SCIBS counts down to 21st anniversary show

1:11 AM Tue 7 Apr 2009 GMT

'Sanctuary Cove Boat Show from the air' .

With just 44 days to go, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show - its 21st anniversary - organizers are ecstatic that numbers are strong and innovations are plenty.

Phil Shaw, Events Director, reports that exhibitor numbers stand at 348, with more than 45 international brands who are new to the show, dozens of international releases and Australian firsts.

"Exhibitor response has been better than first anticipated," confirms Phil. "There are plenty of delegations who have yet to confirm their attendance and exhibitors who are likely to attend. We achieved a very high number of exhibitors last year - 454 - and this year we expected a little downturn, but when you look at the plans, people haven't been scrimping."

Phil points out that many of the top international motor shows have been postponed or significantly downsized. "When you consider that, we are pleased this year's SCIBS has retained stable numbers of exhibitors. The show will be exciting and a fitting tribute to our 21st Birthday celebration."

Sanctuary Cove Marina - Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show Click Here to view large photo

The 2009 event, which runs 21 - 24 May, has a combined pavilion display of more than 8400sqm, an increase from 2008. The Super Yacht pavilion has almost doubled in size and will feature glass walls on two sides, presenting a spectacular view to the marina.

While the official exhibitor booking deadline is imminent, Phil says that if somebody were to call the day before, "we would do our best to accommodate them, within bounds of reason, of course".

New this year is the presence of the 60m luxury charter boat, Fantasea Ammari which will be used for accommodation, media lounge and VIP reception.

As Phil explains: "There are 30 cabins open to anybody who wants to book for the duration of the show at $340 per night twin or double, including breakfast. It's massive, spacious and will have great impact."

Sponsors for the 2009 event include Club Marine, Trade a Boat, BoatPoint.com.au and Maritime Safety Queensland and supporter Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove. Media partners are Channel 7, Classic Hits 4KQ, Gold Coast Bulletin and 92.5 Gold FM.

The International Business Lounge is supported by Queensland Government, Gold Coast City Council, Austrade, AIMEX and Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

More at www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

by Jeni Bone

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