US sports and fishing brands line up for Sydney

Two key US brands have announced their line-ups for this week’s Sydney International Boat Show.

Family and day-boat specialist Chapparal will put the spotlight on its bowriders at the Darling Harbour exhibition space, while fish-boat brand Robalo will have three Aussie debuts.

Heading up Chapparal’s presence is the new SSX Premium Bowrider line-up at the Blakes Marine stand. Chaparral says the SSX stands for “Style, Substance and Xcitement”.

With seven boats in the SSX series from 23 top over 33ft, there’s likely something for every family.

The new-for-2018 247 SSX features bow seating and a rear convertible sun lounge which can be set up in multiple configurations. Like the rest of the larger SSX models, the 247 offers an electrically-operated folding tower to reduce air-draft and storage issues.

Blakes Marine will have a range of Chaparral craft on display including a new SSX and the brand’s H20 bowriders. Described as entry-level boats by Chapparal, there are six H20 models from 19-22ft.

Robalo meantime will have will have five models on display at Sydney via dealer Matt Willet Marine. The display will include three Aussie debuts.

Robalo has a reputation for building cutting-edge fishing machines. It offers a range of centre and dual consoles, walkarounds and flat-style boats up to 10m.

At Sydney, the Robalo R305 Walkaround will take centre stage, with the R222 Centre Console and R202 Explorer ‘crossover’ centre console the other two debutantes.

Robalo’s Explorer series is an interesting addition to the fishing space. It is designed to deliver family friendly features in a fishing-centre centre console and could find favour with a growing number of Aussie boaties who are looking for exactly that.

Matt Willet Marine will also display Robalo’s R180 Centre Console and R227 Dual Console.

boatsales' power and sailing previews for the 2018 Sydney International Boat Show are must reads for all showgoers.

The Sydney International Boat Show opens Thursday (Aug 2) at Sydney International Convention Centre and the David Lockwood Marina at Cockle Bay, Darling Harbour.

Adult entry to the show is $22, with children (6-17 years old) $13. Children five and under are admitted free. Family tickets are $49, Seniors $20 and Pensioners are $16 (after 5pm, individual single entry tickets are just $5). Multiple day tickets for return visits are also available.

The ticket gives entry to both exhibition levels of the halls, the popular fishing master-classes, the on-water marina at Cockle Bay, entry to the co-located Australia International Dive Expo, bumper boat rides for the kids at the 16 metre pool located on the open-air Event Deck and the Boating Safety Zone.