Trailer boats lining up at SCIBS

New outdoor precinct set to feature hundreds of boats on display.

Organisers of the upcoming Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) say visitors to the show this year will “spoilt for choice” with hundreds of trailerable boats going on display. Exhibition space at the show has been expanded with a 5,000m² outdoor space dedicated to boats up to 8m.

SCIBS general manager Johan Hasser said exhibitors in the trailerable segment have embraced the new precinct, with many booking bigger spaces this year.

“With the introduction of our new dedicated trailer boat precinct featuring an extensive range of trailer boats, with everything from ski boats and performance RIBs, to trailer boats fitted out for angling or diving, visitors are guaranteed to experience a ‘show within the Show’,” he said.

“We are certain it will inspire visitors who are eager to dip a toe into the boating lifestyle and those keen to upgrade to the latest and greatest models.”

Haines Signature returns to SCIBS with a range of sports fishing models including the 788SF, described as largest centre console the Queensland boat builder has ever built.

“With the recent resurgence in American centre consoles, this Australian-built model is going to offer a hot locally-made alternative with a number of big advantages, not least being towability,” said Des Hughes, Haines Signature’s Queensland and Northern Territory state sales manager.

“The 2.5m beam means this 26-footer will be legally trailerable without a permit. The 788SF has become a social media sensation and is sure to be a massive drawcard at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.”

Gold Coast Quintrex dealer Surf Coast Marine will display a mix of fishing side console boats, bowriders and cabin boats. Dealer principal Paul Banning said there will be enticing boat-motor-trailer packages on offer featuring Evinrude and Suzuki engines.

“We are looking forward to exhibiting in the new precinct where the spotlight will be on these versatile, towable vessels,” he said.

Formerly known as Marine Tune, the Burleigh Heads-based Gold Coast Boating Centre is one of the largest dealerships in the region and is gearing up for a major display at the show. Co-owners Scott Mahon and David Edwards said the new format is “ideally suited” to their range of trailerable boats, including the Formosa, Horizon aluminium boats and Sea Rod brands.

“Last year we had four boats at SCIBS and in 2018, we will have 30,” said Edwards.

“We will have the exciting Sea Rod 2018 model on show – a crossover bowrider and family recreational boat that is ideal for Gold Coast waterways.

“There will be a range from Stessco, which are made here, including the fully-enclosed cabin model we think will generate a lot of interest.

“We will also be launching our new branding at SCIBS and celebrating the show’s 30th edition with our valued customers and suppliers.”

Major dealers and brands on display at the show include:

• JSW Powersports with Sea Fox and Malibu boats
• Fishing & Leisure Boats with the Nitro and Mako brands
• Whitewater Marine representing Stacer aluminium boats from Telwater and the Tigé range from the US
• Queensland Marine Centre with Sea Ray and Boston Whaler
• Northside Marine showing Axis, Stabicraft, Whittley and Surtees
• Wynnum Marine with Cruise Craft
• HiOctane Marine with Wellcraft fishing boats
• South Coast Marine representing Quintrex
• Australian Marine Centre with Formosa, Bar Crusher, Hooker and Chaparral
• Brisbane Yamaha
• Hurricane Pontoon Boats
• Nautique Central
• Mastercraft
• Marine Tune
• Sailfish Catamarans
• Stefan Boating World
• Powercat Marine