Strong exhibitor demand sees almost 200 applications in just four weeks, with Volvo Penta and Pantaenius among the major marine brands planning an expanded presence.
The 2027 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) has recorded the strongest opening sales period in its history, attracting 199 exhibitor applications in just four weeks.
Following successive sold-out events and exceptionally strong exhibitor sales in 2026, organisers opened applications earlier than ever for the 38th edition, which will take place from 20–23 May 2027 on Queensland’s Gold Coast.
The early response reinforces SCIBS’ position as the Southern Hemisphere’s largest marine lifestyle event and a leading platform for new vessel launches, marine technology and industry innovation.
Major on-water exhibitors expressing their intention to participate include Maritimo, Riviera, Horizon Yachts, Princess Yachts, Whitehaven Group, Azimut, Caribbean, Sunseeker, Jeanneau, Eyachts and Leigh-Smith Yachts, among others.
On land, leading marine equipment and technology brands include Volvo Penta, Pantaenius Sail & Motor Yacht Insurance, Mercury Marine, Raymarine, Garmin, Navico Group, Victron Energy, Dometic, Furuno, Dockmate and Fliteboard.
Organisers are also reporting considerable interest from new exhibitors, increased demand for larger displays and growing international attention from brands looking to establish or expand their presence in Australia.
SCIBS General Manager – Events & Partnerships, Corey Rattray-Wood, said the record opening reflected the event’s value as both a commercial marketplace and an international launch platform. “Sales started earlier than ever this year and remain exceptionally strong. Many exhibitors experienced record sales and leads from the 2026 Show, so it is not surprising to see this level of uptake for 2027.”
VOLVO PENTA SHOWCASING THE FUTURE OF PROPULSION
Among the major exhibitors preparing for SCIBS 2027, Volvo Penta is planning an impressive display highlighting both its established marine propulsion technology and the next generation of sustainable boating solutions. The company will showcase its existing propulsion range alongside newly released hybrid-electric and fully electric solutions within its innovative IPS Professional Platform, developed for vessels up to 60 metres.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore advanced onboard technologies, including Assisted Docking and Dynamic Positioning, designed to improve manoeuvrability, control and the overall boating experience. Rather than relying solely on traditional product displays, Volvo Penta plans to create an engaging, interactive experience incorporating physical exhibits, touchscreens and immersive virtual reality demonstrations.
Guest speakers will also share practical insights into how the company’s technology is being applied in real-world boating environments. Volvo Penta Oceania Director Marine Sales & Marketing, William Bratt, said the objective was to demonstrate how existing innovations are transforming boating while offering visitors a glimpse of future developments.
“We want our stand to be more than a product display. Through interactive technology, VR and real stories from our customers, visitors can experience how Volvo Penta technology is being applied on the water today and how it is shaping the future of boating.”
PANTAENIUS CELEBRATES 15 YEARS AT SCIBS
Another familiar name returning with an expanded presence is Pantaenius Sail & Motor Yacht Insurance, which will celebrate its 15th year exhibiting at Sanctuary Cove in 2027.
To mark the milestone, the specialist marine insurance provider is planning its largest presence at the Show to date. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet directly with the Pantaenius team of boating and insurance specialists to discuss a wide range of topics relevant to boat ownership.
These include vessel and cruising risks, damage prevention, insurance policy differences and the claims process, providing owners with valuable insights into protecting their boats and enjoying greater peace of mind on the water. Pantaenius Marketing Representative, Franzi Jandt, said SCIBS remained the company’s most important event of the year, providing an opportunity to strengthen relationships with existing customers while connecting with new boat owners.
“SCIBS is our biggest event of the year, and 2027 will mark our 15th year attending. For us, it has always been about much more than sales. It is an opportunity to spend quality time with customers, meet new boat owners and genuinely listen to the boating community.”
MAJOR LAUNCHES AND EXPANDED DISPLAYS
Princess Yachts Australia is also planning its largest showcase to date, featuring what is expected to be the biggest display of Princess yachts ever assembled in the Southern Hemisphere. The centrepiece will be the Australian debut of the all-new Princess F55, following its world premiere in Düsseldorf in January 2027. Visitors can also expect models from the F Class flybridge and V Class ranges, while the Princess office at Sanctuary Cove will become a dedicated Owners Lounge. Haines Yacht Sales will showcase pre-owned vessels and introduce the Scandinavian Windy range to Australia, led by the award-winning SR40.
STRONG ECONOMIC IMPACT
SCIBS regularly attracts more than 40,000 visitors, with recent editions featuring over 300 exhibitors, 700 vessels and 2,500 marine products.
The 2026 event welcomed more than 41,000 attendees and exhibitors, including 9,383 from interstate and overseas, with visitors representing 28 countries.
Research by Griffith University estimates the Show generates more than $400 million in exhibitor sales and orders, contributing to a combined commercial and tourism impact of approximately $471 million.
Beyond the marina, the wider Sanctuary Cove precinct becomes a four-day celebration of boating, marine innovation and waterfront lifestyle, with entertainment, family activities and premium hospitality.
Further exhibitor announcements, product launches and event details will be released over the coming months, with tickets expected to go on sale in early 2027.
The 38th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show runs from Thursday 20 to Sunday 23 May 2027 at Sanctuary Cove, Gold Coast.
www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au
