Exhibitor bookings for the 2016 Sanctuary Cove boat show are already up by 20 per cent over last yea

2016 Sanctuary Cove Boat Show exhibitors

The organisers of the 2016 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show say exhibitors have wasted no time taking advantage of early booking incentives for the event, to be held from May 19-22, 2016.

Now in its 28th year, SCIBS general manager Johan Hasser told Trade-a-Boat that us bookings are already up more than 20 percent on last year and exhibitors report they’re expecting a bumper show, off the back of strong sales in 2015 and improving consumer confidence.

A mix of long-term exhibitors and new brands are already confirmed, including Horizon Motor Yachts Australia, Multihull Solutions, Fleming Yachts Australia, Integrity Motor Yachts, Leigh-Smith Yachts, Elandra Yachts, JSW Powersports, Sirocco Marine North, All Marine Spares, Raymarine, Muir, Dometic/Seabreeze, Sunbrella and more.

Hasser said exhibitors had been quick to act on a new rate structure and many had now secured their preferred locations within the Show. However, Early Bird pricing for exhibitors is now concluded.

“The Boat Show team is very pleased with the uptake so far and we’re thrilled with the interest in the new precincts, as well as feedback on the improved layout,” he said.

New layouts and additions to the SCIBS program include themed precincts The Boatyard (a dedicated exhibition space for sports, ski boats and trailerable craft) and Supercar Street, featuring a luxury automotive display.

Additional changes see the Superyacht and Marine Pavilion relocated alongside the Main Pavilion, encouraging even more foot traffic through the tents.

Regular exhibitor Multihull Solutions was among the first to book space on the marina, with managing director Mark Elkington saying the team planned to have a broad range of power and sail catamarans on display.

“The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show continues to be one of the most important and successful annual events for Multihull Solutions,” Elkington said.

 “The professional organisation always makes it a pleasure for us to plan and showcase our new and pre-owned multihulls, and our team enjoys the vibrant marina atmosphere as much as the visitors.

Horizon Motor Yachts Australia is another planning a multi-vessel display, showing off its sporty sedan – the Horizon E56 XO – for the first time.

 Marketing manager Erica Rae said SCIBS is one of the biggest and most important events on the Horizon Yachts’ calendar.

“We find SCIBS attracts people from all over Australia and New Zealand, with clients travelling from Perth, Auckland, Adelaide and even Darwin, just to come and see what new models we have available,” she said.

“Compared to other shows we find most of our clientele come to the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show even if they aren’t looking to buy anything; they love the atmosphere and excitement of the Show and love to catch up on the latest models we have on offer.”