Sydney's Boating Fest

Going ahead on a downsized scale, here’s what you can expect at the Sydney Boating Festival.

It seems like only yesterday that SCIBS broke through the clouds of Covid-19 like the hot Queensland sun. Now the last weekend of July is upon us, and the Sydney International Boat Show is back — kind of. 

Dubbed the Boating Festival, it likely won’t have the same punch as the fully-fledged International Show, thanks to tough restrictions inside the stunning ICC complex limiting organisers to using just the top floor and adjoining outdoor terrace. That’s vastly less than the Show's normal takeover of the four floors and ground level in previous years. This will mean the trailer boats and the excellent Dive Expo and chandlery sections will be greatly diminished. In terms of good news, though restrictions remain, density requirements for the outside marina complex are not as harsh.

WHAT’S DIFFERENT 

You can't walk up, buy a ticket, and head in. This year, you must purchase your tickets online and register for the day(s) you’ll be there, and upon arrival scan the QR code to check in. Visitor numbers are limited both inside and outside at the Cockle Bay Marina. 

There will be fewer total visitors — rumour has it capped at 10,000 per day (previous years saw double this) — and in turn, fewer exhibitors, but that’s the world we now play in and because of that, we hit the phones and emails early to find some of the positives in a difficult situation. 

HORIZON FD87

After missing SCIBS by one day, another Horizon FD Series yacht has launched and will officially debut here. Importantly, it's a stick vessel ready for immediate delivery.

This FD87 features five spacious staterooms, including a full-beam, on-deck master suite with a full-beam his-and-hers ensuite, and four ensuite guest staterooms situated on the lower deck. 

The classy interior of the Fleming 58

On the main deck, a large aft deck lounging area leads into the main saloon, which features full-height windows and emphasises the yacht’s 23ft 3in beam. The Cor D Rover interior features satin walnut as the main wood which maintains a classy modern feel throughout, while a designer chandelier over the Italian inspired furniture creates an atmosphere of elegance. A walnut sole perfectly complements the satin white oak accents and Carrara marble surfaces in the salon.

A dayhead situated aft serves both the interior and exterior areas. Forward, a unique convertible dining table with a stone top seats ten for formal dining between the saloon and galley. One of the stars of the FD87 is the spacious aft beach garage offering a huge storage cupboard and massive fridge-freezer storage for long-haul cruising.

This build features an enclosed skylounge with a new designed micro bridge to accommodate a larger exterior boat deck with an indoor/outdoor entertaining area and tender storage aft. The al fresco space is protected by sliding glass enclosures either side and is fitted with a U-shaped dinette, a large bar, and a barbecue grill. On the foredeck, a large U-shaped settee faces a heated jacuzzi and large sunpads. 

The Riviera 6000 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition

FLEMING

This year, Fleming will showcase the latest Australian-delivered 58, hull #028. Penned by none other than the peerless Norman R Wright & Sons from Brisbane, she is instantly recognisable as a Fleming with the same attention to detail and quality of build that makes the brand a favourite of ours. 

The 58 was created to fill the gap between the 55 and the 65 and has an engine room to die for, with full headroom. The standard specification contains multiple items that would be optional with many other builders, such as stabilizers, thrusters, and twin anchor winches.

Although styling is timeless, the innovative fit out is modern with digital switching, a full array of the latest Raymarine navigational equipment, and Twin Disc EJS Joystick controls with the popular Position Hold feature, in addition to traditional electronic throttle and gear levers. 

Fleming Yachts started in 1985, launching the first boat in 1986. All boats are and have been built by Tung Hwa yard in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. When one looks at the first Fleming 55 and the current 55 model, they will marvel over how little the boats have changed visually over the years, as lines remain the same. Tony Fleming got it right the first time. 

Also on display, but by the way of detailed drawings, specifications, and price lists, is Fleming’s new 85 footer — their largest and most modest Fleming to date. 

Smooth sailing with the Axopar 28

RIVIERA 

Australia’s largest luxury motor yacht builder, Riviera, will premiere two sophisticated and innovative new Sports Motor Yachts — the 64 and 50 — at the Festival.

The showcase will also include two refined Platinum Edition Sport Yachts — the grand, elegant 6000 and the exhilarating entertainer 4800 Series II.

The Riviera 64 and 50 SMY share the looks, sports performance cockpit, and ultimate luxury of the highly regarded 68 and 72 SMY, designed for blue-water cruising and long-term liveability as much as for luxurious escapes.

