and presenter Dean Miller are on site to answer fishing and boating questions, swap stories and sign autographs. Sally Jenyns is on site daily for cooking demonstrations.

Club Marine is exhibiting at the show with chef Bart Beek’s cooking demonstrations every hour between 10am and 4pm.

Lively street entertainment includes Fiesta Tropicale, Hot Jazz and Swing, Emerging Cocktail, Lifesavers and The Pirate Captain.

The Show is open Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm daily.

There is a range of transport options include Park ‘n’ Ride, limousine and taxi drop offs and helicopters.

See the website for further details www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au