Keen Expectation for 2009 Sanctuary Cove Show

Visitors to the 21st Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) will see dozens of world and national marine launches from Australian and international companies.

"We are anticipating at least 350 exhibitors at the Show," said SCIBS general manager, Mark Jensen, who noted this year's May event had attracted around 50 first-time exhibitors.

SCIBS 2009 is staged from Thursday, May 21 to Sunday, May 24. Luxury vessels, marine accessories and engines form part of a combined display valued at hundreds of millions of dollars, said organisers.

Exciting new releases planned for the Show include Sunseeker Australia's launch of the $23 million 34M plus showcasing the 60 Manhattan Mark II in another Australian marine launch.

Other powerboat debuts include the Australasian release of the Outer Reef 63; NZ company Salthouse Marine's new 65Q flybridge styled yacht with quad Volvo IPS600 power plants; and, Australian company Allan Barnett Motor Yacht's world launch of the High Seas 63.

Leading exporters Riviera and Maritimo are releasing new models to the world market.

Riviera is showcasing the new 5800 Sport Yacht and 3600 Sport Yacht Series II with Volvo Penta IPS in world launches. The Australian luxury boatbuilder is part of the largest on-water display at the Show covering nearly 4000m2.

"Australian manufacturers are showcasing some very exciting vessels including Markham Marine's world launch of the Markham 9800; the release of the Koya Ocean Cat range, and Montebello Yachts' world debut of its 12.5 power catamaran," said Jensen.

The 2009 Show has a combined pavilion display of more than 8400m², an increase from 2008, said organisers, adding that the Super Yacht pavilion has almost doubled in size and will feature glass walls on two sides, presenting a spectacular view to the marina.

"Exhibitor feedback suggests that the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is crucial to the marine industry's international and national marketing," said Jensen.

"As with past years, there is a huge array of new products across the marine sector. Prominent new engine releases include Yanmar's ZT350 sterndrive; the new generation MAN V8 and V12 diesel engines, and new models from MTU Detroit Diesel Australia," he said.

Sailboats at the Show include the West Wight Potter 19 pocket cruiser; the new Hunter 27 Edge; the Lightwave 45 Grande, and the Marten 49. Multihull Solutions, a premier offshore and cruising multihull specialist launches its business at the Show while Southern Cross Yachting is promoting its Basic Navigation and Safety theory course.

Innovative products released include: Australian company FinScan's release of an innovative keyless starting, cabin entry and power control biometric product range in a world launch; US exhibitor Bob's Machine Shop's world release of a new line of jackplates for smaller boats with lower horsepower engines; SeaVision Technologies' Australian boat show launch of the AC-ROV, a diminutive yet powerful underwater robot; And, NZ company Manson Anchors' launch in Australia of the Manson Racer, an anchor specifically designed for racing yachts.

Online general admission prices are $22 for adults and $19 concession. This year, free entry for children has been extended to those aged 14 years and under. A Two Day pass will be available for $40. The online pre-purchased tickets offer a small discount over the event day entry prices of $23 adult and $20 concession. (Conditions apply.)