Records smashed at 2025 SCIBS

While final visitor numbers are still being tallied, early indicators point to an impressive turnout, the organisation added.

Exhibitors also reported very strong sales and enthusiastic crowds over four days of the show.

“Our exhibitors continue to invest in SCIBS as the number one show on the marine lifestyle calendar and the result is not only a win for them but for all of those who enjoy a truly elevated show experience across all segments,” said Head of Events at Mulpha Events, Corey Rattray-Wood.

From next-gen electric vessels to Italian-built superyachts, the four-day event was a showcase of technological prowess and luxury.

Standouts included the Candela C-8, a hydrofoiling electric boat from Carbon Yachts; the multimillion-dollar Pazienza from Cantiere delle Marche and $100 million worth of marine innovation from Horizon Yachts Australia.

Maritimo celebrated the global launch of the M50 Flybridge Motor Yacht and the S60 Sedan Motor Yacht, while Riviera held the world premiere of two yachts at this year’s show, the 4300 Sports Express and the long range 72 Sports Motor Yacht Series II.

Navico launched cutting-edge tech including the Simrad NSS® 4, Zeus SR by B&G, and the Recon® Trolling Motor in the Southern Hemisphere for the first time.

Exhibitors across the marina echoed the sentiment of success. Maritimo Operations Manager, Phil Candler, reported robust engagement and sales, boosted by the global launch of its M50 Flybridge and S50 Sedan Motor Yachts.

“The atmosphere was vibrant and engaging and it was perfect Gold Coast weather, which encourages customers to buy a Maritimo luxury motor yacht,” he said.

Palm Beach Motor Yachts and Grand Banks CEO, Mark Richards, also praised the turnout: “It’s been fantastic! The numbers are the best we’ve seen for many, many years, bringing strong enquiry and leads.”

Riviera Brand and Communications Director, Stephen Milne, described this year’s event as their biggest SCIBS showing to date, with 12 yachts on display and more than 2000 Riviera owners in attendance. Among them, one repeat buyer purchased their 11th Riviera yacht.

Luxury automotive brands also had a strong presence. Bentley Brisbane & Gold Coast reported high-quality visitor engagement, while Lotus Cars QLD Director of Marketing, Aimee Madson, said the show delivered a strong number of leads.

“SCIBS continues to prove itself as a premier platform for brand launches, offering the perfect setting to engage with an audience that appreciates innovation, design and lifestyle in equal measure,” she said.

Beyond the boats, guests enjoyed the upscale Lagoon Beach Club experience, complete with champagne bars and bespoke activations from partners like Moët Hennessy and Gold Bullion Australia.

The 37th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show will return from May 21-24, 2026 with planning already underway.