The 64 offers the option of three or four staterooms including a full-beam master plus three bathrooms. The fourth stateroom can be replaced by a lower deck lounge space. She is powered by standard twin MAN V8 turbodiesel engines rated to 1300hp/956kW.

The 50 is designed for extended coastal passages, weekend escapes, and entertaining. She offers three staterooms including a full-beam master, plus two bathrooms, and is powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS 950 or twin MAN i6-800 turbodiesels. 

The luxury of the Platinum Edition has further enhanced the enjoyment and opulence of the highly regarded Riviera 6000 Sports Yacht, offering three or four staterooms, including an optional presidential master suite. She provides three bathrooms. Power comes from twin Volvo Penta D11 950s.

The 4800 Sport Yacht Series II embodies the refinement of the Platinum Edition, offering a large atrium lounge on the accommodation deck as well as two staterooms and two bathrooms. She is powered by twin Volvo Penta 800 turbodiesel engines.

AXOPAR, BRABUS & GREENLINE

You won’t want to miss the premiere of the BRABUS Shadow 900 XC and Axopar 22 from Eyachts, debuting beside the entire Axopar range, as well as the Greenline 39.

The 2020 Red Dot Award-winning BRABUS Shadow 900 range has performance at its heart. Powered by dual 450hp outboards, it offers class-leading performance and speeds up to 60kt. Step inside to see all the finishes that set the BRABUS apart including the large glass helm display, intelligent steering wheel, gull wing doors, and fine leather upholstery.

The sleek, trailerable Axopar 22 is not like other 6–7m boats on the market. Hosting up to 7 people with comfortable seating, safe walkaround space and the luxury of a separate toilet, it stands out for comfort while carrying over Axopar DNA in the twin stepped hull and cutting bow. Knowing how well they perform, the smallest Axopar on offer should provide first class handling, offshore capability, and efficiency from the high-tech, low-drag hull.

In 2021 Axopar made some upgrades to the multi-award winning and TAB favourite Axopar 28 range. The 2021 28 is equipped for adventure with a new swim platform, optional roof racks for kayaks or bikes, and improved helm console with new Simrad Navigation.

For the first time Sydney will see the new Axopar 37 Revolution after its release in 2020. With 380 changes to the award winning vessel, you’ll see the improvements around every cover, with more social areas and functionality standouts.

The Greenline 39 is about sophistication in design, technology, production while being environmentally friendly. This is your chance to see the luxury interior and unmatched standards onboard the Greenline 39.

NAVICO

With Navico’s head office on the north side of the harbour, we expect the top pros will be on hand to guide buyers on what their stable of top-shelf brands can do. New releases from Lowrance®, B&G® Simrad Yachting, C-MAP® and JL Audio® Marine will be on display for prospective buyers and those wanting to learn how to get the best out of existing gear.

The recently launched Simrad® NSSevo3S™ chartplotter and fishfinder, boasting unrivalled performance, features and connectivity, is the latest range of MFD’s from Simrad-Yachting. Available in 9in, 12in and 16in models, the SIMRAD® NSSevo3S™ allows users to experience unprecedented levels of built-in functionality under all conditions using charts, radar, sonar and more. Every NSSevo3S™ system supports a variety of sportfishing and powerboating activities.

From Lowrance, the newly launched ActiveTarget™ live sonar will be on display. The ActiveTarget Live Sonar views show high-resolution images of fish movements in detail and real time. With this immediate feedback, anglers can adjust the presentation to trigger a strike, and know if more than one predator fish is active in the area.

In addition to the ActiveTarget, Lowrance will have on display the Elite Fishing System™ (FS) which is the latest introduction in Lowrance’s line-up of mid-range fishfinder/chartplotter displays. The Elite FS combines a full line-up of fishfinding tools with a display that is easy to use and install. From ActiveTarget Live Sonar and Active Imaging™ with Lowrance CHIRP Sonar to SideScan and DownScan Imaging™, Elite FS offers anglers all the tools needed to find and catch more fish.

From B&G, the world’s leading sailing navigation and instrument specialist, is the Nemesis™ Sailing Display. A new generation of intelligent sailing data displays offering unparalleled visibility, with complete customisation or easy to use pre-set multi-function templates and automatic dashboards based on the point of sail. 

