Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show 2026 Set to Make Waves

18 May 2026

sanctuary cove international boat show 2026

The countdown is on for the 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS), with Australia’s most glamorous marine lifestyle event preparing to welcome more than 45,000 boating enthusiasts, luxury lifestyle seekers, and industry leaders across four action-packed days on the Gold Coast.

Taking place from 21 to 24 May 2026 at the world-renowned Sanctuary Cove precinct, the show promises an unforgettable mix of luxury yachts, cutting-edge marine technology, family entertainment, gourmet dining, live demonstrations, and hands-on boating experiences.

Widely recognised as the Southern Hemisphere’s premier boating showcase, SCIBS continues to grow into far more than just a boat show. It has become a full lifestyle festival celebrating everything connected to life on the water.

A Showcase of World-Class Marine Innovation

Visitors can expect to see some of the world’s biggest marine brands unveiling the latest in boating excellence. Leading names including Riviera, Sunseeker, Maritimo, BENETEAU, Horizon, Princess Yachts, Whitehaven, and De Antonio will showcase luxury vessels and next-generation marine technology throughout the marina precinct.

On land, exhibitors such as Suzuki, Nautique Central, Yellowfin Boats, Surf Coast Marine, JSW Powersports, and Sea Legs will present the latest boating accessories, watersports gear, trailer boats, and marine lifestyle products.

The spectacular Sanctuary Cove Marina will once again become the heart of the event, lined with an impressive fleet of luxury yachts, powerboats, sailing vessels, and trailer boats. Visitors will have the opportunity to connect directly with industry experts while exploring the newest innovations shaping the future of boating.

More Than Boats

One of the reasons SCIBS continues to attract such a diverse audience is the range of experiences beyond the marina itself.

The vibrant Sanctuary Cove Marine Village will offer boutique shopping, premium dining experiences, live entertainment, and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere throughout the event. Visitors can spend the day exploring displays before unwinding at one of the many restaurants or bars scattered across the precinct.

For those looking to enjoy the event in style, the Lagoon Beach Club offers a premium hospitality experience overlooking the lagoon pool at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort. Guests can enjoy gourmet grazing menus, live entertainment, and Veuve Clicquot while soaking up the atmosphere in a private luxury setting.

Meanwhile, The Pavilion presented by Pantaenius Sail & Motor Yacht Insurance will showcase the latest marine electronics, gadgets, accessories, and next-generation boating technology.

Family-Friendly Entertainment

SCIBS 2026 is designed for the entire family, with dedicated attractions and activities for younger visitors.

The SCIBS Kids Zone will feature arts and crafts, marine wildlife displays, interactive demonstrations, and live entertainment, including Mr Kaboodle & The Wobbly Pirate Balance Show.

The Maritime Safety Queensland Kids Zone will offer hands-on safety sessions teaching children the importance of life jackets and safe boating practices, while the Suzuki Australia Marine Clean Ocean Project experience will introduce kids to marine conservation through interactive touch-and-learn activities with live marine animals.

Fishing, Food, and Live Action

Fishing fans will have plenty to enjoy, with daily Catch’n’Cook demonstrations hosted by SCIBS ambassador Paul “Burty” Burt on the Anaconda Main Stage.

The popular Berkley Supertank will return, allowing visitors to see underwater fishing techniques and lure demonstrations from a fish-eye perspective, while the Live Bream Shoot Out competition will once again bring competitive excitement to the show across the weekend.

Visitors can also explore the Sea Trial Zone for the chance to test-drive the latest vessels on the water, or relax at the Wine Selectors Tasting Deck featuring guided wine masterclasses.

Planning Your Visit

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show runs daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm from Thursday, 21 May to Sunday, 24 May 2026.

Final release tickets are now available, priced from $42 for adults, while children under 16 receive free entry. Visitors are encouraged to use the free Park ‘n’ Ride services operating from Movie World and Dreamworld, along with ride share, taxi, helicopter transfer, and water transfer options.

With luxury, entertainment, innovation, and family fun all rolled into one spectacular event, SCIBS 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest celebrations of boating Australia has ever seen.

 

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