Sea trials for Sancturary Cove

Cementing its place as the most adventurous boat show in the country, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show will introduce a dedicated sea trial area at next May's show. Exhibitors will be able to book a berth so they can show would-be customers just how their vessels perform in the real world, rather than just sitting on a marina.

Exhibitors will be limited to one berth each and there will be space for everything from tinnies to luxury boats 45 feet and longer.

Sanctuary Cove show general manager Barry Jenkins says the move came as a result of exhibitor feedback.

"The facility may be useful for a wide range of marine exhibitors from smaller trailerable craft through to luxury vessels," Jenkins says, "Many exhibitors commented they they wanted the opportunity to showcase their designs and products to prospective customers in a short sea trial."

The sea trial dock will offer clear and direct access to the Coomera River and tests can be conducted during show hours.

The 22nd Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show will be held from Thursday, May 20 to Sunday, May 23, on Queensland's Gold Coast.

Other initiatives for this year's show include a prestige brokerage and charter display area that will feature more high-quality 15 metre plus vessels, some valued at more than $1 million.

Jenkins says 80 per cent of the show's pavilion space is already booked. There will be three large pavilions, including the Yachtbuilders' Pavilion, with glass walls overlooking the marina. There will also be the usual marina and hard stand exhibits.

Club Marine has again signed as a sponsor for the show. Media partners for the show include BoatPoint.com.au, Channel 7 and Radio 4KQ. The show will be open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

In recent years the show has attracted more than 450 exhibitors and has seen crowds of more than 50,000 attend. Check out the official Sanctuary Cove Boat Show website for more details.