All aboard! Asia Pacific’s largest ever marine show hits the water next week

by Sanctury Cove Boatshow Media on 20 May 2003 A fleet of the world’s latest and greatest luxury and leisure vessels is on course to set a new record at the 15th annual Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show opening 22-25 May 2003.

Sanctuary Cove Events Manager, Barry Jenkins predicted a record number of national and international exhibitors would be onboard for what is now one of the country’s signature marine events.

“Our Boat Show captures the global marine eye as a showcase bonanza – it’s a boatie’s Mecca. From million dollar yachts to weekend fishing tinnies, there’s a boat for everybody here. But there’s also a wealth of fashion, food, fun and atmosphere to make it a really great day out for the whole family,” Barry said.

“The atmosphere at the Boat Show is always electric. We expect more than 43,000 visitors to descend on Sanctuary Cove to experience the best that money can buy in boating, technology and products.”

While organisers have again lured million dollar luxury vessels from America, Europe, Asia and Australia, entry level buyers can be tempted this year with more budget boats on show than ever before.

“This year, we’re involving sail boat charters, boat share ownership and do-it-yourself boat building exhibits - a rising trend in Australia,” Barry said.

“Still, most people flock to the Show because it offers that once-a-year chance to swoon over what some people will pay for a relaxing day on the water.”

Taking pride of place at this year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, is the much acclaimed 105-foot ‘Lady Janine’ motor yacht from Geoff Lovett Marine. Originally built in 1990 by Dave Warren Yachts, the superyacht has undergone a nine-month refit last year in preparation for the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. The Lady Janine boasts four staterooms, a king size master state room, a VIP double and two twin staterooms, all with ensuites.

Brand new from Dave Warren Yachts is the 88-foot ‘Supernova 88’. Making her Australian debut, the Supernova 88 is dripping with luxury from its heated towel rails in all ensuites to its lavish dining area under the world’s largest opening roof. The $5.1 million starting price vessel has a top speed of 30+ knots, carving the water with a hull especially designed for Australian sea conditions.

For marine enthusiasts interested in something a little more ‘James Bond’ the world’s-first amphibious production boat will enjoy its global launch at the Show. ‘Sealegs’ is a high-performance, rigid inflatable boat that can be driven in and out of the water, across rocks, sand and gravel, and even through mud-flats.

Also set to draw a crowd, the ‘Warwick 66’ from Sydney Yachts will make its international debut at Sanctuary Cove. The 66-foot, $3.5 million cruiser spent an intensive 14 months in construction under the guidance of acclaimed designer Alan Warwick. The cruiser expands the domestic luxury cruising yacht market, previously guarded by New Zealand manufacturers, with Sydney Yachts hoping to secure a strong export market from the Boat Show.

Among them, Multihull Yacht Sales is set to launch the world’s largest trailerable trimaran with the 36-foot Corsair 36. The trimaran is capable of sailing at more than 20 knots, making it ideal for the serious blue water sailor.

If you fancy the luxury but don’t want to pay the price tag, Cumberland Charter Yachts offer a choice of yachts, motor cruisers, sailing and motor catamarans for the ultimate getaway in the Whitsundays.

In addition, John Crawford Marine is at the Boat Show offering group share boat ownerships of brand new luxury boats.

This year, the brand new Mustang 4200 is available for group share allowing families one week per month at a quarter of the purchase price. The vessel will be on display throughout the show.

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show facts

The Boat Show is open 9am-5pm daily and entry tickets are to be purchased on-site at the Boat Show.

Adults: $16* | Concession: $14* | Children: Under 15 Free (all prices are GST inclusive).

Ticket price will increase by $3-4 for the park and ride option.

Over the past 15 years, exhibitor numbers have surged from less than 60 predominantly Australian exhibitors to more than 390 Australian and international exhibitors.

During the Boat Show, Sanctuary Cove is a closed site, therefore, NO public or visitor on-site parking is allowed.

Traveling by Car

Leave your car at Parklands and catch the Surfside Express bus direct to the Boat Show.

Take the M1 Motorway and take Exit 66 to Parklands (Gold Coast Show grounds).

The first bus from Parklands to Sanctuary Cove will depart at 8am, with the last bus departing from Sanctuary Cove for Parklands at 6pm.

Entry tickets for the park and ride option are available from Parklands
Adults: $20 | Concession: $17 | Children: $7 (All prices are GST inclusive).

Travelling by Bus


From the Gold Coast, travel direct to the Boat Show on Surfside Buslines. For all times please go to www.surfside.com.au or call Transinfo 131230.

From Brisbane, contact Coachtrans Australia on 07 5506 9700 for more information.

Alternative travel options

For alternative travel options including helicopter, water taxi, limousine and private boat visit www.sanctuarycove.com

Shuttle buses from train stations are NOT available this year.

Sanctuary Cove is one of Australia’s leading destination choices attracting close to three million visitors a year.

It features two championship golf courses, health and fitness facilities, a Marine Village with more than 80 specialty stores, cafes, bars restaurants, theatre and art galleries, 336-berth marina with access for super yachts, five-star Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove, private Country Club and residential living.