Marine industry news covering the globe this week - MarineBusinessWorld Oceania newsletter
by Peter Rendle 19 Mar 18:00 EST
Visitors explore the exhibition floor at Oceanology International 2026 © Oceanology International
The global ocean technology, engineering and science communities united in London last week for a landmark edition of Oceanology International (Oi26), transforming the venue into a vibrant showcase of breakthrough innovation, next-generation equipment and high-energy dealmaking.
This year's three-day event surpassed expectations, attracting 8,271 visitors and professionals from across the world for a total attendance of 15,709 - representing a 14% increase on the previous edition. The largest Oceanology International in its 57-year history welcomed 50% of its attendees from outside the UK, with 461 exhibiting companies representing over 30 countries.
World Boating Day has launched #WhatFloatsYourBoat, a new global social media campaign for 2026 celebrating the people, passions and everyday moments that define the boating industry. The initiative invites companies, professionals and enthusiasts to share what inspires them about life and work on the water, including innovation in shipyards and yacht design studios.
The first Great Barrier Reef Commercial Marine Conference was successfully held in Cairns on 11 March, bringing together 50 industry leaders, operators and suppliers for a focused event exploring the future of the commercial marine sector in that region. Sponsored by Tropical Reef Shipyard, the inaugural conference brought together a strong cross-section of the industry and was followed by a networking lunch.
CEO Andrew Fielding and Maria Hobbs from Marine Jobs were invited to attend the launch of the Cert III in Marine Craft Construction. Over 30 international student advisors learnt about the local skills shortage, strength of opportunities for future employment and the scale of the marine industry in Queensland. The first cohort of this two-year course will commence in July and will be delivered over three days per week in the purpose-built TAFE Coomera Marine Campus.
New Zealand marine technology innovator Vessev, has announced its expansion into the Australian market, with the Enautic Group set to introduce Vessev's electric hydro foiling passenger vessels to Western Australia. There are currently only three commercially-certified electric hydro foiling vessels in operation anywhere in the world - two of which are Vessev VS-9s, which together have logged close to 10,000 nautical miles. Several Vessev VS-9 vessels have been reserved and will operate on Perth's Swan River, one of Australia's most under-utilized transport corridors.
Eyachts will showcase its most diverse and exciting lineup yet at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, headlined by the Australian premiere of the highly anticipated Axopar 45 Cross Cabin, Axopar 38 Cross Cabin and Axopar 29 CCX. Visitors to the Eyachts display will also experience an impressive selection of adventure boats, hybrid cruisers, and luxury day yachts ranging from 29 to 45 feet, including the debut appearance of Pardo Yachts at the Queensland show.
TMG Yachts will unveil the Southern Hemisphere premiere of the all-new Lagoon 38 at Sanctuary Cove too, introducing the next generation of compact cruising catamarans to Australian sailors. As the latest addition to Lagoon Catamarans' renowned sailing range, the 38 builds on the legacy of the iconic 380, one of the best-selling catamarans in the world, and the modern Lagoon 40. The new model carries that heritage forward while delivering refined living spaces, improved sailing performance, and thoughtful design updates.
Meanwhile, B&G, a leading sailing electronics manufacturer, proudly marks its 70th anniversary - celebrating seven decades of breakthrough technology that has empowered sailors to navigate farther, race smarter, and push the boundaries of what's possible on the water. Since 1956, B&G has pioneered advancements that continue to shape modern sailing.
At the same time, Grand Banks Yachts is celebrating its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of boatbuilding innovation that has shaped the modern power cruising yacht. The milestone celebration will officially kick off at the Palm Beach International Boat Show, on 25 March launching a global celebration of the company's remarkable journey — from its beginnings on the Hong Kong waterfront in 1956 to its position today as the leader in long-range cruising performance.
Yachting New Zealand is launching a comprehensive review of its national membership model and club affiliation fee structure and is seeking expressions of interest from individuals to help lead the work. The review aims to ensure the current system aligns with the evolving needs of the organisation's 106 affiliated clubs nationwide. It follows the AGM late last year, where the review was identified as a key priority.
More marine industry news at www.marinebusinessworld.com/Oceania from the largest boating news network.
Peter Rendle - peter.rendle@worldmarine.media