OCEAN ALEXANDER 

As part of the international Alexander Marine group, Alexander Marine Australia offers over 40 years of boating experience and expertise, specialising in new and premium brokerage motor yachts. Its promise is to put you in your ideal yacht. From initial contact to final contract, its expert staff serve with integrity, competence, and confidentiality. 

Alexander Marine Australia is the exclusive dealer for Ocean Alexander and Galeon Yachts in Australia and New Zealand. Available for immediate delivery from the Gold Coast, the Ocean Alexander 45 Divergence is powered by quad 350hp Mercury Verado outboard engines but places equal focus on comfort and enjoyment of the marine lifestyle. 

The Galeon 510 SKY is the most innovative yacht in its class, offering ingeniously unique features from the dynamic skydeck flybridge that converts in minutes, to the spacious staterooms and the award winning ‘beach mode’ fold-out balconies.

The Ocean Alexander 45 Divergence

LAGOON SEVENTY 8

The SEVENTY 8 is the flagship of this magnificent brand. With a staggering 4000nm range, this power catamaran is perfect for stable, safe and luxurious blue water exploration and suitable for clients considering 35m+ in a mono-hull. 

This will not only be the first time Sydney will see this incredible vessel, but this will be the world premiere of the galley up layout. Imported exclusively by The Multihull Group (TMG), John Cowpe commented, “The Australian market has really taken to this new boating concept, with Lagoon Motor Yachts dominating the 60-80ft segment in recent years. The stability, understated luxury, range, and overall design just make a lot of sense for many of our clients. The vessel we will be premiering belongs to a world-renowned superyacht owner who saw the huge benefits in this style of yachting.” 

Walkthroughs will be by appointment only — contact tmg@themultihullgroup.com to book.

The impressive Lagoon Seventy 8

CHAPMAN MARINE 

Chapman Marine Group will be displaying Beneteau outboard powerboats on the marina and will launch two new models to the Australian Market — the Antares 11 Flybridge and the Sporty Flyer SUNdeck 9.

With an overall length of 11m, the flagship of the Antares line is the perfect example of a family cruiser, as the powerboat focuses on space, comfort, and safety. The flybridge blends seamlessly into the profile and is the perfect way to enjoy the thrills of outdoor boating.

Space on board the Flyer 9 SUNdeck is cleverly optimised, and the previous generation’s level of comfort improved. Boasting cutting-edge instruments and extra comfort, the pleasure of driving this boat is all about having a good time with good company. 

Also on display from Beneteau will be the Antares 8, 9, and 11 Coupes along with the GT32 and Flyer 10. 

Chapman Marine Group will also be launching the Searay 310 SLX Outboard while displaying the 230 SPX, 250 SDX, 270 SDX, and 280 SLX Searay Sports Boats.

The 310 SLX Outboard has expansive social areas, a standard wet bar, and plenty of available seating means hosting friends and family has never been more comfortable. You'll want to stay out all day and you'll want to invite all your friends along, too.

The Flyer 9 prioritises space and performance

GME

Over in the ICC, you’ll find GME an industry leader in the RF communication technology space. 

GME remains a family-owned private company and is proudly 100 per cent Australian. With a purpose-built facility in Sydney’s western suburbs, the company continues its commitment and dedication to Australian manufacturing. Local manufacturing ensures it is able to produce the highest quality communications equipment tailored to our harsh marine environment.

GME is the only Australian manufacturer of Emergency Beacon products and UHF CB Radios and remains an industry leader in these markets through an ongoing commitment to innovation and leadership. GME prides itself on engineering and manufacturing high quality, market-leading products to suit the specific requirements of customers.

At this year’s Festival, the organisation will be showcasing a range of VHF Radios, Marine Entertainment systems, UHF CB radios, antennas, and industry-leading emergency beacons.

GME is an industry leader in communication technology

INTEGRITY

Integrity Motor Yachts will have models from the modern SX and Classic ranges. We couldn’t wrangle exactly which models will make it as the team hadn’t decided by the time we went to print, so you can trawl our website for the half dozen or so reviews we’ve done or take in this info sent by Integrity to describe the ethos behind the brand and recent updates. 

Integrity Motor Yacht Australia has revealed the ‘Integrity Advantage’ which outlines for the first time the significant and unique features which have propelled the popular motor range in Australia.

