Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show 2008

The 2008 Sanctuary Cove Boat Show in nearly upon us once again and this year is also the 20th anniversary of the show.

Commencing on 22nd May and running for four days the organisers are anticipating visitor numbers to surpass last years record attendance.

There will be 439 International and Australian exhibitors with 107 new products being launched at the show. 390 boats will be on display in the marina with the world debut of Activa Marina’s 5300 Raised Pilothouse and Maritimo’s Cabriolet 60 for those in the luxury motor yacht market.

Power boats of every description are on display from the large and luxurious right down to the humble tinny. Hundreds of marine products will be on display in the four pavilion areas and the Marine Village area.

Sailing boats are well represented with a few new models being launched.

Boatweb sponsor E C Marine are the importers and distributors of Fontaine Pajot Catamarans. They have two new models on display, the Salina 48 and the Orana 44. So if you’re interested in catamarans, power or sail, drop by the Fontaine Pajot stand.

I will be helping out with the good folks from Hanse Yachts when I’m not out looking for some innovative boats or quirky products to write about. Hanse are launching two new models in their line up of fast cruising yachts the 350 and 320. They will also have popular 370 and 400 on display alongside the impressive 540e. So stop by and say hello.

Boat Shows are great places to strike a bargain, most exhibitors will have boat show specials. If you are in the market to buy a boat you can often negotiate a discount or get some extras thrown if you are prepared to commit at the show. However a boat show is not a good time to decide to buy a boat on the spot lured by a good deal. You should have done your homework in advance and know what you want and how much it would normally cost. It’s probably better to go on a quieter day like Thursday if you are intending to buy but I’m sure your cheque will welcome on any day.

The show is open from 9am to 5pm on each day. A one day adult entry pass is a very reasonable $22 which can be purchased online. There is no visitor parking at the show but pre purchased tickets include a park and ride scheme.

Have a look at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show website for information on getting to the show as well as full details on tickets and exhibitors.