Industry prepares for events across our region - MarineBusinessWorld Oceania newsletter
by Peter Rendle 13 Feb 17:00 AEDT
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show 2026 - Pavilion © Sanctuary Cove Media
The Gold Coast is set to transform into a marine and lifestyle hub as the Southern Hemisphere's largest marine event, Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) on 21-24 May, has tickets officially on sale.
Across four unmissable days, the event will showcase the pinnacle of boating and marine innovation, boast brand-new hospitality and entertainment experiences, and welcome over 45,000 marine and lifestyle enthusiasts to Hope Island.
While separated from Australia by the Indian Ocean, South Africa is emerging as a major player in the marine industry. Following the resounding success of its sold-out inaugural edition, the African Boating Conference will return to Cape Town on 20-21 October. The 2026 conference will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, investors, developers, manufacturers, and service providers from across Southern Africa and key international markets.
Across the ditch, Seawind Catamarans return to New Zealand with purpose and momentum, unveiling the award-winning Seawind 1170 at the Auckland Boat Show from 5-8 March. Fresh from being named Multihull of the Year at the British Yachting Awards and newly built at Seawind's advanced European facility in Turkey, the 1170 marks the beginning of a new generation of performance-driven cruising catamarans for Kiwi sailors. This relaunch is powered by a strategic partnership between Multihull Central and Icon Azzure.
Palm Beach Motor Yachts will also be present at the Auckland Boat Show, showcasing the iconic and highly regarded Palm Beach 55, a model that continues to resonate with New Zealand boaters who value performance, craftsmanship, stunning looks, and genuine offshore capability. The company has spent more than three decades refining a singular philosophy: motor yachts designed with a sailor's understanding of the sea. As the company enters its 31st year, that mindset remains central to every build.
For 70 years, Grand Banks has set the standard in long-range cruising. Renowned for timeless design, superior craftsmanship, and remarkable efficiency, every Grand Banks yacht is built for those who value performance, comfort, and enduring beauty on the open sea. At the Auckland Boat Show, they are proud to be celebrating their 70th anniversary and showcasing the acclaimed Grand Banks 54 long-range cruiser that exemplifies the brand's signature blend of innovation and tradition.
Later in the year, if it floats, powers, paddles or pulls up dinner, the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show covers it. Dropping anchor at the Auckland Showgrounds from 14-17 May, the country's biggest and most trusted boating and fishing event is serving up a packed programme of new gear, hands-on experiences and family-friendly action — plus a few surprises to celebrate its 70-year anniversary!
Brisbane 2032 Marine Project Manager, Stephen Joyce, has returned from a successful visit to Darwin where he attended the presentation on 2026: The Year Ahead by Northern Territory Chief Minister, The Hon Lia Finocchiaro MLA. The Government's economic plan was revealed to centre on backing key sectors including defence, energy, agriculture, mining and tourism, along with a strong focus on community safety and unlocking major projects and investment to create jobs.
Not forgetting the need for future professionals, the National Apprentice Week Australia is a time to celebrate the role of apprenticeships and traineeships in building the skills and strength of workforce in the marine industry, according to the Boating Industry Association. BIA CEO Andrew Fielding said marine trades were the backbone of the industry which relies on a workforce that was founded on experience, precision and knowledge.
Fielding added, "Last year the industry across Australia employed 35,000 people in a sector that turned over more than $10B and yet the workforce needs to grow to meet demand across a wide range of trades and skills."
GoBoat Australia, the nation's leading electric picnic-boat experience, announced a significant new chapter in its journey following its acquisition by d'Albora Marinas, Australia's largest premium marina and hospitality network with 16 prime locations along the east coast. The acquisition accelerates GoBoat's mission to make sustainable, self-drive boating accessible to all Australians.
More marine industry news from our region at www.marinebusinessworld.com/Oceania updated daily.
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media