Merging quality assurance, production management, and boat building, the Integrity team took the extraordinary commitment to be more than a distributor to value-add to the motor yacht range through their experience. This has resulted in the optimisation of hull design, underwater gear, and onboard systems as well as changes to interior appointments, layouts, and details.

“The evolution of Integrity Motor Yachts has resulted in the Integrity Advantage, a series of features and supports which speak to the well-versed boat owner. It goes beyond the aesthetics of the boat to the detail in the design, construction, and usability,” states Bruce Scott, Managing Director of Integrity Motor Yachts.

The foundation of the Integrity Advantage is the hull. The full displacement fibreglass hull is hand laid to survey standards and produces an efficient boat with ample interior space and superior comfort at anchor. 

With clear references to its trawler heritage, the range balances classicism with contemporary practicality. The 360 degree-wide walk around decks are a hallmark feature, as is the integration of interior and exterior entertainment spaces. 

With an ethos of continual improvement and evolution, in 2018 Integrity Motor Yachts launched the SX range. This range combines artistry with the cutting-edge hull optimisation and re-engineering of major onboard systems to enrich the boat range. 

The Integrity 380 benefits from the 'Integrity Advantage'

ARVOR BOATS

With the Australian distributors of Arvor’s HQ not 15km from Cockle Bay and the family behind it closely linked with NSW Boating, Arvor was never going to miss the Festival.

A range of releases will be making their Australian debut, from a new 805 Sportsfish to 705 Weekender. Known for being exceptionally affordable and well-specced, the newest Sportsfish models promise more fishing-focused appeal, while the 705 Weekender is the smallest in the popular overnighter range. 

VOLVO PENTA

Following previous years, Volvo Penta will be present with a new stand design. Audiences can expect a showcase of powering solutions suitable for sailing and powerboats, including the unique Volvo Penta IPS system.

Among the displayed products, there will be both diesel and gasoline engines as well as the popular glass cockpit simulator. On the large TV screens, Volvo Penta will present the new Assisted Docking system, a technology that takes much of the stress out of the docking process. Launched in January 2021, this innovation is an exciting next step in the evolution of the unique Volvo Penta IPS experience, making docking a boat by yourself easier and safer than ever.

The Volvo Penta stand, ready for visitors

YAMAHA ON-WATER

Probably one of the most exciting opportunities at the Fest will be the chance to sample the Yamaha Helm Master® EX integrated boat control system with its newest V6 Offshore on water.

As well, there will be twin F150 and single F200 with Helm Master® EX for you to demo ride. Experience next-level digital boat control with a Yamaha expert on hand to answer any questions you may have.

WEBBE MARINE 

High-end trailerboat specialists Webbe Marine will be on-deck to showcase both Sailfish Catamarans and Kiwi-made Stabicraft. Gavan Webbe told us to expect no less than 10 tinnies on display, starting with the impressive 30ft 3000 Platinum Sport Sailfish and Stabicraft 2750 Centrecab. 

Don’t expect only big-bodied sports fishers as the recently released and sales success 1450 Frontier will be there too. We are keen to test the smallest of the Stabi family, but availability has been hard to pin down. 

MISSING IN ACTION

The list is big — years ago we’d have filled twice as many pages with four times as many exhibitors’ info, but with the reduced crowd limits, less floor space, and the seemingly never ending fight with Covid-19, we couldn't get strong info for you. 

Confirmed as a non-attendee is Maritimo. That’s right, the powerhouse from the Gold Coast is skipping this year as orders are all but full and the cost to benefit ratio of the Festival didn't stack up. I feel for the team, as I know they’ve loved Sydney shows, and we will miss them — but you don't have to with their Roadshow happening soon; see News for more info.

We reached out to stalwarts in Blakes Marine, purveyors of Bar Crusher and other  brands as well as the at Hunts Marine, two massively popular dealers, but neither got back to us by the time of print. 

Premier Marine will be at the Festival though we are not sure in what capacity — hopefully with the exceptional Chris Craft range we always stop to admire and the chique Absoult models. 

Mercury Marine would normally use SIBS to launch new power systems and with the 600hp V12 outboard landing as we write this, we expect to see it on at least one transom but cannot confirm. 

GETTING THERE 

Like in the past, the main drop off points are at Cockle Bay and behind the ICC. If coming via cab, we suggest the Cockle Bay drop off zone as it puts you in the heart of the precinct with plenty of food and coffee to choose from. There are buses that run past the back of the ICC and the train stations are not too far to walk from.