Big Hits: SCIBS Recap

With over 50,000 visitors and mega-sales throughout the Exhibitors, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) 2021 was a resounding success.

HORIZON

It is good practice to lead with good news and none comes better than the immediate sale of TAB darling and cover boat from issue #526, the RP100. In true Horizon Australia fashion, the whole industry knew of the 10am Thursday sale (day one, an hour after opening) as MD Mark Western blew the fog horns to celebrate. 

We met with Mark a day later, learning of new models that we’ll cover in coming issues. Calling to confirm details, we heard one new model, the V78, was sold off the plans at the show. Horizon has sold in the tens of millions through SCIBS before and with deals being done as we go to print, it may end up another record year for Horizon. 

MARITIMO 

Hot on the heels of Horizon, Maritimo’s lead designer and brand director, Tom Barry-Cotter, said the show has been a great success, with multiple sales across a range of models.

“The M55 has been our most successful model on debut ever and the S55 is fast following in its footsteps,” he said. “If the response to our new models and others in the range this weekend is any indication, we are going to have a very strong year and the future is looking extremely positive” — so strong, forward orders are now out to mid-2023, we heard. Wow. 

Tom continued, “After the cancellation of SCIBS last year because of COVID, everyone was excited to be back this weekend and the feeling was very positive.” It’s a sentiment shared across the industry and public. 

AIMS

SCIBS is also an opportunity also to learn and network. SCIBS-newcomer AIMS (The Australian Institute Marine of Surveyors) found the show highly valuable.

Talking to the team at their well-presented stand, Tim from AIMS remarked, “The brand exposure was simply phenomenal! Our members were able to directly engage with huge numbers of the public, assisting them on the spot with their marine survey queries whilst raising the profile of the industry and awareness of the pitfalls. As first time exhibitors Donna (Event management) and her team really looked after us. The show was a massive success for our Institute.”

NEW AXOPAR RANGE

With the all-new Axopar 37 X Cabin and X Sun Top on display for the first time, Eyachts’ stand was one to remember. The striking design and bright hull colours were seen by all and drew in the crowds.

For many, Axopar is about speed, efficiency and offshore capability, but at a boat show, it is the layout that takes the prize, with walkaround capability and options such as aft cabin, wet bar or open topsides making these boats versatile enough for any adventure.

GREENLINE 39

As always, the Greenline 39 never fails to impress. For many, Greenline Yachts has been a beacon for those who want a powerboat without the environmental impact. However, it’s not just the solar and hybrid propulsion that makes the Greenline 39 such a star. Hopping aboard, show-goers immersed themselves in the possibility of long term travel. 

Inside, the Greenline 39 felt light and spacious, featuring a full-size fridge and freezer, electric microwave oven, induction cooktop, two cabins and plenty of storage. With so many standard inclusions, such as 1.2kW solar, 600Ah service battery bank, 3000VA inverter, bow thruster, reverse cycle air conditioning, and electric opening transom, everyone was impressed with the attractive price. 

LAGOON

As to be expected from the number one catamaran company in the world, the Lagoon stand was nonstop, with visitors walking through the bestselling Lagoon 42 and new Lagoon 46. Both are a fabulous representation of cruising cats ideal for families or short-handed sailors. 

The Lagoon 42 is currently the fastest-selling catamaran in the world, and it is no surprise that 750 boats have been sold since its introduction in 2016. However, the new Lagoon 46 adds another dimension with the flybridge, a comfortable social area but also a practical helm station with incredible visibility.

RIVIERA

Riviera completed SCIBS with achievements that included a world premiere, the announcement of a new era of Riviera motoryacht design, the welcoming of more than 25 new Riviera owners (rumoured to be expanding towards record numbers in post-show negotiations), and being awarded the industry’s Exporter of the Year.

Riviera presented 12 yachts from 39 to 72 feet. The line-up featured an impressive display, including our cover boat this issue, the 645 SUV in her world premiere, the 575, 505, 445 and 395 SUVs which were accompanied by the 72, 64 and 50 SMY; the 57 Enclosed Flybridge; and the full collection of the Platinum Sport Yachts — the 6000, 5400 and 4800 SY.

