Marine launches at Sanctuary Cove

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

The 21st Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is staged on the Gold Coast from Thursday, May 21 to Sunday, May 24, 2009. Luxury vessels, marine accessories and engines form part of a combined display valued at hundreds of millions of dollars.

New releases planned for the Show include Sunseeker Australia's launch of the 34M. Of a breathtaking scale with classic flowing lines, this vessel features three decks providing opulent entertainment areas with accommodation for up to ten guests and five crew. The starting price for the 34M is $A23 million (prices vary depending on engine and optional choices and based on delivery to Australia). Sunseeker Australia is also showcasing the Sunseeker 60 Manhattan Mark II in another Australian marine launch.

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

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. It is part of the largest on-water display at the Show covering nearly 4000sqm.

"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 Mr Jensen.

The 2009 Show has a combined pavilion display of more than 8400sqm, an increase from 2008. 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 Mr 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."

Sail boats at the Show include pocket cruiser the West Wight Potter 19; 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 releases include:

Online general admission prices are $A22 for adults and $A19 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 $A40. The online pre-purchased tickets offer a small discount over the event day entry prices of $A23 adult and $A20 concession. Conditions apply.

There is no on site public parking at the Show. Visitors can instead choose park 'n' ride, water transport by water taxi or ferry, limousine or taxi drop off or helicopter drop off.

www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au