Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is an annual boat show held in May on the Broadwater in Sanctuary Cove, located on the Gold Coast, Australia. Regarded as one of the largest and most prestigious boat shows in the Southern Hemisphere, it showcases thousands of motor boats, sailing yachts, and watercraft from hundreds of exhibitors.

The four-day event is a major attraction for boat enthusiasts, industry professionals, and families to experience all that is new and exciting in recreational boating. It’s also one of our favorite places on the Gold Coast, we love wandering around Marine Village, enjoying the beautiful views over the water and boats docked by the marina with plenty of top-class eateries on offer. During the boat show it gets incredibly busy, so do keep that in mind while the usual peaceful ambiance is replaced by the buzz and vibrance of this wonderful event.

Event Highlights

• Large display of superyachts – Some of the biggest and most luxurious superyachts in the world are showcase, including many local and international premiers.
• New boat launches – Many manufacturers unveil their latest boat models at the show for the first time in Australia.
• Water-based demonstrations – Live demos of boats, jet skis and other watercraft help visitors get a feel of the performance and handling.
• Fishing and boating seminars – Experts provide tips and inform on the latest trends, technology and destinations.
• Boat tours and rides – Opportunities to tour boats, try some on the water and experience what they are like first-hand.
• Accessories and boating lifestyle marketplace – Everything visitors need to outfit and enjoy their boats are available.
• Kids activities – Inflatables, rides, and art for children so families can enjoy a day out.
• Evening entertainment – Live music, fireworks, and food/wine add to the festival atmosphere.
• Industry awards presentations – Recognition of excellence in marine manufacturing and design.
• Sanctuary Cove itself – The beautiful and tranquil location surrounded by water adds to the ambiance.

 

Tickets

Note, tickets are not available at the event and must be purchased in advance, online at https://sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au/tickets/

 

About Marine Village

Marine Village features a harbor, cafes, restaurants, and bars, along with a range of specialty shops including fashion boutiques, art galleries, and more. Read More

Food and Drink

Popular restaurants at Marine Village include

• Jonez On Food – French/Modern Australian
• Dragon Cove Chinese Cuisine – Yum Cha & A La Carte
• Thai House – authentic Thai
• Ioesco Cafe Cucina – modern Italian and Mediterranean
• Black Angus Bar and Grill – modern Australian dining

Accommodation

InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
5-Star | av rates 240 and up – The InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is a 5-star resort set in beautiful surroundings, with a saltwater beach lagoon pool, fitness centre with regular classes, gym, spa and wellness centre, and tennis courts. There is a cafe and a restaurant on site.

Another option nearby is

Ramada Hope Harbour
4-Star | av rates 144 and up – Featuring 2 swimming pools, sauna, fitness centre, bar, buffet restaurant, and massage service.

 

Getting to the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show

Free Park n Ride from Movie World
Parking is limited at Marine Village and many will find this option the easiest with free shuttles connecting Movie World and Marine Village for the event.

Taxi and Limo
Taxis and limousines may drop off and pick up passengers at the entrance of the event.

Public Bus
Travel to Southport, then change to route 711 to Sanctuary Cove.

Ferry
The Rum Runner will be operating a regular ferry service from the Ramada Hope Harbour. 8.15am-5.30pm -$30 return for adults and $10 return for kids 4-12.

Margarita Cruises MV Kilkie will be operating regularly from the Tallawood Road boat ramp/jetty, Coomera (Coleman park). 8.30am – 5.30pm daily – $15.00 per person return for adults and $5 return for kids.

 

Event History

The first Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show was held in 1988. It began as a small industry-only event with less than 100 exhibited vessels. However, it soon took off in popularity and attendance numbers began increasing year-on-year thanks to growing interest in boating on the Gold Coast.

By the 1990s, it had established itself as the premier boat show in Australia, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. In order to accommodate the increasing demand, the show expanded both in size and scope at its location within the master-planned coastal community of Sanctuary Cove.

In 1994, a second display area was opened along with live entertainment stages to improve the visitor experience. Major highlights during this period included a large contingent of international exhibitors sampling the Australian boating market for the first time.

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show continues to be the highlight of the annual boating calendar in Australia. It draws crowds from all over the country and the world to see all that is cutting edge in boats and watercraft. Multi-million dollar superyachts and boats premiers have also kept the show fresh and innovative over three decades.