Announced and with four confirmed sales and two vessels in build, we spent spoke with the team about the new 78 Motor Yacht which we throw in the Spotlight on page 46. We anticipate the 78MY will soon have sister ships, though the company would not confirm, only telling us that the company is investing heavily in new-model development to meet historic demand. 

FLEMING

Boats built by Fleming can be said to be traditional in design, but also timeless. The 55, Fleming's first release, is as popular today as it was when first built in 1986. 

Fleming’s latest vessel, a brand-new Fleming 65, was on display at SCIBS and was the first in Aus to feature electric Humphree fin stabilisers with at-rest stabilisation. She also is the first to have Lithium-Ion batteries which have a higher power capacity than AGM or lead-acid batteries with the same footprint. Both features come as standard.

Other standouts on the new 65 are the latest Raymarine navigational equipment and a Forward Looking Sonar from Echopilot, UK, fabulous Twin Disc EJS/EPS system with Position Hold feature, which must be seen to be believed. 

As always, engineering and joinery are phenomenal, and the extensive monitoring and alarm systems integrated with her digital switching as designed exclusively for Fleming by Bøning of Germany.

GRAND BANKS & PALM BEACH 

There are few vessels that stop you in your tracks as much as Palm Beach — their lines, workmanship and attention to detail are second to none. 

We previewed the launch of the GT60 last issue and saw images, but they weren’t a substitute for the real thing. On board we were met with meticulous detailing and a quality of finish that genuinely have us lusting after one of the high-performance sedans. 

Not to be outdone, sister-brand Grand Banks was well represented with the GB60 and drawings of the full range. The GB60 is familiar, having launched in 2017, but is of unquestionable quality courtesy of CEO Mark Richards’ unwavering demand for perfection. We spent an early evening talking with Joel Butler on the bridge of the GB60 and learned a secret or two that TAB will hopefully be part of in the future, while taking in details of the changes since the first GB60 left Singapore yards, that add to the owner’s experience. 

NAVICO

This year’s Sanctuary Cove Boat Show was abuzz with a range of new boat owners, existing boat owners and boating enthusiasts.

Inside The Pavillions, sponsored by Stellar Marine, Navico, parent to top marine electronics brands Simrad, Lowrance and B&G, found a crowd keen to learn and to buy the latest gear. 

With a new interactive display and a focus on education and support for new customers and those who need assistance with their existing electronics, the Navico sales team were able to engage with hundreds of boaters, fisherman, divers and skippers with all of their electronics needs. 

The newly launched Lowrance Elite FS was a crowd favourite, offering exceptional value in a standalone MFD with built in C-MAP mapping and the inclusion of an Active Imaging transducer, enabling the boater to have access to StructureScan along with traditional Sonar. 

The sailing aficionados were equally impressed with the latest B&G products on offer including the Nemesis displays, which provide a digital, high resolution, easily viewable screen designed by sailors, for sailors. 

A new mapping solution from C-MAP was also popular. The latest versions have extra features, including shaded relief which shows 3D rendered land and underwater elevation. C-MAP Reveal was proving a real game changer for anglers and divers. 

QMC

Stalwarts of the Gold Coast and brand champions for leading American brand Boston Whaler, QMC split resources, with small vessels on the hard and 30+ feet models in The Marina. 

We bumped into various staff when trying to get a chance to dig deep into some of the show stoppers, like the 330 Outrage that reportedly saw over 60kt on the way show, but had to fight to get close, such was the popularity of both stands. 

We did however get a date to review a few for coming issues, so stand by for them, and comments that sales were strong on all brands. 

PACIFIC MARINE LAWYERS 

PML found the show invaluable with networking and education, telling TAB, “What a great four days! We had some fantastic conversations about how people can protect themselves when purchasing, operating, repairing or selling their boat. It was great to network with others in the industry, and to reinforce our firm’s commitment to those who work and play on the water.”

AQUILA AUSTRALIA 

The Aquila 36 Cruiser was one of the darlings of SCIBS, attracting significant attention. Not only was the display boat sold, the team also issued contracts on two more on this model. 

