SCIBS launched at Sanctuary Cove

The 2014 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) was launched yesterday (April 29) with a taste of what to expect when the event rolls around on May 22.

This year’s SCIBS will host more than 250 international and Australian exhibitors showcasing the very latest in international and national boat launches, marine products and trends while offering four days of family fun and entertainment.

Mulpha Sanctuary Cove head of events Johan Hasser said this year’s show will bring together an impressive lineup of boating brands including Fairway, Grand Banks, Hanse, Bavaria, Lagoon, Seawind, Ocean Alexander, Meridian, Light Wave, Outer Reef and Kadey-Krogen with tinnies to superyachts and everything in between on show.

Mr Hasser said leading brands such as Maritimo, Horizon Motor Yachts, Riviera and Clipper Motor Yachts were among the big-name brands to sign up.

“SCIBS is not only a major event on the international marine industry calendar but is also a key economic driver for the Gold Coast and Queensland economies.

“Last year the show injected almost $150 million directly into the city, which is a huge boost for a wide range of local businesses,” he said.

The 2014 SCIBS entertainment program is jam-packed with plenty of activities to keep boaties and everyone else in the family occupied.

The Channel 7 stage returns with Creek to Coast stars Sally Jenyns and Dean Miller cooking up a storm twice daily, while My Kitchen Rules favourites Paul Bullpit and Blair Tonkin will appear on Saturday and Sunday.

Ladies can embark on an afternoon luxury cruise, High Tea on the High Seas, as part of the Women on Water program while the kids can let loose for hours in The Kids Zone with an interactive jumping castle, rock climbing wall and face painting fun.

The Queensland Water Police will be there to showcase operational vessels, including their tactical response boat, jet skis and the Brett T Handran 22 metre catamaran.

World record-breaking rower Andrew Abrahams returns to the show to share his adventures after rowing the 5000 kilometre Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge solo in January. 

SCIBS 2014 will run from May 22 to 25.

In 2014, SCIBS has partnered with Translink to offer free train travel to and from the Boat Show on all regular Queensland Rail City Network trains when users display a pre-purchased ticket to the event.

Free ‘Park ‘n’ Ride’ services will operate for all self-drive visitors from Helensvale.

Tickets are on sale now through the SCIBS website and through Ticketmaster. Adult day passes start at $20, with concession passes available for seniors and students. Children under 18 are free.  Visit www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com or www.ticketmaster.com.au for more information.

Those making their ticket purchase online prior to May 21 automatically go in the draw to win $5000 to spend at the show.

Marine Village travel centre Cove Travel, in conjunction with SCIBS is offering ticket holders the chance to enjoy a ‘Private Yacht-like Experience’ with an exclusive luxury 10-night cruise aboard the Compagnie Du Ponant to Asia for two people in a superior cabin including all meals and selected wines. Visit covetravel.com.au to enter.