Gates close on exceptional 2024 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show

With 43,741 people officially passing through the turnstiles, numbers were slightly down on the bumper crowds flocking to the event in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, those who did make the trip were able to see 356 boats on the water alone, with 102 new product launches being unique to the world or Australia, and 767 boats in total to choose from.

Thin on the ground appeared to be mum and dad buyers, with interest rates still seeming to be a factor at the smaller and cheaper end of the market. However, the level of interest at the show suggested the market had bottomed out and buyers in the segment were slowly starting to return.

However, at the other end, business appeared to be booming; by early on Saturday the Horizon FD80, a two-deck, $18.6 million luxury cruiser that stood out as the most expensive boat at the event had already courted a potential buyer.

On Saturday, show-goers were queueing up to get aboard both the $15.1 million Horizon FD80 and the FD90 to get a glimpse of the luxuries that they, one day, could afford.

Horizon director Mark Western said three more of the brand’s luxury motor yachts were also being courted by showgoers.

Over at Australian luxury motor yacht maker Riviera, the celebrations were many with a series of gala dinners celebrating separate milestones including the launch of the new Riviera 6800 Sports Yacht Platinum Edition, the release of the brand’s 6000th motor yacht, and the women who are as much a part of the Riviera lifestyle as the boats.

“??The world premiere of our 6800 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition has received great accolades from her new owners and everyone who stepped aboard,” Riviera owner Rodney Longhurst said.

“Our record showcase of luxury motor yachts from 46 to 78 feet has inspired new boaters to join the Riviera family.”

Maritimo, meanwhile, used the show for the launch of its new Black Edition models featuring more luxury appointments – as well as a dash of black – with special edition versions of the M600 Offshore and M55 flybridge cruisers.

“There have been some healthy advance orders for the Black Edition Maritimos with approximately 60 percent heading overseas,” Maritimo marketing manager Simon Stewart said.

“Requests by clients and potential customers to view the yachts were constant.”

One dealer who spoke with boatsales said this year’s show, which did have some exhibitors on edge in the lead-up, had experienced a “very good reception” from everyone who had attended.

“Everything at this year’s show was better than anticipated,” he said. “The sentiment at the show was very positive.”