Equally the Aquila 44 and Aquila 54 were popular. Three Aquila 44 were sold during the show and, even before her Australian debut in Sydney later this year, the team took deposits on two Aquila 54s. Aquila’s are popular due to the affordability, space, level of comfort and features these multihulls offer. 

In a sign of confidence and local support, Aquila Australia is purchasing production spots in the lead up to the Sydney Festival of Boating to reduce lead times on yachts sold. 

INTEGRITY MOTOR YACHTS

Integrity Motor Yachts had four yachts on display, ranging from 34 to 46 feet, showing off both the modern SX designs as well as TAB favourites, the Classic. Demand was so strong, the team was fielding enquiries during build up and sold the 380SX the day before the show opened. Thursday and Friday were strong days for serious buyers and over the course of the show six contracts were issued, with several more expected. 

WHITEHAVEN MOTOR YACHTS 

Whitehaven Motor Yachts used SCIBS to launch new concepts for the Flybridge 6000, Flybridge 7000 and Sports Yacht 7000. They complement the existing Flybridge 6000 and Flybridge 7000 which were on display. Enquiries were strong as were serious potential buyers, with ten in final design conversation.

With a significant number of existing Whitehaven owners jetting in for the show, Whitehaven held a small gathering on Friday night to celebrate the return of Boat Shows. 

SEALEGS

Only ten steps from our tent was none other than Sealegs, the hugely popular and innovative Kiwi company. We watched as walkers by stopped to check out the only boats with legs at SCIBS. 

Local agent, Peter Small, told us SCIBS was, “Another successful show done and dusted where we welcomed a number of interstate travellers and clients to the Sealegs stand. The 8.5m Alloy was the crowd favourite, followed closely by the just-launched, compact 3.8m Amphibious Tender.” 

Sealegs also had a popular 6m RIB on display, ideal as a high-end tender for access to remote beaches. 

SAXDOR

The 320GT from Saxdor, sold via Adventure Boats, was another boat that always had a crowd. 

Designed in Scandinavia with an ocean-slicing axe-bow, we know the smaller models can handle the chop around our part of the world, so are looking forward to testing the current top of the range model soon. 

Talking to the distribution team, leads were strong enough to confidently say the 320 will sell but it hadn’t at the time of writing. 

STELLA

Stella made a statement at SCIBS 2021, showcasing their incredible engineering skills and manufacturing capabilities with the reveal of Australia’s first Hydraulic Swim Platform with integrated steps. With patented technology and their in-house naval architect heading their design team, they designed and built the innovative hydraulic swim platform in only a matter of weeks. Plenty of interest was generated, from manufacturers and owners alike who are looking for the easiest way to move into the water from the back of the boat.

Alongside the new hydraulic swim platform was a host of premium marine equipment that Stella manufactures and distributes including Stella watermakers, Waveless electric fin stabilizers, Exalto wipers, Planus toilets and more.

Friday and Saturday brought plenty of serious punters and they look forward to the coming months, which will show the success of the show. Overall, Stella loved the show and considered it to be a roaring success.

STEYR

Rob from STEYR and, Focus and retailer for Cummins shared his excitement post-SCIBS, remarking, “We’re back! It felt like the industry is finally back on its feet following the GFC. With a great crowd lapping up the displays and entertainment, there were plenty of genuine leads for both our Focus FP33 Sports Cruiser, and our STEYR and Cummins diesel engines.”

SUNDANCE MARINE

Sundance Marine attended SCIBS this year as the dealer for PRESTIGE YACHTS in launching the 420 S-line. Made in France, the 420 S-LINE captivated attendees with the natural light and entertaining space it offers. 

The 420 S-line model is unique with its full beam master cabin. Located at the centre of the boat, it is a unique concept that Prestige Yachts brings to the 42-foot range. 

David Beck, Nationwide dealer for PRESTIGE mentioned, “This year’s SCIBS was one of our most successful years yet. It was great to see people interested in the innovation PRESTIGE have towards their layout design.”

