Boating enthusiasts turned out in record numbers for the annual Gold Coast International Boat Show, this year staged for the first time over three days in March.
Held in conjunction with the Riviera Festival of Boating, the event attracted more than 23,000 visitors from around Australia and the world for a massive $150 million showcase, now Queensland’s largest boat show.
Event & Marketing Manager Emma Brown said thousands of boating families were genuinely excited to ‘see it all first’ at the Gold Coast boat show created specifically for families who love the boating life.
“The majority of our visitors are experienced boaters but there were also many families who are completely new to boating who were able to experience everything from free sailing and water skiing lessons to fishing demonstrations, boat-building factory tours and even no-obligation sea trials with The Mercury Edge,” she said.
“It’s very gratifying to play a part in helping those families to experience and enjoy all the rewards of the boating life.”
Mrs Brown said confirmed sales of boats, equipment and accessories as a direct result of Australia’s first major boat show of the year are extremely strong and will tally well into the tens of millions of dollars.
“We’ve absolutely eclipsed all our previous records – visitor numbers, sales at the show, the number of boats on display, exhibitor numbers and our massive Fleet of Firsts for product and boat premieres.
“Our new marina link was another significant step forward. Everyone loved the way it opened up the entire waterfront along the Coomera River.
“In so many respects, 2017 really has been a turning point for our boat show and for our marine industry – it’s fantastic.
“The 2018 Gold Coast International Boat Show will be massive and we will be announcing dates for the show very shortly.”