Surprisingly, as the display model carried a price around $1.1m, the 420S shown at SCIBS is still available for viewing and purchase. With new boat order times pushed to 12 months it represents a great opportunity.

SHUTE HARBOUR 

With a plethora of people in or looking to enter the marine lifestyle, businesses like Shute Harbour Marina Resort are always popular. Only their second SCIBS, the team remarked that the show was a great success. 

“Our marina development was again extremely well received, with many who are familiar with the location in the beautiful Whitsundays commenting on how great it will be for the area. But it was not just the berths for sale that grew attention, the interest in the land & berth packages far exceeded our expectations.” 

OCEAN ALEXANDER & GALLEON

One of the best displayed vessels had to be the OA 26R, and with the prominence came massive interest. Roped off, available for private viewing only, the line to experience the sharp looking 26m vessel was ever-present. Alongside the 26R was a Divergence 40, the outrageously opulent centre console from the famous marque and TAB favourite. 

Distributed by the team at Ocean Alexander is Galleon, a Polish-built brand that surprises in design ideas and affordability. On display was a new 610 Fly, which we heard sold quickly. 

TURTLE PAC

Every SCIBS we go to, so does Turtle Pac, and every show we stop and admire the brand. It seems we are not the only fans as Lazio Torok said, “The second show day, 21 May, was a full house! I could hardly see the floor, and everyone was happy and chatty.”

Importantly, the chats lead to sales with genuine buyers.

VOLVO PENTA 

Volvo Penta had a commanding presence at SCIBS as a major sponsor and with their stunning stand. They celebrated a successful week starting with a presentation at the ASMEX Conference pre-SCIBS, in which Volvo Penta’s largest marine leisure customer won an award as Exporter of the Year. 

A celebration was held at Volvo Penta’s stand for the 15 years of boating with more than 2200 IPS units installed at the world class Riviera production facility at Coomera. We were also pleased with the launch of two new Maritimo vessels powered by Volvo Penta. 

The show was a great success with many opportunities during that week and the confirmation that Volvo Penta brand continues to be number one in Oceania’s market share.

VOYAGER CATAMARANS

Sitting stable in the water, Voyager Catamarans displayed their V930, a cruiser that can sprint thanks to a pair of Suzuki outboards. Inside is spacious and clean, with a simple layout. We were thoroughly impressed and are looking to review it soon. 

Talking to Derek of the company, he said, “It’s been a great show, good for everyone to get back to some sort of normality for a few days. Voyager’s latest release V930 layout was very well received with orders placed up to the middle of next year on both the Sports Cruiser and Grand Sport models.”

ZF 

For the first time in Oceania, ZF’s TotalCommand, which consists of the joystick, control heads and electronic control system, was on full display.

“The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show was the perfect setting to launch the versatile TotalCommand system to Oceania,” said Gary Bain, OE/OES Manager for ZF in Oceania. 

“As it can be used in a wide variety of leisure and commercial vessels, there was no more appropriate venue than Sanctuary Cove, being the Southern Hemisphere’s largest marine event.

“Reception to the system by visitors to the stand and the industry was extremely positive and we believe that it prove quite popular within Oceania once production starts at the end of 2021.”

LSY

Legends and founding partner of SCIBS, Leigh-Smith Yachts had a ripper display of brokerage boats and new Fairline yachts. 

The Fairline 33 was stunning. It’s sleek look is impressive, its layout both practical and good-looking. We had a look and are hoping to do a full review soon. 

Dean and Ryan Leigh-Smith were on site all show, as well as the brokerage team, and by all accounts were busy, with Ryan commenting on the challenge of finding good stock for the legions of buyers in wait.

PRINCESS

If ever there was a brand that fits the mould of SCIBS perfectly, it would be Princess. The proud British brand oozes class without being ostentatious. Now distributed by industry stalwart Greg Haines, the brand is seeing a resurgence within Australia. 

At the show were four vessels, two new-releases and a constant crowd.

We didn’t get a chance to speak to Greg, the stand was so popular, but we would be surprised if the company didn’t see significant success, which will no doubt lead to a more substantial display at the 2022 Show.